05 SEPTEMBER 2025, FRIDAY

PAKISTAN
EXTERNAL 
Pakistan and China sign 8.5 billion USD accords and launch CPEC-II
On 5 September, Dawn reported, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's trip to Beijing ended with 21 agreements and joint ventures valued at USD 8.5 billion, marking the formal inauguration of CPEC-II. In his discussions with Premier Li Qiang, both sides agreed on close coordination regarding the five new corridors under the CPEC, including the early implementation of prioritised projects such as ML-1 and Gwadar Port, and reaffirmed security arrangements for Chinese personnel. Shehbaz also invited Chinese firms to invest in Pakistan's SEZs because of human capital and connectivity advantages over its competitors.

NEPAL
POLITICS
Internal tensions continue in the ruling party with the party chair, KP Sharma Oli's political report
On 5 September, The Kathmandu Post reported on the tensions that arose with the political report that party chair KP Shrama Oli has come up with, stressing discipline, unity, and a roadmap for "socialism with Nepali characteristics", as the CPN-UML's Second National Statute Convention is about to happen. The gathering, however, is thought to be divided into two factions, with senior leaders opposing recent resolutions that deny former President Bidya Devi Bhandari's membership. The political report that is to be presented by PM Oli at the convention reads, "The party acknowledges that in order to gain people's confidence and secure victory in elections, internal unity and discipline are essential." 

The government of Nepal and the United Nations Country Team convened an annual meeting as Nepal prepares for its historic graduation from LDC status
On 5 September, The Kathmandu Post reported on the annual meeting of the Joint Steering Committee of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2023-2027 in Kathmandu. A press statement issued by the UN Information Centre said, "As Nepal moves closer to its historic graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, the discussion highlighted the role of the UNSDCF in supporting the Government's Smooth Transition Strategy and in accelerating progress towards the SDGs." The UN system concluded that together, the Nepali government and the UN advanced inclusive growth, created more livelihood opportunities, and supported recovery and resilience in communities affected by disasters."

04 SEPTEMBER 2025, THURSDAY

AFGHANISTAN
EXTERNAL
Afghanistan–Iran Talks Focus on Boosting Trade and Transit Cooperation
On 4 September, Tolo News reports on the joint meeting between Afghanistan and Iran in Islam Qala to boost trade ties. Officials from both sides discussed resolving transit issues, reducing costs, and improving customs infrastructure at Islam Qala-Dogharoun. The delegations emphasized the need to expand cooperation across industry, agriculture, mining, and finance to strengthen bilateral economic relations.

PAKISTAN
POLITICS 
IS-K claims Quetta bombing 
On 4 September, The Express Tribune reported that the Khorasan chapter of the ultra-extremist Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing at a Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M)  political rally in Balochistan's capital that killed 17 people and injured many more. This was the second attack targeting the BNP-M chief. The first assassination attempt was made in April 2025 in the Lak Pass area of Mastung district. At the time, the Baloch politician was leading a sit-in demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners, particularly members of the Baloch Yekjehti Committee.

EXTERNAL 
Pakistan sends aid to Afghanistan 
On 4 September, The Express Tribune reported that the government of Pakistan dispatched 105 tons of humanitarian relief assistance to Afghanistan. The consignment includes essential food items, medicines, tents, blankets, and bubble mats, aimed at supporting those affected by the recent earthquakes in the country.

SOCIETY 
Health Minister Voices Alarm Over Polio Vaccine Refusals in Karachi 
On 4 September, The Express Tribune reported that Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal has expressed grave concern over the rising number of polio vaccination refusals in the metropolis, revealing that nearly 27,000 parents have declined to vaccinate their children against the crippling disease. He also stated that 78 out of 127 districts nationwide have tested positive for the virus in environmental samples.

ECONOMY 
Karachi port deepens for bigger ships 
On 4 September, The Express Tribune reported that a UAE-backed company was launching a dredging programme at the East Wharf of the Port of Karachi. The initiative will deepen berths and navigation channels, enabling the terminal to accommodate post-panamax vessels with a capacity of over 13,000 TEUs. Post-panamax vessels are larger ships that bring economies of scale, reducing per-unit freight costs and optimizing foreign exchange expenditure on shipping.

UN-OCHA report highlights severe agricultural losses in KP floods 
On 4 September, Dawn reported that the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has said that 3,233 acres of agricultural land were damaged during the ongoing floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The 'Rapid Needs Assessment' report prepared by UN-OCHA says Buner recorded the largest losses of agricultural land with 1,157 acres affected, followed by Swat with 853 acres, Shangla with 559 acres, and Swabi with 330 acres.

NEPAL
POLITICS
Major social media apps like Facebook and YouTube banned
On 4 September, The Kathmandu Post reported that the government has banned Facebook, YouTube, X, Instagram, and other platforms for failing to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology by the 28 August deadline. Only TikTok, Viber, Witk, Nimbuzz, and Popo Live are currently listed, with Telegram and Global Diary awaiting their approval. This ban will be effective from Thursday midnight. This decision has drawn major political backlash, with opposition leaders warning it could disrupt communication and fuel chaos.

Foreign visitors' movement to be tracked by the government through a digital platform
On 3 September, The Kathmandu Post reported that the government will begin mandatory registration and movement tracking of all foreign nationals entering Nepal. This system will start from 17 September in Kathmandu's five-star hotels, which will later then be expanded nationwide to hotels, airlines, and travel agencies. This will be managed through the NepaliPort digital platform, utilizing QR codes and mobile authentication to monitor visitors, ensure security, and enhance tourism data. Indian nationals entering through land routes must also register.

SOCIETY
Tensions continue to grow over the School Education Bill
On 3 September, The Kathmandu Post reported that student unions have joined private schools and teachers in opposing provisions of the School Education Bill, which the House of Representatives is set to endorse next week. Over 17 student associations have submitted a memorandum demanding revisions to curb commercialization, ensure free basic and secondary education, and strengthen community schools. Their demands clash with those of private schools, which resist mandatory scholarships and nonprofit conversions, as well as with teachers seeking higher internal quotas. Both sides warn of protests if concerns go unaddressed.

BHUTAN
ECONOMY
Central Bank pushes for cashless transactions
On 4 September, Kuensel reported that the Royal Monetary Authority is promoting the cashless transaction concept in Bhutan and urging the public to utilize digital payments. Mobile-based and QR code payments are being increasingly encouraged, particularly in fuel stations, where counterfeit and damaged notes have been an issue. The entire concept is to make payments safer, easier to conduct, and to move Bhutan a step closer toward a cash-lite digital economy.

ENVIRONMENT
Adaptation Fund reviews Bhutan's climate projects, signals more financing
On 4 September, Kuensel reported that Bhutan has utilized nearly USD 15.7 million in grants for climate adaptation projects funded by the Adaptation Fund. These projects aim to enhance climate resilience in vulnerable sectors, including agriculture, water, and infrastructure, through a combination of community-driven and technical approaches. The Adaptation Fund complemented the advances in Bhutan and alluded to more financing that could support future undertakings, thus deepening Bhutan's commitment to the climate resilience of its people and sustainable development.

BANGLADESH
EXTERNAL 
International laws should improve to prevent extortion and money laundering, says the Chief Advisor
On 4 September, Chief Advisor Yunus called for a stricter international framework for extortion and money laundering after assets were stolen during the Awami League's reign. During a meeting with Transparency International Chair François Valerian, he said "Most of the time we know where this stolen money is coming from. Yet, we accept it as a genuine transfer with no initiative to taking any action," and that stolen money and assets are not only being enabled but also legalized, primarily by financial institutions.

New ambassadors to represent the US and Bangladesh in their respective countries
On 4 September, Brent Christensen will assume the role of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Bangladesh. Tareq Md Ariful Islam, a career diplomat, has been appointed as Bangladesh's next ambassador to the US after having served as the permanent representative of Bangladesh to the UN Offices in Geneva.

MYANMAR
SECURITY
Military orders bank directors to disclose their accounts and other details
On 4 September, the Irrawaddy reported that the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA) ordered companies to provide bank account details and additional information on their directors. The move is said to prevent money laundering and stop financing the resistance movement, which the military calls "terrorism". The company executives should also provide copies of their national registration cards or passports.

In the Karen State, the Asian Highway becomes a conflict zone
On 4 September, the Irrawaddy reported that, undergoing enhancement in military offensives to retake the vital Asian Highway in Karen State, the military began using heavy artillery and drones and had reinforced the troops against the resistance by ethnic armed groups. There have been intense battles with high casualties on both sides, but military forces have still managed to retake certain stretches, despite constant ambushes and tactical withdrawals by opposition fighters. Control of this trade route is important for regime logistics, and the constant resistance will threaten the military.

EXTERNAL
NUG appeals to China to stop aiding the military
On 4 September, the Irrawaddy reported that the civilian National Unity Government (NUG) requests China to stop aiding the military and its planned election. They warned that the wills of the Myanmar people will be crushed in supporting the military, which can also damage the people-to-people friendship between both countries. The call comes at a time when Chinese support is growing for the regime to include the elections, diplomatic cover, and increasing pressure on the ethnic resistance groups to settle on ceasefires and concessions.

03 SEPTEMBER 2025, WEDNESDAY

PAKISTAN
POLITICS 
Deadly blast targets BNP rally in Quetta 
On 3 September, The Express Tribune reported that at least 14 people lost their lives and 35 others were injured in a powerful blast near a public rally of the Balochistan National Party (BNP) in Quetta. BNP spokesperson Sajid Tareen claimed that 13 party workers were killed in the attack, adding that the explosion occurred just as Akhtar Mengal's vehicle passed by. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attack, describing it as an attempt to destabilise the province.

EXTERNAL 
Govt launches diplomatic effort for 21,000 Pakistanis jailed abroad 
On 3 September, Dawn reported that as many as 21,647 Pakistanis are imprisoned in different countries, with the majority of them in the Gulf States, for their alleged involvement in various crimes and illegalities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the Senate committee that it had decided to form an inter-ministerial committee on prisoners, which will include ambassadors and officials from relevant ministries. Letters have already been sent to all Pakistani embassies and missions worldwide.

China urges Pakistan to enhance security for Chinese nationals amid CPEC expansion 
On 3 September, Dawn reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping, in a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, pledged support for Pakistan's homegrown development capacity, expressing readiness to build China-Pakistan Economic Corridor 2.0 and upgrade the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement. PM Shehbaz Sharif invited President Xi to undertake an official visit to Pakistan next year when both countries would celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of Pakistan-China diplomatic ties. China also pressed Pakistan to improve the security of Chinese nationals, who have been repeatedly attacked by militants while working on Beijing-funded multi-billion-dollar infrastructure projects.

ECONOMY 
Export slump and rising imports push Pakistan's trade deficit up 30 per cent 
On 3 September, Dawn reported that Pakistan's merchandise exports slipped back into negative territory in August with USD 2.42 billion, fueling concerns among policymakers over weakening international demand and the country's eroding competitiveness in global markets. This marks the fourth contraction in the last five months. Meanwhile, imports rose 6.42 per cent year on year to USD 5.28 billion in August. As a result, the trade deficit rose by 30.13 per cent to USD 2.86 billion, raising concerns about the sustainability of external accounts in the face of fragile export growth and a rising import bill.

SRI LANKA
EXTERNAL 
Sri Lanka sets up a Task Force to strengthen the tourism sector
On 3 September, the Daily Mirror online reported that the government has established a Task Force to promote the tourism industry and increase national revenue. The task force will have decision-making power for tourism promotion, said  Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath. The meeting focused on discussing strategies, addressing challenges, and fostering stronger public-private cooperation.

02 SEPTEMBER 2025, TUESDAY

NEPAL
POLITICS
Civil Service Bill gets approval from the National Assembly's committee
On 2 September, The Kathmandu Post reported that the National Assembly's Legislative Management Committee unanimously approved the Federal Civil Service Bill. This bill was first presented in Parliament on 4 March 2024 and passed by the House of Representatives on 29 June. After weeks of debate on retirement age and the cooling-off period, it has now been fixed at 58, 59, and 60, which will be implemented over the next three years. There will also be a two-year bar on reappointment for retired or resigned civil servants. It now heads to the full National Assembly for final approval before the 3 September deadline.

BHUTAN
POLITICS
Local leaders seek solutions for cross-border meat smuggling in Samtse 
On 2 September, Kuensel reported that the town of Samtse is facing a growing concern of illegal cross-border meat smuggling. Not only does this pose a risk to consumer health, but it also poses a threat to livestock health. Such dangers have fuelled demands for community awareness programs, stricter regulations, improved border security, and greater scrutiny of the borders. As of now, the authorities are looking to deepen their collaboration with the other side of the border for the protection of public health as well as the local way of life.
 
Government unveils strategy to tackle youth unemployment 
On 2 September, Kuensel reported that youth unemployment has been a concern for the government in Bhutan. A plan was announced to create new jobs through entrepreneurship, skills programs, and market reforms, along with targeted subsidies. From July 2024 to June 2025, there were 8,274 jobs created, and the Industrial Development Roadmap has the goal of creating over 65,000 jobs by 2035. The plan also includes the "Three Gems" approach, which involves building a start-up ecosystem, accelerating employment through multiple schemes, and expanding career guidance and labour market intelligence.

EXTERNAL 
Bhutan, India in talks on air traffic pact for Gelephu International Airport 
On 2 September, Kuensel reported that India and Bhutan are in talks to draft an air traffic services agreement for the new Gelephu International Airport. The agreement aims to streamline flight operations, enhance safety measures, and facilitate joint management of the airport, thereby improving connectivity and travel within the region. The proposal is expected to enhance the economies and tourism of both nations due to its ease of air access.

SRI LANKA
SOCIETY 
ADB to fund the renovation of Colombo Fort Railway Station
On 2 September, the Daily Mirror reported that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will fund the renovation of Colombo Fort Railway Station for Rs 1.3 billion. The Ministry of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation announced that the project is expected to be completed in 15 months and will equip the station with upgraded facilities, transforming it into a modern transport hub.
 

01 SEPTEMBER 2025, MONDAY

PAKISTAN
EXTERNAL
PM Shehbaz stresses alignment with Xi Jinping's vision at SCO
On 1 September, Dawn reported that PM Shehbaz Sharif said that all endeavours and initiatives of his government were closely aligned with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s vision and philosophy, which are anchored in the progress and prosperity of China. The prime minister lauded the Chinese leadership and its people for transforming the country into the second-largest economy and military powerhouse in the world through hard work, sincerity, and untiring efforts.

Crackdown on Afghan nationals begins
On 1 September, Dawn reported that as the government’s deadline for their voluntary repatriation expired on 31 August, police will begin a crackdown on Afghan nationals processing Proof of Registration (PoR) cards for their forcible repatriation. The government has already chalked out a strategy to expedite the formal repatriation of Afghan nationals as part of the ongoing implementation of the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP).

Pakistan suspends mail to US amid tariff hike
On 1 September, Dawn reported that Pakistan had temporarily suspended mail delivery to the United States after the US imposed new taxes and duties. The US government has suspended the previous duty-free facility under an executive order number 14324 on 25 July. The US move has severely affected postal communications to the US worldwide because now all types of mail delivery to the US will have to pay duties and taxes under the new system.

ECONOMY
Pakistan seeks ADB funds as China pulls out of rail project
On 1 September, The Express Tribune reported that Islamabad is seeking a USD 2 billion package from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to begin long-awaited modernisation works, most notably on the Karachi-to-Peshawar Main Line-1 (ML-1) route. The ML-1 project under CPEC, once estimated at USD 6.8 billion, now exceeds USD 9 billion due to delays and cost hikes. China had long been expected to bankroll the project as part of its Belt and Road Initiative, but its disbursements have slowed dramatically amid Pakistan's worsening fiscal situation. Pakistan turns to the ADB, highlighting its increasing dependence on multilateral lenders as bilateral commitments face uncertainty.

BANGLADESH
POLITICS
Ongoing online bullying in Bangladesh led to rape threats
On September 1, the writ holder, who is a student at Dhaka University, filed a writ petition against GS candidate SM Farhad, leading to a "gang rape" threat from fellow student Ali Hossain on Facebook, which triggered widespread campus organization and student and faculty outrage. The situation generated multiple condemnations, which included demands for legal proceedings. The student candidate for Liberation War and Democratic Affairs Secretary faces continuous online harassment, which began when the writ was initiated, thus exposing both campus safety and democratic issues.

EXTERNAL
Alignment of the United States with specific Bangladeshi parties was clarified by the US Ambassador
On 1 September, US Ambassador (Charge of Affairs) Tracy N. Jacobson restated that the United States does not support any election candidate or political party in Bangladesh because the choice belongs only to its citizens. During her discussion with Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasiruddin, Jacobson emphasized the US backing for transparent elections and praised the interim government's initiatives and desired elections that represent the people peacefully. The ambassador highlighted her continuous dialogue with political parties to grasp their objectives while sending her best wishes for Bangladesh's election success.

50 years of diplomatic togetherness between Mexico and Bangladesh
On 30 August, Bangladesh, along with Mexico, commemorated their 50-year diplomatic relationship through a reception alongside the "Breaking the Silence" photo exhibition at Mexico City's Museum of Muralism. The event recognized growing connections through trade and education as well as culture, with top officials and diplomats from different nations present. The two nations stressed common principles along with citizen relationships and upcoming defense-energy-technology collaborations as they praised lively artistic trade and cultural appreciation.

MYANMAR
SOCIETY
Rare-earth mines drastically increased in Eastern Shan State
On 1 September, the Irrawaddy reported that the number of Chinese-led rare earth mines in Eastern Shan State had increased from six in 2021 to 45 in 2025. These mines are in areas controlled by the ethnic National Democratic Alliance Army (NDAA) and United Wa State Army (UWSA). The unscientific increase in mining activity is causing environmental pollution and an “unacceptable’ threat to human health.

Humanitarian crisis looms ahead of December polls
On 1 September, an analysis published by the Irrawaddy highlighted that, as elections approach in Myanmar, the military continues its offensive against resistance strongholds - obliterating all in its path. Continuous airstrikes and village raids have caused civilian deaths and mass displacement and have only exacerbated the humanitarian emergency unfolding across Myanmar. The regime has not demonstrated control, but rather furthered condemnation and anger from the already affected communities. The offensive is simply seen as a manifestation of the regime's reliance on violence to maintain its power.

EXTERNAL
Myanmar military chief thanked the Chinese President for its support
On 1 September, the Irrawaddy reported that the military chief, Min Aung Hlaing, thanked the Chinese President Xi Jinping for helping the military to regain territories and mediating peace negotiations and ceasefires. China not only provides diplomatic support to the regime but continues to sell them arms and pressures ethnic groups to stop offensives and return captured towns. As the elections draw closer, this kind of high-level appreciation further reflects the deepening Myanmar military and Chinese relations.

SRI LANKA
EXTERNAL 
Colombo supports the SCO global vision
On 1 September, the Daily Mirror reported that Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister tweeted on X regarding the initiatives discussed in the SCO plus meeting. The initiatives are based on global development, security, civilisation, and governance. He highlighted that the proposals are based on equality, the rule of law, and people-first development, which were initiated by President Xi Jinping.