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Saudi Arabia remains top contributor as Pakistan remittances hit record $3.2 billion — central bank

Saudi Arabia remains top contributor as Pakistan remittances hit record $3.2 billion — central bank
A pedestrian walks past a foreign currency exchange shop in Quetta on December 8, 2011. (AFP/File)
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Updated 08 June 2024
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Saudi Arabia remains top contributor as Pakistan remittances hit record $3.2 billion — central bank

Saudi Arabia remains top contributor as Pakistan remittances hit record $3.2 billion — central bank
  • Remittances in May were up by 15.3 percent on a month-on-month basis and 54.2 percent year-on-year 
  • Saudi Arabia contributed the most to the inflows with $819.3 million, followed by the UAE, UK and US
Updated 08 June 2024
KHURSHID AHMED   
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KARACHI: Pakistan received its highest ever worker remittances of $3.2 billion in the month of May, the Pakistani central bank said on Friday, with Saudi Arabia being the top contributor.
Remittances bring billions of dollars annually from overseas Pakistanis and are vital to Pakistan’s economy. These inflows bolster foreign exchange reserves, stabilize the balance of payments, and support the Pakistani currency.
Pakistani expatriates sent a total of $3.2 billion in May that recorded an increase of 15.3 percent on a month-on-month basis and by 54.2 percent on a year-on-year basis, according to official figures shared by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
“Remittances inflows during May 24 were mainly sourced from Saudi Arabia ($819.3 million), United Arab Emirates ($668.5 million), United Kingdom ($473.2 million) and United States of America ($359.5 million),” the SBP said in a statement.
“Cumulatively, with inflow of $ 27.1 billion, workers’ remittances increased by 7.7 percent during the first eleven months of FY24 compared to the same period last year.”
Remittances play a major role in supporting Pakistan’s external account, especially at a time when the country is grappling with an economic crisis that has weakened its currency and caused its foreign exchange reserves to plummet.
Pakistan had set a worker remittance inflow target of $28.5 billion for the current fiscal year ending in July.
“This is higher than our expectations as we projected full year remittances at $28bn, while Pakistan has achieved remittances of $27bn in 11MFY24,” Karachi-based Topline Securities brokerage firm said in its report.
“We believe, with this momentum and growth trajectory, Pakistan can achieve remittances of $29.5-30bn for FY24, up 8-10 percent.”
The higher momentum in remittances was likely to persist due to stability in the Pakistani currency and expectations of a new International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, it added.

Topics: National Bank of Pakistan Remmitances

Experts call for action as NASA imagery shows ominous smog cloud over Lahore, New Delhi

Experts call for action as NASA imagery shows ominous smog cloud over Lahore, New Delhi
Updated 8 sec ago
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Experts call for action as NASA imagery shows ominous smog cloud over Lahore, New Delhi

Experts call for action as NASA imagery shows ominous smog cloud over Lahore, New Delhi
  • Met Office expects smog to persist until mid-December and extend to areas in southern Punjab
  • Pakistani official, experts dismiss the claim that smog affecting Lahore is originating from India
Updated 8 sec ago
NAIMAT KHAN

KARACHI: Climate experts on Saturday raised alarms over NASA’s latest satellite imagery, which revealed a dense layer of smog stretching between Pakistan’s Lahore and India’s New Delhi, underscoring the severity of an environmental crisis that Pakistan’s meteorological department expects to persist until mid-December and extend to southern Punjab.
Toxic smog has enveloped several cities in the country’s most populous province, particularly Lahore, for over a month, driven by cold air trapping dust, diesel fumes and smoke from illegal stubble burning. In response, the provincial administration has closed schools, restricted heavy transport on specific days and banned access to public spaces such as parks and playgrounds.
The International Air Quality Index classifies values over 300 as hazardous, yet Lahore has consistently recorded alarmingly high levels, reaching up to 1,900 in certain areas in November.
On Saturday, the Punjab government conducted an artificial rain trial using local technology to combat the deteriorating air quality. The development followed days after NASA’s satellite imagery showed a massive gray cloud of smog blanketing Punjab and extending into neighboring India, including New Delhi.
Speaking to Arab News, Pakistan’s Chief Meteorologist, Dr. Sardar Sarfaraz, said the visibility of smog from space highlighted its severity.
“This heavy smog in Lahore, which has now extended to south Punjab, is expected to persist until mid-December as no significant rainfall is predicted in the coming weeks,” he said while predicting its movement to southern parts of the province.
“According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), 43 percent of pollution is attributed to transportation, while 25 percent is due to industry,” he continued. “However, the Punjab government’s Urban Unit report suggests that transportation, which has seen a substantial increase, contributes 83 percent of pollution.”
Sarfaraz noted until concrete measures were taken to curb these two major sources of emissions, the situation was likely to continue.
He also dismissed the claim that smog affecting Pakistan was mostly originating from India, blaming the local factors for the situation.
“With no rainfall, the moisture generated under these conditions will condense, leading to smog formation, no matter if it stops coming from anywhere,” he explained.
Yasir Hussain, a climate expert and founder of the Climate Action Center, said that NASA’s image and ground-level observations painted a “dangerous” picture.
“This is extremely dangerous for all inhabitants of this area,” he said, adding that air quality was deteriorating year after year.
“Urgent measures are needed to address the primary source of pollution: vehicles burning petrol and diesel,” he added.
Nadeem Mirbahar, a climate expert, emphasized to deal with the local factors causing the problem.
“There was an opinion that smog from India combines with local pollutants to intensify the problem,” he said. “However, a recent study by the Punjab government has identified local sources, primarily transportation, as major contributors.”
“If there’s an Indian or external factor, a specific strategy can be devised for it in long run,” he added. “But the immediate priority lies in addressing local issues.”
Mirbahar maintained air quality exceeding 350 was “catastrophic” and posed serious health risks to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, patients and the working classes.
“Transportation should be regulated by minimizing its use along with long-term solutions like transitioning to electric vehicles,” he continued. “Increased plantation can also help reduce smog levels over time.”
“The air quality will not improve if pollution-related activities linger,” he added. “Only sustained and significant rainfall can alleviate the situation.”

Topics: Pakistan Smog Lahore Smog Delhi smog

Government seeks swift justice in May 9 rioting cases as US lawmakers urge Imran Khan’s release

Government seeks swift justice in May 9 rioting cases as US lawmakers urge Imran Khan’s release
Updated 16 November 2024
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Government seeks swift justice in May 9 rioting cases as US lawmakers urge Imran Khan’s release

Government seeks swift justice in May 9 rioting cases as US lawmakers urge Imran Khan’s release
  • Pakistan’s information minister says there’s ‘incontrovertible evidence’ of PTI’s involvement in May 9 violence
  • His assertion comes after 40 US lawmakers raised concern over Khan’s imprisonment in a letter to Biden
Updated 16 November 2024
Arab News Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Information minister Attaullah Tarar on Saturday urged the judiciary to deliver swift justice in May 9 rioting cases while presenting “incontrovertible evidence” against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), a day after US lawmakers urged President Joe Biden to advocate for the release of the party’s jailed founder, ex-premier Imran Khan.
The violence on May 9, 2023, erupted after Khan’s brief detention on graft charges, with individuals carrying PTI flags vandalizing government buildings and military properties, including setting fire to the official residence of a senior Pakistani general.
PTI has denied any involvement in the violence, maintaining that neither its leaders nor supporters orchestrated the riots, while complaining about a sweeping state crackdown targeted the party.
During a news conference in Lahore, Tarar played videos from May 9, asserting that the footage clearly implicated PTI in the rioting.
“This is incontrovertible evidence,” he said. “Now it is the responsibility of the courts to ensure swift justice.”
The minister asked PTI leaders to publicly apologize over the May 9 events, which he described as part of a larger conspiracy against Pakistan.
His assertion came only a day after more than 40 US lawmakers raised concerns about the former prime minister’s imprisonment, asking President Biden to push for his release.
“A focal point of our concern is the unlawful detention of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, widely perceived to be Pakistan’s most popular political figure,” the letter said, seeking a more active approach from the US embassy in Pakistan, including “advocating for the release of political prisoners, the restoration of human rights, or respect for democratic principles” in the country.
The letter follows a similar note written last month by the over 60 US lawmakers to Biden, asking him to use his administration’s “substantial leverage” with Pakistan to secure Khan’s release.
The former Pakistani prime minister had accused the Americans of hatching a conspiracy against his administration shortly before his ouster from power in a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022.
He was viewed to be critical of US policies, though his supporters believe the change of government in Washington could help secure his release from prison after President-elect Donald Trump takes over.

Topics: May 9 protests Imran Khan Attaullah Tarar

ICC Champions Trophy tour kicks off in Islamabad ahead of 2025 tournament in Pakistan

ICC Champions Trophy tour kicks off in Islamabad ahead of 2025 tournament in Pakistan
Updated 16 November 2024
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ICC Champions Trophy tour kicks off in Islamabad ahead of 2025 tournament in Pakistan

ICC Champions Trophy tour kicks off in Islamabad ahead of 2025 tournament in Pakistan
  • People in Islamabad, Karachi, Abbottabad, Murree, Nathia Gali and Taxila will get a glimpse of the trophy
  • The ICC Champions Trophy, returning after an eight-year gap, will be organized from February 19 to March 9
Updated 16 November 2024
Arab News Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The much-anticipated trophy tour of one of the International Cricket Council’s most prestigious tournaments, scheduled to be played in Pakistan next year, kicked off in Islamabad on Saturday, with the coveted silverware set to visit seven cities across the country until November 25.
Pakistan is set to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi from February 19 to March 9. However, political tensions with India have already cast a shadow over the tournament, as Indian authorities have refused to allow their team to play in Pakistan.
Last week, the ICC informed Pakistan of India’s decision, prompting the country’s cricket board to seek clarification. Pakistan has already ruled out a hybrid hosting model for the tournament, unlike last year’s Asia Cup, where all of India’s games were played in Sri Lanka.
The situation created uncertainty and tension until the ICC released the tournament promo, visually reaffirming that Pakistan will host the championship.
“The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 Trophy Tour delivered with DP World will start in Islamabad, Pakistan on Saturday,” the ICC said in a statement. “The prestigious silverware will journey across the eight participating nations during the Tour, providing unique experiences for fans.”
The trophy was displayed in Islamabad on the opening day of the tour and is set to travel to Taxila and Khanpur on November 17, Abbottabad on November 18, Murree on November 19, Nathia Gali on November 20 and Karachi from November 22 to 25.
Following its journey across Pakistan, the trophy will embark on an international tour, visiting Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, England and India.
“A series of physical and digital engagements traversing iconic destinations, sporting events, and key battles in the international cricket calendar form the Trophy Tour schedule,” the ICC added. “Fans will be treated to a content series titled ‘Champion on Tour’ that will document the Trophy Tour’s journey around the world through the unique lens of food, music, and cricket,” it continued.
ICC Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya expressed pleasure at the launch of the trophy tour as well.
“The silverware, which will be showcased across all participating nations, will allow the sport’s passionate fanbase to enjoy the unforgettable experience of being up close with the iconic trophy,” he said.
The men’s Champions Trophy is making a comeback in 2025 after an eight-year hiatus. Pakistan, the reigning champion, claimed the title in the 2017 final against India. The last edition of the tournament was held in England.
 

Topics: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 champions trophy Pakistan cricket

Pakistani authors hail Sharjah book fair as step toward bridging readers-writers gap

Pakistani authors hail Sharjah book fair as step toward bridging readers-writers gap
Updated 16 November 2024
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Pakistani authors hail Sharjah book fair as step toward bridging readers-writers gap

Pakistani authors hail Sharjah book fair as step toward bridging readers-writers gap
  • The 43rd edition of Sharjah International Book Fair started on Nov. 6 and will conclude on Sunday
  • Pakistani writers Amna Mufti and Rumana Husain focused on their works during panel discussions
Updated 16 November 2024
BURAQ SHABBIR

KARACHI: Pakistani authors participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, set to conclude this weekend, described the event on Saturday as the first step toward bridging the gap between writers and readers residing in the two countries.
The event is touted as one of the largest book fairs in the world. The 43rd edition of the annual event was inaugurated by Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, the ruler of Sharjah, on November 6 and will end on November 17.
During its 11-day run, the event hosted over 2,500 publishers from more than 100 nations while celebrating over 400 authors under the theme “It Starts with a Book.” Among literary figures from around the world, Pakistani authors Amna Mufti, Rumana Husain and Dr. Osama Siddique participated in the fair for the first time.
“I was really impressed to learn that it was the 43rd edition of the fair and that this vision goes back at least four decades,” Husain told Arab News. “It was commendable how they have carried it for so long.”
“I had a wonderful time at the elegant opening, followed by a captivating award ceremony and gala dinner on the first day,” she continued. “The fair was impressively large.”
Husain was part of a panel discussion titled “Influence of Cultural Expectations and Educational Choices” on the third day of the fair. She shared the stage with co-panelist Dr. Adiy Tweissi from Jordan, while the session was moderated by Sharara Al Ali from Syria.
Husain, who has penned over 80 books for children in Urdu, shared her journey as a writer with a particular niche during an interaction with students of H.H. Shaikh Rashid Al Maktoum Pakistani School in Dubai.
“It would be a wonderful collaboration with writers in the UAE if our books are translated into Arabic because Arabic is spoken so widely in so many countries throughout the Arab world,” she said. “We have put forth this idea with the organizers.”
Karachi-based Husain along with two other authors were invited to the book fair due to Mufti’s efforts.
“I learned in 2023 that the UAE government is offering a 10-year golden visa to writers. So, I made a portfolio and got mine in no time. In return for their hospitality, I decided to contribute to the literary exchange between the two countries,” Mufti told Arab News.
“I had my session on the second day of the fair, where I discussed my book ‘Pani Mar Raha Hai,’ with Nadia Swan moderating my over hour-long session, followed by a book signing,” she said.

Amna Mufti poses for a picture with moderator Nadia Swan after the session on her book ‘Pani Mar Raha Hai’ at Sharjah Expo Center on November 8, 2024. (Photo courtesy: Supplied/Amna Mufti)

“Pani Mar Raha Hai,” or Water is Dying, is a contemporary Urdu novel addressing the water crisis and highlighting the impact of climate change on human life.
“I was particularly intrigued to see attendees from Kerala [India], in addition to Pakistan, who were very keen to learn about the themes in my book,” said Mufti.
She also noted that the book fair marked the completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, a lifelong project of Sheikh Sultan. Spanning 127 volumes, it compiles an extensive body of Arabic linguistic knowledge, making it accessible to the public.
In addition to the dictionary, an Arabic encyclopedia covering science, literature, arts and media was also launched on the opening day.
During her stay in the UAE, Mufti has held a session with female students at Woodlem Park School in Ajman, where she shared storytelling techniques with a group of 200 participants from 65 nationalities.
According to Visit Sharjah, the Sharjah International Book Fair features over 400 literary events, including writing workshops, poetry recitations and book signings.
The stalls prominently showcase local favorites, including books on Sharjah and Arabic art and culture. Additionally, live cookery stations allow visitors to experience Arabic cuisine and its preparation.
“It was an initial exchange for the first time,” said Mufti.
“There is a huge number of expat Pakistanis and Indians in Sharjah, and there is significant acceptance for Urdu there,” she added. “Our books could be translated into Arabic and vice versa. This exchange should lead to fruitful outcomes for the expansion of culture and literature in both countries.”
 

Topics: Sharjah Book Fair book fair

Through ‘Haryali’ art exhibition, Denmark calls for urgent environmental action in Pakistan

Through ‘Haryali’ art exhibition, Denmark calls for urgent environmental action in Pakistan
Updated 16 November 2024
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Through ‘Haryali’ art exhibition, Denmark calls for urgent environmental action in Pakistan

Through ‘Haryali’ art exhibition, Denmark calls for urgent environmental action in Pakistan
  • Danish embassy organizes exhibition featuring artworks by 36 Pakistani artists against global warming, pollution
  • Pakistan consistently ranks among countries affected most by climate change, where floods killed over 1,700 in 2022
Updated 16 November 2024
Falak Mahmood Khan

ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of Denmark in Pakistan’s capital this week organized a powerful art exhibition that called for urgent environmental action to battle climate challenges, with the European country’s ambassador pledging support for Islamabad in transitioning to renewable energy. 

Pakistan is one of the world’s worst affected countries due to the impacts of climate change, despite contributing less than one percent of planet-warming emissions. Unusually heavy rains in June 2022 killed over 1,700 people, destroyed critical infrastructure in the country and affected over 33 million people which scientists attributed to climate change. 

“Haryali,” which translates to greenery in Urdu, was the name chosen for the exhibition which took place at the Danish ambassador’s residence in Islamabad on Friday night. The exhibition was held to mark 75 years of Pakistan’s diplomatic relations with Denmark at a time when various world leaders have gathered in Baku to attend the COP29 climate conference. 

The exhibition featured artworks by 36 Pakistani artists, who highlighted the disastrous effects of climate change and global warming through sculptures and paintings. 

“Pakistan is one of the countries in the world suffering the most from climate change and action needs to be taken,” Danish Ambassador Jakob Linulf told Arab News on Friday.

Visitors tour the art exhibition “Haryali” featuring artwork against global warming, organized by the Denmark Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan on November 15, 2024. (AN Photo)

“And this is not something that Pakistan can do by themselves, and from the Danish side we are ready to help with all the expertise that we have gained through our battle also to make a greener society.”

Linulf said Denmark uses solar, wind, water and biomass to generate electricity, adding that Pakistan has an abundance of all of these resources. 

“I would love to see Pakistan transforming its energy sector into a more sustainable energy sector,” he said. 
Iman Bilal, a Pakistani sculptor, highlighted the health dangers associated with microplastics. 
“We’re deteriorating our health, it’s internalized,” she said, stressing the role of art in motivating stakeholders to take action to avoid environmental degradation.

An art piece crafted from plastic waste is showcased at the "Haryali Art Exhibition" by the Embassy of Denmark in Islamabad, Pakistan, on November 15, 2024. (AN Photo)

Kareem Ahmed Khan, an artist from the scenic Hunza Valley in northern Pakistan severely impacted by glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), reflected on climate change’s devastating impact on his region. 
“For the past seven to eight years, I’ve been working to highlight the impact of climate change on my region,” Khan told Arab News.

Visitors view artwork displayed at “Haryali Art Exhibition” by the Embassy of Denmark in Islamabad, Pakistan, on November 15, 2024. (AN Photo)

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who spoke at a number of events at COP29 earlier this week, used the forum to highlight the need to restore confidence in the pledging process and increase climate finance for vulnerable, developing countries.
 

Topics: Pakistan Denmark ties pakistan climate change climate change art exhibition

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