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In Focus
Pakistan and Norway agree to deepen strategic ties
Norwegian FM backs Pakistan’s Iran mediation, expands bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, defense and education
On 14 August, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide endorsed Pakistan's mediation between the US and Iran, describing it as a "service to the world", during his first visit to Pakistan in a decade. Following talks with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Norway welcomed Pakistan's diplomatic role in the conflict, and both countries agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, defence, climate change, maritime affairs, education, and labour mobility. The two sides also reaffirmed support for international law, maritime security, and continued dialogue on regional issues including Afghanistan, Gaza, and Ukraine.
During the visit, Eide also met Field Marshal Asim Munir, with both sides discussing regional security and defence cooperation. Norway acknowledged Pakistan's security challenges and expressed support for efforts to promote regional stability, while both countries agreed that Afghan territory should not be used by terrorist groups. Eide also praised the contribution of the Pakistani diaspora in Norway and highlighted opportunities for greater economic cooperation, including renewable energy, IT, ship recycling, and climate-resilient agriculture. Pakistan's IT exports to Norway have increased more than fivefold over the past two years, while the two countries agreed to hold the next round of bilateral political consultations in Islamabad in December 2026.
The visit marked a significant revival of high-level engagement between Islamabad and Oslo after a decade. The two countries agreed to expand people-to-people exchanges, academic cooperation, and legal pathways for skilled Pakistani workers, while also strengthening collaboration under the Paris Agreement and maritime initiatives. Pakistan and Norway reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, peaceful conflict resolution, and a two-state solution for Israel-Palestine, with both sides pledging to maintain regular high-level dialogue and broaden cooperation across diplomatic, economic, and security sectors. (“Pakistan, Norway reaffirm resolve to strengthen bilateral ties, expand engagement in defence and security,” Dawn, 14 August 2026; “Norway hails Pakistan's US-Iran mediation as 'service to world',” The Express Tribune, 14 August 2026)
In Brief
EXTERNAL
Pakistan seeks 50 per cent price cut and lower volumes on Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline
On 14 August, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan has asked Iran to reduce the price of gas under the Iran-Pakistan (IP) pipeline project by up to 50 per cent, as the current contracted price of USD 10.6 per million British thermal units (mmBtu), higher than liquefied natural gas (LNG), has left no domestic sector willing to buy the gas. Pakistan has proposed a revised price of around USD 4.67 to USD 5.89 per mmBtu at different Brent crude levels, calculated at 6.11 per cent of Brent plus USD 1. Islamabad has also asked Tehran to reduce the contracted volume to avoid consuming gas it has no market for, and has clarified it can only proceed with the project if the US grants a sanctions waiver. ("Pakistan seeks 50% price cut for Iran gas," The Express Tribune, 14 August 2026)
UNESCO adds 12 Pakistani sites to World Heritage Tentative List, taking total to 37
On 14 August, The Express Tribune reported that the UNESCO World Heritage Centre added 12 new Pakistani sites to its World Heritage Tentative List in 2026, bringing the country's total to 37. The new additions span multiple periods and regions, including the Archaeological Complex of Gor Khatri, Bazira-Barikot, and the Bhamala Buddhist Complex in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; Pharwala Fort, Rewat Fort, and the Tomb of Sultan Muqarrab Khan in Punjab; Kot Diji, Naukot, and Umerkot Forts in Sindh; and the Kalasha Valley Cultural Landscape in Chitral. The sites reflect Pakistan's cultural diversity, covering Gandharan and Buddhist heritage, ancient settlements, Islamic architecture, and living cultural traditions. ("Pakistan's heritage footprint expands globally," The Express Tribune, 14 August 2026)
Makkah pact to include joint ministerial and military coordination mechanisms
On 13 August, Dawn reported that Türkiye's defence ministry announced that Pakistan, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia would establish formal political and military coordination mechanisms under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed on 07 August. The mechanisms would include meetings of the three countries' defence ministers, foreign ministers, and military chiefs, alongside joint military exercises and cooperation in defence industry production and technology sharing. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an separately said the pact's vision was not limited to three countries, expressing hope that others would eventually join under its umbrella. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Egypt was expected to join in the next stage, with only a few technical issues remaining. ("Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia will form political, military mechanisms to coordinate under defence pact, Ankara says," Dawn, 13 August 2026)
Foreign Minister chairs high-level meeting to intensify efforts for Somali pirate hostage release
On 13 August, Dawn reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar chaired a high-level meeting at the Foreign Office to review Pakistan's efforts for the release of 10 Pakistani sailors held hostage by Somali pirates aboard the MT Honour 25 since 21 April, now entering their fourth month in captivity. Dar directed all relevant stakeholders to maintain close coordination and intensify diplomatic engagement with Somali authorities and international organisations. No progress has been made in negotiations or ransom payment, said to be around USD 3 million, since the hijacking, with the crew issuing repeated distress calls reporting shortages of food, water, and medicine. ("Dar orders intensified diplomatic engagement for release of Pakistani sailors held hostage by Somali pirates," Dawn, 13 August 2026)
ECONOMY
Pakistan records PKR 3.6 trillion budget surplus
On 14 August, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan recorded a third consecutive primary budget surplus of PKR 3.6 trillion on the back of higher petroleum levy collection and expenditure rationalisation after revenues fell short of the goals. Eventually, the country met the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) non-negotiable primary surplus condition despite lower tax collection and slightly lower provincial cash surpluses. The federal government also booked one of its lowest budget deficits at only PKR 4.8 trillion in the fiscal year 2025-26, PKR 1.7 trillion less than the target. The overperformance was mainly due to PKR 1.3 trillion less than budgeted interest payments, PKR 101 billion higher petroleum levy collection, and PKR 82 billion less spending on federal development projects. An IMF mission is expected to visit Islamabad in the third week of September to review economic performance for the last fiscal year, undertake a comprehensive assessment of Pakistan's economy under Article IV, and recommend the release of the fifth loan tranche of USD 1.1 billion. The provincial governments exceeded their revenue collection condition by the IMF by PKR 18 billion, collecting little over PKR 1.2 trillion in taxes. (“Govt exceeds IMF surplus target,” The Express Tribune, 14 August 2026)
Consumer representatives protest proposed power tariff burden
On 13 August, Dawn reported that Consumer representatives protested against a proposed additional quarterly tariff burden of PKR 34 billion by power companies. Loadshedding, lower sales, and solar penetration resulted in an estimated tariff impact of around PKR 1.35 per unit for three months, which drove higher capacity charges. As most of the major distribution companies (Discos) reported around a 5 per cent reduction in sales, Nepra members suspected that one of the major reasons was excessive loadshedding, particularly affecting “good consumers”. During his questioning, at least the team representing Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) confirmed that loadshedding was also happening in low-loss areas with high-paying consumers. Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) reported that higher capacity charges required its quarterly tariff for the September-November period to increase by about PKR 1.83 per unit, while Hazara Electric sought an additional quarterly tariff adjustment (QTA) of about PKR 1.65 per unit. The head of Power Division’s tariff team said a case for review of the incremental package had already been submitted to Nepra but contested that the package had caused any damage, saying the industrial consumption had generally improved. Representatives of industrial consumers from the Karachi Chamber of Commerce, Korangi Association of Trade and Industry, and others challenged that the slight improvement in industrial consumption was actually because of an industrial shift from captive power generation to the grid after the government imposed a punitive captive levy on natural gas under IMF instructions to curtail power sector circular debt, now building in the gas sector. (“Consumers protest Rs 34 bn tariff burden,” Dawn, 13 August 2026)
Civil government spending crosses PKR 1 trillion
On 14 August, Dawn reported that the cost of running the civil government rose 16 per cent in the fiscal year 2025-26 to cross PKR 1 trillion for the first time despite restructuring and austerity measures. Defence expenditure also increased by 18 per cent to PKR 2.588 trillion from PKR 2.194 trillion a year earlier. At the same time, record cash surpluses from the provinces and a sharp fall in interest payments helped contain the fiscal deficit at 2.6 per cent of GDP, the lowest since FY03. The Ministry of Finance in its annual report on fiscal operations reported that petroleum levy collection surged 29 per cent to PKR 1.567 trillion from PKR 1.22 trillion a year earlier. It also surpassed the original budget target of PKR 1.468 trillion, which had subsequently been revised upward to PKR 1.498 trillion as part of the FY27 budget exercise. The PKR 1.567 trillion petroleum levy did not include an undisclosed amount of customs duty and PKR 26 billion collected through the carbon levy. For the current fiscal year, the government is targeting an even higher PKR 1.676 trillion in petroleum levy, besides PKR 50 billion through the climate levy on petroleum products. (“Petroleum levy collection hits record Rs 157tr,” Dawn, 14 August 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Parliamentary committee raises trade deficit concerns
On 13 August, Dawn reported that a parliamentary committee expressed concern over Pakistan’s persistent trade deficit with China and other Free Trade Agreement partners, calling for a comprehensive assessment of the factors driving the imbalance. The National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce also sought details on the Saindak project and mineral exports to evaluate whether Pakistan was receiving adequate economic returns from its natural resources. Additionally, the committee requested a detailed briefing on Pakistan’s preparedness for the European Union’s revised GSP+ scheme, due to take effect on 01 January 2027, including its opportunities, challenges, and compliance requirements. (“NA panel alarmed over trade deficit with China,” Dawn, 13 August 2026)
PTI issues white paper on wheat crisis, highlighting inconsistent policies and poor governance
On 14 August, Dawn reported that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) Kisan Wing released a white paper on Pakistan’s wheat crisis as the government decided to import one million tonnes of wheat. The report attributed declining wheat production to inconsistent policies, poor governance, delayed decision-making, and rising production costs, despite Pakistan’s favourable agricultural conditions. It proposed reforms including guaranteed wheat procurement, transparent support prices, climate-smart farming, modernised irrigation, stronger agricultural research, and a long-term national food security strategy. Pakistan has increasingly relied on wheat imports in recent years as production has failed to keep pace with domestic demand. (“PTI white paper on wheat crisis,” Dawn, 14 August 2026)
Petrol dealers maintain strike threat as government rejects monthly pricing demand
On 14 August, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s petroleum dealers maintained their threat of a nationwide strike after talks with Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik failed to resolve a dispute over dealer margins. The minister rejected the dealers’ demand to replace the fortnightly fuel price adjustment system with monthly pricing but said a proposed increase of PKR 1.34 per litre in dealer margins was awaiting federal cabinet approval. The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association, which is seeking an 8 per cent increase in margins, is expected to decide whether to proceed with a planned nationwide fuel station shutdown from 15 August. (“Govt rejects dealers’ monthly pricing demand," Dawn, 14 August 2026)
KP CM renews protest threat over Imran Khan’s imprisonment
On 14 August, Dawn reported that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi said he would not attempt to visit Adiala Jail again before 27 September unless authorities officially confirmed a meeting with jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Afridi accused the government of failing to implement court orders permitting PTI leaders to meet Khan and warned of nationwide road blockades and further protests if access continued to be denied. He also called for the closure of key government offices, claiming they had become dysfunctional. The remarks come amid continuing PTI demonstrations demanding access to its jailed founder and his release. (“No Adiala visit without confirmation of meeting, says KP CM Afridi," Dawn, 14 August 2026)
Transport strike “almost resolved”, says Sindh CM
On 14 August, Dawn reported that Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said the dispute behind a six-day goods transporters’ strike was “almost resolved”, with only a few issues remaining under discussion. The strike has disrupted industrial activity, exports and supply chains, prompting businesses to urge an immediate settlement. Industry groups warned that continued disruptions could delay export shipments, increase prices, and force factories to reduce production. The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry estimated that export containers worth around USD 500 million were stranded, raising concerns over missed delivery deadlines and damage to Pakistan’s credibility with international buyers. (“Transporters’ issues almost resolved: Sindh CM,” Dawn, 14 August 2026)
SECURITY
Balochistan: Seven miners abducted in Chagai district; equipment belonging to the mining company stolen
On 13 August, Dawn reported that a group of armed men in the Mahian Kaur area of Chagai district abducted seven miners working for a private copper mining company. Company officials stated that armed men arrived on motorcycles, entered the miners’ camp, and took them hostage at gunpoint, collected equipment from the area, and took away vehicles. The armed men were also reported to have taken 2500 litres of diesel and 1500 litres of petrol. Additionally, the administration has launched efforts to trace the abducted workers, recover the stolen property, and further investigation into the incident is underway. (“7 miners abducted from Balochistan's Chagai,” Dawn, 13 August 2026)
Balochistan: Gas pipeline is blown up in Kachhi District, disrupting supply to several parts of province
On 13 August, Dawn reported that the gas supply to many regions of Balochistan was suspended after unidentified miscreants blew up a gas pipeline in the Bolan area of Kachhi district. The Sui Southern Gas Company spokesperson stated that the gas pipeline was damaged, with an explosion occurring at the KMP-246 valve. They added that the gas supply was suspended to Kolpur, Mach, Mastung, Kalat, Pishin, Ziarat, and many parts of Quetta, and that the company was working to restore the pipeline. (“Gas supply to parts of Balochistan suspended after main pipeline blown up in Bolan,” Dawn, 13 August 2026)
PROVINCES
Punjab: Climate agriculture platform launched with FAO
On 14 August, Dawn reported that the Punjab government and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched the Agriculture, Climate and Water (ACWA) Punjab Consortium to create a unified platform for climate, water and agricultural data. Supported by the Green Climate Fund, the initiative aims to improve decision-making and help farmers adapt to climate change and water scarcity, particularly in South Punjab. The project includes 24 automatic weather stations, groundwater and canal monitoring systems, and a central data portal covering five districts in Punjab and three in Sindh. Officials said the platform would strengthen food security by enabling evidence-based planning and more efficient management of water and agricultural resources. (“Punjab, FAO launch portal to track data on climate, water and crops,” Dawn, 14 August 2026)
Punjab: CM and US Chargé d’Affaires discuss investment, security and education
On 13 August, Dawn reported that US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker met Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to discuss expanding cooperation in education, security, investment, and environmental resilience. The two sides reviewed a proposal to hold a Punjab-US Business and Investment Forum in Lahore and explored the involvement of US experts in addressing floods and smog. Baker also praised the organisation of Lahore’s Basant festival, while Maryam Nawaz highlighted her government’s initiatives on women’s empowerment, environmental policy and urban development, describing overseas Pakistanis in the United States as an important asset for strengthening bilateral ties. (“CM Maryam, Natalie Baker discuss education, security, investment,” Dawn, 13 August 2026)
SPACE
SUPARCO names country’s first lunar rover “Jinnah 1”
On 13 August, Dawn reported that Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) announced “Jinnah-1” as the official name of the country’s first lunar rover. The rover is scheduled to be sent to the Moon in 2029 as part of China’s Chang’e-8 mission, where it will conduct scientific research at the lunar south pole. The Moon’s south pole is known for its challenging terrain and potential to yield significant scientific discoveries. The name pays tribute to Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and symbolises “Pakistan’s resolve, progress and new space horizons. Jinnah-1 will study plasma, radiation, and the lunar surface’s geology, as well as conduct key experiments related to future lunar research and the prospect of human presence on the Moon. Suparco announced the collaboration with China’s Chang’e-8 mission in 2024. (“Pakistan's first lunar rover named "Jinnah-1": Suparco,” Dawn, 13 August 2026)
AF-PAK
UN Report highlights Taliban support for TTP and growing militant and terrorist alliances in Pakistan
On 13 August, Dawn reported that the Afghan Taliban’s support for the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has contributed to a rise in the frequency of terrorist attacks in Pakistan, according to a UN Security Council-mandated monitoring report. The report also highlights the growing alliances between TTP, Al Qaeda, Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIL-K), and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). This is the 38th report of the UN Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, covering the period from 16 December 2025 to 09 June 2026. On the other hand, the report also notes steps by the Taliban authorities to contain the TTP, like the relocation of over 2,000 TTP fighters away from Pakistan’s border by Afghanistan’s authorities. The report notes that while Al Qaeda had previously provided ideological guidance, training and support to the TTP, the 28 April statement of support from Al Qaeda’s official media outlet represented more direct backing. Additionally, while acknowledging the decline of ISIL-K, the UN describes the group as being in a rebuilding phase, with reports of moving its operational infrastructure to northern Pakistan. (“Taliban support fuels deadlier TTP attacks in Pakistan: UN,” Dawn, 13 August 2026)
POK
"AJK" police accuse JAAC of abducting eight officers on election duty
On 14 August, The Express Tribune reported that "Azad Jammu and Kashmir" ("AJK") Police spokesperson, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Khawar Ali Shaukat, accused the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) of abducting eight highway police personnel deployed for election duty in Rawalakot, saying the officers were tortured and remained in JAAC's custody. Shaukat warned JAAC leadership that the state would show no leniency if the personnel were harmed or if threats against their families continued, and demanded their immediate and safe release. The incident came on the day of the final phase of the "AJK" elections in Poonch division, with Shaukat saying public participation in the elections reflected a rejection of JAAC's violent objectives. ("JAAC accused of 'abducting' eight police personnel," The Express Tribune, 14 August 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
The Middle East
Aneela Shahzad, “Makkah Agreement,” The Express Tribune, 14 August 2026
"The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, signed by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye, states that "an armed attack on any one of the three states will be regarded as an attack on all three." This appears to be an extension of a similar agreement (SMDA) signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in 2025. Turkish Defence Minister Hakan Fidan has hinted that Egypt is a potential candidate to join, alongside other nations."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2623760/makkah-agreement
Society
Editorial, “Job policy for youth,” Dawn, 14 August 2026
“Stripped of its rhetoric, the prime minister’s announcement of Pakistan’s first National Youth Employment Policy is nothing more than hollow promises. While long on aspirations, the announcement is short on details. For starters, how does the government intend to create employment for millions when the economy itself is struggling? How does it plan to raise women’s participation in the labour force to 35pc? What exactly does a ‘10pc quota’ for start-ups mean? Explanations matter because the youth problem is fundamentally an economic one. Without answers, the announcement remains closer to political rhetoric than a workable policy."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2022717/job-policy-for-youth
Terrorism
Faisal Ali Raja, “Complexity of terrorism,” The Express Tribune, 14 August 2026
“The complexity of terrorism primarily pivots around four important elements. First, the domestic conditions produce and nurture extremist ideas which keep on attracting the young minds for recruitment at tactical level. Second, regional dynamics provide a conducive ground for intervention by the neighbouring states to extend their financial tentacles way beyond the hinterlands through multiple means. Third, securitisation of society occurs at every tier of social strata and there is hardly anything escaping from it. This often makes a local issue as a national one and vice versa. Lastly, there exists a cascaded disharmony among the military, other institutions and the people of the country. Resultantly, it reduces the capacity and capability of other institutions. Moreover, the intensity of such a friction creates numerous problems in counter-terrorism actions."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2623759/complexity-of-terrorism
Editorial, “Taliban support,” The Express Tribune, 12 August 2026
“The groups active on Afghan soil pose a threat to the entire region, not just Pakistan. Therefore, all of Afghanistan’s neighbours must send the same message to the Taliban: end support for terrorist groups. If they cooperate they can be integrated into the region; if not, the Kabul regime must be shunned by regional states until it changes its ways."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2022718/taliban-support
Politics & governance
Syed Mohammad Ali, “Pakistan's missing tier of governance,” The Express Tribune, 14 August 2026
“Pakistan has spent decades debating how to make government more responsive to citizens, a debate that has gained renewed attention with recent calls for smaller provinces. Yet one of the most important pieces of that puzzle remains largely neglected: local government."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2623755/pakistans-missing-tier-of-governance
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