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Islamabad Talks
US blockade complicates peace talks despite ceasefire extension
Trump says second round of Islamabad Talks possible within “36 to 72 hours”, while Tehran calls blockade a “flagrant breach” of ceasefire
On 23 April, Dawn reported that the ceasefire between the United States and Iran was extended, with President Donald Trump saying a second round of talks in Islamabad was possible within “36 to 72 hours.” However, he later stressed there was “no time frame” surrounding the temporary ceasefire. The extension came amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian forces seized two cargo vessels and fired at another. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that “breach of commitments, blockade and threats” are the main reasons talks aren’t progressing. At the same time, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said reopening the Strait was “impossible” under a “flagrant breach.”
Separately, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei thanked Pakistan for mediation but stressed diplomacy would proceed only when “necessary and logical groundwork is in place.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he hopes both sides will reach a comprehensive “Peace Deal”, while Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reinforced that dialogue remained the only viable path. Diplomatic engagement with partners, including Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, aimed to sustain international backing, even as core disputes over sanctions and nuclear commitments remained unresolved.
Meanwhile, the uncertainty over the second round of talks has begun affecting daily life in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, where heightened security measures and road closures have halted goods transport. Oil Tanker Contractors’ Association spokesman Noman Ali Butt said the halt in tanker movement was “severely hampering the supply of petroleum products,” while transport leader Shaqeel Qureshi noted that no goods had reached markets for days and that continued restrictions could trigger shortages in nearby regions. With stocks running low, vendors cautioned that prices of essential items could rise if restrictions persist. (“US optimistic about Iran talks ‘this week’,” Dawn, 23 April 2026; “Iran appreciates Pakistan’s efforts to mediate between Tehran and Washington,” Dawn, 22 April 2026; “Despite snags, Pakistan works to keep channels open,” Dawn, 23 April 2026; “‘Strict security’ triggers food, fuel shortages in twin cities,” Dawn, 23 April 2026)
In Brief
AF-PAK
Rawalpindi: Authorities detain Afghan family as deportations cross 5600
On 22 April, Dawn reported that law enforcement agencies in Rawalpindi detained a 15-member Afghan family, including children, as part of an ongoing crackdown on undocumented migrants, transferring them to a repatriation centre for deportation to Afghanistan. Authorities said more than 5673 Afghan nationals had been deported since the expiry of the voluntary return deadline. Officials have also directed agencies to maintain “accurate, comprehensive and consolidated records” of all repatriations, whether voluntary or enforced. Data collection is being coordinated and verified by the Counter-Terrorism Department to strengthen migration management and law enforcement planning. (“15 illegal Afghans detained in Rawalpindi,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
EXTERNAL
Interpol issues red notice against Lyari gangster Wasiullah Lakho
On 22 April, Dawn reported that Interpol has issued a red notice for fugitive Lyari gangster Wasiullah Lakho at the request of Pakistani authorities, as he is believed to be hiding abroad. A red notice is an international request to law enforcement agencies to locate and provisionally arrest an individual pending extradition or legal action. According to Karachi police, Lakho is wanted in more than 60 cases involving serious offences such as murder, extortion and attacks on police. The notice, issued by Interpol’s secretariat in Lyon, France, also referred to a 2014 case registered at Kalri police station, where Lakho and his associates allegedly opened fire on police during an attempted operation. He was later declared a proclaimed offender by a court, with a perpetual arrest warrant issued against him. Officials state that the red notice marks an important step in international efforts to trace and arrest the suspect, who has evaded capture for years. (“Interpol issues red notice for Lyari Gangster Wasiullah Lakho,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
Two Pakistani astronauts set to participate in China’s human spaceflight programme
On 22 April, Dawn reported that China has selected two Pakistani astronauts as candidates for its manned space programme, marking a significant step in their bilateral space cooperation. The candidates, Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, have passed multiple stages of selection procedures and will travel to China for advanced astronaut training. Both astronauts will undergo training at Chinese facilities, after which one will be chosen to participate in a space mission as a payload specialist aboard China’s Tiangong space station. If selected, the astronaut would become the first foreign national to join a mission on China’s space station. These developments follow a 2025 cooperation agreement between Pakistan’s space agency SUPARCO and the China Manned Space Agency, which aims to enable Pakistan’s first participation in a human spaceflight mission, planned for late 2026. Officials described the selection and training programme as a landmark step in China’s space collaboration efforts and Pakistan’s entry into human spaceflight programmes (“2 Pakistani astronauts selected as candidates for China’s space programme,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
Pakistan’s mediation in US-Iran talks gains UK support
On 22 April, The Express Tribune reported that the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, commended and supported Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran during a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The discussions focused on changing regional dynamics, with Pakistan reaffirming its commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as the main means for peaceful conflict resolution. The UK envoy recognised Pakistan’s efforts in bringing the United States and Iran to the negotiating table and in supporting continued engagement between them. Pakistan’s mediation role has also received broader international recognition, with countries such as Saudi Arabia, China and Türkiye expressing support for its efforts as a facilitator. Officials noted that Pakistan has positioned itself as an “honest broker” amid tensions, particularly following its involvement in securing a ceasefire and hosting talks between the two sides in Islamabad. (“UK envoy commends, supports Pakistan’s role in bringing US-Iran on negotiating table,” The Express Tribune, 22 April 2026)
President Zardari's China visit to focus on expanding bilateral cooperation
On 22 April, The Express Tribune reported that President Asif Ali Zardari is set to visit China to further strengthen bilateral relations and expand strategic cooperation between the two countries. This visit is expected to focus on enhancing collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), including progress on infrastructure, energy and connectivity projects. Discussions will also cover trade expansion, investment opportunities and cooperation in emerging sectors such as technology and industry. Officials indicated that the visit will provide an opportunity to review ongoing projects and identify new areas of partnership to support Pakistan’s economic development. Both sides are also likely to exchange views on regional and global developments, reflecting their broader strategic alignment. This visit also highlights the continued importance of China as a key economic and strategic partner for Pakistan and signals efforts by both countries to deepen long-term cooperation across multiple sectors. (“President Zardari’s upcoming China visit to deepen strategic cooperation,” The Express Tribune, 22 April 2026)
ECONOMY
Govt agrees to review around 2700 non-tariff barriers under IMF pressure to ease import restrictions
On 23 April, The Express Tribune reported that, as per IMF directions, the Pakistani government agreed to review more than 2660 non-tariff barriers against 76 customs codes affecting imports in automobiles, pharmaceuticals, steel, food, agricultural products, cosmetics, and mobile phones. The government is already working on removing many of them, including those restricting the import of mobile phones and cars. Barriers such as low priority in giving foreign exchange for car imports and linking mobile phone functionality to approval by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority may be removed in June. These actions will make it easier to import dairy products, textiles, steel bars, and medicines, as existing non-tariff barriers are making it difficult to import these goods. (“IMF urges removal of non-tariff curbs,” The Express Tribune, 23 April 2026)
Govt invites global bids for facilitating future international bonds
On 22 April, Dawn reported that the government invited bids from international consortia to act as underwriters, lead managers, and book runners for future transactions in global capital markets over the next three years. This would enable the government to raise funds from the global capital markets as and when required, and depending on the external financing needs. The three consortia would be expected to launch Pakistan’s three types of capital market transactions, including renewing its Global Medium-Term Note (GMTN) Programme and Sukuk Trust Certificate Issuance (TCI) Programme for three years. All these programs would facilitate a range of international issuances, including Eurobonds such as ESG bonds, green bonds, gender bonds, sustainable bonds, and sustainability-linked bonds, as well as international Sukuk and local currency-denominated bonds settled in US dollars. (“Govt invites bids from financiers as it eyes more borrowing,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
ADB finalises agreement for key M6 motorway sections
On 22 April, Dawn reported that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) finalised a landmark agreement with the National Highway Authority (NHA) for the construction of two sections of the M6 Motorway. The M-6 motorway is the only missing segment in the north-south route linking Karachi to Peshawar. Its construction will enable traffic from Karachi Port to travel seamlessly via the motorway all the way to Peshawar and Gilgit. The Islamic Development Bank and the OPEC Fund have already approved financing for three other sections. (“NHA, ADB sign agreement to develop 2 sections of M6 motorway,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
Govt launches inquiry on Discos over high-cost electricity contracts
On 22 April, Dawn reported that the government unearthed expensive power purchases by distribution companies (Discos) outside the national grid at exorbitant rates in violation of the economic merit order. An independent inquiry will be set up to inquire about small power producers (SPPs) and captive power plants (CPPs) that were purchasing electricity from them through bilateral contracts at higher rates than the national tariff, bypassing the national grid and the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO). The power minister directed to discontinue the practice and bring it in accordance with the provisions of the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority’s (Nepra) grid code, distribution code, and directions immediately. (“Discos found purchasing power outside national grid at exorbitant rates,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
SBP restrictions fail to stop foreign currency withdrawals
On 22 April, Dawn reported that Resident Foreign Currency Deposits (RFCD) recorded a net withdrawal of PKR nine billion, and greenback deposits rose to PKR 87 billion in the first nine months of FY26, as per State Bank of Pakistan data. This data reflects the failure of strict rules imposed by the government and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to curb the outflow of US currency. Foreign currency deposits are bank accounts maintained by individuals or entities residing in Pakistan under the guidance of the State Bank. These accounts allow residents to hold, manage, and transact in foreign currency, providing a hedge against local currency depreciation and facilitating international transactions. Earlier instances showed that dollars were being used to buy cryptocurrencies, which are not legally traded in Pakistan. Recently, the State Bank initiated steps to formalise the cryptocurrency market, breaking a long-standing ban through the new Virtual Assets Act 2026. SBP has established a framework under which the newly established Pakistan Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (PVARA) will license and regulate crypto firms. (“SBP curbs fail to dent appetite for dollars,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
CLIMATE CHANGE
Urban expansion raises concern over degradation of coastal ecosystems in Pakistan
On 22 April, Dawn reported that experts have raised concerns over the growing risks to Pakistan’s coastal ecosystems, particularly Karachi's mangrove forests, due to unchecked urban expansion and climate change pressures. The issue was highlighted during a media roundtable held at the Aga Khan University ahead of Earth Day, where a documentary titled A Forest in Peril was screened, focusing on the vulnerability of mangroves on Bundal Island. Mangroves were described as vital ecosystems that protect coastal communities from erosion, rising sea levels and extreme weather, while also supporting biodiversity and local livelihoods. However, increasing urbanisation, along with environmental stress, is threatening their survival and long-term sustainability. Experts emphasised that the degradation of mangroves is not only an environmental concern but also a human one, as it directly affects communities dependent on these ecosystems. The discussion also highlighted ongoing efforts to conserve these fragile environments and raise awareness about climate challenges faced by coastal regions. (“Risks to coastal ecosystems highlighted amid urban expansion,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
ON INDIA
India has failed to provide evidence linking Pakistan to Pahalgam attack, says Info Minister Tarar
On 22 April, Dawn reported that Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said India had failed to provide evidence linking Pakistan to the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people in Pahalgam. Marking the attack’s anniversary, Tarar questioned the rapid filing of the FIR and India’s rejection of a neutral probe, alleging the incident “may have been a false flag operation”. He added that Pakistan had expressed sympathy for the victims while remaining a victim of terrorism itself. The attack triggered a sharp escalation, including India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and cross-border strikes before a US-brokered ceasefire. Tarar warned that any future “misadventure” would receive a “firm, decisive and swift response,” amid continuing tensions and competing narratives between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. (“A year on, India has failed to substantiate allegations against Pakistan over Pahalgam attack: info minister,” Dawn, 22 April 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
US-Iran war
Khurram Husain, "How it ends," Dawn, 23 April 2026
"It took five years of negotiations to end the Vietnam War. The Paris Accords were signed in January 1973 by a beleaguered presidential administration after five years of negotiations that had begun in 1968. The most important breakthroughs along the way occurred in the secret talks held between Henry Kissinger and Le Duc Tho who represented the Viet Cong. There were 68 rounds of these secret talks that Kissinger describes in his memoirs, and the one thing to take away from it is how meticulous, exacting and diabolically complicated these kinds of talks can be."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604015/a-moment-of-diplomacy-a-test-of-reality
Lt Gen (r) Naweed Zaman, "Who will blink first?" The News International, 23 April 2026
"Ultimately, the current impasse will test the judgment, prudence and statesmanship of both leaderships. Patience, perseverance, and a genuine commitment to reaching and honoring an agreement are essential. Without these, the conflict risks imposing heavy costs not only on Iran and the broader Middle East but also on the global economy."
https://www.thenews.pk/print/1411375-who-will-blink-first
Geopolitics
Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, "The economic connection," Dawn, 23 April 2026
"India and Pakistan are already paying a heavy price for not trading directly. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has created a new urgency for transboundary trade and energy cooperation. It has simply made the old argument impossible to dismiss. The global goodwill generated by the Islamabad talks has given Pakistan a new opportunity to win international support and initiate talks on regional economic and energy integration and direct trade between regional countries."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1994240/the-economic-connection
Climate change
Editorial, "Climate & livelihoods," Dawn, 23 April 2026
"The latest ILO report estimates that around 3.3m jobs may have been affected by the 2025 floods — significantly more than the number of new job-seekers entering the labour market each year — in Punjab and KP. This is a grim reminder of how recurring climate disasters are eroding livelihoods of already vulnerable communities. The finding that nine out of the 14 worst-hit districts are in Punjab indicates that residents of even relatively developed regions are not protected from climate risks. The report reveals that agriculture, the backbone of rural employment, has borne the brunt of the damage, with spill-over effects rippling through rural services and industry. That nearly 78pc of employment losses occurred in the rural areas highlights the fragility of rural economies, where livelihoods and jobs remain overwhelmingly dependent on climate-vulnerable agriculture and related services."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1994233/climate-livelihoods
Sustainability
Dr Asim J Abro, "Sustainable procurement," The News International, 22 April 2026
"Successful implementation of sustainable public procurement requires a robust performance measurement and reporting mechanism. Digital procurement platforms such as ePADS would play a crucial role in improving access to information, monitoring compliance, and facilitating data-driven decision-making. By embedding sustainability into procurement policies, Pakistan can transform public spending into a powerful driver of green growth, environmental protection and inclusive development."
https://www.thenews.pk/print/1411377-sustainable-procurement
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