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In Focus
Pakistan and Iran reopen border following high-level meetings, reports The Express Tribune
Trade to resume at Taftan and Gabd-Rimdan as CDF Munir visits Tehran; meets Iranian President and other senior officials
On 21 October, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan reopened its border with Iran following high-level meetings in Tehran between Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir and senior Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian. The reopening followed the suspension of trade through the Taftan and Gabd-Rimdan crossings, which had stranded freight carrying essential commodities. Iranian officials described the border problems as temporary and technical, while Pakistani officials cited security and border-management concerns.
Munir’s visit came as Islamabad sought to balance its close ties with Tehran and its defence commitments to Saudi Arabia under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. The talks also focused on stalled US-Iran diplomacy, with Iranian leaders insisting that Washington must meet Tehran’s conditions and restore trust before negotiations can resume. President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its mediation efforts. At the same time, Iranian officials reiterated their opposition to transferring enriched nuclear material abroad and rejected the idea that military pressure would change Tehran’s position.
The border closure had disrupted trade in LPG, rice, fruit and other commodities, with reports of around 2,000 trucks stranded on both sides. Pakistani authorities attributed the suspension to security concerns, smuggling and counterterrorism, while Iran cited technical issues and precautionary measures. The disruption also highlighted the challenges posed by insecurity in Balochistan and Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, where armed groups have carried out repeated attacks. Analysts warned that prolonged border disputes could strain bilateral relations and complicate Pakistan’s role as a mediator between Washington and Tehran. (“Pak-Iran border reopens as CDF visits Tehran,” The Express Tribune, 21 October 2026; “Pakistan suspends Iran border trade, amid violence on both sides,” Al Jazeera, 19 October 2026; “Pakistan closes Iran border crossings for trade,” Dawn, 18 October 2026)
In Brief
SECURITY
Balochistan: Three militants killed in foiled attack on empty construction camp in Gwadar
On 22 October, The Express Tribune reported that, citing Radio Pakistan, security forces killed three militants while foiling an attempted attack on a vacant construction company camp in Balochistan's Gwadar, with three more militants surrounded. In a separate attempt, an operation was underway against militants hiding in a hotel near the Gwadar Highway, where four had been surrounded, with the Gwadar GOC personally leading the effort on the ground. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the forces and said operations would continue until militants and their facilitators were eliminated. It follows the abduction last week of 20 trainee police personnel travelling between Kalat and Mastung. ("3 terrorists killed as security forces foil attack on construction camp in Gwadar: state media," The Express Tribune, 22 October 2026)
KP: Four policemen and two militants killed in Karak raid on militant commander’s hideout
On 22 October, Dawn reported that four policemen and two militants killed in Karak district on Thursday when a search and strike operation in the Charpara area raided the hideout of militant commander Qaiser Iqbal, after militants had set up a blockade the previous night. The dead were CTD DSP Imranuddin Khan, Latambar SHO Sub-Inspector Afzal Awan, Constable Kazim and bomb disposal Head Constable Amjad, and the operation was ongoing; KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi condemned the attack. A recent Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) report found violence-linked fatalities rose 83 per cent in the third quarter of 2026, with Balochistan (829 deaths) and KP (556) accounting for 98 per cent of the total. ("4 cops including DSP martyred, 2 terrorists killed during exchange of fire in KP's Karak: police," Dawn, 22 October 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
PM Shehbaz promises to restore progress to KP
On 22 October, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promised the federal government would make every effort to bring back “progress” to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which is now under governor’s rule. In his first visit to the province since the imposition of emergency and governor’s rule, Shehbaz stated that these steps had been taken under “extreme compulsion.” The PM also criticised the attitude of the previous PTI government in the province, alleging that they had neglected issues like education and healthcare and supported terrorists. He also said the government had not used the resources allocated to it effectively to combat terrorism. According to the PM, the KP government had failed in several areas, including the completion of the Smart City project, filling up of police vacancies and corruption in clean drinking water for the Cities Improvement Project. Shehbaz later informed that the Centre would allocate 160 billion Pakistani rupees towards developmental projects in KP. (“PM vows to bring back progress to KP, assails PTI’s ‘callousness’ during its tenures,” Dawn, 22 October 2026)
Opposition slams government over curbs on MPs, delayed talks
On 22 October, The Express Tribune reported that opposition leaders criticised the government over restrictions on parliamentarians and delays in political negotiations. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan addressed a press conference, where he stated that the efforts of the opposition parties to negotiate with the government had failed to produce a favourable outcome. Gohar criticised the government for treating opposition leaders as not loyal to the country, and demanded greater protections for MPs. He further informed that a special committee had been set up on the issue of protecting MPs. Opposition leader in the National Assembly, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, stated that parliamentary speeches needed to be completely recorded and preserved. Achakzai also accused the government of restricting the time allotted to speakers from the opposition in the National Assembly. In Achakzai’s view, further fruitful political dialogue also required a meeting with PTI founder Imran Khan. Maljis Wahdat-e- Muslimeen chief Allama Raja Nasir Abbas expressed his concern that the trust of the general Pakistani public in their government was now the lowest in history. (“Opposition leaders criticise govt over stalled talks, restrictions on parliamentarians,” The Express Tribune, 22 October 2026)
JI and government to hold discussions over breaking deadlock on 23 October
On 22 October, Dawn reported that Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) had informed it would hold talks with the federal government on Friday. A press release by JI informed that the committee-level talks were decided after a telephonic conversation between JI Vice Emir Liaqat Baloch and federal planning minister Ahsan Iqbal. The statement informed that the talks would focus on deciding a schedule for a proposed meeting between Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif and JI Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman. The discussions come after months of demands by the JI that the Centre abolish levies of PKR 114 per litre on petrol and PKR 100 per litre on diesel. It was also stated in the press release that Baloch had informed the JI that it would hold nationwide protests peacefully at district headquarters over the levies, despite the talks. Baloch also reportedly stated that all the relevant parties needed to engage in dialogue and reach an agreement over resolving the economic and political issues prevalent in Pakistan. (“Jl, govt to hold talks on Friday to work out plan for meeting between PM Shehbaz, Naeem,” Dawn, 20 October 2026)
Lahore High Court issues notices to foreign secretary over non-compliance with court order
On 22 October, Dawn reported that the Lahore High Court (LHC) had issued notices to Foreign Secretary Asim Iftikhar in two separate contempt cases. The cases relate to the non-compliance with a court order to Iftikhar concerning the detention of two PTI-affiliated Pakistani citizens in the UAE. Earlier, on 14 September, the LHC had ordered the foreign secretary to decide the representations on the detention of the two citizens within 15 days. Relatives of the detainees filed petitions over their safe release. However, the counsel representing the petitioners, Barrister Abuzar Salman Niazi, alleged that the two citizens were yet to be informed of their representations. He also urged the court to begin contempt proceedings on the charge of non-compliance against Iftikhar. The counsel stated that representations had not been processed yet, despite being filed before the foreign secretary. (“LHC issues notices to foreign secretary in contempt cases over detention of PTI-linked Pakistanis in UAE,” Dawn, 22 October 2026)
EXTERNAL
Foreign ministers of four regional states to meet European trio in Istanbul
On 22 October, Dawn reported that Turkiye will host foreign ministers from Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye for an R-4 meeting, followed by a session with France, Britain and Germany. The seven-nation R-4+E-3 format is meeting for the first time at Turkiye’s initiative. The Foreign Office has yet to comment on Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s participation. Agenda items include the Israeli-Palestinian issue, the Strait of Hormuz, Yemen and efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is expected to press for a diplomatic solution to the US-Iran war. (“Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye to meet European trio in Istanbul,” Dawn, 22 October 2026)
PM Shehbaz orders feasibility study for direct Maldives flights amid trade push
On 22 October, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the civil aviation ministry to prepare a feasibility study for direct flights to Malé. Speaking at the Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum in Islamabad, Sharif noted that no direct flights currently link Malé with Islamabad or Karachi. He also stressed the need for reliable shipping from Karachi or Gwadar. Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu agreed to raise bilateral trade from USD 13 million to USD 200 million within two years. Muizzu also announced that the Maldivian national airline aims to launch a direct link to Karachi soon. (“Direct flights between Pakistan and Maldives on the horizon as PM stresses connectivity,” Dawn, 22 October 2026)
Islamabad and Brussels agree to deepen counterterrorism cooperation at United Nations forums
On 22 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan and the European Union agreed to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation at multilateral forums, including the United Nations. The understanding followed the 10th round of the Pakistan-EU Bilateral Counterterrorism Dialogue held in Islamabad. Director General Counterterrorism Dr Fareha Bugti led the Pakistani delegation, while Anna Strazska, special envoy for counterterrorism at the European External Action Service, headed the EU side. The EU condemned recent attacks in Pakistan and recognised its efforts. Both sides expressed concern over the security situation in Afghanistan. The next round will take place in Brussels next year. (“Pakistan, EU agree to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation at multilateral forums,” Dawn, 22 October 2026)
President Zardari begins three-day Germany visit to mark 75 years of diplomatic ties
On 22 October, Dawn reported that President Asif Ali Zardari departed for Germany on a three-day visit scheduled for 22 to 24 October. The Foreign Office said the trip holds special significance as both countries mark 75 years of diplomatic relations. Zardari will meet German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, along with senior leadership and business representatives, with a particular focus on economic and trade cooperation. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah is also expected to accompany the president. In June, a German delegation announced plans to bring about 30 German companies to Pakistan. (“President Zardari departs for Germany on 3-day visit to discuss bilateral ties,” Dawn, 22 October 2026)
Government seeks tariff concessions from China to match treatment given to other partners
On 23 October, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan is seeking improved preferential access from major trading partners, including China. Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan told a consultative meeting with exporters that Pakistan wants Beijing to extend tariff concessions in line with those given to other countries. Preferential trade talks with South Korea are progressing. The meeting also reviewed the gas levy, and the finance ministry has formed a committee to examine it. Exporters raised the Punjab infrastructure cess, certification charges and business visa restrictions. (“Govt pushes China for tariff concessions,” The Express Tribune, 23 October 2026)
Pakistan and Asian Development Bank discuss vaccine manufacturing and healthcare regulation
On 23 October, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank discussed technical cooperation to strengthen the country’s healthcare system. Talks focused on local vaccine manufacturing, pharmaceutical regulation and institutional capacity-building. Discussion topics included the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, the National Institute of Health, the 13 vaccines in the national programme and the Universal Medical Record. The Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority and population-related challenges were also reviewed. The talks took place in Islamabad on Thursday. (“Pakistan, ADB discuss vaccine manufacturing,” The Express Tribune, 23 October 2026)
Ambassador to the US urges shift from counterterrorism to technology in Pakistan-US ties
On 23 October, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh called for a shift in bilateral ties from counterterrorism to information technology. Addressing the Pakistan-US Tech Connect 2026 forum in Washington, Sheikh said technology cooperation could create mutually beneficial economic partnerships. The forum presented 16 Pakistani technology firms, working in areas such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing, to US industry leaders. Sindh Governor Syed Nehal Hashmi urged the companies to convert their capabilities into contracts. Sheikh described the current period as the Pakistan moment, highlighting the country’s digital potential. (“Ambassador Sheikh calls for shift from ‘counterterrorism to IT’ in Pakistan-US ties,” The Express Tribune, 23 October 2026)
ECONOMY
IMF urges Pakistan to preserve foreign exchange reserves
On 23 October, The Express Tribune reported that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) urged Pakistan to preserve foreign exchange reserves and tighten monetary policy to deal with rising inflation, as the IMF predicts that Pakistan's external financial position may weaken due to rising imports and moderating remittances. The global lender made these observations in its Middle East and Central Asia region report. The fund's remarks came days after it reached a staff-level agreement for disbursement of the USD 1 billion fifth loan tranche, subject to the government fulfilling prior actions. The government has projected imports reaching USD 70 billion this fiscal year and remittances growing to USD 45.5 billion. The country is struggling to enhance exports, which have not grown despite years of incentives to handpicked exporters. The IMF has projected Pakistan's current account deficit at 1 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), or around USD 4.5 billion, which is also far higher than official estimates of around USD 2.5 billion. The lender sees Pakistan's gross financing needs at around 22 per cent to 25 per cent of GDP, well above peer countries and carrying risks. (“IMF sees weak external position,” The Express Tribune, 23 October 2026)
Foreign exchange reserves increase by USD 19 million
On 23 October, The Express Tribune reported that foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) increased by USD 19 million to USD 21.49 billion during the week ended 16 October 2026. The country's total liquid foreign exchange reserves amounted to USD 26.83 billion during the week under review, including USD 5.34 billion held by commercial banks. Meanwhile, the Pakistani rupee gained PKR 0.01 against the US dollar to close at 276.85. Higher oil prices amid escalating West Asia tensions have fuelled concerns that rising energy costs could keep inflation elevated, potentially limiting the scope for interest-rate cuts. The outlook remains sensitive to oil prices, geopolitical developments and signals from the US Federal Reserve, which could shape expectations for rates and the appeal for non-yielding assets such as gold. (“SBP reserves rise $19m to $215b," The Express Tribune, 23 October 2026)
PM Advisor for Industries and Production urges banks to remove SME Credit hurdles
On 23 October, The Express Tribune reported that the Adviser to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production held a consultative session with representatives of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), business clusters, banks, the State Bank and relevant government departments to address the challenges faced by businesses in accessing affordable and timely financing. He has called on banks and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to give due consideration to the financing challenges faced by SME clusters and take effective measures to address them, as limited access to credit remains a major constraint on the growth of many viable businesses. The representatives of various SME clusters highlighted the funding constraints and procedural hurdles affecting their businesses, including difficulties in obtaining credit and gaining access to suitable financing facilities to expand operations, meet working capital requirements and capitalise on emerging opportunities. (“Banks urged to remove SME credit hurdles,” The Express Tribune, 23 October 2026)
Privatisation board moves ahead with privatisation of IESCO and FESCO
On 23 October, The Express Tribune reported that the Privatisation Commission Board approved key measures to sell off Islamabad Electric Supply Company and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company, despite lawmakers' objections that the privatisation of power distribution companies (DISCOs) fell within the constitutional remit of the Council of Common Interests (CCI). The board approved the prequalification of 10 Interested Parties (IPs) for IESCO's privatisation. The 10 prequalified Interested Parties will now proceed to the next stage of the transaction in accordance with the approved process, including access to the Virtual Data Room (VDR) to undertake detailed buy-side due diligence. The privatisation division has maintained that no fresh CCI approval was required in light of the 2011 decision and the 2021 National Electricity Policy. Iesco forms part of the first batch of DISCOs identified for privatisation, alongside Fesco and Gujranwala Electric Power Company Limited (Gepco). (“IESCO FESCO sell-off moves ahead,” The Express Tribune, 23 October 2026)
Pakistan's incomes could triple by 2050 if reforms are implemented faster, says World Bank
On 22 October, Dawn reported that according to the World Bank Group’s latest Pakistan Development Update, titled Attaining Escape Velocity, Pakistan’s incomes could triple by 2050 if the country ensures faster implementation of structural reforms. The report says that following progress on macroeconomic stabilisation, Pakistan has an opportunity to achieve faster and sustained economic growth and create more jobs. Real gross domestic product (GDP) growth increased to 3.7 per cent in FY26 from 3.2 per cent in FY25. Revenue growth and expenditure restraint supported record primary fiscal surpluses, which reached 2.9 per cent of GDP in FY26, while strong remittances enabled the country to rebuild its foreign exchange reserves. The report finds that higher growth is possible if Pakistan follows the path taken by other successful countries in pursuing ambitious economic reforms. Upgrading policies and institutions to the standards of the average middle-income country could drive sustained annual growth of 6.2 per cent to 6.9 per cent, allowing Pakistan to reach Vietnam’s current income level by 2050. (“Faster reforms could triple Pakistan’s incomes by 2050 says World Bank,” Dawn, 22 October 2026)
PROVINCES
Sindh: UN Industrial Development Organization Plans USD 40 million programme focused on inclusive, climate-resilient growth
On 23 October, The Express Tribune reported that the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) plans to mobilise around USD 40 million for a development programme in Sindh focused on inclusive economic growth, climate-resilient infrastructure, rural development and employment. The initiative will fall under UNIDO’s Programme for Country Partnership 2025-30. Separately, the European Union-funded Poverty Alleviation and Inclusive Development in Rural Sindh (PAIDAR) programme, backed by a EUR 49.55 million grant, is being implemented across five districts to reduce poverty, support micro, small and medium enterprises, improve rural infrastructure and create jobs, particularly for women and young people. Both sides agreed to expand successful initiatives and explore further cooperation. (“UNIDO plans $40m uplift programme for Sindh,” The Express Tribune, 23 October 2026)
KP: Bannu remains major concern for global polio eradication efforts
On 22 October, Dawn reported that health experts had identified Bannu Division in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a major concern for global polio eradication efforts, alongside Afghanistan. The warning followed confirmation of a seventh polio case in Pakistan this year, involving a 10-year-old boy in Khyber district. Authorities plan to launch a fractional inactivated polio vaccine campaign in two districts from 02 November. The WHO reported that all 49 global cases recorded so far this year were in Pakistan (7) and Afghanistan (42), highlighting the need for sustained vaccination, community trust and efforts to counter vaccine hesitancy. (“Bannu remains polio hotspot, warn experts,” Dawn, 22 October 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Economy
Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, “Spurring economic growth,” Dawn, 22 October 2026
"Stabilising our way into deeper poverty has exposed the limits of conventional macroeconomic management. Speaking last week at the International Conference on Inclusive and Resilient Economic Empowerment and Growth, organised by the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund in Islamabad, I put one question at the centre: how do we break this cycle?"
https://www.dawn.com/news/2038886/spurring-economic-growth
External
Editorial, “Makkah pact clarity,” Dawn, 22 October 2026
“There had been much speculation about what exactly the trilateral Makkah Joint Defence Agreement entails, other than general commitments about the collective defence of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye. But with the release of the text of the 16-article agreement, there is now some clarity about its objectives. While Article 2 says that an “externally originating armed attack” on any of the signatories will be considered an attack on all, triggering the right of self-defence under the UN Charter, the agreement is silent on offensive action. This should settle questions about the extent of involvement of the pact allies in the ongoing Saudi-Houthi war, and any future engagement. That it is a purely defensive arrangement was also echoed by the Turkish foreign minister."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2038882/makkah-pact-clarity
Editorial, “Pushing for de-dollarisation,” The Express Tribune, 21 October 2026
“Pakistan put forward a pertinent proposal concerning developing economies by calling for the use of national currencies in mutual settlements. It also voiced the need to establish mechanisms, such as development banks, to offset global financial shocks. Speaking at the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting in Dushanbe yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar pushed the envelope further on a resolve previously attained by the 10-member bloc in Islamabad in 2024. He stressed the need for a roadmap to gradually increase the share of national currencies in trade, moving away from the monopoly of the US dollar. The proposed establishment of an SCO Fund and new investment avenues are direct extensions of this strategy."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2635966/pushing-for-de-dollarisation
Mujeeb Ali, “Learning poverty,” The Express Tribune, 21 October 2026
“A report revealed that Pakistani households spent Rs2.8 trillion on education, compared with Rs2.23 trillion spent by the public sector. In other words, families financed 56% of the country's total education expenditure. Stop there for a moment. If families are paying more for education than the state, how much of an educational right is actually being exercised? And the poorest families are not the ones with spare money. They are the ones forced to choose. School fee or electricity bill? Books or groceries? Transport fare or medicine?"
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2635965/learning-poverty-3
On Afghanistan
Editorial, “Common ground,” Dawn, 22 October 2026
“It appears that the PML-N, echoing the PPP’s recent offer, is also willing to re-engage with the opposition, at least on counterterrorism policy. Though that may seem like a narrow scope for dialogue, in our vitiated political environment, it does offer an opening. Whether the opposition is interested in taking it up is a different question. The anger over the dismissal of the elected PTI government in KP is still far from subsiding, and the ruling coalition in Islamabad deserves much of the blame for making a negotiated settlement more difficult than it seemed two weeks ago. That said, the opposition also needs to introspect. From the murmurings of resentment within its ranks, it appears that the outcome of its last round of discussions with the government was not what many were hoping for. Yet, its street agitation has delivered even less. An offer for dialogue, even if focused on counterterrorism strategy, is still an opportunity to return to the negotiating table and continue from where the last round of talks left off. Complete disengagement will achieve nothing."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2038881/common-ground
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