AGP Executive Report

Pakistan-China Push: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has left for China for a four-day visit, starting in Hangzhou, to co-chair a B2B investment forum on IT & telecom, battery energy storage and agriculture, and to meet Chinese leaders in Beijing as both sides mark 75 years of diplomatic ties. Iran-US Mediation: Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir is in Tehran for high-level talks with Iran’s FM Araghchi as Washington signals “slight progress” in negotiations, while Iran warns the gap with the US is still wide. Sports—ODIs: Babar Azam, Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah are back in Pakistan’s 16-man ODI squad for the Australia series, with Shaheen Afridi to captain and three uncapped players included; Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub miss out due to injuries. Hockey—Dues: Pakistan hockey players complain about unpaid pending dues and sharply reduced training camp allowances ahead of the World Cup. Economy—LNG Relief: Pakistan secured relief on LNG terminal capacity payments after talks with private operators following force majeure disruptions. Tech & Trade: Alibaba launched “Accio Work in Pakistan” to help SMEs run end-to-end export work using an agentic AI model. Security—Punjab Spy Case: A Pathankot man was arrested for installing highway CCTV cameras allegedly used to share security-force movements with handlers abroad.

US-Iran Mediation: Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir has arrived in Tehran as Islamabad pushes for a breakthrough in US-Iran talks, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi already holding back-to-back meetings with Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi; US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says there’s “slight progress” but warns Iran against any Strait of Hormuz toll plan that could derail a deal. Markets: The PSX slid 670 points (about 0.4%) on profit-taking ahead of Eid, with trading volumes subdued. Weather & Travel: NDMA warns of heavy rain and landslide risk in northern mountainous areas during Eid, while heatwave alerts remain in southern and central regions. Politics & Economy: Bilawal Bhutto inaugurated Karachi’s signal-free Shahrah-e-Bhutto and launched a port corridor push; PM Shehbaz met Qatar’s Taameer Group to boost foreign investment. Tech & Sports: Pakistan was named “Country of Honour” at a World Drone Congress; PCB says Mohsin Naqvi’s IPL-final trip to India is still unclear.

US-Iran Mediation: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says “good signs” are emerging as Pakistan’s top mediator, Army Chief Asim Munir, is expected in Tehran, with talks aimed at a temporary de-escalation framework amid Trump’s warnings that strikes could return. Security & Law: In AJK, a PTI local leader was gunned down in Bhimber; in KP, security forces killed 23 militants in operations; and Punjab Police arrested Baljit Singh for allegedly streaming live army movement CCTV feeds to handlers. Economy & Food: SBP will close for Eid-ul-Azha (May 26-28), while wheat targets were cut after floods, heat and water shortages; gold prices jumped to Rs475,362 per tola. Sports: PCB named a 16-man ODI squad for Australia with uncapped Rohail Nazir, Ahmed Daniyal and Arafat Minhas; Shaheen Afridi leads, series starts May 30. Pakistan-China 75 Years: Leaders marked the milestone, with SBP announcing a Rs75 commemorative coin and renewed pledges of “iron-clad” partnership.

US–Iran Mediation: Pakistan is pushing hard to keep US-Iran peace talks alive as Iran reviews Washington’s latest ceasefire response and US President Trump warns negotiations are “borderline,” with Field Marshal Asim Munir expected in Tehran today and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi already there to shuttle messages. Security: In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, ISPR says 23 “Indian-sponsored” militants were killed in intelligence-based operations, with weapons and tunnels reportedly recovered. Terror Fallout: Indian claims say Pulwama mastermind Hamza Burhan was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in PoK, while Pakistan’s military also highlights ongoing anti-terror efforts. Minority & Church: Catholic bishops have invited Pope Leo XIV to visit Pakistan, citing blasphemy cases and forced-conversion concerns. Economy & Energy: SBP says FX reserves rose to $17.081bn on IMF inflows and Panda Bonds, while a parliamentary forum warns petroleum levy should not be used as a fiscal tool. Sports & Culture: PCB will live-stream the Pakistan–Australia ODI series via “PCB Live,” and China cinemas are screening Pakistan’s “The Legend of Maula Jatt” for the 75-year ties milestone.

UN Showdown: India and Pakistan traded blistering accusations at the UN Security Council over civilian protection, with India citing UNAMA figures on alleged cross-border violence in Afghanistan and Pakistan firing back that India “exports terrorism” and violates international law. Ebola Alert: Pakistan’s health ministry has issued an Ebola preparedness alert after WHO declared the virus a global public health emergency, directing airport monitoring and lab readiness. Cyber Harassment Case: NCCIA Lahore summoned TV actress Momina Iqbal and a PML-N MPA over viral allegations of online harassment and death threats. Iran-US Mediation: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi flew to Tehran again for talks as Washington and Tehran signal uncertainty over renewed conflict. Economy & IMF: IMF budget talks for FY2027 will continue after a staff visit, with Pakistan reaffirming a 2% of GDP primary surplus target. Markets: PSX opened higher, pushing the KSE-100 up over 3,000 points in early trade. Weather: PMD warns heatwave conditions persist in the south, with thunderstorms and hail possible in upper regions. Sports: Bangladesh completed a 2-0 Test sweep over Pakistan in Sylhet, winning by 78 runs. Cricket/ODI Update: Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub ruled out of Australia ODIs due to injuries. Sports (Local Pride): Hunza climber Sohail Sakhi reached the summit of Kanchenjunga. Tech/Consumer: PTA launched a telecom tariff comparison tool to let users track package price changes. Justice: A court sentenced the man who murdered a teen TikTok influencer to death.

Bangladesh vs Pakistan: Bangladesh sealed a 2-0 Test series win in Sylhet, beating Pakistan by 78 runs as left-arm spinner Taijul Islam took six wickets in the fourth innings; captain Najmul Hossain Shanto credited “healthy competition” among bowlers after Rizwan and Sajid Khan briefly kept Pakistan’s chase alive. Cricket Fallout: Shan Masood faced fresh questions over his captaincy after Pakistan’s worst run against Bangladesh, with Masood saying the decision is up to the board. US-Iran Mediation: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is in Tehran again for high-level talks as reports say a new US-Iran round may be held in Pakistan after Hajj, with Pakistan’s army chief also tipped for a possible Iran visit. Economy & Taxes: The IMF is pushing for an 18% GST on electric vehicles, while Pakistan argues for much lower rates to spur EV adoption. Security & Courts: A man accused of murdering teen TikTok star Sana Yousaf has been sentenced to death. Local Governance: Balochistan told the ECP by-elections in Khuzdar can’t happen now due to law-and-order constraints. Trade & Energy: Diesel smuggling from Iran is draining the exchequer, with officials warning of major daily losses.

Cyber Harassment Allegation: Actress Momina Iqbal has accused a PML-N-linked MPA of long-running online harassment, cyberbullying and life threats, saying reports were blocked by political influence and warning she may go public if authorities don’t act. Afghan Returns: The UN expects nearly 3 million Afghans to return to Afghanistan by year-end, with women and children making up over half, and is urging $100.7m for urgent border support. WTC Cricket Shock: Bangladesh completed a historic 2-0 Test whitewash over Pakistan in Sylhet, winning by 78 runs as Taijul Islam took 6/120 and Pakistan were bowled out for 358 chasing 437; Bangladesh leapfrogged India in the WTC table. ODI Squad Update: Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub are ruled out of the Australia ODI series due to injuries. Security: Pakistan’s forces killed 22 militants in North Waziristan during an intelligence-based operation. Markets & Economy: PSX rose early on buying optimism tied to US-Iran de-escalation talk; textile exports rebounded 21% YoY in April while FDI fell 31% in the first 10 months. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar says US-Iran talks mediated by Pakistan need more time as Iran warns of “new fronts” if attacks resume.

Court Verdict: An Islamabad court sentenced TikToker Sana Yousaf’s killer, Umar Hayat, to death for the June 2025 murder, ordering compensation to the family and adding prison and fines—sparking fresh calls for public execution. Bangladesh vs Pakistan (2nd Test): In Sylhet, Bangladesh set a 437-run target and now need just three wickets for a historic series sweep; Pakistan ended day four on 316/7, with Mohammad Rizwan unbeaten on 75, while Taijul Islam’s late strikes swung momentum back to the hosts. Middle East Diplomacy: Qatar says US-Iran talks mediated by Pakistan need more time after Trump paused planned attacks, as Gulf leaders push for de-escalation. Infrastructure & Economy: AIIB signed a $320m loan for N-5 highway reconstruction, while Pakistan’s airspace ban on Indian aircraft has been extended until June 24. Protests & Politics: TTAP and PTI announced nationwide protests this Friday over inflation, fuel prices, loadshedding, law-and-order concerns, and Imran Khan’s detention. Tech & Governance: The National Assembly launched an AI-enabled parliamentary system aimed at speeding up and moving toward a paperless legislature.

Middle East Diplomacy: Pakistan’s mediation role is getting louder—and riskier—after Reuters reported Islamabad quietly sent fighter jets, drones, HQ-9 air defence and about 8,000 troops to Saudi Arabia in early April under a mutual defence pact, even as it publicly brokered US-Iran talks. US-Iran Talks: Meanwhile, Trump says he paused a planned Iran strike after Gulf leaders asked him to, while Iran says its latest response was conveyed to Washington “through mediator Pakistan.” Markets: The PSX rebounded sharply as oil eased on diplomacy hopes, with the KSE-100 jumping over 2,300 points early Tuesday. Citizenship Rules: The Centre notified Citizenship (Amendment) Rules 2026, requiring applicants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to declare and surrender relevant passports. Humanitarian/Israel: Pakistan and nine other countries condemned Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla as a violation of international law. Sports: In Sylhet, Bangladesh set Pakistan a record 437 chase; Pakistan’s reply is underway after Nahid Rana struck early.

US-Iran Mediation: Pakistan is relaying a revised Iranian 14-point peace proposal to Washington, but sources warn the sides are still “changing goalposts” and “don’t have much time” as a fragile ceasefire hangs in the balance. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar has reaffirmed full support for Pakistan’s mediation after a call with PM Shehbaz, while Ishaq Dar also discussed de-escalation with Qatar and Saudi contacts. Saudi Military Move: Reuters reports Pakistan has deployed about 8,000 troops, JF-17 jets, drones and an HQ-9 air defence system to Saudi Arabia under a confidential defence pact. Security & Health: Gunmen killed two police officers protecting polio vaccination teams in Bajaur as Pakistan’s nationwide drive targets 19 million children. Citizenship Rule: India’s CAA-linked citizenship process now requires applicants to declare and surrender passports issued by Pakistan, Afghanistan or Bangladesh. Cricket: Bangladesh piled on in Sylhet, setting Pakistan a mammoth 437-run target after Mushfiqur Rahim’s 137. Economy/Markets: PSX closed bearish, down 3,791 points, while Pakistan’s IT exports topped $400m again in April.

Terror in Wana: An IED blast near Gulshan Plaza in Rustam Bazaar killed tribal elder Malik Tariq Wazir and two others, with four injured; police cordoned off the area and launched a search. Eidul Azha Date: Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee confirmed Zilhaj moon sighting, setting Eidul Azha for May 27. Indus Waters Treaty: Pakistan welcomed a Hague PCA supplemental award upholding limits on India’s “maximum pondage” for Ratle and Kishenganga hydropower projects. Markets: PSX opened under pressure as the KSE-100 slid over 1,200 points amid Middle East volatility; meanwhile, Service Long March Tyres’ IPO book was fully subscribed in 5 seconds. Energy & Economy: PM Shehbaz called Pakistan’s US-Iran mediation a “shining moment” and said he’s hopeful for a second round of talks; rupee stayed steady around 279 per dollar. Health: Experts warned fatty liver disease affects about half of adults, urging lifestyle changes and screening.

Indus Waters Treaty: The PCA delivered a supplemental award backing Pakistan’s stance, reaffirming “substantive limits” on India’s water-control ability on the western rivers, including maximum pondage rules—despite India’s boycott. Counter-Terrorism: Security forces in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa killed five terrorists in intelligence-based operations after a deadly attack on a police checkpost. Mediation Diplomacy: PM Shehbaz thanked Qatar for endorsing Pakistan’s Iran-US de-escalation push, while CENTCOM called Pakistan a “critical counter-terrorism partner” in the fight against IS-K. Eid Countdown: The Ruet-e-Hilal committee sighted the Zil Hajj moon; Eid ul Adha is set for May 27. Cricket (Sylhet Test): Bangladesh tightened their grip with a 156-run lead as Mahmudul Hasan Joy made 52 and Pakistan were bowled out for 232; Babar hit 68 but couldn’t stop the slide. Weather (Lahore): Rain with thunderstorms is forecast across Punjab from May 19, offering heat relief for Lahore.

Terror Attack in KP: Unidentified gunmen killed two Federal Constabulary security officials in Tank district, firing on them while they were off duty, then fled as police launched a search. Regional Security Fallout: The attack comes after a recent Bajaur gunfight that killed TTP militants and security personnel, and it adds pressure to the wider debate over Pakistan’s role in sheltering terrorists. India-Pak Tensions: India’s Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi warned Pakistan to choose “geography or history” over terror support, and Pakistan’s ISPR hit back hard, calling the remarks madness and warmongering. Heat and Health: Karachi and other cities are trapped in extreme heat, with authorities warning hotter days may still come. Heritage at Risk: In Peshawar, Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor’s ancestral homes—already damaged by earthquake and rain—could collapse soon. Diplomacy on Iran: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Iran’s counterpart in Tehran as Pakistan pushes to revive US-Iran talks. Sports Update: Hasan Ali was stretchered off after a head injury scare in the Bangladesh-Pakistan Test, then returned to bowl later.

Iran-Pak Mediation Push: Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived in Tehran to “facilitate” stalled US-Iran peace talks, as Iran says Washington has sent messages hinting it’s willing to continue negotiations. Border Trade: Iran and Pakistan also agreed to expand measures for border trade, transit and goods exchange. India Tensions: India’s Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi delivered a blunt warning—Pakistan must decide if it wants to be “part of geography or history” if it keeps harbouring terrorists. Weather Alert: NDMA warns storms, rain and hail from May 19–22 across Punjab, KP, Balochistan and northern areas, while Sindh stays in intense heat. Cricket—Sylhet Test: Litton Das’ century rescued Bangladesh to 278; Pakistan ended day one 21/0, with Hasan Ali stretchered after a head injury scare. Women’s Cricket: Fatima Sana named Pakistan captain for the T20 World Cup after breaking the fastest WT20I fifty record (15 balls). Economy: Pakistan’s inaugural Panda Bond is being pitched as a “transformational step,” while the 2026–27 budget is expected to bring heavy taxes and subsidy cuts.

Cricket & Records: Pakistan Women named a 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 and Ireland tri-series, with Fatima Sana retained as captain and five first-timers included; Pakistan also celebrated Fatima Sana’s fastest-ever Women’s T20I fifty (15 balls) in the Zimbabwe sweep. Bangladesh Test Pressure: Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first in the 2nd Test at Sylhet; Babar Azam returned, but Bangladesh reached 101-3 by lunch after Abbas struck early. Diplomacy with Iran-US: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar says Pakistan has completed repatriation of 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian sailors from US-seized vessels, with all arriving via Singapore and Bangkok. Security Shock: A Bajaur attack killed at least nine security personnel and nine militants in gunfire, with TTP claiming responsibility. Economy Watch: Gold fell by Rs15,500 per tola; weekly inflation inched up 0.47% (PBS). Markets & Energy: Pakistan received its largest-ever LNG cargo from Qatar and circular debt in power and gas jumped to Rs5.206tr.

US-Iran Mediation: Deputy PM Ishaq Dar says 31 people—11 Pakistanis and 20 Iranians—repatriated from US-seized vessels have safely returned via Singapore and are en route to Islamabad, with Iran’s Araghchi thanking Pakistan for the process. Trump’s Claim: Donald Trump says the Iran ceasefire happened as a “favour” to Pakistan after requests from other nations, while insisting Iran must halt enriched uranium. Security Shock: A militant assault on a Bajaur security compound killed at least nine paramilitary officers and 10 militants, with TTP claiming responsibility. Cricket Fallout: Pakistan were fined 40% of match fees and docked eight WTC points for a slow over rate vs Bangladesh, dropping them to eighth; Babar Azam is back for the second Test. Economy & Finance: ADB and AIIB back Pakistan’s first Panda bond—$250m—while the IMF reportedly adds 11 new conditions, including energy tariff adjustments. Industry & Society: DRAP notifies MRP for 35 life-saving drugs; a report also flags rising online harassment of women and transgender people.