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In Focus
Islamabad prepares to host US-Iran talks
Pakistan pushes for negotiations as Israeli strikes in Lebanon continue to escalate
On 10 April, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan stepped up diplomatic efforts to sustain a fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States, positioning itself as a key mediator ahead of talks in Islamabad. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with CDF Asim Munir to review progress and reaffirm support for a negotiated settlement. Officials said they were satisfied with the “de-escalation achieved so far” and stressed the need for all sides to maintain the truce. Iranian officials indicated Islamabad’s intervention helped avert escalation, while leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, emphasised that “adherence to the ceasefire” was critical for talks.
Parallel outreach was also underway as violence in Lebanon intensified, with hundreds reported killed in Israeli airstrikes. In talks with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, PM Shehbaz condemned the attacks and reaffirmed Pakistan’s “commitment to advance peace efforts”. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that Israeli actions were a “flagrant violation” that could render negotiations “meaningless”. Even as Israel signalled readiness to begin talks with Lebanon, disputes persisted over the ceasefire’s scope, though officials expressed hope that “through concerted efforts, peace would return” to the region.
Pakistan’s intermediary role drew global attention, with Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh calling the breakthrough “an intense diplomatic effort” built on trust and discretion. He stressed that Pakistan is just a facilitator and that success “would lie in secrecy”. He also acknowledged China’s role, noting Beijing had consistently urged “restraint” and helped create space for diplomacy, with analysts saying its assurances encouraged Tehran to engage. Meanwhile, Islamabad was placed on “red alert”, with over 10,000 personnel deployed to secure the capital ahead of the talks. As negotiators led by JD Vance prepare to arrive, officials underscored that the ceasefire is only a first step, with complex discussions ahead to turn the fragile truce into a lasting agreement. (“Pakistan steps up diplomacy as Lebanon strikes strain ceasefire," Dawn, 10 April 2026; “Capital on high alert ahead of US-Iran peace talks,” Dawn, 10 April 2026; “PM Shehbaz vows to advance peace efforts in call with Lebanese counterpart amid Israeli attacks,” The Express Tribune, 09 April 2026, “Pakistan’s envoy to US acknowledges China’s quiet but persuasive role in Iran talks,” Dawn, 09 April 2026)
In Brief
ECONOMY
Public investment remains low as govt utlises less than half of PSDP funds
On 10 April, Dawn reported that the government utilised less than half of the budget allocations for public welfare projects under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) in the first three quarters of the current fiscal year. The total utilisation of PSDP funds amounted to PKR 415 billion in the first nine months (July-March), accounting for 41.5 per cent of the PKR 1 trillion budget allocation, as per the Ministry of Planning and Development. Also in March, the government slashed PSDP allocations by PKR 90 billion to finance fuel subsidies as petroleum prices surged following the Iran conflict. The government disbursed large allocations to parliamentarians’ schemes, codenamed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Achievement Programme (SAP), after the first five months of the fiscal year. In contrast to the relatively strong spending on parliamentarians’ schemes, disbursements to special regions, including "Azad Jammu & Kashmir" and "Gilgit-Baltistan" remained weak. All 33 federal ministries together utilised only PKR 301 billion in the first three quarters, accounting for 48 per cent of the PKR 627 billion revised allocation. The two major infrastructure-related entities, the National Highway Authority and the power sector, together consumed only 40 per cent of their combined revised allocation of PKR 282.6 billion. (“Lawmakers' scheme outpace sluggish uplift spending,” Dawn, 10 April 2026)
Russia lifts ban on Pakistani potatoes after one year
On 10 April, Dawn reported that Russia lifted its ban on importing potatoes from Pakistan. Russian authorities have allowed shipments from Punjab to enter the Russian Federation. The decision to export potatoes came after approval to lift phytosanitary restrictions that had been in place since May 2025. In May 2025, Russia imposed restrictions on potatoes from Punjab, citing the alleged presence of the potato tuber moth and tomato wilt virus. In the current season, Pakistan is witnessing a bumper potato crop, with production estimated at around 12 million tonnes, leaving a surplus of around four million tonnes for export to Central Asia and other destinations. It's worth noting that Pakistan was assessing export routes to Central Asian states via China and Iran after the closure of the Torkham border. (“Moscow lifts ban on Pakistani potatoes,” Dawn, 10 April 2026)
Foreign exchange reserves increase by USD 19 million
On 10 April, Dawn reported that foreign exchange reserves of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) for the week ended on 03 April were USD 16.4 billion. However, outflows against the Eurobond’s maturity were not included in this figure. SBP reported that the country’s total reserves amounted to USD 21.849 billion, including USD 5.494 billion held by the commercial banks. The SBP paid USD 1.4 billion for Eurobond maturity a couple of days ago, and another outflow of USD 3.5 billion is expected to be paid to the UAE this month. The government affirmed that these outflows will not impact its agreement with the IMF. (“State Bank of Pakistan's reserves up $19m,” Dawn, 10 April 2026)
Pakistan emerges as fifth-largest tyre exporter to US
On 10 April, Dawn reported that a USD 120 million expansion plan was announced by a China-backed joint venture in Pakistan's tyre sector. Jin Yongsheng, chairman of Service Long March Tyres (Private) Limited, announced the expansion during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. In the meeting with the company delegation, the prime minister was informed that the company was on track to achieve an export target of USD 70 million by June and aimed to cross USD 100 million during the next financial year. This milestone would place it among Pakistan’s leading non-textile exporters. Pakistan has made significant progress in the global tyre market in recent years. Pakistan, with the help of Chinese partners, has emerged as the fifth-largest exporter of tyres to the United States and the seventh-largest to Brazil, marking a notable shift from virtually no presence in the two countries just a few years ago. (“Chinese firm to invest $120m in tyre sector,” Dawn, 10 April 2026)
Pakistan’s exports to North America increase by 3.21 per cent
On 10 April, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s merchandise exports to North America increased by 3.21 per cent to USD 4.411 billion during the first eight months of 2025-26 compared to USD 4.274 billion in the same period last year. The US remained the dominant market, accounting for nearly 95 per cent of Pakistan’s total exports to North America. Growth in merchandise exports to North America is largely driven by higher textile and clothing shipments to the United States, according to data compiled by the State Bank of Pakistan. However, imports from North America rose 34.4 per cent to USD 2.239 billion in eight months of FY26 from USD 1.663 billion a year ago. Imports from North America surged 26.98 per cent to USD 2.588 billion in FY25 from USD 2.038 billion the preceding year. Maximum imports originated from the US. Additionally, to balance the trade deficit in the current fiscal year, Pakistan will import an additional USD 2.5 billion worth of goods from the US under the new agreement. On the other hand, Pakistan’s exports to Canada recorded a negative growth of 2.64 per cent to USD 226.28 million in the seven months of FY26 from USD 232.42 million over the corresponding months of last year. (“Exports to North America rise in July-February,” Dawn, 10 April 2026)
EXTERNAL
Dar holds series of calls on Lebanon ceasefire violations; UK, EU and regional partners back Pakistan's peace role
On 9 April, The Express Tribune reported that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held multiple telephone conversations with regional and international counterparts to discuss ceasefire violations in Lebanon and Pakistan's ongoing peace efforts. In two separate calls with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, both sides expressed deep concern over violations of the ceasefire in Lebanon and stressed the urgent need for its full implementation. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper praised Pakistan's role in securing the ceasefire and expressed support for its continued peace efforts, while EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas reaffirmed the EU's backing for Pakistan's diplomacy and echoed concern over serious ceasefire violations in Lebanon. Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov conveyed Uzbekistan's full support for Pakistan's initiatives, particularly the two-week ceasefire. Earlier on Wednesday, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong had met Dar and conveyed Beijing's appreciation for Pakistan's constructive role in advancing peace and security in the Middle East and Gulf region. ("Dar, Saudi FM discuss Lebanon ceasefire violations in phone call," The Express Tribune, 9 April 2026)
PM Shehbaz thanks world leaders for praising Pakistan's role in US-Iran ceasefire
On 9 April, The Express Tribune reported that PM Shehbaz Sharif spent Thursday fielding congratulatory calls from world leaders as Pakistan's ceasefire diplomacy drew widespread international praise. French President Emmanuel Macron and Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa both acknowledged Pakistan's role in bringing the US and Iran to the table, with Macron also conveying good wishes for the upcoming Islamabad talks. The Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani called to congratulate the prime minister on both the ceasefire and the initiation of negotiations in Islamabad, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer separately endorsed Pakistan's mediation efforts. PM Shehbaz also thanked Australian PM Anthony Albanese, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and Kazakhstan's President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev for their appreciation. In several of the calls, both sides expressed concern over the continuing hostilities in Lebanon and stressed the need to end the violence there. Pakistan and China had also jointly proposed a five-point initiative for restoring peace and stability across the Gulf and the broader Middle East. ("PM Shehbaz thanks world leaders for appreciating Pakistan's role in US-Iran ceasefire," The Express Tribune, 9 April 2026)
Pakistan and Ethiopia explore trilateral maritime alliance with Djibouti
On 10 April, Dawn reported that Pakistan and Ethiopia have agreed to explore a trilateral maritime alliance potentially involving Djibouti, aimed at enhancing trade connectivity between Asia and Africa. The understanding was reached during a meeting between Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Ethiopian Ambassador Dr Oumer Hussien. The minister proposed that landlocked Ethiopia could significantly expand its trade capacity by utilising the Port of Djibouti under a structured arrangement, with the framework open to expansion through mutual consultation. Both sides agreed to designate focal persons for technical consultations on operational modalities before a formal agreement is signed. ("Pakistan, Ethiopia eye maritime alliance," Dawn, 10 April 2026)
Over 10,000 Pakistanis cross into Pakistan from Iran through Taftan border since the conflict began
On 10 April, Dawn reported that 10,619 passengers, including Pakistani pilgrims, students, and businesspersons, had crossed into Pakistan from Iran through the Taftan border between 28 February and 8 April, following the US-Israeli attack on Iran. FIA Balochistan Director Muhammad Bahram Khan said immigration and border management arrangements at Taftan had been kept fully operational round the clock, with document verification and security checks maintained for all incoming passengers. The influx was continuing at the time of reporting. ("Over 10,000 Pakistanis return from Iran amid regional tensions," Dawn, 10 April 2026)
SOCIETY
Panel warns of rising curbs on press freedom in Pakistan
On 10 April, Dawn reported that journalists and analysts at the “Ahfaz-ur-Rehman Awards for Courage of Expression and Freedom of the Press” in Karachi warned of shrinking space for independent media amid rising censorship and restrictions. The event, held at the Arts Council of Pakistan, honoured veteran journalist Ali Ahmed Khan for his contributions to press freedom. Speakers, including Mazhar Abbas, said the current environment was unprecedented, with “interference and censorship” making it harder to report freely, adding that “the news is something that those in power do not want published.” Amber Shamsi noted uncertainty among younger journalists but stressed audiences can “instantly recognise propaganda.” Participants highlighted increasing restrictions on coverage and press activity, with organisers warning that such pressures were undermining democratic values and limiting dissent. (“‘Press freedom in Pakistan under unprecedented pressure’,” Dawn, 10 April 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Karachi opposition alleges “mega corruption” in city administration
On 10 April, Dawn reported that the opposition in the Karachi City Council, led by Saifuddin Advocate, accused the city administration of “mega corruption, fraud and institutional manipulation,” alleging that billions of rupees were misappropriated through fake tenders and ??????? contracts. Speaking at the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, he claimed the council was being run through “complete hooliganism and forgery,” with “fake resolutions” undermining due process. He cited projects worth PKR 30 million on National Stadium Road and PKR 100 million at Empress Market as examples of irregularities, while alleging no tendering for works on Sharea Faisal. He further claimed “inflated payments,” including a Karachi zoo cage reportedly costing PKR 10 million but billed at PKR 100 million, and questioned revenue figures and stalled projects such as K-IV. Authorities have yet to respond to the allegations. (“Allegations of ‘mega corruption’, fraud levelled against Karachi administration,” Dawn, 10 April 2026)
Female senators outperform representation in Senate agenda
On 10 April, Dawn reported that female senators contributed around 20 per cent of the Senate’s regular plenary agenda in the 2025–26 parliamentary year, slightly exceeding their roughly 18 per cent representation, according to a report by Free and Fair Election Network. Titled “Women Senators Did It Too!”, the report identified Samina Mumtaz Zehri as the most active, submitting 62 agenda items, while Anushe Rehman and Sherry Rehman were also among the top contributors. On average, each female senator submitted 12 items compared to 11 by male counterparts, though their overall share declined from 31 per cent last year. The report gave the Senate a Gender Responsiveness Score of 0.9, calling it “somewhat less responsive” to women’s agenda, and noted structural gaps, including that some proposals “were not addressed at all,” despite strong participation across diverse policy areas. (“Pakistani women drive a fifth of Senate agenda: Free and Fair Election Network,” Dawn, 10 April 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Iran war
Editorial, "Attacking Lebanon," Dawn, 10 April 2026
"Many questions remain about which way the negotiations between the US and Iran to find a permanent end to the hostilities can go. Mr Trump must decide whether he wants to indeed put ‘America first’, or to do Israel’s bidding, even if the region is set alight in the process. The US has considerable leverage over its proxy Israel; the time to use it is now. Washington must impress on Tel Aviv to immediately halt all hostilities in Lebanon. Hezbollah is just an excuse. The Zionist state has long coveted Lebanon in pursuit of its ‘Greater Israel’ scheme. It must be stopped from continuing its attacks in Lebanon and its wholesale slaughter of innocent civilians there."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1990408/attacking-lebanon
Dr Raza Muhammad, "Future scenario and security architecture in Middle East," The Express Tribune, 10 April 2026
"The 40-day US-Israel war on Iran, punctuated by a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire, neither had a just cause nor a crystallised war aim. The fluctuating war objectives included: elimination of Iranian leadership to engender a regime change; halt of Iran's nuclear programme that was claimed to have been obliterated in June 2026; destruction of its missile and drone programmes; total capitulation; capture of Kharg Island; control of Strait of Hormuz; etc."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2601909/future-scenario-and-security-architecture-in-middle-east
Education
Faisal Bari, "Educating the poor," Dawn, 10 April 2026
"Too many of our children are out of school although our constitutional promise to them is free and compulsory education for all. Too many children in schools in Pakistan receive poor quality education. We have plenty of evidence. So, returns on education, in terms of what the child, the household or the family might get, from approximately 10 years of low quality education are not high."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1990405/educating-the-poor
Pakistan & the IMF
Editorial, "Impartial appointments," The Express Tribune, 10 April 2026
"The IMF's insistence that the head of the accountability watchdog should be a non-controversial person, and one who enjoys the confidence of the opposition too, is spot on. The government's nod under compulsion, however, is a telling tale of its indispensable reliance on the international lender. The point is that it would have been more sensible and politically correct if we had not left behind such issues to be exploited and pin-pointed by donors and extra-territorial forces, by keeping our record on governance, reforms and self-appraisal in an undisputed format. The fact that every government wants to regulate national institutions as per its exigent priorities has left a bad taste in governance, besides leading to public outcry and lack of confidence in such institutions."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2601906/impartial-appointments
Democracy
Tariq Khosa, "A call to conscience," Dawn, 10 April 2026
"The US-based NGO Freedom House recently observed that, among the 88 countries categorised as ‘free’, the US had experienced the sharpest fall, dropping to its lowest level since the organisation began publishing its scores in 2002. Meanwhile, Sweden’s V-Dem Institute lamented that America was witnessing the most “severe magnitude of democratic backsliding ever”, could no longer be described as a “liberal democracy” and was in the midst of the process of “autocratisation”."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1990404/a-call-to-conscience
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