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  • Asia-Pacific Shelter and Settlements Forum 2026 to Kick Off on Feb 12, Convene Global Experts in Karachi

    Asia-Pacific Shelter and Settlements Forum 2026 to Kick Off on Feb 12, Convene Global Experts in Karachi

    PAKISTAN

    The Government of Sindh is set to host the Asia-Pacific Shelter and Settlements Forum (APSSF) 2026 from February 12 to 14 in Karachi, bringing together around 600 delegates from 41 countries for one of the region’s most significant gatherings on housing, climate resilience, and humanitarian response.

    Held under the theme “Scaling Inclusive, Climate-Resilient Homes and Communities in a Nexus-Driven New Humanitarian World,” the forum will feature 26 sessions and nearly 115 speakers. Participants include representatives from international organisations, shelter and settlement clusters, humanitarian agencies, climate and disaster risk experts, housing practitioners, and development partners.

    The inaugural session will include opening remarks by Syed Asif Hyder Shah, Chief Secretary, Government of Sindh; Bolormaa Amgaabazar, Country Director, World Bank; Asad Aleem, Deputy Country Director, ADB; and Salah Jelassi, Director, IsDB Group Regional Hub Türkiye.

    Day one will see addresses from Jeroen Willems, Head of Cooperation, EU Delegation to Pakistan; Pernille Ironside, UNICEF Representative; Mio Sato, Chief of Mission, IOM; Mia Marina, Habitat for Humanity; Sean Callahan, CRS; Lt. Gen. Inam Haider Malik, Chairman NDMA; and Khalid Mehmood Shaikh, CEO SPHF. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah will deliver a special address, while the keynote will be presented by the Chief Guest, Her Excellency Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari.

    The forum will deliberate on three major themes: climate-smart design and inclusive finance, sustainable systems for a climate-ready future, and inclusive governance for people-centred resilience.

    The closing ceremony on February 13 will include a conference recap, reflections by Najam Ahmed Shah, award distribution, and the handover for APSSF 2027–28, followed by a Sindh Heritage and Food Bazaar for international delegates.

    The Asia Pacific Shelter and Settlements Forum (APSSF) is a globally recognised platform that brings together government officials, international organisations, development partners, donors, regional leaders, Shelter and Settlements Clusters, and humanitarian actors. The Forum aims to strengthen coordination and collaboration while enabling the exchange of best practices, policies, and innovations in the Shelter and Settlements sector across the Asia Pacific region. – By Abdullah Solangi

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  • Kohat Textile Mills Reappoints Chairman and CEO; Reconstitutes Board Committees

    Kohat Textile Mills Reappoints Chairman and CEO; Reconstitutes Board Committees

    PAKISTAN

    Kohat Textile Mills Limited has announced that, following the election of directors held on February 3, 2026, the Board of Directors has reappointed Mr. Javed Saifullah Khan as Chairman of the Board and Mr. Assad Saifullah Khan as Chief Executive Officer for a further term of three years.

    The company also informed that the Board has reconstituted its key committees to strengthen governance and oversight.

    The Audit Committee will be chaired by Mr. Muhammad Saleem Khan, with Rana Muhammad Shafi and Sardar Aminullah Khan serving as members.

    The Human Resource and Remuneration Committee has been reformed with Sardar Aminullah Khan as Chairman, while Ms. Hoor Yousafzai and Mr. Assad Saifullah Khan will serve as members.

    The reappointments and committee restructuring reflect the company’s continued focus on leadership continuity and effective corporate governance. – ER News Desk

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  • Symmetry Group Acquires US-Based LogoDesignGuru to Strengthen Platform-Led Digital Capabilities

    Symmetry Group Acquires US-Based LogoDesignGuru to Strengthen Platform-Led Digital Capabilities

    PAKISTAN

    In continuation of its previously announced investment plan, Symmetry Group Limited has executed a Share Purchase Agreement to acquire LogoDesignGuru.com, Inc. (LDG), a US-based digital branding and technology company.

    LDG operates AI-powered design platforms, digital asset marketplaces, and hybrid design-service models that cater to an international customer base. The acquisition marks a significant step in Symmetry Group’s strategy to expand its global footprint while enhancing its platform-driven digital offerings.

    According to the company, LDG is expected to generate approximately USD 0.7 million (around PKR 200 million) in revenue during the current year and is already operating at a healthy level of profitability. Following the acquisition, Symmetry anticipates further improvement in earnings through cost optimization, operational efficiencies, and targeted revenue growth initiatives. Revenues are projected to grow at a strong year-on-year rate.

    The move reinforces Symmetry Group’s focus on scaling technology-enabled services and strengthening its presence in international digital markets through platform-led business models.

    The company stated that further details regarding the transaction and integration plans will be shared in due course. – ER News Desk

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  • Indus AI Summit 2026 Concludes with $1 Billion AI Pledge and Islamabad Declaration

    Indus AI Summit 2026 Concludes with $1 Billion AI Pledge and Islamabad Declaration

    PAKISTAN

    The Indus AI Summit 2026 concluded at the Jinnah Convention Center, marking a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s journey from AI policy discussions to practical implementation. Organized by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication as the centerpiece of Indus AI Week (9–15 February), the summit brought together global experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to define Pakistan’s strategic AI direction.

    Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif attended as Chief Guest alongside Federal Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja. In his address, the Prime Minister described artificial intelligence as central to national progress and announced a $1 billion government commitment to AI by 2030. The investment will fund sovereign compute infrastructure, research, and ecosystem development. He also announced 1,000 fully funded AI PhD scholarships, the introduction of AI curriculum in federal schools, and a plan to train one million non-IT professionals in AI skills.

    Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal linked AI adoption to the “Uraan Pakistan” vision, stressing academia–industry integration for export growth and jobs. Minister Shaza Fatima highlighted ongoing digital reforms, including e-office adoption and high-performance computing foundations, and emphasized international partnerships.

    A key outcome was the Islamabad Declaration, outlining eight pillars for sovereign, ethical, and accountable AI governance, focused on data trust, public value, explainability, and a private-sector-led ecosystem.

    The summit featured international voices including Dr Aisha Bin Bishr, Türkiye’s Deputy Minister Muhammet Kasım Gönüllü, and experts from Canada, China, the UAE, and global tech firms. Dialogues covered AI governance, financing, data policy, and AI-native government design.

    With the summit concluded, activities now move to public engagement events at the Islamabad Sports Complex, as Indus AI Week continues nationwide through February 15, signaling Pakistan’s intent to become a regional AI leader. – ER News Desk/PID

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  • Qaiser Sheikh resolves to transform Chiniot into Pakistan’s ‘Educational Oxford’

    Qaiser Sheikh resolves to transform Chiniot into Pakistan’s ‘Educational Oxford’

    PAKISTAN

    Federal Minister for Board of Investment (BOI), Mr. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, on Monday reiterated his firm resolve to transform Chiniot into Pakistan’s “Educational Oxford,” emphasizing that quality education remains the only sustainable path to poverty alleviation and economic development.

    Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Girls’ Hostel and Sports Complex at Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Chiniot Campus, the Federal Minister stated that he has been representing the area for the past 33 years and has consistently pursued the vision of promoting education as the foundation of national progress. He stressed that nations and societies can only achieve sustainable growth through continuous investment in education.

    Highlighting global comparisons, Mr. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh noted that Pakistan’s annual exports currently stand at approximately USD 32 billion, whereas China’s exports have reached nearly USD 5 trillion. He attributed China’s remarkable progress to sustained investment in education, which enabled the country to lift nearly 700 million people out of poverty. In contrast, he expressed concern that nearly 25 million children in Pakistan are still out of school, terming it a serious national challenge.

    The Federal Minister also criticized past economic policies, stating that indiscriminate lending to affluent segments weakened the economy and pushed the country close to default. He added that while China maintained an average growth rate of around 10 percent for 35 consecutive years, Pakistan has yet to consistently achieve a 7–8 percent growth rate, largely due to insufficient focus on education and human resource development.

    Referring to the establishment of FAST University Chiniot Campus, Mr. Sheikh recalled that the institution initially operated only in Lahore. Through persistent efforts and engagement with relevant authorities, he facilitated the establishment of its Chiniot campus by providing land free of cost. Despite initial skepticism regarding its location, the campus has now emerged as a successful educational institution. He announced that he is personally willing to bear the tuition fees of deserving Chiniot students who qualify on merit for admission to FAST University, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to education.

    Encouraging students, the Federal Minister urged them to adopt discipline, hard work, and clarity of purpose in their lives. He assured students of his continued accessibility and support, noting that he has maintained the same contact number for the past 33 years and remains available, particularly for students.

    Earlier, during a visit to a medical camp organized in the rural area of Kot Miana, Chiniot, the Federal Minister stated that free medical check-ups and medicines were being provided to patients, while critically ill individuals were being referred to hospitals free of cost. He appreciated the services of qualified and experienced doctors working to provide quality healthcare to the rural population.

    On the occasion, Vice Chancellor GCUF, Prof. Dr. Rauf Azam, stated that enhancing the quality of education and further improving the Chiniot Campus were among his top priorities. He informed that around 2,000 students are currently enrolled at the campus, more than half of whom are female. He emphasized that education goes beyond acquiring degrees and plays a vital role in personality development and nation-building. – PID/ERMD

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  • Symmetry Group Approves PKR 1.25 Billion Investment to Expand Digital and AI Footprint

    Symmetry Group Approves PKR 1.25 Billion Investment to Expand Digital and AI Footprint

    PAKISTAN

    Symmetry Group Limited has announced that its Board of Directors has approved an aggregate investment plan of up to PKR 1,250 million, aimed at strengthening the company’s position across the digital, media, and technology ecosystem.

    According to the company’s disclosure, the approved plan includes the acquisition of a US-based technology firm and a strategic investment in a local AI and data-driven digital company. The move signals Symmetry’s intent to deepen its technological capabilities while expanding its international and domestic footprint in high-growth digital segments.

    The investment will also be directed toward scaling operational capacity, enabling the company to effectively execute recently secured long-term engagements. A portion of the funds will be allocated to enhancing technology infrastructure and meeting working capital requirements, with a clear focus on improving operational efficiency and profitability.

    Industry observers view this development as a significant step for Pakistan’s digital services landscape, where companies are increasingly investing in artificial intelligence, data analytics, and integrated digital solutions to meet evolving client demands in marketing technology, digital transformation, and customer experience management.

    Symmetry Group, known for its presence in digital media, marketing technology, and data-led solutions, has in recent years positioned itself at the intersection of technology, creativity, and analytics. The latest investment plan appears to align with this trajectory by bringing in advanced international expertise while simultaneously nurturing local AI-driven capabilities.

    The acquisition of a US-based technology firm is expected to provide Symmetry access to advanced platforms, technical talent, and global market linkages. Meanwhile, the strategic investment in a domestic AI and data company reflects growing confidence in Pakistan’s emerging tech ecosystem and the potential for locally developed solutions to scale regionally and globally.

    The company stated that further details regarding the investment plan will be communicated in due course.

    Analysts suggest that such investments not only strengthen corporate growth but also contribute to Pakistan’s broader digital economy by encouraging technology transfer, capacity building, and the development of indigenous AI and data competencies. – ER News Desk

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  • Pakistani AgriTech Entrepreneur Wins Innovation Grant at Beijing’s ITEC 2025

    Pakistani AgriTech Entrepreneur Wins Innovation Grant at Beijing’s ITEC 2025

    WORLD – AgriTech

    A Pakistani technology entrepreneur has earned international recognition after winning a major innovation award at the 13th Chaoyang International Talent Entrepreneurship Conference (ITEC 2025), held in Beijing on February 7, 2026. The achievement highlights the growing role of global talent within China’s innovation-driven development framework.

    Abdul Rehman, Co-Founder of the AgriTech startup SmartSoil AI, secured a RMB 200,000 government innovation grant awarded by the Chaoyang District Government. ITEC is regarded as one of Beijing’s flagship global entrepreneurship platforms, aimed at identifying high-potential technology ventures with strong commercial applicability.

    In a conversation with China Economic Net, Abdul Rehman shared that the competition involved a rigorous multi-stage selection process. “Applications opened globally in May 2025, followed by international screening, semi-finals, and final presentations before expert panels. After a comprehensive evaluation, our project was selected for the award,” he said.

    SmartSoil AI was recognized for its integrated smart agriculture solution that combines portable IoT soil sensors, satellite remote sensing, and artificial intelligence to deliver real-time crop diagnostics and yield optimization. The technology seeks to modernize farming practices while reducing costs for farmers, particularly in developing economies.

    The startup has already built a notable presence within China’s innovation ecosystem. Prior to the ITEC award, SmartSoil AI won the Best Innovation Award at the AT Venture Builders Program and secured second place in the Youth Climate Action and Disaster Resilience Challenge jointly organized by UNESCO and Tsinghua University. The startup has also been recognized at major innovation exhibitions, including the HICOOL 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Competition.

    Khan Muhammad Wazir, Science Counsellor at the Pakistan Embassy in Beijing, observed that such achievements reflect China’s expanding openness to international innovators. He noted that by leveraging China’s strengths in AI, satellite applications, and hardware manufacturing, Pakistani startups like SmartSoil AI are well-positioned to contribute to sustainable agriculture and food security initiatives across the Global South. – APP/ERMD

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  • Ministries Agree on Joint Action to Protect Pakistan’s Maritime Heritage

    Ministries Agree on Joint Action to Protect Pakistan’s Maritime Heritage

    PAKISTAN

    Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi have agreed to strengthen inter-ministerial coordination to safeguard Pakistan’s maritime heritage, which faces increasing threats from coastal erosion, climate change, unregulated development, and illegal salvaging—particularly of underwater cultural assets.

    The understanding was reached during a meeting where both ministers reviewed ongoing initiatives and discussed a framework for collaboration to ensure maritime heritage is documented, preserved, and integrated into national development strategies.

    Junaid Chaudhry noted that Pakistan’s 1,000-kilometre coastline along the Arabian Sea has historically connected South Asia with the wider Indian Ocean world. Historic ports, shipwrecks, lighthouses, navigational routes, and traditional fishing settlements reflect a rich maritime legacy that remains under-documented and vulnerable.

    “Our maritime heritage is not only a record of our past but a strategic asset for the future,” he said, adding that its preservation could support education, tourism, and the blue economy while strengthening national identity.

    Minister Khichi emphasized the role of cultural institutions, museums, and research bodies in documenting maritime history. He said his ministry would collaborate with maritime authorities to map coastal heritage sites, support archaeological surveys, and promote public awareness.

    The ministers discussed forming a joint working group to coordinate policies, share data, and develop conservation projects. They also stressed the need for stronger legal protections, improved monitoring, and capacity-building with support from universities and international partners.

    Both agreed to translate policy discussions into practical actions to protect Pakistan’s maritime heritage for future generations. – ER News Desk

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  • Finance Minister Meets World Bank MD at AlUla Conference to Review Pakistan’s Development Cooperation

    Finance Minister Meets World Bank MD at AlUla Conference to Review Pakistan’s Development Cooperation

    PAKSTAN

    Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, held a meeting with Ms. Anna Bjerde, Managing Director of the World Bank Group, on the sidelines of the Annual AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    During the meeting, both sides followed up on the recent visit of the World Bank President to Pakistan and reviewed progress under the Country Partnership Framework (CPF). They also discussed the way forward to further strengthen development cooperation.

    The discussion covered priority sectors including energy, education, health, climate resilience, debt-for-development swaps, fiscal reforms, and infrastructure development. Emphasis was placed on adopting a more focused approach, introducing clear performance trackers, and ensuring robust implementation mechanisms to translate commitments into tangible outcomes.

    Ms. Anna Bjerde reaffirmed the World Bank Group’s strong commitment to Pakistan’s ten-year development programme worth USD 20 billion, underscoring continued support for the country’s reform and development agenda. She highlighted the importance of sustained engagement and effective execution to maximize the programme’s developmental impact.

    Senator Aurangzeb reiterated the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to close collaboration with the World Bank Group and assured full cooperation through relevant federal ministries. He also stressed the role of provincial governments in ensuring better coordination, timely execution, and delivery of measurable results.

    The AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies, launched in 2025, brings together finance ministers, central bank governors, senior policymakers, leaders of international financial institutions, and experts from around the world to deliberate on key economic challenges and opportunities facing emerging markets. – ER News Desk

  • ‘Made in Uzbekistan’ Exhibition Highlights Vast Trade, Industrial Potential Between Pakistan and Uzbekistan

    ‘Made in Uzbekistan’ Exhibition Highlights Vast Trade, Industrial Potential Between Pakistan and Uzbekistan

    PAKISTAN

    Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan inaugurated the Made in Uzbekistan Exhibition on the sidelines of the Pakistan–Uzbekistan Business Forum in Islamabad, reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve to strengthen bilateral trade, industrial cooperation, and private-sector engagement with Uzbekistan.

    The ceremony was attended by the Uzbek Minister of Trade, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, and SAPM on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan. Jam Kamal formally cut the ribbon to open the exhibition, which showcases a diverse range of Uzbek industrial and consumer products.

    Visiting various stalls, the Commerce Minister appreciated the quality and export potential of Uzbek goods, noting that such exhibitions translate strong political ties into tangible economic outcomes. He highlighted ongoing efforts to expand trade through mechanisms such as the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), Joint Business Council, and regular business forums.

    Jam Kamal said previous forums had already led to multiple MoUs and commercial understandings, expressing confidence that the current event would further enhance cooperation in textiles, leather, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, engineering, consumer goods, and logistics. He also stressed the need to develop alternative regional trade corridors to facilitate uninterrupted trade despite connectivity challenges.

    Other dignitaries emphasized opportunities in connectivity, agriculture, and industrial partnerships. The exhibition, held on February 5–6, 2026, provides a platform for Pakistani and Uzbek businesses to explore long-term commercial collaboration and market access. – ER News Desk

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