Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda to address IMF central banking lecture

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea hosted a reception in Islamabad to celebrate National Day and Armed Forces Day. Since 2011, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has partnered with UN-Habitat to assist displaced and conflict-affected communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

These joint efforts provided support to residents in Swat, Peshawar, Nowshera, Charsadda, Mardan, and Swabi. The programme restored community facilities, schools, roads, and water supply systems.

Hamid Mumtaz Khan said, "The partnership between KOICA and UN-Habitat demonstrated Korea’s commitment to supporting the people of Pakistan during a critical period. The positive impact of those interventions remains visible today, and communities continue to benefit from the facilities, services, and opportunities created through that support." Barrister Aqeel Malik extended felicitations to the people and government of the Republic of Korea.

Malik also emphasised the need to bolster bilateral ties through trade, investment, institutional collaboration, and economic cooperation.

Punjab police have deployed mobile police stations and licensing units to every district in the province. These units feature modernised, air-conditioned vehicles equipped with computer systems.

Citizens can use the stations to register FIRs, obtain character certificates, and complete driving tests, including learner permits and sign tests. Separate and secure environments are available for women, elderly people, and students.

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Female police officers provide full guidance to the public at these locations. Officials state that the move makes police and traffic facilities faster and more dignified for the public.

The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT) issued a critical cybersecurity warning regarding two software vulnerabilities in the PHP runtime. Identified as CVE-2026-109618 and CVE-2026-109619, these flaws received a severity score of 9.2 out of 10.

Security researchers demonstrated that attackers could exploit these systems without logging in or obtaining user permission. Early malicious activity has already been reported involving websites running WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, and Magento.

The National CERT directed organisations to identify affected PHP versions and apply official security updates immediately. Officials warned against relying solely on website or plugin updates, noting that official upstream security fixes are not expected for PHP 8.1 and older releases.

Organisations are urged to report any suspected exploitation through the official incident reporting portal.

Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation officials disposed of 660 out of 712 cases regarding the approval of residential and commercial building maps. Work continues on the 52 remaining cases, with 14 currently at the completion stage.

Authorities rejected 21 applications while 17 others remain pending due to specific objections. Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Captain (R) Nadeem Nasir chaired a meeting on Thursday, 22 October 2026, to review these matters.

Nasir instructed officials to gather data on all commercial building maps approved over the previous three years. The Deputy Commissioner ordered the immediate transfer of any staff members facing complaints and demanded swift action against field workers.

Road-cutting charges must be recovered from the specific departments responsible for damaging infrastructure. Officials were further directed to ensure that all ongoing development projects reach completion by April.

Atif Aslam shared a first look at the official music video for his track Safar Main Hu. The singer posted a mountain-themed poster on Instagram to promote the upcoming release.

Safar Main Hu is featured on the album Subah Aye Na, which serves as Aslam's fourth studio project. This collection represents the first full-length release from the artist in 18 years, following his 2008 album Meri Kahani.

Eight tracks comprise the new album, including Subah Aye Na, Ishq, Let's Have Some Fun, Sunn Sajna, Hun Ishq Main, Chaar Yaar, Sachey Wadey, and Safar Main Hu. Aslam described the creative process as a return to basics and stated he wants to release albums more regularly.

A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck the southwestern region of Tibet in China at approximately 10:33pm on 22 October. The China Earthquake Networks Centre reported the seismic activity, which occurred at a depth of 10km.

Located in a sparsely populated, high-altitude county in Nagqu, the epicentre sat about 400km from the capital of Lhasa. The average elevation within 5km of the quake's centre is roughly 4,864 metres.

At least 2 people sustained injuries in a village near the epicentre, while some nearby houses showed cracks. Local fire and rescue teams have mobilised to reach the affected region following a string of smaller tremors measuring between magnitude 3 and 4.

This event is the strongest to hit China since 1 January 2024. In 2010, a magnitude 7.1 tremor struck Yushu in the neighbouring Qinghai province, killing at least 2,698 people and leaving nearly 300 missing.

NBC has commissioned a full 18-episode season of the action thriller series Line of Fire. The show emerged as one of the breakout hits of the fall season.

It represents the network's most successful delayed-viewing lift in more than three years. Peter Krause stars in the production alongside Hope Davis, Kat Cunning, Tommy O’Brien, Taylor Bloom, and Charlie Barnett.

Joshua Safran serves as the creator and writer while also executive producing the series. Jenna Bush Hager and Ben Spector also hold executive producer roles on the show.

Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, produces the series. Viewers can watch Line of Fire on Mondays at 10 p.m., with the next day's streaming available on Peacock.

Tesla is manufacturing humanoid robots to develop a new line of autonomous machines. The company is currently determining how to make these robots reliable, durable, and useful for its future customers.

Susan Li stated during Meta’s third quarter earnings call that "Everyone is just going to have to adapt." Li noted that every company has suddenly become an AI company.

Compute is now considered an asset in the current technological landscape. Claims have also emerged that cars are flying and that pay package incentives are in play for Elon Musk.

Rockstar Games will release Grand Theft Auto VI on 19 November 2026. Sony is selling refurbished digital consoles for $499, a price point that saves customers $100 compared to buying a new unit.

These pre-owned systems come equipped with a 1TB SSD and a one-year warranty. In contrast, new PlayStation 5 disc editions sold in retail stores feature 1TB of internal storage, while the digital versions provide 825GB.

Hardware enthusiasts can also expand storage using PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSDs that include heatsinks. Refurbished DualSense controllers are available for $40 less than their standard retail price.

Specific models include a white controller for $18 and a sterling silver version for $23, both of which carry a one-year warranty.

Global PC shipments fell 21 percent year-over-year during the third quarter of 2026. Smartphone shipments reached a 14-year low during the same period.

This decline follows a period where PC shipments grew for more than two consecutive years until the second quarter of 2026. Prices for chips from Qualcomm, AMD, and Intel, alongside SSDs and RAM, have increased over recent months.

To counter these price hikes, some companies are bringing back older technology such as 4GB GPUs and DDR4 RAM. Minsoo Kang advised to "prioritize configurations that can better absorb component inflation."

The third quarter of 2025 saw inventory adjustments due to tariffs and purchases made before the Windows 10 support deadline. David Naranjo stated, "With global shipments expected to plunge 27% in Q4 2026 and remain broadly flat in 2027, stabilization should not be mistaken for recovery."

Sylvester Stallone faced public criticism for attempting to produce a film featuring a "half human, half AI" character. Stallone stated, "AI is here to stay."

The actor previously proposed a project where he would portray a young Rambo using artificial intelligence and de-aging visual effects. Noah Centineo will instead star as the lead in a new "John Rambo" origin story currently under development.

Stallone is not involved in the production of this specific prequel.

Terrifier 3 grossed more than $90 million globally despite a production budget of just $2 million. Damien Leone wrote and directed the entire trilogy.

David Howard Thornton portrays Art the Clown in the series. Lauren LaVera appears as Sienna Shaw, a character who first joins the narrative in the second chapter.

The previous installment, Terrifier 2, earned $16.8 million worldwide on a $250,000 budget.

A modder successfully jailbroken the Nintendo Switch 2 and demonstrated the console running a custom version of Mario Kart World. This modified racing title includes characters such as Steve from Minecraft, Peter Griffin, the red Angry Bird, and Cinnamoroll.

Sammy Hajhamid, known as "pepsipu", stated that OpenAI’s Codex assisted in creating the "ns2jb" jailbreak. The exploit functions as a tethered, software-only jailbreak that requires the console to be powered on via a specific game.

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Running the exploit necessitates the game SmileBASIC 4, though another modder claimed the title is "not strictly needed". Users on the Switch 2 hacks subreddit are currently discussing the implications of this security breach.

Bianna Golodryga plans to leave CNN, where she has worked since 2017. The journalist is currently in discussions to join two different news organisations simultaneously.

Christiane Amanpour announced she will exit the network next year after a career spanning nearly 40 years at ABC News and the Skydance news giant. One person familiar with the matter said CNN is cutting back on the hours it once devoted to the veteran international anchor.

Golodryga began her television news career in 2001 and previously served as a bureau producer for CNBC at the New York Stock Exchange. During a two-year period, she co-anchored "CBS This Morning" alongside Norah O’Donnell, John Dickerson, and Gayle King while also working as a contributor.

Additionally, she co-anchored the weekend edition of "Good Morning America".

The Federal Communications Commission blocked two gadgets because they contain foreign surveillance chips. Brendan Carr’s FCC granted itself a new authority on 13 October to prohibit devices containing any computer chip manufactured by companies on its national security threat list.

The specific surveillance chip identified in the hardware is a HiVision Hi3516CV610 UHD Smart Vision SoC. HiVision operates as a subsidiary of Huawei, which remains on the FCC’s Covered List.

New powers also allow the commission to retroactively ban gadgets and block modular radio transmitters.

A coalition of Hollywood talent agencies and independent producers has endorsed a proposed United States tax incentive for film and television production. The alliance, which announced its existence last week, includes independent production houses Blumhouse, Imagine Entertainment, and MRC.

Members of the group will advocate for specific adjustments to ensure the tax credit remains more favorable for independent entities. Introduced in Congress in September, the federal tax credit bill features a 5% bonus for independent productions.

Under the current proposal, an independent producer is defined as any company that is not publicly traded. Agents and producers also campaigned for legislation requiring streaming platforms to purchase 50% of their original content from independent production firms.

This proposed legislation would also impose time limits on exclusivity windows for such content. The coalition plans to pursue its specific legislation through a separate path during the next Congress.

The Directors Guild of America’s Women’s Steering Committee has revealed its seventh group of mentors and mentees for the WSC Squad Mentorship Program. Launched in 2021, the initiative provides a nine-month curriculum designed to support professional development.

Shaz Bennett, Jade Jenise-Dixon, Valerie Weiss, and co-chair Liz Ryan lead the committee. Pairings for this cycle include Lucia Aniello with Carmen Angelica and Abe Sylvia with Shaz Bennett.

Kat Candler will work with Sabrina Doyle, while Shannon Murphy joins Claire Fowler. Gandja Monteiro is matched with Saray Guidetti, and Mike Flanagan is paired with Anna Halberg.

Boots Riley will mentor Tiffany Johnson, and Geeta V. Patel is paired with Manjari Makijani. Karyn Kusama is paired with Kate Sullivan, while Jake Schreier works with Alissa Torvinen.

Lesli Linka Glatter is matched with Mallory Thompson, and Laura Belsey is paired with Kristin Windell.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced the provision of laptops for students holding positions during the 89th convocation of Kinnaird College for Women. The Chief Minister also pledged five buses for the institution and plans to facilitate women's access to electric bikes through easy instalments.

Safety features including panic buttons and CCTV cameras have been installed on the electric buses. Bishop Alexander John Malik opened the ceremony, where Sharif presented gold medals and degrees to BS and MPhil students in leadership roles.

Sharif noted that 22 universities lacked vice chancellors at the time she took office. Addressing the audience, Sharif said, "When a boy works hard, people say he wants to get ahead. When a girl works hard, they say she is only concerned about herself."

She described the achievements of the graduates as "a complete story of success."

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) rescued a 13-year-old girl in Karachi who was linked to a suspected dark web network. Intelligence shared by an international agency prompted the intervention, providing IP addresses used from 13 different countries.

A Karachi team from the NCCIA investigated a Pakistani IP address and discovered the person associated with it was a victim. The network allegedly instructed the girl to poison a cat, which she did, resulting in the animal's death.

The group also ordered the minor to seriously harm herself. Parents of the girl were unaware of her involvement until investigators contacted them.

Over the previous six months, the family noticed changes in the daughter's behaviour. Investigators are currently working to trace the accounts used to contact the girl.

The NCCIA is examining whether other children in Pakistan were targeted by the network. No arrests have been announced at this time.

Tom Hanks will lead the cast of the play This World of Tomorrow on Broadway. The production marks the first time the actor appears on the Broadway stage in 14 years.

Hanks last performed in a Broadway production in 2013, appearing in Nora Ephron’s Lucky Guy. That previous role earned the actor a Tony Award nomination.

Kelli O’Hara will join Hanks in the upcoming production. O’Hara previously performed with Hanks during the show’s Off Broadway run at the Shed last year.

Brian Anthony Moreland described Hanks as "one of the great storytellers of our time" and called the collaboration an "incredible privilege."

Amazon and Best Buy are selling the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K at a 50 percent discount. The streaming device now costs $29.99.

Powering the unit via a TV's USB port eliminates the need for a dedicated power connection. Technical specifications for the hardware include support for 4K resolution at 60fps and HDR10 Plus.

Connectivity features for the stick comprise Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. The package includes a remote featuring an asymmetrical design.

Users cannot side-load applications onto the device. Earlier this year, Amazon released an update for the Fire TV OS that introduced a redesigned user interface.

This software revision also improved the mobile app and integrated Alexa Plus more closely.

Delta 2.0 launched on the EU App Store to provide optimized performance for Apple’s iPhone Duo. The new version includes a library of Sega Genesis games and features animated controller skins that mimic the aesthetic of classic hardware.

Users can now access custom Pokémon DLC experiences developed by the Pokémon ROM hacking community without the use of AI tools. These DLC additions provide compatibility for every mainline Pokémon title released for the Game Boy Advance.

The interface is built around Liquid Glass support and allows for split-view multitasking with other applications. Folding the iPhone Duo places emulated DS games into sleep mode, while the software supports Epilogue’s GB/SN Operator gadgets.

Riley Testut stated that the app supports "every pose in both portrait and landscape" orientations. Additional features in the update include Custom Filters and global support for in-app purchases.

Electronic Arts (EA) closed the studio BioWare on 21 October. The publisher also cancelled a new Mass Effect title that the studio was developing.

A trailer for the cancelled project appeared on Reddit on 22 October. The footage reportedly uses pre-production assets and in-engine content.

The video concludes with the title Mass Effect: Universe. IGN stated it has verified that the trailer is legitimate.

Jason Schreier described the clip as a real trailer of the Mass Effect game that BioWare was developing up until its closure yesterday. Amazon is reportedly continuing work on a Mass Effect television series for Prime Video.

The Browser Company will discontinue the Arc browser on 22 December 2026. New user accounts for the platform will be blocked starting 22 October 2026.

On 23 November 2026, the company will disable AI features like Browse for Me on Android and iOS devices. Users will lose the ability to sync tabs or sign in to the service on that same date.

The browser will become inaccessible on Windows and macOS on 22 December 2026. Atlassian purchased The Browser Company for $610 million last year.

The company is now concentrating its efforts on Dia. Arc accounts will be deactivated on 22 December 2026, and Arc Search for Android will be pulled from the Google Play store.

The next Xbox console is expected to retail for between $1,200 and $1,800 when it launches in 2028. Phil Spencer stated, "We’re not going to grow the market with $1,000 consoles."

Asha Sharma noted, "We’ve reached a point where it will be hard to imagine that mass audiences can afford thousands of dollars to spend." Matthew Ball argued that the entire company would change its practices to ensure the hardware remains affordable.

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Actor Michael Gray died from natural causes in Palm Desert at the age of 75. Born in Chicago on 2 September 1951, Gray was raised in Miami Beach, Florida.

He moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting studies at the Pasadena Playhouse. Gray starred in the television series Shazam! during the 1970s, which received a DVD remaster in 2012.

His later career included appearances in several episodes of the FX series Archer and the AMC production Comic Book Men. The actor also made a short cameo in the 2023 film Shazam! Fury of the Gods.

He married Stacy Benon Gray in 1994. Gray is survived by his wife, Stacy Benon Gray, his son-in-law Lee Barker, and step-children Ryan Cooper and Laurel Cooper.

Nestlé Pakistan recorded net sales of PKR 160 billion for the period ending 30 September 2026. Sales figures for the company increased by 6.3 percent during this timeframe.

Gross profit for the firm climbed by 8.1 percent, while operating profit saw an improvement of 5.9 percent. A 3.1 percent rise in net profit after tax was also reported by the company.

Nestlé Pakistan maintains a cautious outlook for the remainder of 2026. Simultaneously, the government adjusted fuel prices, raising diesel by Rs1.64 per litre and cutting petrol by Rs1.60 per litre.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs issued a travel advisory for Pakistani pilgrims travelling by air to Iran and Iraq. The notice specifically highlights air travel between Najaf, Mashhad, and Tehran.

Pilgrims are urged to verify all bookings in advance to prevent travel disruptions and avoid relying on unconfirmed reservations. Travelers should maintain alternative arrangements and carry extra money to cover accommodation or land transport if flights are cancelled.

Registered pilgrimage group organisers were instructed by the ministry not to depend on unconfirmed flights within Iran. Organisers must also notify every member of their respective groups regarding the new advisory.

The government also adjusted fuel prices, raising diesel by Rs1.64 while cutting petrol by Rs1.60 per litre.

The Punjab government is establishing a year-round air-quality management framework supported by a $300 million loan from the World Bank. Running from 2025 to 2030, the Punjab Clean Air Program (PCAP) targets a 35 percent reduction in PM2.5 exposure over the next decade.

Lahore and parts of Punjab are currently preparing for a period of deteriorating air quality. The Punjab Environment Protection and Climate Change Department (EPCCD) reports that the province currently operates 59 air-quality monitoring stations.

Officials intend to increase the number of monitoring stations to 100. A Lahore Air Improvement Framework, estimated at Rs4.35 billion, includes plans for 8,500 cameras and 120,000 electric two- and three-wheelers.

The plan also involves 7,273 Super Seeders, though the target figure is 10,000 Super Seeders. During the 2025–26 smog season, Bangkok saw a 15 percent reduction in average PM2.5 levels compared to the previous season.

The year 2027 faces the highest risk of severe climate impacts as El Niño typically exerts its strongest influence one year after formation. Droughts, heatwaves, and escalating food costs might represent only the initial consequences of these environmental shifts.

The Asian Development Bank published a blog outlining five specific measures to safeguard communities against these threats. Governments now have a window of opportunity to take proactive steps to mitigate the damage.

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Irfan Davudov called for increased business-to-business cooperation between Azerbaijan and Pakistan during a speech on 22 October. The speaker identified oil and gas exploration, construction, telecommunications, and logistics as primary sectors for bilateral partnership.

Davudov highlighted that approximately 4,000 companies currently operate within Azerbaijan. He emphasised the necessity of establishing stronger private-sector linkages, sector-specific engagement, and structured B2B meetings.

Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), stated the chamber is prepared to connect entrepreneurs and facilitate business delegations for joint ventures. Zia also noted that regional peace and stability, especially in Afghanistan, are vital for improving economic connectivity and trade routes.

Zafar Bakhtawari, President of the ICCI, described Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye as brotherly nations united by solidarity and enduring ties of friendship. The government increased the price of diesel by Rs1.64 while reducing petrol prices by Rs1.60 per litre.

The National Biosafety Committee (NBC) met to evaluate applications regarding biosafety standards for agricultural products. During the session, the committee examined several overdue cases concerning technologies for Genetically Modified (GM) corn.

Earlier this year, the government gave its approval to the National Agricultural Biotechnology Policy. CropLofe Pakistan stated that reviewing and approving these pending GM corn licenses represents a significant achievement for the country's agricultural biotechnology.

Genetically modified corn has been used for commercial farming and cultivation across the globe for over two decades. Diesel prices rose by Rs1.64 while the government reduced petrol prices by Rs1.60 per litre.

Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan held a consultative session with small and medium enterprise (SME) representatives to identify obstacles to timely and affordable financing. Officials from the State Bank of Pakistan, various private banks, and government departments attended the meeting.

Khan stated that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif directed the government to double the amount of financing available for SMEs. The Prime Minister for Industries and Production assured business owners that the government would resolve issues regarding easy access to credit.

Banks were urged by Khan to provide better facilitation for the business community. SMEs are a vital pillar of Pakistan’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, exports, and non-agricultural employment, according to Khan.

The ministry of industries and production will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to foster an enabling environment for these businesses.

The Pakistan Chemicals & Dyes Merchants Association (PCDMA) has requested the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to lower the current policy rate. Saleem Mukati, Chairman of the PCDMA, called on Governor Jameel Ahmed to consider a reduction in the interest rate.

A Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting is expected to take place on 26 October. Lowering the policy rate would accelerate economic activity and alleviate the shortage of capital.

Mukati stated that the current high policy rate represents a serious hurdle for business circles. The Chairman argued that bringing the policy rate down to single digits would have a positive impact on the national economy.

Mukati claimed that raising interest rates merely in the name of controlling inflation would not prove effective. He further asserted that raising interest rates would turn out to be a failed measure.

The Asian Football Confederation will support Gianni Infantino's bid to be re-elected as FIFA President, Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa announced. Salman delivered these opening remarks during an extraordinary congress held in Tokyo.

Infantino attended the meeting in person to receive the endorsement from the regional governing body. “I think that we reaffirm our full commitment, of course, to supporting you and your leadership as you seek a new mandate as FIFA President,” Salman said.

The Asian Football Confederation President noted that members across the continent have expressed clear support for the FIFA leader. The confederation is also considering a switch for the Asian Cup to 2028.

Additionally, the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia has been postponed.

“I think that we reaffirm our full commitment, of course, to supporting you and your leadership as you seek a new mandate as FIFA President,” said Sheikh Salman.

Sheikh Salman

Public demands are increasing for a modern, fully equipped hospital with a minimum of 600 beds in the Chakwal district. The District Headquarters Hospital in Chakwal currently provides 200 beds for a local population of approximately 2,000,000.

Patients with complicated illnesses, including cancer and heart, kidney, or liver diseases, frequently must be transferred to Islamabad or Rawalpindi. Three interchanges of the Islamabad-Lahore Motorway are located within the district.

People injured in traffic accidents between the Salt Range and Neela Interchange are transported to the District Headquarters Hospital. A modern district hospital should feature specialist doctors, operation theatres, intensive care units, emergency services, and advanced diagnostic equipment.

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification estimated 7.5 million people will face acute food insecurity between 1 December 2025 and 31 March 2026. Approximately 1.25 million individuals are expected to experience emergency conditions during that same period.

Analysis covered 45 vulnerable rural districts across the provinces of Balochistan, Sindh, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. A combined population of roughly 35.6 million people resides within these specific rural areas.

Monsoon floods in 2025, extended droughts, dry spells, and localised insecurity are primary drivers of the crisis. The World Food Programme estimates that 40 percent of Pakistani children under five years old suffer from stunting.

Brazil exited the FAO's Hunger Map in 2025.

Sixteen writers boarded a luxury train in Kyoto to collectively compose a 200-page novel in under 24 hours. The Mizukaze train will arrive in Matsue on Friday morning as the group continues their work.

L’ecriture en mouvement organized the project, which features a plot set entirely aboard the Mizukaze. Muriel Barbery described the initiative as a "completely crazy project: coming together on an iconic train, where 16 voices must form a coherent and meaningful whole."

Barbery noted that each participant received the biography of a character whom all other figures knew, providing the reason for their shared journey. Christophe Ono-dit-Biot stated that the narrative "will inevitably find its way."

Writing in Motion previously conducted a comparable project in Canada during 2015.

HUM TV announced plans to dub the popular drama series Humsafar into Spanish for a wider international release. Sarmad Khoosat directed the production, which featured lead actors Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan.

Khoosat remarked, "If only there were royalties," regarding the commercial aspects of the industry. The television industry in Pakistan stopped paying royalties to performers during the 1990s.

Actors previously agreed to waive their royalty rights in exchange for increased upfront payments from Pakistan Television (PTV). Mahira Khan discussed the issue of royalties in March while she was promoting her film Aag Lagay Basti Main.

Naila Jaffery also highlighted financial struggles in 2021 while she was undergoing treatment for cancer.

The Pakistan Cricket Board and PSL management have confirmed the player-movement calendar, scheduling the PSL 12 player auction for 23 January 2027. Franchises may begin a direct signing window on 23 October 2026, which remains open until 23 November 2026.

Each of the eight franchises is permitted to sign one marquee player during this period, provided the athlete did not participate in PSL 10 or PSL 11. The tournament is slated to run from 18 March to 2 May 2027.

Over a duration of 46 days, the competition will feature 44 total fixtures, consisting of 40 league matches and four playoffs. Organisers plan to host the event across five to six different venues.

A workshop for the franchises is scheduled to occur next week.

The Punjab government has banned the sale of 20kg flour bags and directed that only 10kg bags be introduced into the market. Authorities decided to halt the smuggling of wheat and flour to maintain domestic supply chains.

Officials issued instructions to ensure the availability of fruits and vegetables during the off-season. To guarantee food security during Ramadan, the government pledged to provide high-quality food items at affordable prices.

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Wheat cultivation targets will be completed to bolster the province's agricultural output. The establishment of Mandi Mart projects was ordered to streamline the distribution of produce.

Regulations will be enforced to manage the sale of open milk according to hygiene standards.

The University of Karachi proposed the creation of a Pakistan-China Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity to foster collaborative research and technological development. Prof Dr Wasim Qazi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi, met with Chinese Acting Consul General Feng Deheng at the Chinese Consulate General in Karachi to discuss expanding institutional cooperation.

Qazi stated that the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of the university should be converted into concrete academic and scientific milestones. The Vice Chancellor urged the launch of joint research and professional training in sectors such as biotechnology, maritime economy, energy, and pharmacy.

Feng Deheng praised the university's role in educational cooperation, specifically highlighting its Confucius Institute. Additional proposals included establishing a Pakistan-China Museum and a Hall of Fame at the Karachi-based institution to honour distinguished scholars.

Qazi plans to travel to China in November to further these initiatives.

The Privatisation Commission is currently preparing to privatise 17 state-owned enterprises, including nine power distribution companies. Outsourcing three major airports and conducting transactions involving insurance companies and banks also feature in the commission's current plans.

Muhammad Ali, the Chairman of the Privatisation Commission and Advisor to the Prime Minister on Privatisation, addressed the CEO summit on 22 October. During the summit, Ali stated that Pakistan had weathered severe economic and fiscal challenges in 2022 and 2023.

He presented a five-point “TRUST” framework to guide the nation's economic trajectory. According to Ali, the country received approximately USD41.6 billion in workers’ remittances during the previous fiscal year.

Goods exports reached around USD30 billion in the same period, Ali noted. Ali said that energy reform, economic documentation, and state-owned enterprise restructuring are key priorities for the government.

The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) received a grant of Rs144.50 million from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Prof Dr Ahmed Saad Alahmed, the IIUI President and Acting Rector, oversaw the acquisition of these funds.

This specific amount covers the Ad hoc Relief Allowance 2026-27 for university employees in Basic Pay Scales 1 to 21. Beyond this allowance, the Saudi Support Fund provides broader funding for infrastructure development, faculty growth, quality enhancement, and recurring costs.

In separate economic news, the government increased the diesel price by Rs1.64. Petrol prices fell by Rs1.60 per litre during the same period.

Shareholders of the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) have authorised a compensation package for President and Chief Executive Officer Imran Sarwar. The agreement takes effect on 9 September 2026 and was approved under Section 11(3)(a) of the Banks (Nationalization) Act, 1974.

Sarwar will earn a gross monthly salary of Rs9.5 million alongside a house rent allowance of Rs1 million. Security measures for the executive include four guards on 12-hour shifts at his residence and a monthly reimbursement of Rs150,000 for five domestic staff.

The package provides Sarwar with two vehicles, one of which is an entitlement vehicle up to 3,500 cc. The executive was appointed to a three-year term starting 3 September 2026, following previous roles as Chief Risk Officer at United Bank Limited and Managing Director at Standard Chartered Bank.

Previous experience for Sarwar includes board positions at the Pakistan Mortgage Refinance Company and Khushhali Microfinance Bank.

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited the Corps Headquarters in Peshawar to assess the security landscape of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Commander Peshawar Corps welcomed the Field Marshal upon his arrival at the facility.

During the visit, Munir received detailed briefings regarding counter-terrorism activities, border management strategies, and the operational readiness of military formations across the province. Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that Munir praised the professionalism and high morale displayed by the officers and troops.

He instructed the personnel to maintain the highest standards of operational readiness and remain vigilant. The ISPR further noted that Munir affirmed Pakistan would achieve a total defeat over terrorists and their ideology with the support of the public.

The National Center for Livestock Breeding, Genetics and Genomics (NCLBG&G) launched genomic selection technology in Pakistan during a national symposium on 22 October. Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman attended the event as the Chief Guest and praised Prof. Ahsan Iqbal for his role in creating and developing the NCLBG&G.

Rawat hosted the gathering, which was titled “Transforming Livestock Through Genomics.” Ghulam Bilal provided participants with an overview of the activities and mandate of the centre.

The institution currently manages 7 sub-centres located throughout Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Pakistan. Organisers also held an exhibition with technical and research stalls while celebrating World Egg Day.

Author Emily St. John Mandel joined the New Scientist Book Club to discuss her latest science-fiction novel, Exit Party. Set in a near-future United States following a civil war, the book examines the aftermath of a major disaster.

Mandel stated she feels compelled to write about the consequences of such catastrophes. During the writing process, the novelist found it difficult to stay ahead of the ongoing news cycle in the United States.

The Punjab government has authorised a Rs 10 billion subsidy to ensure the availability of affordable flour for the public. Residents have petitioned the deputy commissioner and price control magistrates to address the escalating costs of basic food items.

Bread prices have climbed to between Rs 17 and Rs 20 per unit. Tandoor owners stated that the cost of LPG should ideally be Rs 300 per kg.

Official government rates for LPG have instead jumped to Rs 580 per kg. Pakistan's poverty rate has risen to 29 percent as inflation impacts the population.

Franchises may directly sign one marquee player who did not participate in the 10th or 11th editions of the tournament. This window for direct signings remains open until 23 November 2026.

The player auction is scheduled to take place on 23 January 2027. From 18 March to 2 May 2027, the competition will run for 46 days and feature 44 matches.

The schedule includes 40 league games and 4 playoff fixtures. The tournament will be held across 5 to 6 venues, a move Salman Naseer said would bring the competition closer to fans in more cities.

The opening match will occur on 18 March, while the final is set for 2 May at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. Next week, a franchise workshop will address auction rules, playing conditions, pre-auction trading, and player-retention deadlines.

National T20 Gold and National T20 Silver tournaments will serve as platforms for identifying talent.

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) organised an artificial intelligence workshop for its senior management team. In collaboration with Mercurial Minds, the commission hosted the training to explore emerging AI capabilities and practical applications.

Commissioner Imtiaz Haider attended the session alongside Zeeshan Khattak. Participants discussed how artificial intelligence can strengthen decision-making and enhance regulatory efficiency.

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The workshop emphasised the importance of responsible AI adoption and effective governance to ensure technological innovation aligns with institutional priorities.

Microsoft researchers created an artificial intelligence tool capable of diagnosing patients through a step-by-step process. The model achieved more than double the accuracy of general physicians when resolving intricate medical cases.

Published in Science on 22 October, the study details how the technology functions. An orchestrator coordinates the system's questions, exams, and tests.

This orchestrator simulates a panel of clinical experts who collaborate to solve diagnostic problems. Unlike existing medical AI models that typically provide an all-at-once diagnosis, this tool follows a sequential path.

More than 300 highly unusual and confusing medical dilemmas were assigned to the model for diagnosis. The tool surpassed human doctors in scenarios drawn from a major database of emergency room admissions.

Diagnostic work-ups designed by the orchestrator cost less than those performed by human doctors. Harsha Nori, head of AI at Microsoft AI Health, said in the study.

Hirokazu Kore-eda discarded notes from a generative AI chatbot while developing the screenplay for his AI-themed Cannes entry, Sheep in the Box. The director did not use artificial intelligence to produce the film.

Cannes is currently screening Look Back, which is Kore-eda's live-action version of the 2021 one-shot manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto. Natsuki Deguchi portrays Fujino in the production, while Aju Makita plays Kyomoto.

Kore-eda first encountered the manga during the COVID-19 pandemic. “In the end, I suppose it came down to: ‘I can’t quit now,’” Kore-eda said.

Kore-eda noted that filmmakers like Ryusuke Hamaguchi and Koji Fukada frequently find it simpler to secure funding in France than in their own country. “That’s the Japanese market. It’s really difficult. It’s a challenge for me too,” Kore-eda said.

Anime represents approximately 70 percent of the total box office in Japan. Independent arthouse cinemas, or mini-theaters, are closing across Japan.

The Pakistani government is weighing a transition from monthly to daily LPG price setting to manage market fluctuations. Northern areas of the country have seen liquefied petroleum gas prices reach Rs750 per kilogram.

Implementing a daily pricing mechanism is intended to prevent sharp price increases during the winter and discourage hoarding by traders. Importers have requested a revision of the current pricing formula, suggesting that rates be updated on a weekly or daily basis rather than every month.

There is uncertainty regarding whether this policy shift could result in cylinder prices exceeding Rs10,000. Pakistan Railways announced a $2.5 billion Karachi-Rohri Track project.

The government also announced the provision of 500,000 Chromebooks for students. A 13-year-old girl was rescued from a Dark Web network by the NCCIA Karachi.

Pakistani e-passports in the UAE are now available for just Rs11,000.

O Projeto arrives at Mostra de São Paulo following a production period spanning more than six years. Sabrina Fidalgo and Yvan Rodic initiated the project, which is produced by Gullane, Fidalgo Produções, Globo Filmes, and Canal Brasil.

The production is also in association with Yvan Rodic Media and features Laís Bodanzky as an associate producer. Filmmakers stated that Walter Salles remains an ongoing supporter of the work.

The film began its festival journey at the Gramado Film Festival. Carnaval will close a trilogy started by Fidalgo and is currently in development.

Carnaval will serve as Fidalgo's first fiction feature film. Brazilian theaters will screen O Projeto on 19 November 2026.

Brazil is preparing for a second round of presidential elections, with polls scheduled to open on 25 October 2026. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva currently serves as president, while Flávio Bolsonaro is the son of former president Jair Bolsonaro.

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) issued a public alert urging citizens to safeguard their national identity cards, personal documents, and sensitive data. Sharing personal information without considering the potential consequences could lead to fraudulent activities, the agency warned.

Citizens are advised to provide copies of Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) only to entities that are credible and trusted. Authorities recommend reporting any instances where personal information is used wrongfully to the relevant agencies.

In Karachi, the NCCIA recently rescued a 13-year-old girl who was trapped within a dark web network. The government announced a plan to provide 500,000 Chromebooks for students.

The CEO of the National Bank of Pakistan will receive an annual salary of Rs. 11 crore along with additional benefits. Pakistani e-passports in the UAE are currently available for Rs. 11,000.

Ambassador of Pakistan to the Russian Federation Faisal Niaz Tirmizi received a group of students from the Republic of Tatarstan at the Pakistani Embassy in Moscow. The visiting group comprised representatives from Kazan Federal University, Kazan State Power Engineering University, and the Kazan Branch of the Russian State University of Justice.

Selected for the Youth Ambassadors Programme of the Kazan-based Academy of Youth Diplomacy, the students engaged in a dialogue regarding Pakistani culture and the nation's people. Tirmizi discussed the significance of people-to-people contacts and the current state of Pakistan–Russia relations during the session.

The ambassador extended an invitation for the students to travel to Pakistan.

Austria is providing job opportunities for skilled Pakistani workers through the Red-White-Red Card scheme. Qualified Pakistanis can obtain this residence and work permit, which is generally issued for a duration of two years.

The permit initially grants foreign employees the right to work for the specific employer named in their application. Workers have the option to apply for a Red-White-Red Card Plus to gain wider access to the Austrian labour market.

The BEOE referred to employment prospects for 2027, mentioning a figure of 15,000 cards. Eligibility for the scheme depends on age, language skills, professional experience, educational qualifications, and a job offer where required.

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) arrested a Central Superior Services (CSS) officer in Islamabad for harassing and threatening a female Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). Authorities registered the case under Section 109 and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) after the female officer reported online harassment and character assassination.

Two men targeted the ASP on social media, with the second individual identified as Wajahat. The suspects allegedly sent threatening messages to the family of the ASP while they were both posted in Islamabad at the time of the incidents.

Investigators are continuing the probe into the allegations.

The European Mathematical Society (EMS) has designated the Abdus Salam School of Mathematical Sciences (ASSMS) at Government College University (GCU) Lahore as an Emerging Regional Center of Excellence (ERCE). This recognition covers the period from 2027 to 2030.

The EMS Committee for Developing Countries reached this decision during its October meeting. Prof. Cónall Kelly informed the school of the official award.

ASSMS originally earned this distinction in 2011, becoming the first institution globally to receive the honour. The four-year status is granted to mathematical research bodies in the Global South that show high research capacity and lead postgraduate training.

GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Omer Chaudhry credited the success to reforms and initiatives launched over the last 18 months. Chaudhry also offered congratulations to the ASSMS In-Charge Prof. Khurram Shabbir and his staff.

Punjab wildlife authorities rescued 50,000 birds and 1,020 wild animals as part of a recent conservation effort. Among the rescued wildlife were 30 bears.

A total of 544 wildlife rangers have been deployed across Punjab to manage these operations. Women make up 24 percent of the personnel assigned to the wildlife ranger force.

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Thirteen modern rescue vehicles have been introduced to improve the speed and efficiency of wildlife recovery. The province launched a mobile veterinary clinic and the first wildlife hospital on wheels to provide immediate medical care.

Artificial intelligence is now being utilised to assist in the rescue of distressed animals.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif ordered the easy availability of flour and the effective monitoring of food prices across the province. To combat illegal trade, the Punjab leader directed authorities to stop the smuggling of wheat.

During Ramadan, fruits must be supplied at controlled rates, according to instructions issued by Sharif. The Punjab government also approved the establishment of Mandi Marts to streamline agricultural commerce.

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A modern dehydration project received official approval to enhance food processing capabilities.

Inspector General of Police Punjab Abdul Karim chaired a high-level meeting at the Central Police Office to coordinate security measures. Abdul Karim ordered a boost in patrolling throughout Punjab to safeguard residents and deter criminal activity.

Night patrolling must be made more effective, according to instructions issued by the IG. By tomorrow, all vehicles used for patrolling must be equipped with tracking devices.

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Regional, City, and District Police Officers, along with senior staff, are required to personally oversee field patrolling and vehicle tracking. Strict disciplinary measures will be taken against any personnel found negligent in their patrolling duties.

During station visits, the IG mandated that officers conduct self-inspections of record rooms, lockups, and front desks.

Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) conducted road safety awareness activities in various locations on 23 October. Officers from the ITP Education Wing guided citizens near the overhead bridge at Zia Masjid.

Bhara Kahu served as another site where the police carried out their safety outreach. In a joint effort with the Islamabad Model School for Boys, Bhara Kahu, the Education Wing organised a road safety awareness walk for students.

Informative pamphlets regarding road safety and traffic rules were handed out to the public and the students. Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Islamabad Kainat Azhar Khan issued special directions to facilitate these operations.

Shipments of the fruit pulp reached a total of 1.53 million kilogrammes over the same period. Libya purchased 890,400 kilogrammes of the product, worth $587,664.

This single nation accounted for 58.16% of the total quantity shipped and 51.95% of the total export earnings. Turkey and Angola also contributed significantly, with Turkey importing 131,160 kilogrammes worth $129,294.87 and Angola taking 202,019.66 kilogrammes worth $127,354.10.

Together, Libya, Turkey, and Angola generated 74.64% of the total revenue from mango pulp exports. Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States imported 95,040 kilogrammes, 47,965 kilogrammes, and 47,654.4 kilogrammes respectively, earning $83,635.20, $69,632.71, and $56,467.61.

Saudi Arabia purchased 98,168 kilogrammes worth $53,891.17, while Afghanistan bought pulp worth $8,852. Canada, the Netherlands, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand imported smaller quantities worth $5,599.87, $3,575, $3,175.96, $1,140.01, and $850.02 respectively.

The seven largest destinations collectively accounted for 97.95% of the total export earnings.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations Islamabad Qazi Ali Raza visited Faisal Mosque and several Imambargahs to oversee security measures. During the visit on Friday, Raza examined the security preparations established by the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police.

An official from the ICT police met with the officers stationed on security duty to coordinate efforts. The official also inspected the specific arrangements put in place to protect the people attending the prayers.

Raza ordered the officers to stay fully alert and maintain strict security at every entry and exit point. The SSP directed the personnel to perform their duties with vigilance and ensure effective checking of individuals.

His final instructions focused on ensuring the safety of all citizens throughout the Friday prayer service.

Jon Tower serves as the official supervisor of the CBS News A.M. program. Tower joined CBS News in 2014 after working on the original production team that launched Morning Joe at MSNBC.

He also helped manage the program in 2020, a year when Diana Miller stepped away as executive producer. Cibrowski revamped the morning program and previously helped ABC News push GMA past Today.

The main on-air team for CBS Mornings includes Norah O’Donnell, Gayle King, Nate Burleson, Vladimir Duthiers, and Kelly O’Grady. CBS Mornings has long run in third place compared to its broadcast competitors, with viewership eroding among the 25 to 54 demographic.

Cibrowski said, "We want to be, first and foremost, informative and helpful to the core audience that’s watching morning television."

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi told journalists during an open court at the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency in Lahore that women should not share their pictures under any circumstances. Naqvi stated that the agency is currently receiving the highest volume of cases involving the harassment of girls.

To combat these crimes, the government is working to provide sufficient staffing to handle the issues faced by people who contact the agency. The minister cautioned the public against transferring funds to individuals requesting money through online platforms.

"If someone asks you for money online, do not transfer it under any circumstances," Naqvi said. He explained that criminals have created fraudulent social media accounts to swindle money from the public.

An awareness campaign targeting girls and the general public is being planned to address these security concerns.

"If someone asks you for money online, do not transfer it under any circumstances," Mohsin Naqvi said.

Mohsin Naqvi

Shelley Blond will attend a 30th anniversary event for Tomb Raider in London on a Sunday. Blond auditioned for the role of Lara Croft in 1995.

Core Design and Eidos created the original game and the character. The developers aimed to produce a female version of Indiana Jones or a female James Bond.

Tomb Raider first launched in Europe on 24 October 1996 for the Sega Saturn. Blond has spent 30 years working in voiceover and hosted the show Room Raiders.

She also presented for CITV, Bravo, and Trouble TV in the United Kingdom. Her agency currently holds contracts that do not involve artificial intelligence.

The price of 24-karat gold in Pakistan fell by Rs. 7,000 per tola on Friday. Following this decline, the 24-karat gold rate reached Rs. 424,536 per tola.

International gold prices dropped by $70 per ounce to reach a level of $4,020 per ounce. A decrease of Rs. 6,001 was recorded for 10-gram gold, which settled at Rs. 363,971.

Silver prices also saw a downward trend, falling by Rs. 221 to end at Rs. 5,865 per tola. On Thursday, gold prices in Pakistan had lost Rs. 3,000, standing at Rs. 431,536 per tola.

Brick released a new hardware device called the Brick Night to help people reduce doomscrolling while in bed. The product retails for $129.

Bluetooth technology enables the Brick Night to activate automatically as a person enters a room. A location zone of up to 25 feet by 25 feet can be established for the device.

Multiple users can be supported by the system, with each person able to independently set their own modes, blocked applications, time windows, and spaces. Two CR2477 batteries power the unit.

The Brick Night lacks NFC capabilities and cannot perform tap-based blocking. In comparison, the original Brick costs $59.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar addressed a ceremony today to mark United Nations Day. The event commemorated the 81st anniversary of the UN Charter’s entry into force.

Dar reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the UN Charter and multilateralism during his speech. The Foreign Minister stressed the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and peaceful settlement of disputes.

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Dar also expressed appreciation for the continued partnership between Pakistan and the UN Country Team. The Press Information Department, which has been operational since 1947, serves as the principal department of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

A Principal Information officer (PIO) heads the department.

Aror University of Art, Architecture, Design and Heritage Sukkur launched its International Winter School/Camp 2027 at the Islamabad Club. The Higher Education Commission and the Inter-University Consortium for the Promotion of Social Sciences Pakistan partnered with the university to host the event.

Prof. Dr. Zahid Hussain Khand, Vice Chancellor of Aror University, said the two-week programme would promote international collaboration, cultural exchange and academic partnerships. Khand added that the Winter School/Camp would offer participants opportunities to explore Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage while engaging in academic discussions, creative activities and collaborative learning.

Munsoo Kurimbaccus, High Commissioner of Mauritius, welcomed the initiative and noted that educational and cultural exchanges play an important role in strengthening mutual understanding and friendly relations among nations. Habib Ali Bokhari, Member (R&D and Academics) of the Higher Education Commission, appreciated the initiative and assured the commission’s fullest cooperation in supporting such academic initiatives.

Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Coordinator Inam Ulhaque presented certificates and gifts to frontline workers during a special appreciation ceremony in Islamabad on 23 October. These workers play a critical role in delivering polio vaccines to children and bolstering national immunisation programmes.

Ulhaque stated that the persistent dedication of these staff members remains essential for protecting children and achieving a polio-free Pakistan.

Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan met with Azerbaijani Ambassador Irfan Davudov on 23 October to discuss enhancing bilateral relations and infrastructure cooperation. Khan welcomed Davudov to his new appointment in Pakistan during the session.

The two officials held detailed talks regarding joint ventures, economic cooperation, and the expansion of bilateral trade. Focusing on the communications and infrastructure sectors, the participants noted that a modern infrastructure and robust transportation network are vital for improving regional connectivity.

Abdul Aleem Khan stated, "There is an imperative need to explore new avenues for mutual trade and investment with Azerbaijan." Davudov expressed Azerbaijan’s commitment to consolidating diplomatic and economic ties while enhancing mutual cooperation with Pakistan.

The meeting also acknowledged the successful diplomatic tenure of former Ambassador Khazar Farhadov. Pakistan is seeking to develop trade corridors to Central Asian countries through China as part of its broader economic strategy.

Apple has launched the iPhone Duo, a new smartphone model featuring a folding and flipping design. Each screen on the device supports an independent orientation lock.

Videos played on the iPhone Duo rotate automatically when used in tent mode, regardless of whether the cover screen orientation is locked. Users can remap the volume buttons to align with the current orientation of the device.

A unified icon for battery and Wi-Fi status appears on the interface, which opens the Control Center when tapped. The hardware includes Touch ID support and picture-in-picture capabilities for video playback.

Magnets are integrated into the back panel of the phone to support MagSafe accessories.

The All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association requested a formal meeting with Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik to discuss the daily fuel pricing system. Members of the association criticized the current mechanism, stating that constant adjustments to petroleum prices cause direct financial losses.

Frequent price shifts are disrupting the cash flow of retailers and making it difficult to manage existing inventory. The association argued that repeated changes create uncertainty regarding fuel purchases and sales while complicating the valuation of current stocks.

These pricing fluctuations affect routine business operations and expose pump owners to various financial risks. Retailers urged the government to consult them before introducing new changes and to balance the interests of pump owners with the need for uninterrupted fuel supplies.

Pakistan's crude oil imports rose by 12 percent to 2.78 million tonnes during the first quarter.

Banijay and All3Media merged to create Banijay Entertainment, a company now seeking to expand into United States scripted production. The firm acquired The Forge Entertainment to bolster its portfolio.

Banijay Entertainment produced the series Ripley and the HBO show War. Other projects by the company include House of Guinness and The Wanted Man for Apple, which featured George Kay.

The company owns Pokeepsie in Spain, which produced Drawn Together for Amazon, and also owns Groenlandia in Italy. Retaining intellectual property is a primary focus for Banijay Entertainment, as the UK model frequently allows for keeping 50% of the IP.

Netflix is currently searching for more US hits while both the streamer and Hollywood studios operate under financial pressure.

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the 11th meeting of the Board of Approvals for Special Economic Zones to formalise the Karachi Industrial Park as a Federal Special Economic Zone. The board confirmed the minutes from its 10th meeting during the session.

A Land Lease Policy for industrial estates and public sector special economic zones in Punjab received official approval. Several officials attended the proceedings, including Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Ahsan Iqbal, Jam Kamal Khan, Haroon Akhtar Khan, and Shafay Hussain.

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The Health Services Academy (HSA) and Chughtai Lab signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance academic and clinical cooperation. Students at the academy will gain access to clinical rotations, observerships, and internships through this partnership.

This initiative reflects the commitment of the HSA to improve linkages between industry and academia. Faculty members and students will also receive discounted laboratory services under the new agreement.

The collaboration seeks to narrow the divide between classroom learning and real-world clinical practice.

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan closed at least 33 Ismaili prayer halls to restrict religious activities. Officials ordered worshippers to cease using the Jamatkhanas, arguing that the presence of mihrabs meant the structures should function as mosques.

The closures included 17 Jamatkhanas in the Zebak district, 14 in Ishkashim, and 2 in Wakhan. In Kabul, authorities seized a Shia Imambargah and converted it into a madrasa, barring followers from entering the site.

Shia communities in Logar and Parwan provinces received instructions to limit their ceremonies to designated mosques. Police in Kabul detained 45 Shia men for displaying flags during Ashura.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reported that restrictions on religious freedom in the country are growing. Abdul Qayyum Zakir, the Deputy Minister of Defence, was appointed as a special operations commander.

The National Book Foundation (NBF) of Pakistan and Azerbaijan’s Kritika Publishing discussed ways to collaborate on promoting children’s literature. Murad Ali Mohmand met with Zaur Hasanzade during the Baku International Book Fair 2026 at the Baku Expo Center in Azerbaijan.

Mohmand suggested a pilot project to begin with the selection of two or three specific Pakistani books. Under this plan, the Azerbaijani publishing house could receive complimentary rights to translate and publish these works in Azerbaijan.

Conversely, Mohmand proposed that a children’s book from Kritika Publishing be translated into Urdu for release in Pakistan. The proposed agreement would feature co-branding using the logos and names of both organisations and leverage the NBF’s nationwide distribution network.

Representatives agreed that further consultations are required to finalise the specific titles, translation details, and publishing rights.

Joanna Hogg is currently writing her next film project. The director previously helmed The Souvenir and its sequel, The Souvenir Part II.

Hogg also directed The Eternal Daughter. Before her cinematic career, she worked in television and graduated from film school.

During a recent trip, she spent several days at El Gouna. Hogg anticipates difficulty returning to the world of her own film.

Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) have announced the upcoming fourth batch of technical and vocational training courses. Nine distinct training areas will be covered under the OGDCL Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Batch 4 program.

Participants can choose from subjects including Digital Marketing with AI integration, Fashion Designing, Welding, and Plumbing. Other available fields of study comprise Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR), Electrician, Professional Chef, Computer Numerical Control (CNC), and Automechanic.

The NAVTTC Centre of Excellence in Modern Technologies in Islamabad will host the training sessions. Students will receive practical training under the supervision of trainers and earn a government-recognised certification upon completion.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the specific start date for the new batch.

Mumbai Police are investigating a threatening email that identifies the Mumbai residence of actor Amitabh Bachchan. The message specifically names Bachchan's bungalow, Jalsa, as a target.

Authorities noted that the email also mentions the Mumbai mayor's office and various schools. A purported attack on the residence is linked to 31 October 2026 in the correspondence.

The email further references 27 November 2026 in relation to a Mumbai concert by Dosanjh. Police have granted clearance for Dosanjh's concert at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.

Scheduled for 30 October 2026, the performance is a component of the Aura India Tour. Permission for the New Delhi event was initially withheld before being approved.

BookMyShow Live submitted a comprehensive security plan to police officials to secure the venue. The Delhi concert will proceed as planned.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released proposed changes to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108 to accommodate modern vehicle technology. NHTSA is proposing the use of cyan-colored marker lamps to indicate when an automated driving system is controlling a vehicle.

Manufacturers would have the option to include these cyan marker lights under the new rule. The agency is also considering the removal of requirements that dictate whether high-beam lights must sit above or below low-beam lights.

Proposed updates also include a new 12.8-volt testing standard. Furthermore, the agency intends to remove requirements for manual beam shifters, turn levers, and physical hazard switches inside cars.

Last month, NHTSA opened an audit query into the Tesla Cybercab to examine the technical data and processes used for its certification.

Malik underscored the necessity of enhancing bilateral relations through economic cooperation, trade, investment, and institutional collaboration. Sustained engagement between Pakistan and South Korea provides significant chances to broaden cooperation across multiple sectors.

The minister extended his best wishes and felicitations to the people and government of the Republic of Korea. Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to deepening bilateral relations and strengthening the longstanding friendship with the Republic of Korea.

The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) held the Women’s Business & Lifestyle Expo 2026 at Chamber House for two days. More than 40 stalls participated in the event, offering a wide array of goods including clothing, fashion items, and jewellery.

Visitors also explored home décor, beauty and skincare products, herbal items, handicrafts, and various boutiques. Huma Akhtar Chughtai, MNA, visited the exhibition to observe the proceedings.

Asma Abbasi, Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Population, Punjab, also toured the expo. Nabila Faran Baig, Chief Commissioner of the Regional Tax Office (RTO) Rawalpindi, attended the exhibition as well.

Nosherwan Khalil Khan, RCCI President, accompanied the dignitaries during their tour of the venue. Waseem Aslam, Senior Vice President, and Ikram Abbasi, Vice President, also joined the official visitors.

An Independent Power Producer (IPP) secured a discount of $2.10 per metric ton on imported coal following a competitive bidding process directed by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA). This new rate represents an additional $1.02 per ton reduction compared to the interim supply arrangements previously established with two suppliers.

The firm had initially purchased coal at no discount against the international API-4 coal price index before the bidding and interim measures were initiated. While the bidding concluded, the IPP remains on its previous coal supply contracts and has requested more time from NEPRA to continue these existing agreements.

Concerns have been raised that extending the old supply contracts for too long might drive up fuel procurement costs and place a heavier financial burden on electricity users.

The Greek parliament approved a law prohibiting children under the age of 15 from using social media platforms. This legislation is scheduled to become active on 1 January 2027.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis first revealed the government's intention to implement the ban in April. The New Democracy party utilised its parliamentary majority to secure the passage of the bill.

Pasok party members chose to abstain from the vote, despite proposing a different version of the law. Nationalist and left-wing parties voted against the measure.

Australia was the first nation to enact a social media ban for children under 16 last year. More than 20 countries have now enacted comparable laws.

Elizabeth Holmes claims The New York Times misquoted her during a conversation held outside her rented beach home in California. Amy Chozick spoke about the dispute to the newspaper after the interview.

During the walk, Holmes discussed the specific character she constructed at Theranos, which featured a deep voice, red lipstick, and black turtlenecks. The reporter was not recording audio at the time and was only jotting down notes by hand.

Chozick did not keep the notebook during the exchange. Holmes did not contest the statement that her public persona was not authentic, saying, "Maybe people picked up on that not being authentic, since it wasn’t."

While the pair were walking, Evans was at the gym. Chozick said, "It’s a fair question."

The Government of Punjab is enhancing and facilitating access to free, timely stroke treatment through the Chief Minister Stroke Program. Medical professionals classify a stroke as a medical emergency.

Identifying symptoms and securing immediate medical assistance can prevent permanent disability and save lives. Patients may exhibit a drooping or twisting of one side of the face.

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Numbness in the arms is another common indicator of the condition. Difficulty speaking or slurred speech also signals a potential stroke.

Call Rescue 1122 without wasting time if these signs appear. Alternatively, the patient should be transferred to the nearest stroke center immediately.

Nithya Raman called out Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for taking credit for the expansion of the state film and TV incentive. Rick Chavez Zbur authored the bill that expanded the state incentive and supported Bass for re-election.

Chavez Zbur also appeared at the NBC4 debate last week. Raman accused Bass of being delinquent on the issue during a plan for Hollywood she rolled out on 21 April.

The proposal from Raman included a push for unlimited state tax credits. Bass stated she supported uncapped tax credits on 1 May.

The Writers Guild of America West endorsed Raman, whose husband works as a TV writer. Bass maintains the backing of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, the Hollywood Teamsters, the American Federation of Musicians Local 47, and Laborers Local 300.