RIYADH: Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Wednesday signed the “Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement” between the two countries, which states ‘any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both.'“This agreement, which reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieving security and peace in the region and the world, aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression. The agreement states that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both,” a joint statement shared by PM Office Media Wing said.The statement said that an agreement was reached while building on the historic partnership extending for nearly eight decades between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and based on the bonds of brotherhood and Islamic solidarity, as well as shared strategic interests and close defense cooperation between the two countries.At the gracious invitation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif paid a state visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud received the prime minister at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.Both sides held an official session of talks in the presence of both countries’ delegations.At the outset of the session، the prime minister conveyed his greetings and warm wishes to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.The two sides reviewed the historic and strategic relations between both countries, and a number of topics of common interest.The prime minister expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and his accompanying delegation.He also conveyed his best wishes for the continued well-being of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister and the continued progress and prosperity, for the brotherly people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.In turn, the crown prince extended his warm wishes for the good health and well-being of the prime minister and for further progress and prosperity for the brotherly people of Pakistan.Also Read: Saudi F-15 jets escort PM Shehbaz’s plane in warm aerial welcome

SIALKOT: A shocking incident of oath-taking inside a cemetery occurred under the jurisdiction of Begowala Police Station, Sialkot, in connection with suspected cattle theft, ARY News reported.The police confirmed that a case has been registered against Irfan and Rafiq, who acted as complainants in the matter.According to police spokespersons, the accused have been granted interim bail while investigations into the case continue.Yesterday, the parties involved reportedly gathered in the cemetery and took an oath while standing on a grave, drawing local attention. The alleged suspects paid Rs 1.7 million to the complainants as compensation for the stolen cattle, police said.The incident gained further attention after footage of the cemetery oath went viral, prompting the District Police Officer (DPO) to take notice and register a formal case, according to police officials.Authorities also noted that the cemetery was disrespected, and the act hurt the religious sentiments of the local community.The First Information Report (FIR) includes five named suspects and between eight to ten unidentified individuals, police confirmed.So far, police have arrested three suspects and raids are ongoing to apprehend the remaining accused.Also Read: Lahore police launch probe into woman’s 'abduction by jinns'In other news, in a bizarre turn of events, Lahore police have formed a special team to trace a missing woman allegedly abducted by jinns (demons).Lahore’s Kahna area, police officials have intensified efforts to trace a woman who was reportedly abducted six years ago, according to her mother.The missing woman, Fouzia Bibi, is being searched for through a newly constituted high-level Special Investigation Team (SIT).The team has been formed under the supervision of DIG Investigations Lahore, Zeeshan Raza. 

RIYADH: During a high-level meeting in the Kingdomof Saudi Arabia with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Prime Minister of Pakistan Mohammad Shehbaz Sharif discussed defence cooperation and Pakistan–Saudi Arabia relations, ARY News reported.The meeting was held during the official visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Saudi Arabia.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif along with his delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and other senior cabinet officials, led the meeting.The discussions highlighted mutual commitment to foster defence cooperation, regional stability and bilateral relations.Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reiterated Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support for Pakistan and showed his keen interest in expanding cooperation across different sectors.Both leaders during the session also reviewed regional and global developments of mutual concern.A separate meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Governor Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman took place at the airport lounge upon Prime Minister’s arrival, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering Pakistan–Saudi Arabia relations and break new grounds of defence cooperation.This visit marks another milestone in the historic partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, rooted in shared faith, values, and mutual trust.Read More: Saudi F-15 jets escort PM Shehbaz’s plane in warm aerial welcomeEarlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Saudi Arabia for an official visit, receiving a warm gesture of friendship as Royal Saudi Air Force F-15 fighter jets escorted his aircraft upon entry into Saudi airspace.Speaking onboard his special flight, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed heartfelt gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, and to King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, for the gracious aerial reception.The visit comes at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

FAISALABAD: Police confirmed that the alleged leader of a honey-trap gang, Ghulam Batool, has been arrested outside the court, ARY News reported.According to police, Ghulam Batool, a resident of Dastgir Colony, had earlier lodged a rape case at Madina Town police station. She accused a man named Waseem of sexual assault after luring him with the promise of employment.Police further stated that Ghulam Batool later reached a deal with Waseem’s family, agreeing to withdraw her allegation in exchange for Rs 500,000.The accused appeared before Civil Judge Muhammad Asif’s court to record a retraction statement when Inspector Sana Nazir arrested her and registered a case.Evidence also surfaced in the form of video footage, which police said clearly shows Batool demanding Rs 1.5 million from Waseem’s family. In the same video, Batool is seen insisting on an advance payment of Rs 500,000.Meanwhile, a relative of Waseem can be heard in the footage pleading with Batool to reduce the amount. Eventually, Batool agreed to record a statement in favour of Waseem in return for Rs 500,000.Also Read: Pakistan reports surge in social media honey traps, extortion casesEarlier, the National Cyber Emergency Response Team issued an advisory warning the public about a rising trend of cybercrimes in Pakistan via social media.According to the advisory, Pakistan is reporting a surge in social media honey traps, extortion, and fraudulent freelance job offers.There has been a surge in fake job offers and freelance opportunities, particularly via WhatsApp and Telegram, targeting unsuspecting citizens across Pakistan, including Punjab.Fraudsters are reportedly adding individuals to groups without their consent and luring them under the guise of freelancing jobs.Once in the group, users are subjected to inappropriate or explicit content, and those who react or fail to react are blackmailed with threats of being reported.The cyber team notes that these scams have led to extortion demands ranging from Rs1 million to Rs1.5 million from victims in Pakistan.Scammers are said to be exploiting users’ WhatsApp display pictures, usernames, and online activity to select and target individuals.Fake accounts are used to initiate contact and manipulate users through false job offers, the advisory said.

Dubai, September 17, 2025: The UAE Dirham (AED) has edged upward to 76.64 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today, marking a modest increase of 0.01 PKR from yesterday’s rate of 76.63 PKR, as confirmed by leading financial sources tracking interbank and open market rates.This slight uptick follows a dynamic year, with the AED soaring by 0.81 PKR in June, rising from 76.44 PKR to 77.25 PKR and peaking at 77.6111 PKR on July 1, 2025. The Dirham’s resilience showcases the United Arab Emirates’ strategic economic prowess and its standing as a global financial leader. Pakistan Currency Rates Today- Latest Updates Valuation Mechanism: Unveiling the AED-PKR Exchange Dynamics The AED-PKR rate emerges from a fusion of fixed and floating currency frameworks. The UAE Dirham is tethered to the US Dollar at a steadfast 3.6725 AED per USD, a policy instituted by the Central Bank of the UAE since 1997 to ensure currency consistency and bolster investor confidence. This peg aligns the Dirham’s value with USD fluctuations, driven by US monetary policies, oil market trends, and the UAE’s robust trade surplus. Meanwhile, the Pakistani Rupee floats on the open market, its worth molded by supply-demand forces, shaped by Pakistan’s export-import balance, foreign reserves, inflation pressures, and geopolitical stability. Today’s rate of 76.64 PKR per AED signals a minor Dirham strengthening, reflecting market adjustments and the UAE’s economic edge, providing a stable gauge for cross-border financial flows. UAE’s Strategic Economic Policies: A Blueprint for Growth The UAE’s economic success story fuels the Dirham’s strength, driven by forward-thinking policies that redefine its global role. Transitioning from oil reliance, the nation has invested heavily in futuristic sectors like artificial intelligence, green energy, and tourism, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi emerging as world-class economic hubs. The UAE Vision 2026—extending the 2031 vision—promotes fiscal agility, business-friendly regulations, and infrastructure leaps, drawing over $20 billion in foreign investment in 2025, per World Bank projections. The Central Bank’s proactive stance, with substantial reserves and inflation controls, shields the Dirham from volatility. This strategic vision sustains the currency’s value at 76.64 PKR today, cementing the UAE’s reputation as a resilient economic powerhouse. Impact on Pakistani Expats in UAE and Their Families For the 1.5 million Pakistani expatriates flourishing in the UAE, today’s AED rate of 76.64 PKR offers a slight dip in remittance value compared to yesterday’s 76.63 PKR, yet remains a vital income stream. These workers, active in construction, retail, and professional sectors, remitted $717.2 million in June 2025, per State Bank of Pakistan data, positioning the UAE as Pakistan’s second-largest remittance source after Saudi Arabia. The marginal Dirham rise means a touch fewer rupees per dirham, but the overall flow still uplifts families in Pakistan, funding education, healthcare, and home upgrades in regions like Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This financial support invigorates local markets and eases poverty, though the elevated rate increases costs for importing UAE goods—such as appliances and food—posing challenges for Pakistani households.This news story taps into verified financial data and expert insights to deliver vibrant, reader-focused perspectives on the AED-PKR exchange rate. Optimized for SEO, it targets trending search terms like “AED to PKR exchange rate 2025,” “UAE Dirham today,” and “Pakistan currency trends” to boost visibility. The Dirham’s rise to 76.64 PKR on September 17, 2025, highlights the UAE’s economic strength while offering a mixed bag for Pakistani expatriates and their families, balancing remittance gains with trade hurdles. Brief Introduction to AED and PKR The UAE Dirham (AED), launched in 1973, is the official currency of the United Arab Emirates, split into 100 fils. Its US Dollar peg mirrors the UAE’s oil legacy and diversified growth. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), introduced in 1948, is Pakistan’s official currency, divided into 100 paisa, symbolized as ₨. It floats on the market, influenced by economic policies and global factors, serving a population of over 240 million.

KARACHI: A police constable was shot dead by unidentified persons in Gulshan-e-Maymar on Wednesday night, the police said, ARY News reported.According to the police, the martyred police constable Sadam Hussain was deployed at the Police Station Gulshan-e-Maymar.He was getting his motorcycle puncture fixed at a puncture shop in the area when four people boarding on a white car sprayed bullets on the police constable.The police have taken five empty shells of 9mm pistol and one shell of 30 bore pistol in its possession from the crime spot.The body of police constable has been shifted to a private hospital near National Stadium Karachi.On the other hand, Home Minister Sindh Zia Ul Hassan Langar taking notice of the incident has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) West,  to inform him immediately about initial measures taken by the police.He urged the police to make an investigation successful by collecting evidences from the crime spot and in the light of statements of eyewitnesses.The Minister also directed the police to inform him about the arrests of accused have been made so far involved in killing of police personnel.Earlier in August this year, a police officer was shot dead in a suspected targeted attack in Bin Qasim Town, officials said.They identified the martyred officer as Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Mohammad Khan Abro.Bin Qasim SHO Faisal Rafiq told the media that the ASI reached home and when he got off his car, assailants riding on a motorcycle emerged there, opened indiscriminate fire and rode away.He sustained critical bullet wounds and was taken to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.The SHO said it appeared to be a targeted killing incident. However, it was being investigated as to whether the incident was motivated by terrorism or some personal enmity, he added.The deceased ASI had served as the officer in charge of the Ghaghar Phatak police post. Presently, he was posted at the Steel Town police station.Read More: Karachi groom who went missing on wedding day returns homeMeanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took notice of the murder of ASI Mohammed Khan Abro and sought a detailed report from the inspector general of police.A CM House spokesperson said that Mr Shah directed the police chief to take all-out measures to ensure immediate arrest of the killers.

Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced Rs.1 million compensation for those whose houses were completely destroyed and Rs. 500,000 for those partially damaged homes due to the flood in Wazirabad. Pakistan Floods- All News and Updates While addressing an event in Wazirabad, she also announced Rs. 20,000 per acre for flood-affected farmers., Rs. 500,000 for the loss of cows and buffaloes, and Rs. 50,000 for the loss of goats and sheep.She stressed that the government would not rest until every flood-affected family was fully rehabilitated. Highlighting progress on housing, she said that under the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” scheme, 80,000 houses were already under construction, with a target of 100,000 houses to be completed by December.The chief minister also announced the establishment of a cardiac treatment centre in Gujranwala, and declared free travel on electric buses for women, students, senior citizens, and differently-abled persons.She stated that the Metro Bus Service would soon be launched in Gujranwala to provide modern and affordable transport to the public. Read More:Government set to unveil relief package for flood victims soon Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz paid tribute to the resilience of the people of Punjab, who bravely faced the devastating floods, and said the displaced would not be called “flood victims” but rather “guests of the Punjab government.”She informed that Punjab was facing the worst floods in its history, with 2.5 million people evacuated and rehabilitated.She lauded the coordinated rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts of the Pakistan Army, Navy, Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, Police, and local administration, and also praised her cabinet members including for supervising operations on the ground.

KARACHI, September 17, 2025: The Saudi Riyal (SAR) decreased to Rs75.04 against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in today’s open market, a small drop from Rs75.06 on September 15 and considerably below the July 28 high of Rs76.03, currency traders noted. The selling rate shifted to Rs75.61. Pakistan Currency Rates Today- Latest Updates This subtle reduction, influenced by market recalibrations and persistent remittance streams, emphasizes the Saudi Riyal’s fundamental role in Pakistan’s economic structure. The Saudi Riyal’s Influence on Pakistan’s Financial System The Saudi Riyal serves as a key economic catalyst for Pakistan, bolstered by extensive connections with Saudi Arabia, where numerous Pakistani laborers participate in fields such as building, medical care, and hospitality. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia represented $913.3 million in Pakistan’s remittance receipts in May 2025, the predominant portion. From July 2024 to May 2025, overall remittances climbed to $34.9 billion, reflecting a 28.8% growth from the prior fiscal year. At today’s rate of Rs75.04, exchanging 1,000 Saudi Riyals provides Rs75,040, reduced from Rs75,060 on September 15, modestly affecting family finances for necessities like schooling, medical treatment, and routine costs. Economic Consequences of the Riyal’s Reduction The Saudi Riyal’s reduction to Rs75.04 produces direct and wider repercussions. For families, this lower valuation slightly diminishes the buying capacity of remittances amid escalating expenses. Enterprises sourcing commodities like petroleum and chemical products from Saudi Arabia gain from the Riyal’s US dollar anchor, and this reduction alleviates import expenses, alleviating strain on Pakistan’s trade equilibrium. At a broader level, the Riyal’s activity persists in fortifying Pakistan’s foreign currency holdings, which exceeded $11 billion in October 2024, facilitating price stability management and liability handling. A depreciated Rupee improves export viability, and this modification aligns with Pakistan’s economic fortitude. Insights into the Saudi Riyal and Pakistani Rupee The Saudi Riyal (SAR), segmented into 100 halala, is Saudi Arabia’s monetary unit, supervised by the Saudi Central Bank and fixed to the US dollar for dependability. This firmness renders it a dependable channel for remittances and commerce, particularly for Pakistanis residing in the Kingdom. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), represented by ₨, has functioned as Pakistan’s monetary unit since 1948, governed by the State Bank of Pakistan via a controlled variable exchange mechanism. Its worth is molded by price surges, commerce movements, and remittance arrivals, with the Riyal-PKR valuation mirroring market influences. Prospects for the Riyal-PKR Exchange Valuation The Saudi Riyal’s reduction to Rs75.04 indicates continuing market recalibrations, backed by remittances and commerce with Saudi Arabia. Market participants and policy framers ought to observe these patterns attentively, as even slight variations can influence remittances, import expenditures, and fiscal approaches. For countless Pakistanis, the Riyal’s trustworthy valuation continues to act as a monetary support, upholding Pakistan’s economic fortitude.Sources: State Bank of Pakistan, Forex Association of Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Director General of Immigration and Passports, Mustafa Jamal Qazi has announced a key innovation in Pakistan’s passport issuance system, indicating that the passport backlog has been completely eradicated across the country, ARY News reported. The milestone was announced while Bangladesh High Commissioner Iqbal Hussain paid visit to the Passport Headquarters in Islamabad.During the visit, the High Commissioner visited different areas of the facility and went through the passport production process.DG Passports described him on the recent technological advancements, including modern lamination techniques, enhanced security features, streamlined online services for overseas Pakistanis and the process of passport issuance system.Mustafa Qazi highlighted that the department has successfully cleaned the completely both locally in Pakistan and globally, indicating a key milestone for the Directorate.According to the reports, the Passport office has issued over 3.3 million passports Since July 1, over 3.3 million passports, including urgent and fast-track categories.Now, citizens are may collect their passports directly from regional offices without waiting for notifications.The High Commissioner lauded the passport department’s reforms and showed his interest in the incorporation of artificial intelligence within the passport issuance system and production process.He described the quick eradication of the backlog as an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects Pakistan’s commitment to standardising its public service infrastructure.Read More: DG Passport restructures Punjab zones to improve servicesEarlier, In a move aimed at improving public convenience, Director General of Passports Mustafa Jamal Qazi has announced a new administrative structure for passport services across Punjab.According to the DG, all zones in Punjab have been reorganized, and four new sub-zones have been established under the Central and Southern Punjab regions.In Central Punjab, Lahore and Gujranwala Regional Passport Offices (RPOs) will now function as new sub-zones.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) will hear the appeal of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman, Major General (R) Hafeez-ur-Rehman, tomorrow in the case seeking his removal from office, ARY News reported.According to reports, a division bench comprising Justice Muhammad Asif and Justice Inam Amin Minhas will preside over the hearing.The PTA Chairman has requested the court to annul the decision of the single bench and suspend its order until the final verdict on the appeal.It may be recalled that Justice Babar Sattar, presiding over a single bench, had accepted a petition against the PTA Chairman yesterday.The PTA Chairman and others have already filed an appeal against the single bench’s decision.Also Read: IHC orders removal of PTA chairman Major General (R) Hafeez-ur-RehmanEarlier, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) ordered the immediate removal of Major General (R) Hafeez-ur-Rehman  from the post of Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), declaring his appointment illegal.Justice Babar Sattar announced the verdict and issued a comprehensive 99-page judgment.The court found that the process leading to Hafeez-ur-Rehman’s appointment as Member (Administration) and subsequently as Chairman PTA was unconstitutional and unlawful, describing it as the result of malice in law.The IHC observed that the creation of the post of member administration and the tailoring of its qualifications to accommodate Hafeez-ur-Rehman amounted to a mala fide exercise of power.The court ordered that Major General (R) Hafeez-ur-Rehman must immediately relinquish his position and cease to hold any office within the PTA.Furthermore, the court directed that the senior-most serving member of the PTA shall temporarily assume the role of chairman until the federal government appoints a new chairman through a lawful and transparent process.Notably, the post of Member (Administration) was created in 2023, following amendments to PTA rules, which increased the number of members from three to four.  

The trade deficit of Pakistan was recorded US $.2.9 billion in August 2025, according to the   Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).According to the PBS report, in August 2025, Pakistan’s exports witnessed a monthly decline of 10 percent, while showing a yearly increase of 12.5 percent.Exports in August 2025 reached $2.4 billion compared to $.2.8 billion in August 2024.The figures issued by the PBS, showed that in August 2025, exports declined by 8.8 percent on a monthly basis, but rose by 7 percent on a yearly basis.The import bill in August 2025 surged to $5.3 billion, compared to $5 billion in August 2024.The report further stated that during the first two months of the current financial year, the trade deficit rose by 29.6 percent annually, reaching $6 billion.Exports during the same two-month period increased by only 0.6 percent, standing at $5.1 billion. Read More:Pakistan’s trade deficit widens by 16% in July 2025: PBS Earlier, according to the data released by PBS, Pakistan’s trade deficit widened to $2.75 billion in July 2025, marking a 16.02% increase compared to June 2025.Pakistan’s exports also witnessed an increase of 16.91 percent during the first month of the current fiscal year (July) as compared to the corresponding month of last year, the PBS reported.According to PBS data, the exports in July (FY2025-26) were recorded at $2.697 billion as compared to the exports of $2.307 billion in July (FY2024-25).The imports during July 2025 also increased by 29.25 percent and were recorded at $5.449 billion against the imports of $4.216 billion in last July.

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has released its latest Mark-to-Market (M2M) currency rates for September 17, 2025, providing critical insights for businesses, investors, and individuals navigating Pakistan’s financial landscape.Pakistan Currency Rates Today- Latest Updates These rates, compiled from brokerage houses and Reuters Eikon Terminal, reflect the weighted average of closing interbank exchange rates, with a focus on the US Dollar (USD) and key currencies such as the Saudi Riyal (SAR), UAE Dirham (AED), Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD), Canadian Dollar (CAD), and Qatari Riyal (QAR). This article details today’s rates, compares them with those from September 16, 2025, and incorporates sentiment from posts on X to highlight current trends and economic implications.Key Currency Rates in Pakistan Today Below are the exchange rates for major currencies against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) as of September 17, 2025, from SBP’s M2M rates, with comparisons to September 16 rates: Saudi Riyal (SAR): Ready: 75.0463 (September 16: 75.0541, down by PKR 0.0078) 1-Month: 75.3561 (September 16: 75.3586, down by PKR 0.0025) 3-Month: 75.9752 (September 16: 75.9752, unchanged) 6-Month: 76.5433 (September 16: 76.5433, unchanged) 1-Year: 77.9288 (September 16: 77.9288, unchanged) The SAR’s slight decline in ready rates may offer marginal relief for remittances and Hajj/Umrah travel expenses. UAE Dirham (AED): Ready: 76.6428 (September 16: 76.6428, unchanged) 1-Month: 77.0287 (September 16: 77.0287, unchanged) 3-Month: 77.7763 (September 16: 77.7763, unchanged) 6-Month: 78.4421 (September 16: 78.4421, unchanged) 1-Year: 80.1354 (September 16: 80.1354, unchanged) The AED’s steady rates could maintain expenses for trade and expatriate transactions. Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD): Ready: 922.4483 (September 16: 922.4483, unchanged) 1-Month: 927.6202 (September 16: 927.6202, unchanged) 3-Month: 937.2053 (September 16: 937.2053, unchanged) 6-Month: 945.6635 (September 16: 945.6635, unchanged) 1-Year: 966.7090 (September 16: 966.7090, unchanged) The KWD’s steady rates may sustain costs for high-value transactions. Canadian Dollar (CAD): Ready: 204.4169 (September 16: 204.4169, unchanged) 1-Month: 205.7258 (September 16: 205.7258, unchanged) 3-Month: 208.2441 (September 16: 208.2441, unchanged) 6-Month: 210.5314 (September 16: 210.5314, unchanged) 1-Year: 216.4236 (September 16: 216.4236, unchanged) The CAD’s stability could keep costs steady for Pakistan’s trade and diaspora in Canada. Qatari Riyal (QAR): Ready: 77.2284 (September 16: 77.2284, unchanged) 1-Month: 77.6154 (September 16: 77.6154, unchanged) 3-Month: 78.3681 (September 16: 78.3681, unchanged) 6-Month: 79.0154 (September 16: 79.0154, unchanged) 1-Year: 80.6230 (September 16: 80.6230, unchanged) The QAR’s steady rates may keep expenses consistent for Pakistanis working in Qatar. US Dollar (USD): Ready: 281.5037 (September 16: 281.5128, down by PKR 0.0091) 1-Month: 282.8874 (September 16: 282.9149, down by PKR 0.0275) 3-Month: 285.5311 (September 16: 285.5946, down by PKR 0.0635) 6-Month: 287.8439 (September 16: 287.9822, down by PKR 0.1383) 1-Year: 294.0197 (September 16: 294.0487, down by PKR 0.0290) The USD’s minor decline may offer slight relief for import costs, with open market rates around 281.5 to 282.65 PKR per USD from sources like Wise and FOREX.pk. Other Notable Currencies Other major currencies also show changes compared to September 16: Euro (EUR): Ready: 333.3566 (September 16: 332.0162, up by PKR 1.3404), with 6-month at 345.5946. British Pound (GBP): Ready: 383.8162 (September 16: 383.6175, up by PKR 0.1987), with 6-month at 393.9241. Swiss Franc (CHF): Ready: 357.3969 (September 16: 355.3557, up by PKR 2.0412), with 6-month at 374.4235. Australian Dollar (AUD): Ready: 187.6926 (September 16: 187.5720, up by PKR 0.1206), with 6-month at 193.1033. Singapore Dollar (SGD): Ready: 220.2502 (September 16: 220.2502, unchanged), with 6-month at 230.5081.

Karachi: Commissioner Karachi Hassan Naqvi on Wednesday set retail and wholesale prices of Sugar.The Commissioner Karachi has also issued a notification in this regard.As per the commissioner, sugar per Kilogram price at retail level has been fixed Rs 177. On the other hand, the sugar price at wholesale level has been set Rs 174 per Kg.According to the commissioner Karachi new prices will be applicable from Wednesday today.On August 5, It is merit to mention that Sugar prices had dropped in Karachi as the crackdown against sugar mills and hoarding begun showing positive results, according to the Wholesale Grocers Association.The association reported that the ex-mill price of sugar has declined to Rs165 per kilogram.In Karachi’s wholesale market, sugar is now being sold at Rs170 per kilogram, while retail prices have dropped to between Rs175 and Rs180 per kilogram.On August 3, the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) issued a new tender for the import of 100,000 metric tons of sugar, officials confirmed.According to TCP, the new tender is scheduled to be opened on August 11.Read more: Pakistan govt issues tender for 100,000 metric tons sugar importSources revealed that a previous tender had also been issued for sugar import, in which four companies had submitted their bids. However, due to higher quoted prices, the earlier tender is likely to be cancelled.Read More: Sindh CM chairs wheat stocks review meetingReportedly, the price quoted in the previous tender for imported sugar was Rs. 227 per kilogram.Earlier, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) expressed reservations over Pakistan’s decision to offer tax exemptions and subsidies on imported sugar, warning that such measures could jeopardise the ongoing $7 billion loan program.

The Punjab government has unveiled the list of electric Taxis to be distributed under E-Taxi Scheme 2025.Under the scheme, which aims to introduce environmentally friendly transport in Lahore, 1,100 e-taxis will be distributed in the provincial capital, with plans to expand to other cities in subsequent phases.The government has also introduced the make and features, including battery size, charging type, motor capacity and mileage per charge, in addition, the price of the vehicles.The e-taxis will be available on easy instalment plans over a period of five years with zero markup. Applicants can select from 10 available models.Under the E-Taxi scheme the hatch bag and sedan vehicles from six different companies, with prices ranging from over Rs. 4.9 million to over Rs. 10 million will be provided on easy instalments. The e-taxis will be provided within 60-90 days.So far, the scheme has received 2261 applications, including 6 from fleet owners and 2255 from individual drivers, with a total of 5,401 registrations on the portal.Read More:EV Taxi Scheme: Punjab opens portal for applicationsEarlier the Punjab government announced the launch of the province’s first-ever E-Taxi Scheme, aimed at providing eco-friendly and affordable transport to the public under its “Transport Vision 2030”.The initiative is expected to reduce air pollution, lower fuel expenses, and enhance urban mobility throughout the province.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the electric bus service in Wazirabad, calling it a major gift for the people of the region, ARY News reported.According to reports, Maryam Nawaz said that through the citizens will now be able to travel from Gujranwala to Wazirabad for just Rs 20 through the electric bus service, while women, senior citizens, and students will be able to avail the service free of charge.Addressing flood rehabilitation efforts, Maryam Nawaz announced that families whose houses were completely destroyed in the floods will receive financial assistance of Rs 1 million each, while those with partially damaged homes will be given Rs 500,000.“I will not rest until the losses of the flood victims are fully compensated,” she pledged, adding that the Punjab government is working to restore homes, provide ration, and ensure medical supplies for affected citizens.She emphasized that Punjab is a province where the lives of both people and animals are valued, noting that the government not only saved human lives but also protected livestock during the disaster.The Chief Minister said that she and her entire cabinet are actively present in the field, with rescue and relief teams continuing operations for flood victims.Expressing grief, she confirmed that around 100 lives were lost in the floods. “Had the Punjab government not shifted people to safer locations, the devastation could have been far worse,” she remarked.Maryam Nawaz described the disaster as the worst and largest flood in Punjab’s history but expressed gratitude that the water levels are now receding.“The Punjab government and I have dedicated ourselves day and night to serving the people,” she concluded.Also Read: CM Maryam Nawaz bans timber auctions to curb illegal deforestation in PunjabEarlier, Maryam Nawaz had put an immediate end to the practice of illegal logging under the guise of timber auctions to safeguard forests.The step marks the first time in the province’s history that the traditional auction system has been abolished.According to the official notification, all tree cutting and timber auctions across Punjab have been suspended with immediate effect.The decision has been taken to safeguard forests, prevent soil erosion, and ensure greater transparency in forestry management.Maryam Nawaz has directed the Forest, Wildlife, and Fisheries Department’s Director General to ensure strict compliance with the ban.The order applies to all categories of timber, including firewood, until further notice.

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is set to establish a dedicated eco-tourism zone in the picturesque Usho Forest of Kalam Valley, Swat, as part of efforts to boost sustainable tourism in the province.This was announced by Dr. Abdul Samad, Secretary of Archaeology and Tourism, while speaking to journalists on Wednesday. He said Usho Forest holds significant importance due to its natural beauty and is a key asset in enhancing the tourist appeal of Kalam.Dr. Abdul Samad said that following the joint “Manro Track” project between the Forest and Tourism Departments, this new initiative is a major step toward promoting eco tourism and stabilizing the local economy.Dr. Samad said the eco-tourism zone will not only promote environmentally responsible tourism but also contribute to stabilizing the local economy by creating employment opportunities.A traditionally styled rest area will be constructed within Usho Forest to provide better facilities for visitors, while preserving the region’s cultural and natural aesthetics.The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Forest Department has clarified that the natural forests of Usho will be strictly protected, and no one will be allowed to harm the environment.According to the Tourism Department, more projects are being planned in collaboration with the Forest Department and local communities to promote eco-tourism so that new avenues for tourism can open while preserving the natural environment.

BAGH: A female college student died on Wednesday after allegedly jumping from a moving chairlift in the Central Bagh area of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, police said.According to initial reports, the girl, a second-year student, sustained fatal injuries after she jumped from the chairlift. Local residents attempted to rescue her, but she died on the spot.Police said that preliminary evidence suggests the incident may be a case of suicide. However, a detailed investigation is currently underway to ascertain the exact cause of the incident.The Bagh Police reached the scene, took the body into custody, and initiated further legal and medical procedures.Read More: Female doctor goes missing after jumping into nullah in KarachiEarlier, a female doctor went missing after allegedly jumping into a nullah in Karachi’s Scout Colony in an apparent suicide attempt, ARY News reported on Monday.The incident took place within the limits of the Mubina Town Police Station late Sunday night. According to police, the woman was identified as Dr. Mishal, and some eyewitnesses reported the incident.Initial investigations suggest that Dr. Mishal was distressed due to domestic issues. Police said she had a dispute with her husband, who reportedly wanted to do a second marriage. Rescue teams have been carrying out search operations, but her body has not yet been recovered.

RIYADH: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday for an official visit, receiving a warm gesture of friendship as Royal Saudi Air Force F-15 fighter jets escorted his aircraft upon entry into Saudi airspace.Speaking onboard his special flight, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed heartfelt gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, and to King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, for the gracious aerial reception.The visit comes at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the Prime Minister is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and federal ministers Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Attaullah Tarar, Musadik Malik, along with Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi.[video width="640" height="326" mp4="https://arynews-1313565080.cos.ap-singapore.myqcloud.com/zip-archives/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AQMTF3GDi0yd4gXKCQFcczVmF8_xA3NWqTrmC_Rf2Gma0cn_W0Q0y5-Hi_Ib7Rv4jOFBix3_y5AqVUK1gGHENrfQetkZ-lQYaYB5LxSPH8lTxxzAJFg-online-video-cutter.com_.mp4"][/video]During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to review the full spectrum of Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations.The leaders will also exchange views on regional and global developments of mutual interest, aiming to strengthen cooperation across diverse fields.Read More: PM Shehbaz arrives in Saudi Arabia on a state visitThe visit is anticipated to formalize collaborative agreements across various sectors, reflecting both countries’ shared commitment to enhancing and deepening their longstanding fraternal relationship.​Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enjoy a historic relationship, rooted in shared faith, values and mutual trust. The visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz will provide an important opportunity to the two leaders to consolidate this unique partnership, while exploring new avenues of collaboration, for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries.The visit comes shortly after his return from Doha, where he attended the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit convened in response to Israeli aggression.Following the completion of his Saudi visit, the Prime Minister will travel to the United Kingdom, where he is scheduled to meet with British officials and engage in discussions on enhancing bilateral cooperation.On September 21, PM Shehbaz will depart for the United States, where he will participate in the session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. He is also likely to attend the High-Level Conference on the Two-State Solution for Palestine on September 22.

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Federal Flood Commission (FFC) on Wednesday said that constructions in natural routes of water bodies have affected the water flow.Chairman FFC was briefing in a session of the National Assembly's Committee for Water Resources."New constructions, building of bridges affect the water flow, we have to upgrade the flood mapping," FFC official said.Ministry of Water Resources officials said that the water was in large quantity with lesser flow speed in current flood. "The water flow was earlier reaching in 86 hours from Qadir Abad to Trimmu but this time the time span of water's passing was 12 hours".Shazia Marri a member of the committee that the meteorological department was unaware about rains until a day before the rainfall.Mir Munawar Talpur, another PPP member of the NA body said that the natural routes of waterways have been encroached across the country. "Climate change is another issue, but we have built homes within riverbeds," Talpur said.Federal Flood Commission official, briefing the NA hearing about, how the decision taken to breach a protective embankment, said that a committee headed by the deputy commissioner decides about breaking a Bund. "The committee comprises of the members from concerned departments"."A deputy commissioner could not take such a major decision," Shazia Marri said.

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has rolled out a new vehicle registration and number plate system across the province, aligning with the federal model.The new system has been implemented with immediate effect and will be fully enforced after November 30, 2025, according to an official notification issued by the Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control Department.Under the revised rules, vehicle registration numbers and number plates will now be linked to the owner's Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) instead of the vehicle’s chassis number.The initiative is aimed at curbing the misuse of vehicles in criminal activities and enhancing convenience for vehicle owners by simplifying the registration and transfer process.Vehicle owners have been advised to transfer their purchased vehicles into their own names within three months, while individuals who have sold their vehicles must ensure that ownership is properly transferred to the new buyer. Failure to comply may result in penalties or complications with future vehicle transactions.New Rules for Number Plates and Smart CardsUnder the new rules, when a vehicle is sold, the CNIC-linked registration copy or smart card will be deactivated, though it will remain in the possession of the previous owner until reassignment.Owners can transfer their registration number and plates to a newly purchased vehicle, while deactivated numbers can be retained for up to three years, provided that annual biometric verification is completed.If the number is not reassigned within three years, it will be cancelled, and the registration copy, smart card, and number plates must be returned to the registering authority.The department has urged the public to ensure compliance with the new system to avoid legal issues and to help improve the overall regulation and security of vehicle ownership in the province.Read More: Sindh 'announces' new policy for vehicle number plates ownership