|
In Focus
Pakistan and Qatar vow to strengthen strategic partnership
PM Shehbaz meets Qatar’s emir on a two-day visit to discuss trade, security and regional developments
On 24 February, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha on Tuesday, during a two-day official visit to the country. PM Shehbaz said that the two countries would continue working together for peace and stability in the region. “Our most warm and productive discussions focused on how our two sides can advance our brotherly fraternal bonds and transform them into mutually beneficial economic relationships,” he said in a post on X. A handout from the Prime Minister’s Office said that the two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations. It also added that Qatar reiterated its commitment to a deepening economic partnership. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir.
PM Shehbaz had also earlier met with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The two discussed regional and international developments, enhancing cooperation in trade and investment, energy, defence and cultural collaboration, among others. They also discussed setting up a joint task force to speed up cooperation in these areas and emphasised the importance of putting into place the decisions taken during recent high-level meetings, including the Joint Ministerial Commission and Bilateral Political Consultations. Regional developments in Gaza and broader Gulf security dynamics were also discussed during the meeting. Both leaders emphasised the importance of adherence to international law under the UN Charter. The meeting also reaffirmed the two countries’ shared commitment to further strengthen their strategic partnership.
The Prime Minister also met with Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani, where the two discussed developments in Iran and Afghanistan. “Both sides emphasised the importance of dialogue, de-escalation and collective efforts to promote peace and stability in the region,” said a PMO statement. PM Shehbaz also expressed satisfaction over the ongoing collaboration between the two armed forces. In a meeting with the Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Trade, the Prime Minister also highlighted the significance of expanding trade volumes between the two countries. Qatar and Pakistan have enjoyed warm relations for decades, with the former playing a key role in easing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan following their 10-day war last October. (“PM Shehbaz meets Qatar’s emir, says both countries to work together for regional peace and stability,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
In Brief
AF-PAK
Over 100 militants killed in Pakistan’s air strikes in Afghanistan, says Minister Fazal Chaudhry
On 24 February, The Express Tribune and Dawn reported that Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, briefed the Senate following the recent air strikes on terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan. He mentioned that over 100 terrorists were killed by the strikes carried out by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in Afghanistan. This was reported as Pakistan carried out intelligence-based strikes on seven terrorist camps along the Afghan border last week following a series of recent suicide bombings, including an attack on an imambargah in Islamabad and incidents in Bajaur and Bannu. Parliamentary Affairs Minister also confirmed that the PAF conducted intelligence-based air strikes on 21 February in three Afghan provinces, targeting what he described as safe hideouts of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorists. During the address in the Senate, he claimed that these attacks were “precise” and “intelligence-based”. He warned that if attacks in Pakistan continue, the country reserves the right to carry out similar future strikes to protect its citizens. (“Over 100 terrorists killed in Afghanistan air strikes Tari Fazal tells senate,” The Express Tribune, 24 February 2026; “‘Pakistan cannot tolerate this anymore’, says minister as he outlines terrorist attacks preceding Afghanistan strikes,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
Pakistan responded to unprovoked firing by Afghanistan along border, says PM’s spokesperson
On 24 February, Dawn reported that the Prime Minister’s spokesperson for foreign media, Mosharraf Zaidi, said on Tuesday that the Afghan Taliban initiated unprovoked firing along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Torkham and Tirah. This prompted an aggressive response from Pakistan, he said. He also added that any additional provocation would be “immediately and severely” dealt with and that Pakistan would “continue to protect its citizens and guard its territorial integrity”. This comes following air strikes by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in Afghanistan, which they say targeted terrorist camps and hideouts in Nangarhar, Paktika and Khost provinces. The government said that more than 100 terrorists were killed in the strikes. (“Afghan Taliban initiated unprovoked firing along Pak-Afghan border: PM’s spokesperson,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
EXTERNAL
Senate condemns Netanyahu’s proposed anti-Muslim alliance framework, backs Palestine and Somali sovereignty
On 24 February, Dawn reported that the Senate of Pakistan, on Monday, unanimously adopted a resolution to condemn Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement regarding the establishment of the 'system' of alliances with India and other countries to counter other Muslim countries, terming his comments 'provocative and detrimental to peace at the regional and global levels.' The resolution condemned the move by Israel to officially announce recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland; complained of "gross violations" of the recent Gaza ceasefire as well as other Israeli actions in Occupied Palestine; demanded "the international community to stop Israel from committing crimes with impunity and provision of uninterrupted access for humanitarian assistance - including UNRWA; for the facilitation of Gaza's early rehabilitation" and for recognition of the "independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on the two-state formula as embodied in the UN resolutions of 1978 and 1980 with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. (“Senate deplores Netanyahu’s plan to forge alliances with India, others against Muslim nations,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
Iran envoy highlights closer Pakistan-Iran coordination amid shared security and regional priorities
On 25 February, Dawn reported that Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri-Moghaddam, said Pakistan and Iran shared views on several regional and international issues, including Palestine and that cooperation was required to address the challenges of terrorism and separatism. He spoke at an ISSI conference on Pakistan-Iran relations. He said the relationship between the two countries was in a ‘constructive phase’ as there had been over 25 visits at the level of foreign minister and above in the last two years, and as many as 25 MOUs and agreements had been signed in a variety of sectors, as well as many visits by senior dignitaries. Other speakers agreed that the relationship had deep historical roots and was increasingly moving in a positive direction. Challenges to the relationship, including terrorism, sectarianism and instability in the wider region, were also mentioned. (“Iran, Pakistan share positions on regional, world issues: envoy,” Dawn, 25 February 2026)
ECONOMY
Pakistan’s regional trade deficit widens by 41 per cent amid export decline
On 24 February, Dawn reported that in the first seven months (July-January) of FY26, Pakistan’s trade deficit with nine regional countries increased by 41.37 per cent to USD 9.001 billion, up from USD 6.367 billion in the corresponding period last year. Fall in exports driven largely by reduced shipments to China, followed by Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Also, trade with Afghanistan, including exports, has remained suspended since 10 October, 2025. The value of Pakistan’s exports to the nine countries, including Afghanistan, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Iran, Nepal, Bhutan and the Maldives, declined by 16.86 per cent to USD 2.307 billion in the first seven months of FY26 compared to USD 2.775 billion a year ago. Contrary to this, imports surged from China, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. (“Trade gap widens 42 pc with nine countries to $ 9 billion,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
Pakistan secures USD 10.1 billion in external financing during July-January FY 26
On 25 February, Dawn reported that, as per Ministry of Economic Affairs data, Pakistan has received over USD 10 billion in foreign loans during the July-January period of the current fiscal year. The data also shows that combined foreign loan receipts and rollovers increased to USD 10.1 billion during the July-January period, which is USD 1.4 billion less than the same period of the last fiscal year. The key factor behind the lower disbursement is the status of the UAE's USD two billion debt, which first matured in January and then again this month. However, the central bank has not made a formal announcement about the rollover. Pakistan remains dependent on foreign loan disbursements and rollovers, as the country finds it difficult to repay USD 12.5 billion in cash deposits maturing this year. ("$2b rollover status remains unclear," Dawn, 25 February 2026)
SECP data shows growth in foreign company registrations
On 25 February, Dawn reported that, as per Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) data, 79 new foreign companies have commenced operations in Pakistan with an investment of PKR 40.7 billion in key sectors in last three years. In contrast, 19 foreign companies exited the market over the last three years. At present, 1,157 foreign companies are registered and operational in Pakistan. ("Pakistan attracts 79 new foreign firms, PKR 407 billion investment in three years," Dawn, 25 February 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Opposition demands immediate scheduling of Imran Khan’s cases in protest outside Supreme Court
On 23 February, Dawn reported that the members of the opposition staged a protest outside the Supreme Court demanding the immediate scheduling of the cases of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan. Various leaders of the opposition participated in the protest, and the main demands of the protest also included that Imran be allowed to meet his family and also undergo a complete medical examination that shall be conducted through his personal doctors. Addressing the media, the PTI Secretary General said the party does not trust “any government report” referring to a report submitted by the Pakistan Institute of Medical Studies to the SC. Other leaders, according to the report, stated that Imran’s health, especially his eye issue that came to light in January, is being treated as an ego issue by the ruling party. The protest concluded around 2 PM, with opposition leaders' demands put forward. (“Opposition leaders stage protest outside Supreme Court, demand immediate scheduling of Imran’s cases,” Dawn, 23 February 2026)
Imran Khan taken to PIMS for follow-up treatment
On 24 February, Dawn reported that Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan was taken to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for a follow-up eye treatment on Tuesday. He was administered a second dose of anti-VEGF intravitreal injection, according to a doctor at the hospital. He also said that Imran was “clinically stable,” mentioning that the procedure was performed as a day care surgery. Before the procedure, he was examined by a cardiologist, who performed echocardiography and an ECG. The doctor added that the former premier was discharged along with instructions for care and follow-up advice. (“Imran receives follow-up eye treatment at PIMS,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
SECURITY
Security forces kill nine militants in IBOs in KP and Balochistan
On 24 February, Dawn reported that during intelligence-based operations (IBO) in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, security forces killed nine terrorists, including a suicide bomber. The operation was conducted in the Dera Ismail Khan area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Pishni area of Balochistan under operation ‘Azm-i -Istehkam’ as approved by the Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan. The operations come as the state intensifies its counter-terrorism operations amid a tense security situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. (“Security forces kill 9 terrorists during intelligence-based operations in Balochistan-KP,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
Two policemen killed in suicide blast in Bhakkar
On 24 February, Dawn reported that a suicide blast in Bhakkar district of Punjab killed two policemen on Tuesday evening. Bhakkar District Police Officer (DPO) Shahzad Rafiq said that the attack was carried out near the Dajil checkpost and that one policeman and three passersby were also injured in the blast. In a statement, President Asif Ali Zardari firmly condemned the attack and expressed grief at the deaths of the policemen. PM Shehbaz Sharif also expressed deep sorrow over the deaths. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also strongly condemned the attack and directed authorities to ensure the best possible treatment for those wounded. (“2 policemen martyred as suicide bomber targets checkpost in Bhakkar,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
Six police personnel killed in Kohat terrorist attack
On 24 February, Dawn reported that six law enforcement personnel, including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP), were killed in a terrorist attack on a police vehicle in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kohat district on Tuesday. A senior police officer said that the police vehicle was transporting two individuals for a court hearing when it was attacked and that one of the two individuals was also killed. State-run APP reported that heavy firing by armed militants targeted the DSP of Lachi police station and that following the attack, additional police contingents were dispatched to the area. Authorities cordoned off the area, while investigations into the attack have begun. (“DSP among 6 police personnel martyred in Kohat terrorist attack,” Dawn, 24 February 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Pakistan-Afghanistan
Editorial, “Indispensable strikes,” The Express Tribune, 24 February 2026
"Pakistan's airstrikes on terrorists' hideouts in southern Afghanistan solely came in self-defence. The sorties flown over the Nangarhar and Paktika provinces, the staging ground for insurgency and infiltration into Pakistan, took out more than 80 terrorists. The attacks were conducted after hectic episodes of diplomacy, wherein Kabul was requested to go after the dreaded elements holed up inside Afghanistan – but in vain."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2594186/indispensable-strikes
Editorial, “Afghan strikes,” Dawn, 24 February 2026
"In the wake of the recent wave of terrorist attacks targeting Pakistan, with most of the atrocities linked to violent groups based in Afghanistan, a reaction appeared imminent. Last week, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that Pakistan would target Afghanistan if the terrorist violence continued. The latest strikes reported on Sunday bear out the minister’s comments."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1975363/afghan-strikes
Education
Muhammad Hamid Zaman, “Curriculum and our impulse,” The Express Tribune, 24 February 2026
"For better or for worse, academia is different from the corporate sector. It is meant to engage a deeper sense of analysis, to allow for issues to be debated and reflected upon. Learning is deliberate and incremental."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2594185/curriculum-and-our-impulse
Karachi gas explosion
Editorial, “Another gas explosion,” The Express Tribune, 24 February 2026
"In the pre-dawn stillness of sehri on Sunday, the North Nazimabad neighbourhood of Karachi was jolted by a loud bang. The magnanimity of the explosion at Bismillah Residency near Five Star Chowrangi was unexpected. Residents across a radius of up to eight kilometres are reported to have heard the blast, initially convinced it was something far more sinister."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2594188/another-gas-explosion
Critical minerals
Khurram Abbas, “Minerals diplomacy,” Dawn, 25 February 2026
"Critical minerals, especially lithium, copper, cobalt, nickel and rare earths, are the oil of the 21st century. The demand for minerals has been exploding due to their consumption in semiconductor manufacturing, electric vehicles, batteries, renewable energy and advanced weapons systems. This has transformed minerals from an economic commodity into a strategic geopolitical asset."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1975634/minerals-diplomacy
Politics & governance
Editorial, “Peace offering,” Dawn, 25 February 2026
"Both the government and the opposition seem to be more receptive to the need for dialogue, but can they break new ground? On Monday, the prime minister’s aide on political affairs invited opposition lawmakers to rejoin the parliamentary committees they had earlier resigned from, noting that this could help restart the reconciliation process. “Let us sit together to strengthen and take forward the Charter of Democracy,” Rana Sanaullah suggested, stressing that the government wanted to strengthen democracy and wished to avoid further confrontation and deadlocks. “We are ready to sit with you for the betterment of the country,” he said. Seen in isolation, it was very positive messaging from the ruling party. Talks between major stakeholders have been proposed repeatedly since the start of the ongoing cycle of political instability yet have found very few takers. It is encouraging to note that the idea has not yet been completely abandoned. But are gestures alone enough?"
https://www.dawn.com/news/1975628/peace-offering
|
