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In Brief
CLIMATE CHANGE
National Disaster Authority issues warning over flooding due to melting glaciers
On 27 May, The Express Tribune reported that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warned that an intense heatwave across Pakistan was accelerating glacier melting and increasing risks of landslides and floods in northern mountainous regions. The NDMA said temperatures between 26 and 31 May could reach 48°C in parts of Sindh, Balochistan and southern Punjab. Rapid glacier melt in Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Kashmir has heightened fears of glacial lake outburst floods and river overflows in areas including Hunza, Chitral and Swat. Authorities also warned of possible road closures along the Karakoram Highway and other key routes. Provincial disaster management agencies have launched emergency measures, including cooling centres, medical preparedness and public awareness campaigns. (“Glacier melting raises flood, landslide fears,” The Express Tribune, 27 May 2026)
Heat and strong winds slow efforts to control forest fires in Dir district
On 26 May, Dawn reported that strong winds and intense heat were making it difficult to control forest fires in the Upper Dir district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Rescue officials said that the fires were spreading in forest areas near Patrak and nearby locations, causing damage to trees and vegetation. Authorities said rescue teams, forest department staff, civil defence workers and local volunteers were taking part in firefighting operations. Officials said fire vehicles could not reach the affected areas because there were no proper roads. So the rescue workers and volunteers had to travel on foot through mountainous terrain. Traditional methods were also being used to stop the fires from spreading further. Local residents expressed their concern over the environmental damage and the slow response to the fires. Officials said high temperatures, dry weather and strong winds were continuing to make firefighting operations difficult in the region. (“Strong winds, intense heat hamper efforts to contain forest fires in KP’s Dir,” Dawn, 26 May 2026)
ECONOMY
Energy ministry proposes strategic petroleum reserves amid energy security concerns
On 27 May, The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistan government is planning to boost domestic storage for crude oil and refined products to increase its energy security, as Pakistan has no strategic petroleum reserves. The energy ministry is proposing to build strategic petroleum reserves as well as commercial storage through bonded terminals, refineries and oil marketing companies. It is also pushing for more oil and gas exploration and production, upgrades to its refineries and a consolidation of its downstream sector. Under the bonded storage plan, international suppliers and traders would be allowed to hold petroleum stocks, creating commercial inventories that could support domestic supply during emergencies. The document also calls for an energy infrastructure corridor around the city of Hub and Port Qasim, including single-point mooring, storage and pipeline connectivity, to reduce reliance on smaller, costlier shipments. (“Pakistan plans oil reserves, storage push as Hormuz constraints expose vulnerabilities," The Express Tribune, 27 May 2026)
PM invites Chinese companies to expand investment under CPEC 2.0
On 26 May, The Express Tribune reported that during a series of high-level meetings with leading Chinese enterprises, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to deepening economic, industrial and infrastructure cooperation under CPEC 2.0. The prime minister met CEOs of FAMSUN, Shandong Xinxu Group, China Communications Construction Corporation (CCCC) and appreciated the companies' over six decades of contribution to Pakistan's infrastructure development. Separately, addressing a ceremony at the IBI Corporation headquarters in Beijing, the premier underscored the importance of strengthening Pakistan-China economic and commercial cooperation, promoting bilateral trade and investment, and enhancing institutional linkages between the business communities of the two countries. (“PM invites Chinese investment in SEZs,” The Express Tribune, 26 May 2026)
Federal budget FY27 to focus on fiscal reforms amid economic constraints
On 27 May, The Express Tribune reported that as the government faces the challenge of balancing fiscal discipline with demands for tax relief, growth support and investor confidence, Pakistan's upcoming federal budget for FY27 will be focused on reinforcing a commitment to economic stabilisation, despite mounting political, social and economic pressures. On the macro side, the government is targeting GDP growth of about 4.1per cent and inflation near 8.5 per cent for FY27, while IMF projections remain closer to 3.5 per cent. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is expected to collect approximately PKR 15.3 trillion in taxes during FY27, implying revenue growth of around 14 to 20 per cent, depending on the final FY26 collection base to meet IMF-linked targets. The government is also considering reforms at the provincial level with a focus on agricultural income taxation and broadening GST on services, as agriculture contributes about 24.6 per cent of value added but only 0.3 per cent of tax revenue, highlighting a key structural imbalance. (“FY 27 budget may offer limited relief,” The Express Tribune, 27 May 2026)
Sluggish Eid sales hurt traders in twin cities
On 27 May, The Express Tribune reported that Rawalpindi and Islamabad's commercial markets and cattle bazaars witnessed an unprecedented slowdown in commercial activity ahead of Eidul Azha. Livestock traders have to announce substantial price reductions for sacrificial animals during the first, second and third days of Eid after failing to achieve expected sales volumes. Some households did manage to purchase smaller goats and sheep priced below PKR 100,000. However, the traditional neighbourhood-based collective sacrifice system, in which seven individuals jointly share the cost of a cow or bull, witnessed a notable resurgence. (“Twin cities witness sluggish trade activity,” The Express Tribune, 27 May 2026)
Punjab CM invites Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank to invest in provincial projects
On 26 May, The Express Tribune reported that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met the Chief Investment Officer and Director General of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. She briefed the delegation about development projects in Punjab and offered the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) a partnership in the development projects in the province. The chief minister also appreciated AIIB's cooperation in the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the improvement of water and sanitation infrastructure in Lahore. (“AIIB offered partnership in Punjab projects,” The Express Tribune, 26 May 2026)
EXTERNAL
China and Pakistan reach "new broad consensus" on deepening ties as PM Shehbaz concludes Beijing visit
On 26 May, Dawn reported that China and Pakistan issued a joint statement at the conclusion of PM Shehbaz Sharif's four-day visit to Beijing, declaring a "new broad consensus" on deepening their all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. The statement committed both sides to advancing CPEC 2.0 with a focus on agriculture, the digital economy, AI, energy, and industrial cooperation, including the realignment of the Karakoram Highway, the development of Gwadar Port as a regional connectivity hub, and the establishment of a China-Pakistan Security Partnership. China reaffirmed support for Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, reiterated that the Kashmir dispute should be resolved through UN resolutions and bilateral agreements, and appreciated Pakistan's role in facilitating the US-Iran ceasefire and the Islamabad Talks. Both sides called for early implementation of their joint five-point peace initiative for the Gulf and Middle East. Pakistan reaffirmed the one-China principle, including on Taiwan, Xinjiang, Xizang, Hong Kong, and the South China Sea, and supported China's initiative to establish a World AI Cooperation Organisation. On the margins, PM Shehbaz visited the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, announced plans to send 1,000 Pakistani agriculture graduates to Chinese universities, and met with delegations from FAMSUN, Shandong Xinxu Group, and China Communications Construction Corporation to advance CPEC Phase II projects. ("China, Pakistan reach 'new broad consensus' on boosting ties," Dawn, 26 May 2026)
Aga Khan V concludes week-long Pakistan visit with development commitments
On 26 May, Dawn reported that Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V departed Pakistan after a week-long visit during which he met President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, and KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, reaffirming Aga Khan Development Network's (AKDN) commitment to humanitarian and development efforts in the country. During his meeting with KP leadership at Lower Chitral Airport, Prince Rahim agreed to establish an Aga Khan University and hospital in Peshawar, and discussed investment opportunities in mining, mineral exploration, sustainable natural resource development, and tourism in the province. He also visited “Gilgit-Baltistan”, where he urged followers to strengthen unity, pursue education, and remain steadfast in faith. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, who saw him off at Nur Khan Airbase, described the visit as important for further strengthening cooperation between Pakistan and AKDN. ("Prince Rahim winds up Pakistan visit after week of meetings with political leadership, development assurances," Dawn, 26 May 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
KP information minister dismisses reports of PTI MPA dissent against CM Afridi as "fabricated"
On 26 May, Dawn reported that KP Information Minister Shafi Jan rejected media reports that around 50 PTI Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) were forming a group against Chief Minister Sohail Afridi over dissatisfaction with his performance, calling the claims "false, fabricated, and baseless". Jan said all KP Assembly members remained united under Afridi's leadership and that the chief minister had the confidence of PTI founder Imran Khan. He clarified that Afridi's meeting with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman was focused on the death of cleric Maulana Muhammad Idrees and the law and order situation, not budget support as reported. He predicted the provincial budget would pass "without hurdles" and dismissed concerns about political divisions within the KP government. ("`Baseless and fabricated': KP info minister dismisses reports of PTI MPAs forming group against CM Afridi," Dawn, 26 May 2026)
SECURITY
Bannu: Three people killed in separate attacks
On 26 May, Dawn reported that three people, including a Frontier Constabulary (FC) official, were killed in separate incidents in Bannu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Police said that the FC official was shot dead by unidentified attackers in the Domel area, while another person was killed in a separate firing incident in Bakka Khel. A third person also died in another attack linked to ongoing violence in the district. Police and security personnel started the search operations after the incidents, and investigations are continuing to identify those responsible for the attacks. Authorities said the attacks are part of the recent rise in militant violence in Bannu and nearby areas, where both security personnel and civilians have been increasingly targeted. These incidents come during ongoing counterterrorism operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where militant attacks have increased in recent months. (“FC official among three killed in Bannu incidents,” Dawn, 26 May 2026)
ON INDIA
Experts call for diplomacy and modern defence technology to deal with India
On 26 May, Dawn reported that experts at a conference in Islamabad highlighted the importance of diplomacy and modern defence technology in dealing with security challenges related to India. The conference was organised by the Institute of Strategic Studies (Islamabad), in connection with Youm-i-Takbeer. Participants said that dialogue and diplomatic engagement remain important for maintaining stability in South Asia. They also raised concerns about India’s changing military strategy and the growing use of advanced technologies in warfare. Speakers discussed the increasing role of artificial intelligence drones, hypersonic missiles, cyber operations, and space-based systems in modern conflicts. They also stressed the need for better crisis communication, stronger arms control measures, and continued human involvement in military decision-making. Moreover, the discussion focused on the changing nature of warfare and the need for regional stability through diplomacy and technological preparedness. (“Diplomacy, new war technology vital to deter India, experts say,” Dawn, 26 May 2026)
Climate Change Minister Malik urges India to follow Indus Waters Treaty
On 26 May, Dawn reported that Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, speaking at an international conference in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, urged India to follow the Indus Waters Treaty and warned against using water as a political tool. He also said actions affecting shared rivers could create problems for water security, food production and climate stability. Malik said climate change should encourage countries to cooperate more closely through transparency, data sharing and respect for international agreements. He warned that ignoring water sharing treaties could affect downstream countries and increase regional tensions. The minister also highlighted Pakistan’s climate-related challenges, including floods, droughts and glacial melting. He called for stronger regional cooperation on water management, environmental protection and climate resilience. Malik also urged the international community to support and enforce global water sharing agreements. (“Climate Minister Musadik Malik warns against water aggression, urges India to respect IWT,” Dawn, 26 May 2026)
Pakistan and the US-Iran war
Pakistan urges restraint in US-Iran conflict at UNSC
Foreign Minister Dar highlights Islamabad’s mediation role as he continues diplomatic engagement in New York
On 26 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan used a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) debate chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to push for sustained diplomacy in the ongoing US-Iran war, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar warning that another conflict in the Middle East would threaten regional peace, global energy supplies and the international order. Dar highlighted Pakistan’s mediation efforts between Tehran and Washington, saying Islamabad had consistently advocated restraint and dialogue due to its ties with both Iran and the United States. He also thanked China, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Türkiye and Qatar for supporting de-escalation initiatives.
During the debate, Dar criticised what he described as the selective application of international law and reiterated Pakistan’s positions on Kashmir and Palestine. He said unresolved disputes and double standards were weakening the credibility of the international system and called for reforms to the UN Security Council to ensure greater equity and representation. The session, held under China’s presidency of the council, also featured remarks from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who warned about the erosion of respect for international law and growing geopolitical divisions. Dar also held discussions with foreign ministers of Azerbaijan, Costa Rica, Bahrain, Cuba, the Czech Republic and Colombia. (“Pakistan stresses need for restraint, de-escalation in Iran-US conflict,” Dawn, 26 May 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
US-Iran war
Zahid Hussain, "Elusive peace agreement," Dawn, 27 May 2026
"Is there finally a deal to end the Iran war? Not even close. As the world awaited Washington’s approval of a framework that Tehran reportedly agreed upon to de-escalate tensions, US President Donald Trump cautioned negotiators “not to rush into a deal” with Iran — a deal that could potentially lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a comprehensive peace plan."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2003388/elusive-peace-agreement
Editorial, "Pressure politics," Dawn, 27 May 2026
"The Abraham Accords were presented as a historic peace initiative in the Middle East. In reality, they were agreements brokered during US President Donald Trump’s first presidency under which several Arab states normalised ties with Israel without resolving the Palestinian issue. Mr Trump now appears keen to expand the Accords again, pushing more Muslim countries to join after the recent Iran conflict. It is a dangerous and deeply dishonest move, driven less by regional peace than by pressure from Israel’s supporters in Washington and America’s hard-line pro-Israel right."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2003384/pressure-politics
Pakistan & the IMF
Saeed Ahmed, "The lender that governs," Dawn, 27 May 2026
"The IMF’s Executive Board has approved the third review of Pakistan’s 37-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF), adding 11 new conditions and raising total structural conditionality to 75. In addition, there are 30 standing commitments, bringing total compliance requirements to 105. These span fiscal, governance, monetary, foreign exchange, financial, energy, state-owned enterprises, trade, investment, deregulation, social protection, and anti-corruption measures — many extending well beyond the IMF’s core mandate and institutional competence. The sheer breadth of this conditionality now touches almost every sphere of economic activity and governance, steadily eroding Pakistan’s policy autonomy and economic sovereignty."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2003387/the-lender-that-governs
Society
Saira Samo, "Celebrate Eid - with responsibility," The Express Tribune, 26 May 2026
"Every year on Eid-ul-Azha, municipal areas become overwhelmed by the influx of sacrificial waste. The improper disposal of animal remains, offal and blood inundates roads and streets and chokes local drainage systems, creating severe sanitation crises. The unpleasant smell and unhygienic conditions not only create discomfort for residents but also increase the risk of spreading dangerous diseases. Unfortunately, municipal authorities often fail to handle the enormous burden of waste collection and disposal during the Eid festival. Due to poor planning, lack of resources and weak implementation of sanitation policies, many urban areas remain dirty for days after Eid. In ordinary circumstances, this negligence is harmful, but in the current situation, it can become disastrous for public health."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610041/celebrate-eid-with-responsibility
Cyber
Editorial, "Data security," The Express Tribune, 26 May 2026
"Pakistan's digital transformation has accelerated rapidly over the past decade. But while the country has embraced technology, it continues to treat data protection with an alarming degree of complacency. A case in point are the recent revelations surrounding a network of individuals involved in stealing sensitive information of Pakistani citizens and selling it onward."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610039/data-security
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