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In Brief
EXTERNAL
Pakistan and Russia hold 16th strategic stability talks in Moscow, agree to next round in Islamabad
On 19 May, The Express Tribune reported that Foreign Office (FO) Spokesperson and Additional Secretary Tahir Andrabi and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov co-chaired the 16th meeting of the Russia-Pakistan Consultative Group on Strategic Stability in Moscow, where they discussed international security, global stability, arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation. The FO said the talks confirmed an "affinity of approaches" on most issues discussed, with both sides agreeing to hold the 17th meeting in Islamabad next year. The talks come as Pakistan is actively seeking to increase oil imports from Russia amid the Strait of Hormuz crisis, with Pakistan's Ambassador to Russia Faisal Niaz Tirmizi noting last week that Islamabad was looking for alternatives to Persian Gulf energy supplies and exploring the possibility of a pipeline connecting Central Asia and Russia to Pakistan. ("Pakistan, Russia discuss international security at 16th strategic stability talks in Moscow: FO," The Express Tribune, 19 May 2026)
Pakistan reaffirms Gulf ties and regional peace push as five-day envoys' conference concludes
On 19 May, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting with Pakistan's ambassadors to GCC member states and Iran, directing them to proactively enhance bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people contacts, while emphasising the centrality of these relationships to Pakistan's foreign policy. PM Shehbaz separately spoke with Qatari PM Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and met Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad. The five-day Regional Envoys' Conference concluded the same day, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar underlining Pakistan's "longstanding, historic and brotherly relations" with Gulf countries at the closing session and directing heads of missions and relevant ministries to maintain close coordination and follow up on recommendations from the consultations. ("Govt reaffirms Gulf ties, regional peace push," Dawn, 19 May 2026)
Pakistan and nine countries condemn Israel's interception of Gaza aid flotilla
On 19 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan joined Turkiye, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Jordan, Libya, Maldives, and Spain in a joint statement condemning Israel's renewed assault on the Global Sumud Flotilla, describing the interception of the peaceful civilian humanitarian initiative as a "blatant violation of international law and international humanitarian law." The ministers called for the immediate release of all detained activists, including Saad Edhi, grandson of late philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi, who was among those detained by Israeli forces in the eastern Mediterranean. Nine Indonesians, including two journalists, and 15 Irish citizens were also among the detained. The flotilla had set sail for a third time from southern Turkiye after previous attempts were intercepted, including one last month off Greece, where former senator Mushtaq Ahmed was also detained. Israel's foreign ministry reiterated that it would not allow any breach of its naval blockade on Gaza, with PM Netanyahu praising the interception force for "thwarting a malicious scheme." ("10 countries, including Pakistan, condemn Israel's interception of Gaza aid flotilla," Dawn, 19 May 2026)
ECONOMY
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank approves USD 320 million investment in N-5 highway project
On 19 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) signed a USD 320 million loan agreement to reconstruct and improve critical sections of the N-5 highway. The N-5 highway is the country’s longest national highway from Karachi to Torkham near the Afghan border. The agreement follows several AIIB investments in Pakistan, such as Pakistan's inaugural Panda bond in China’s onshore capital market. (“AIIB to provide $320m loan for N-5 highway reconstruction project,” Dawn, 19 May 2026)
Government approves management transfer of national shipping carrier to National Logistics Corporation
On 20 May, Dawn reported that the Cabinet approved the transfer of Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) management control along with a 30 per cent shareholding to National Logistics Corporation (NLC). PNSC is engaged in the transportation of dry bulk and liquid cargo across the globe with a fleet of 12 ships, and NLC is an army-run logistics firm working under the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives. At present, the national carrier handles around 12 per cent of Pakistan’s sea-route cargo requirements, resulting in foreign exchange outflows on freight payments. This decision to transfer management control aims to expand the vessel fleet from 12 to more than 50 in five years, with projected annual foreign exchange savings of USD five billion to USD six billion in freight costs by handling more sea-route cargo. (“ECC allows NLC to take over shipping corporation,” Dawn, 20 May 2026)
FDI declines by 31 per cent in first ten months of FY26
On 20 May, Dawn reported that during the first ten months of the current financial year, foreign direct investment (FDI) fell by 31 per cent. During July-April, FDI inflows stood at USD 1.409 billion compared to USD 2.035 billion in the same period of FY 25, showing a decline of 31 per cent. The continuous decline in FDI reflects Pakistan’s continuing struggle to attract foreign investors. In April, FDI inflows stood at just USD 54 million. During the ten months, more than half of the inflows came from China, accounting for USD 740 million. Other significant inflows came from Hong Kong at USD 281 million, Switzerland at USD 170 million, and the United Arab Emirates at USD 169 million. The highest outflow was recorded from Norway, which withdrew USD 365 million. (“Foreign investment plunges to $1.409 bn,” Dawn, 20 May 2026)
Projections indicate a rise in inflation in May
On 20 May, The Express Tribune reported that according to Optimus Capital Management, Pakistan's headline inflation is projected to rise to 12.2 per cent year-on-year in May 2026 as mounting fuel and food prices outweigh relief from lower electricity charges. The National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) is expected to increase by about one per cent month-on-month (MoM), while core NCPI is projected at 8.4 per cent year on year, indicating persistent underlying pressures. Food inflation is projected to rise by about 1.5 per cent month on month and nearly nine per cent year on year, driven largely by higher wheat and wheat flour prices, both expected to increase by nearly seven per cent monthly. (“Inflation projected to hit 122 in May,” The Express Tribune, 20 May 2026)
Government to approve upcoming development plan ahead of new fiscal year
On 20 May, Dawn reported that in the first week of June, the government will hold meetings of the Annual Plan Coordination Committee (APCC) and the National Economic Council (NEC). The two forums generally review economic and development performance during the outgoing fiscal year and set targets for the following year before these are incorporated into the federal and provincial budgets. The meeting will be held to clear a consolidated national development programme of more than PKR 3.5 trillion and a macroeconomic framework envisaging an economic growth rate of 4.1 per cent with an elevated inflation rate of 8.5 per cent for the next fiscal year. The finance ministry had given an indicative budget ceiling (IBC) of about PKR 1.126 trillion for the federal Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), despite the IMF setting a PKR 986 billion PSDP target for next year. The Planning Commission had sought a larger PKR 2.9 trillion envelope for the PSDP based on sectoral demands amounting to about PKR four trillion. However, the Ministry of Finance did not allow allocations beyond PKR 1.126 trillion in view of IMF commitments. (“Govt set to approve Rs35 tr development plan,” Dawn, 20 May 2026)
SECURITY
North Waziristan: Security forces kill 22 militants during sanitation operation
On 19 May, Dawn reported that Pakistani security forces killed 22 militants during an ongoing sanitisation operation in the Shewa area of North Waziristan, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The military said the operation, launched based on intelligence regarding the presence of militants associated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), involved intense exchanges of fire and also resulted in the recovery of weapons and ammunition. The ISPR further claimed that the militants had used local civilians as human shields and reiterated that counter-terrorism operations under the Azm-i-Istehkam framework would continue amid the broader resurgence of militancy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. (“Security forces kill 22 terrorists in North Waziristan operation: ISPR,” Dawn, 19 May 2026)
Datta Khel: Families flee tehsil amid fears of imminent security operation
On 19 May, The Express Tribune reported that families in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan were fleeing their homes amid fears of a large-scale security operation, with residents reporting a week-long exodus from villages towards safer areas. Locals said roads had been sealed, markets largely shut, and shortages of food, medicines and other essentials were emerging, while women, children and elderly residents were leaving under difficult conditions. Officials said heightened security measures followed intelligence regarding militant presence in the area, but residents expressed concern over repeated displacement and appealed for urgent relief assistance, including shelter, transport, food and medical support. (“Fear of security operation triggers mass exodus in North Waziristan’s Datta Khel,” The Express Tribune, 19 May 2026)
“Propaganda or externally-supported terrorism” cannot derail Pakistan’s progress, says CDF Munir
On 19 May, Dawn reported that Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir said during a visit to Quetta that “propaganda, fake news or externally-sponsored terrorism” could not derail Pakistan’s progress, while reaffirming the military’s commitment to eliminating terrorism. He stressed that lasting peace in Balochistan required not only security measures but also inclusive development, improved governance and a people-centred approach. During his visit, Munir also addressed officers at the Command and Staff College, emphasising the changing nature of warfare and the importance of emerging technologies, multi-domain operations, cyber capabilities, drones and artificial intelligence in future conflicts. (“Externally-sponsored terrorism, propaganda cannot derail Pakistan’s progress: CDF Munir,” Dawn, 19 May 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Too early to comment on proposed 28th Amendment: PPP leaders
On 20 May, Dawn reported that leaders of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) said it was too early to comment on reports about a possible 28th Constitutional Amendment because the party had not received any formal proposal or draft. Senator Saleem Mandviwalla said the PPP would only give its opinion after reviewing the details of any proposed amendment. The statement came during continuing political discussions about possible constitutional changes related to provincial powers, resource distribution and governance matters. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had earlier said that neither he nor President Asif Ali Zardari had been formally contacted by the government regarding any new constitutional amendment. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar also recently stated that no constitutional amendment would be introduced without consultation with coalition partners. Discussions about a possible 28th Amendment have focused on issues such as provincial autonomy, resource distribution and powers granted under the 18th Amendment. (“PPP leaders say ‘premature’ to comment on 28th Amendment,” Dawn, 20 May 2026)
PTI and TTAP announce nationwide protests over Imran Khan’s imprisonment and inflation
On 19 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahaffuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) announced nationwide protests to be held on Friday against the imprisonment of former prime minister Imran Khan, rising inflation and higher petroleum prices. The announcement was made after a joint meeting of PTI leaders and TTAP representatives in Islamabad. Former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser said the protests would also raise concerns about the health of Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi, demand their transfer to a hospital, call for the release of political prisoners and seek restoration of fundamental rights. TTAP said demonstrations would take place at district headquarters across the country. Opposition leaders also criticised the government over inflation, fuel prices and law and order issues. PTI leaders warned that protests would continue inside parliament if the government did not change its treatment of the opposition. (“TTAP, PTI announces countrywide protests on Friday against Imran’s imprisonment, rising inflation,” Dawn, 19 May 2026)
Imran Khan asks Supreme Court to order his hospitalisation
On 19 May, Dawn reported that former prime minister Imran Khan approached the Supreme Court seeking orders for his transfer to a hospital for medical treatment. In his petition, Imran Khan requested to be moved to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for a complete medical examination and treatment by doctors of his choice. The petition stated that his right eye condition had seriously worsened because of delayed treatment during imprisonment. It referred to an earlier medical report submitted to the Supreme Court, which said he had lost around 85 per cent vision in his right eye after being diagnosed with central retinal vein occlusion, a condition linked to a blood clot. His legal team also said the condition could create further health risks and required regular medical monitoring. The petition also asked the court to ensure Imran Khan’s access to family members, lawyers and personal doctors during his treatment and imprisonment. Separately, his legal team challenged a court deadline related to appeals in the GBP 190 million corruption case involving Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi. (“Imran urges SC to order his hospitalisation,” Dawn, 19 May 2026)
PM Shehbaz visits Quetta, orders FC deployment in Rakhshan division and reaffirms Pakistan's regional stabiliser role
On 19 May, Dawn reported that PM Shehbaz Sharif addressed faculty and student officers at the Command and Staff College in Quetta, describing Pakistan as a "net regional stabiliser" and paying tribute to the armed forces' performance during Marka-i-Haq, while warning that Pakistan would defend its sovereignty "against any misadventure at all costs." He said India had rejected Pakistan's sincere offer of dialogue and chosen aggression, adding that Pakistan's peaceful posture was a strength, not a weakness. On Afghanistan, he called on Kabul to take "meaningful and credible actions" against ISKP, TTP, and the BLA, whose use of Afghan soil to attack Pakistan continued under Operation Ghazab lil-Haq. PM Shehbaz also chaired a provincial Apex Committee meeting in Quetta, where he directed the deployment of the Frontier Corps in Balochistan's Rakhshan division to establish a security corridor protecting mineral resources, including additional FC wings, highway checkposts, a surveillance grid, and border posts. The meeting was attended by Field Marshal Asim Munir, CM Sarfraz Bugti, and several federal ministers. ("Pakistan a net regional stabiliser contributing to peace in the region and beyond: PM Shehbaz," Dawn, 19 May 2026)
ON INDIA
Pakistan extends India airspace ban
On 19 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan extended its ban on Indian civilian and military aircraft using its airspace for another month, with restrictions now remaining in place until 24 June under a Notice to Airmen (Notam) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA). The ban applies to both the Karachi and Lahore Flight Information Regions and covers all Indian-registered, operated or leased aircraft, including military flights. The restrictions were first imposed in April 2025 following heightened tensions after the Pahalgam attack in Kashmir, after which both countries closed their airspace to each other’s airlines. (“PAA extends airspace ban on Indian aircraft until June 24,” Dawn, 19 May 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
US-Iran war
Editorial, "Hormuz gamble," Dawn, 20 May 2026
"For Pakistan, mediation offers diplomatic relevance but also growing risk. The longer the crisis drags on, the harder it will become for Islamabad to balance relations with Tehran, Washington and the Gulf states. For now, the ceasefire survives because all sides understand the cost of its collapse. But unless negotiations soon give way to progress rather than competing ultimatums, the Middle East may be heading not towards peace, but a prolonged era of recurring crises."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2001676/hormuz-gamble
Politics & governance
Editorial, "Another plea for justice," The Express Tribune, 20 May 2026
"A petition-cum-appeal from former prime minister Imran Khan has landed before the Supreme Court, seeking medical treatment and access to personal physician, lawyers and family. It is an enigma why Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, are continually deprived of facilities that are lawful under jail manual. It's been more than 150 days that the incarcerated PTI chairman has not had any visitors. Thus, the new plea before the apex court deserves an instant hearing and treatment as per law."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2609028/another-plea-for-justice
External
Editorial, "Israeli piracy," The Express Tribune, 20 May 2026
"The criminal conduct of the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) continues as its naval commandoes illegally stopped and boarded a humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza while it was still in international waters. Among the nearly 100 detained activists is Saad Edhi, the grandson of the legendary Abdul Sattar Edhi, who was himself arrested by Israel on a similar mercy mission 45 years ago. Saad and the other people on the flotilla have already proven themselves to be better advocates of humanity than the leaders of the so-called free world, who continue turning a blind eye to the genocidal actions of the Israeli government and the unbridled terrorism of "settlers", who are little more than state-supported Zionist terrorists."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2609029/israeli-piracy
Child nutrition
Editorial, "Child nutrition crisis," The Express Tribune, 20 May 2026
"Pakistan's child nutrition crisis has long been treated as a welfare issue when, in reality, it is a national emergency with generational consequences. To cater to this worsening crisis, Unicef has partnered with the University of Health Sciences to launch a capacity-building programme aimed at incorporating nutrition and child health interventions into the MBBS curriculum across Punjab. If Pakistan is serious about reversing its malnutrition burden, it must treat child nutrition as a core development priority rather than a narrow health intervention. That requires sustained financing and a functioning community health systems at the least."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2609030/child-nutrition-crisis-1
Culture
Ishtiaq Ali Mehkri, "Karachi's forgotten bustling life, buses & music," The Express Tribune, 20 May 2026
"From Kolachi to Karachi, the bustling metropolitan of lights has come a long way. Now it is in tatters unfortunately, owing to lack of ownership from the people and the government, alike. As a Karachiite, I have no dearth of memories to cherish as the city used to have a happening ambience all over: be it the sprawling katchi abadis, the middle class concrete jungles or the posh localities. Apart from its night life – as Burns Road, Lalukhet, Nazimabad Chowrangi and Bahadurabad used to bristle almost till wee-hours with eateries – there was a commutation magic in the city. That was its private buses, Omni buses and coaches with a colourful mode of their own."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2609031/karachis-forgotten-bustling-life-buses-music
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