Black Shadow

Category: Featured

  • US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for Pakistan, 74 Other Countries

    US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for Pakistan, 74 Other Countries

    WORLD

    The US State Department has announced the suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, including Pakistan.

    A State Department spokesperson confirmed the decision on Wednesday, stating that immigrants were benefiting from US taxpayers’ money.

    Immigrant visa processing has been suspended for Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, and Iran.

    According to US media reports, other affected countries include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, Thailand, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Nepal, Congo, Rwanda, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, and Uzbekistan.

    A State Department memo has instructed US embassies to reject visa applications until a review of procedures is completed.

    The move is reportedly part of a broader immigration crackdown being pursued by President Donald Trump since reassuming office.

    Earlier, in November, Trump had announced plans to permanently halt immigration from third-world countries, following a shooting incident involving an Afghan national in which a member of the National Guard was killed. – ERMD

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  • PMYP, VSO and BARGAD Partner to Train 20,000 Youth Volunteers

    PMYP, VSO and BARGAD Partner to Train 20,000 Youth Volunteers

    PAKISTAN

    The Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP), Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) Pakistan, and BARGAD – Organization for Youth Development have entered into a strategic partnership to train and mobilise 20,000 youth volunteers across the country, aimed at strengthening leadership skills and civic engagement among young people.

    The collaboration was formalised through the signing of a landmark Letter of Intent (LoI) at the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad. The ceremony was witnessed by Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, underscoring the government’s commitment to placing youth at the centre of national development.

    The signing was attended by Dr Muhammad Ali Malik, Joint Secretary PMYP; Ms Seher Afsheen, Country Representative of VSO Pakistan; and Ms Sabiha Shaheen, Executive Director of BARGAD, along with senior representatives from the three organisations.

    Rooted in PMYP’s 4E framework—Education, Employment, Engagement and Environment—the partnership aims to cultivate an empowered and socially responsible generation of youth. Under the agreement, the partners will jointly design and implement structured capacity-building and volunteerism programmes nationwide.

    A flagship initiative of the partnership involves training 20,000 youth volunteers to lead community-level initiatives, promote active citizenship and contribute to sustainable development. The collaboration will also support youth-focused policy advocacy, strengthen linkages to skills, mentorship and resources, and ensure coordinated implementation with national outreach and transparent reporting. – ER News Desk

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  • Punjab decides to impose a ban on purchase of petrol-diesel-powered vehicles

    Punjab decides to impose a ban on purchase of petrol-diesel-powered vehicles

    PAKISTAN

    The Punjab government has decided to impose a ban on the purchase of petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles by government departments.

    As part of measures to promote environmentally friendly transportation in the province, the Punjab government has decided that government departments will no longer be allowed to purchase petrol or diesel vehicles.

    According to the Chief Secretary of Punjab, only electric or hybrid vehicles will be allowed for purchase in the future, while vehicles used for field duties will be exempt. The Chief Secretary added that the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for new petrol pumps will now be conditional upon the installation of electric vehicle charging units. No new petrol pump will be permitted to operate without an electric charging facility.

    The promotion of green energy is a priority for environmental protection, and a new Electric Vehicle Policy for the province will be introduced soon, he reportedly said.

    The Chief Secretary further stated that the installation of electric charging units has been made mandatory at 170 new petrol pumps that have obtained NOCs. He added that NOCs for 170 new petrol pumps in 31 cities of Punjab have been issued through the e-Biz portal. – ER News Desk

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  • Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026 Honours Global Innovators at Abu Dhabi Ceremony

    Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026 Honours Global Innovators at Abu Dhabi Ceremony

    WORLD

    The 17th Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards, presented on January 13, 2026, during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), marked a defining moment in global sustainability leadership. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, the ceremony brought together presidents, prime ministers, ministers, and distinguished dignitaries from around the world, underscoring the growing international commitment to addressing climate and development challenges.

    Reflecting its expanding global influence, the 2026 edition of the prize recorded unprecedented participation, receiving 7,761 submissions from 173 countries—a 30 percent increase over the previous year. The record turnout highlights the accelerating momentum behind innovative, scalable solutions aimed at tackling critical global issues such as water security, climate resilience, energy access, food sustainability, and public health.

    Established by the United Arab Emirates, the Zayed Sustainability Prize recognises and rewards nonprofit organisations, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and high schools that are delivering impactful sustainability solutions. The prize honours the humanitarian and environmental legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and has emerged as one of the world’s most influential platforms for advancing sustainable development.

    For the 2026 cycle, 33 finalists were shortlisted across six categories—Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools—showcasing solutions that combine technology, local knowledge, and measurable social and environmental impact.

    Among the 2026 category winners, Jade (UAE) was recognised in the Health category for its AI-powered platform enabling early detection and personalised interventions for developmental conditions such as autism and ADHD. In the Food category, N&E Innovations (Singapore) was honoured for converting agricultural and food waste into biodegradable, antimicrobial food-safe packaging, reducing post-harvest losses.

    The Energy award went to BASE Foundation (Switzerland) for its innovative Cooling-as-a-Service model, which provides energy-efficient and affordable cooling solutions to underserved communities. In the Water category, Stattus4 (Brazil) received recognition for its AI-enabled sensors and software platforms that detect and address water leaks in real time, saving billions of litres of water daily. The Climate Action award was presented to Build up Nepal (Nepal) for producing low-carbon, earthquake-resilient eco-bricks that support sustainable construction and job creation.

    The Global High Schools category celebrated student-led sustainability initiatives from across the world, including projects focused on hydroponic farming, zero-waste agriculture, rainwater harvesting, wildfire detection using artificial intelligence, renewable energy systems, and climate-smart farming practices.
    Over the years, the Zayed Sustainability Prize has played a pivotal role in empowering innovators, youth, and organisations that are delivering real-world solutions to some of the most pressing global challenges. With its growing reach and impact, the prize continues to strengthen international collaboration and inspire collective action toward a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future. – ER News Desk

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  • ML-1 Project to Commence from Karachi Port in July 2026

    ML-1 Project to Commence from Karachi Port in July 2026

    PAKISTAN

    The flagship Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project is expected to commence in July 2026, starting from Karachi Port, as part of efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s rail-based cargo transportation system.

    The development was shared during a meeting between Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi and Chairman Karachi Port Trust (KPT) Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed (Retd.) during the minister’s visit to Karachi on January 9. The meeting focused on improving coordination between Pakistan Railways and KPT to enhance the efficiency of cargo movement from Karachi Port.

    Discussions centered on reducing congestion at the port and surrounding road networks by shifting a larger share of freight transportation from roads to rail. Both sides agreed that rail-based cargo transport offers a cost-effective and sustainable solution for improving logistics efficiency and supporting trade activities.

    Federal Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi announced major reform initiatives in the cargo transportation sector, stating that Pakistan Railways’ freight-handling capacity will be significantly enhanced. He highlighted the strategic importance of Karachi Port in national and international trade and emphasized the need for close coordination between Pakistan Railways and KPT to improve port logistics performance.

    The minister informed that under the ML-1 project, the 54-kilometre railway section from KPT to Pipri will be upgraded to ensure seamless and efficient cargo movement. He further stated that Pakistan Railways plans to operate at least four freight trains daily within the next five months, with priority given to bulk cargo transportation.

    Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed (Retd.) said that KPT would upgrade its internal railway tracks and work closely with Pakistan Railways to strengthen rail-linked infrastructure connected to Karachi Port.

    Both sides agreed that improved rail connectivity would help reduce pressure on roads and port areas, lower logistics costs, improve turnaround times, and contribute to the growth of trade, industry, and the national economy. – ERMD

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  • Pakistan–Saudi Arabia Discuss Expanded Cooperation in Mining and Minerals Sector

    Pakistan–Saudi Arabia Discuss Expanded Cooperation in Mining and Minerals Sector

    PAKISTAN – Mineral Sector

    Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik is in Riyadh leading the Pakistani delegation to the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) 2026, hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    On the sidelines of the forum, Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with H.E. Bandar Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in the mining and minerals sector, exploring joint investment opportunities, and enhancing collaboration across the mineral value chain.

    The Saudi minister appreciated Pakistan’s participation in the forum, noting that global focus has increasingly shifted toward mining and critical minerals. He highlighted the vast potential for Pakistan–Saudi cooperation in the minerals sector and assured that Saudi Arabia’s knowledge resources and technical expertise would be available to support Pakistan’s mineral sector. He also underscored Pakistan’s young and dynamic workforce as a key asset.

    Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik reiterated the strong brotherly relations between the two countries and emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to deepening cooperation. He shared that the Geological Survey of Pakistan is working to collaborate with the Saudi Geological Survey and highlighted the immense mineral potential of the Tethyan Belt, of which Reko Diq is only a small part. He further noted that fertilizer production and medical equipment manufacturing also offer promising avenues for joint ventures.

    The Pakistani delegation comprises senior policymakers, heads of state-owned enterprises, private-sector representatives, and leading mining-sector stakeholders, including PPL, OGDCL, Mari Energies, GHPL, FWO, PMDC, Saindak Metals, and Balochistan-based mineral companies, along with specialized service providers.

    Pakistan’s participation at FMF 2026 is being organized by Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division). Under the theme “Mineral Marvel – Unleashing Pakistan’s Mineral Revolution,” the Pakistan Pavilion showcases the country’s rich geology, flagship mining projects, and investment opportunities.

    H.E. Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmad Al-Malkiy, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, welcomed the Pakistani delegation and extended full support for Pakistan’s participation. He commended the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, noting that Pakistan’s presence at FMF 2026 would further strengthen the longstanding brotherly relations between the two countries. – PID

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  • Pakistan, Japan Sign Grant Agreement for Improvement of Child Healthcare Facilities in South Punjab

    Pakistan, Japan Sign Grant Agreement for Improvement of Child Healthcare Facilities in South Punjab

    PAKISTAN-JAPAN

    A signing ceremony for the Grant Agreement, Exchange of Notes, and Record of Discussion between the Governments of Pakistan and Japan under the project titled “Improvement of Child Health Care Facilities in South Punjab” was held at the Ministry of Economic Affairs on January 13, 2026.

    Under the project, the Government of Japan has approved a grant of JPY 2.91 billion (approximately US$18.62 million) through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the Japanese Grant-in-Aid programme.

    The project aims to strengthen diagnostic and treatment systems at the Children’s Hospital and Institute of Child Health (ICH), Multan, and enhance its capacity as the only specialized tertiary-care children’s hospital in the region. This will be achieved through the expansion of facilities and the provision of essential medical equipment required to deliver healthcare services to high-risk neonates, infants, and children suffering from serious illnesses or injuries.

    The Exchange of Notes was signed by Muhammad Humair Karim, Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and H.E. Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, on behalf of their respective governments.

    Speaking on the occasion, Muhammad Humair Karim expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their continued support and assured full facilitation from Pakistan to ensure the successful implementation of the project, while also emphasizing the importance of further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

    Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to working closely with the Government of Pakistan to deepen friendly relations and expand bilateral cooperation in the healthcare sector.

    ER News Desk

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  • GET Placement Program to Be Remembered in the Years to Come: Engr. Waseem Nazir

    GET Placement Program to Be Remembered in the Years to Come: Engr. Waseem Nazir

    PAKISTAN

    It has taken one year—consuming nearly 6,000 hours—to develop the GET Placement Program, which is now fully automated. This journey has reached its culmination. It is one of the most comprehensive programs ever, as it has brought PEC, clients, and industry onto a common platform.

    Here in Karachi, we have partnered with 15 clients, including some of the country’s largest national organizations and industries, many of which engaged with PEC for the first time. These organizations provided assurances to onboard trainee engineers and demonstrated their commitment during the dialogue. This was possible due to extensive groundwork carried out by the Council, which helped stakeholders realize that this responsibility also rests with them.

    I am confident that this program will be remembered in the years to come. It is set to become a mandatory program within the next five years. Please keep this on record.

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  • PAAPAM urges removal of Rs3 million car financing cap to boost local auto industry growth

    PAAPAM urges removal of Rs3 million car financing cap to boost local auto industry growth

    PAKISTAN – Auto Industry

    Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan visited the Bin Qasim automotive cluster of the Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts & Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s local automobile manufacturing and export potential.

    During the visit, the Minister toured the Tecno Auto Glass Factory and key production facilities of Pak Suzuki Motor Company, including the Press Shop, Injection Moulding, Engine, and Transmission units. He was briefed on local parts manufacturing activities and ongoing efforts toward indigenization.

    Expressing satisfaction over the quality of production, Jam Kamal Khan said it was heartening to witness world-class automotive parts being manufactured in Pakistan. He appreciated PAAPAM’s positive contribution to GDP growth, job creation, and the acquisition of modern technologies, describing the sector as a critical driver of economic activity.

    The Commerce Minister expressed optimism that sales of locally manufactured vehicles would improve significantly in the coming years, particularly due to government policies aimed at discouraging the import of used cars. PAAPAM representatives welcomed these measures, stating that they provide much-needed support to domestic parts manufacturers and help strengthen the local supply chain.

    Highlighting future prospects, Jam Kamal Khan said that Pakistan’s current local car production—below 200,000 units—has the potential to rise to between 500,000 and 1 million units, creating new investment opportunities and broader economic momentum. He also underscored the need to enhance auto financing facilities to encourage higher sales volumes of locally manufactured vehicles.

    PAAPAM requested the Federal Minister for Commerce to consider the removal of the State Bank’s existing Rs 3 million caps on car financing, noting that easing this restriction would facilitate car buyers and further accelerate growth in the local automotive industry. – PR

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  • Pakistan to Develop $80m Seafood Processing and Export Zone at Korangi Fisheries Harbour

    Pakistan to Develop $80m Seafood Processing and Export Zone at Korangi Fisheries Harbour

    PAKISTAN

    Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced plans to establish a 100-acre, US$80 million Seafood Processing and Export Zone at the Korangi Fisheries Harbour Authority (KoHFA), aimed at boosting the blue economy and global seafood trade.

    The proposed project, as stated in an official announcement, aims to develop, finance, and operate a modern seafood processing and value addition complex under KoHFA, positioning the harbour as a regional hub for sustainable, technology-driven seafood processing linked to high-value international markets.

    Chaudhry said the initiative would bridge medium-scale seafood processors and value-added plants with global buyers by providing modern infrastructure, certification standards and efficient export logistics. He added that the project reflects the government’s intent to move away from raw seafood exports towards higher-value processed products.

    The minister noted the project would cover 100 acres of dedicated seafood processing and export infrastructure at Korangi Fisheries Harbour in Karachi. He said the estimated project cost ranges between 60 million and 80 million dollars, based on regional benchmarks from countries such as Vietnam, China and Ecuador, which have developed similar seafood parks.

    He said the planned facilities would include multi-tenant seafood processing units, large-scale cold storage, packaging facilities, logistics and export terminals, and a wastewater treatment plant to ensure environmentally compliant operations. The zone would be used exclusively for commercial seafood processing, packaging, cold storage and export-oriented activities.

    Minister Chaudhry said the project is proposed under a public-private partnership or build-operate-transfer concession model, under which private investors would develop, operate and maintain the processing zone, while KoHFA would retain regulatory oversight and provide facilitation.

    Elaborating on the development components, the minister said the zone would host between 20 and 25 mediums to large-scale seafood processing units designed for fish, shrimp and cephalopod processing, value addition and export-grade packaging. He said these units would support a wide range of products, from primary processing to ready-for-market seafood items.

    He said the project would include a cold storage and blast freezing complex with multi-temperature storage ranging from minus 18 to minus 40 degrees Celsius, allowing safe handling of fresh, processed and unprocessed seafood. Ice plants and flake ice stations with a daily capacity of 50 to 100 tons would support fish landing, processing and transportation needs.

    The minister said dedicated value addition and ready-to-eat units would be established for filleting, marinated products, breaded seafood and export-oriented convenience foods, enabling Pakistani exporters to tap premium retail and food service markets abroad.

    “Packaging and labelling units would operate under international food safety and quality standards, including HACCP and ISO certifications, offering vacuum packing, modified atmosphere packaging and retail-ready solutions”, he added. – ER News Desk

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