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Pakistan pursues rice export deals with Philippines, China

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Pakistan pursues rice export deals with Philippines, China

ISLAMABAD, Feb 5 (ABC): Pakistan is stepping up efforts to expand rice exports to the Philippines and China through government-level negotiations and trade facilitation measures.

Philippines MoU under negotiation

According to an official document available with Wealth Pakistan, a high-level meeting took place between the minister for commerce and the Philippine ambassador to Pakistan. Rice imports from Pakistan remained the main agenda item.

Both sides are negotiating a government-to-government memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the annual export of one million tons of rice over five years. Officials expect the agreement to significantly boost Pakistan’s rice exports to the Philippines.

Pakistan has already shared a draft MoU, while the Philippines has submitted a counterdraft. Consequently, both countries aim to finalize and sign the deal on the sidelines of the second Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting scheduled for February 19–20.

The commerce secretary told the ambassador that Pakistan wants to complete the MoU during the visit of the Trading Corporation of Pakistan team. This timeline will allow the country to participate in tendering planned for February 2026.

China market access in focus

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Commerce has engaged China at the highest diplomatic level to enhance rice exports and explore trade facilitation measures under the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA).

During a detailed meeting with the Chinese ambassador on January 19, both sides reviewed progress under Phase I and Phase II of the CPFTA. Although Pakistan’s exports to China have grown steadily, officials believe further expansion remains possible.

Additional concessions proposed

To improve market access, Pakistan submitted a list of priority export items in December 2024, including rice. The government requested additional trade preferences from China to strengthen bilateral trade, according to Wealth Pakistan.

Pending new concessions, Pakistan has proposed interim facilitation measures. These include a waiver of the existing one percent import duty on Pakistani rice and the introduction of a special import quota similar to the 2019–2020 arrangement.

In addition, Pakistan has encouraged Chinese state-owned enterprises, particularly China Oil and Foodstuffs Corporation, to enter long-term procurement agreements with Pakistani suppliers. Officials say these partnerships will strengthen supply chains and help reduce the bilateral trade imbalance.

Overall, the initiatives aim to expand rice exports, secure stable demand, and open new opportunities for Pakistan’s agriculture sector.

CDA to procure five modern vehicle testing units

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CDA to procure five modern vehicle testing units

ISLAMABAD, Feb 05 (ABC): The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has approved funds to procure five modern vehicle testing units to strengthen vehicle inspections across the federal capital, according to a document available with Wealth Pakistan.

Inspection capacity to increase

The decision forms part of a broader plan to improve the efficiency and reliability of vehicle inspections. As the number of vehicles continues to rise, existing testing units face growing pressure to meet demand. Consequently, inspection delays have increased in recent years.

The five new vehicle testing units will expand CDA’s inspection capacity. They will help the authority conduct timely and thorough vehicle checks. As a result, more vehicles will meet required safety and environmental standards.

Modern technology to speed up checks

The new units feature advanced testing technology. They will reduce inspection time and improve accuracy. Moreover, the updated system will ensure compliance with the latest safety protocols.

Officials expect the faster process to provide greater convenience to the public. At the same time, improved testing will support environmental sustainability by enforcing emission standards more effectively.

Better services for vehicle owners

In addition, the CDA aims to streamline services and cut waiting times for vehicle owners. Many citizens previously faced long queues due to limited facilities. With the new testing units, inspections will become quicker, more efficient, and more user-friendly.

According to Wealth Pakistan, the units will also strengthen enforcement of road safety rules. They will help ensure that vehicles comply with emission limits and fitness standards.

Procurement to complete this fiscal year

The procurement of the five vehicle testing units is expected to finish by the end of the current fiscal year. The CDA said the move reflects its continued commitment to modernizing public services.

Overall, the new facilities will support safer roads and a cleaner urban environment while bringing vehicle inspections in line with international standards.

Late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV: A Life of Faith, Service and Human Development

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Late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV: A Life of Faith, Service and Human Development

By Farooq Awan

His Late Highness Prince Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV will be remembered with deep respect for a lifetime devoted to service, compassion and human development. He dedicated more than six decades to improving lives. He guided his community with care and worked for the welfare of vulnerable people across the developing world.

For 67 years, he served as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. At the same time, he acted as a humanitarian and development leader. He linked faith with action and values with institutions. As a result, millions gained access to education, healthcare, electricity and economic opportunity. His passing on 4 February 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88, marked the end of an extraordinary era of service.

At the heart of his work was a clear commitment. He sought to interpret the faith for the Ismaili Muslim community. He also aimed to improve the quality of life of the people among whom they lived. Guided by the ethical principles of Islam, he built institutions that served humanity without discrimination of faith, race, ethnicity or gender. This approach shaped both his spiritual leadership and his development philosophy.

Early life and education

Prince Karim Aga Khan IV was born on 13 December 1936 in Geneva. He was the eldest son of Prince Aly Khan and Princess Tajuddawlah, née Joan Yarde-Buller. He spent his early childhood in Nairobi, Kenya. Later, he studied at the Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland. He graduated from Harvard University in 1959 with a Bachelor of Arts degree with honours in Islamic history. This education prepared him for the responsibilities he would soon assume.

Becoming the Imam

On 11 July 1957, at the age of 20, he succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III. He became the 49th hereditary Imam and spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim community. He then led the community for the next 67 years, a period marked by major global and social change.

In the same year, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II granted him the title “His Highness,” following the tradition established for earlier Aga Khans. The hereditary title “Aga Khan,” meaning “Commanding Chief,” dates back to the 19th century Persian monarch Fath Ali Shah.

As Imam, he guided his community in both spiritual and material matters. He believed these two aspects of life were connected and complementary. The Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, commonly known as Ismailis, belong to the Shia branch of Islam. They number about 12 to 15 million people and live in more than 35 countries. Under his leadership, they embraced pluralism, built bridges of peace and contributed to the societies in which they lived.

Aga Khan Development Network

One of his most significant achievements was the establishment of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Guided by Islamic ethical principles, he created this network to improve living conditions and opportunities in some of the poorest and most vulnerable regions of the developing world.

The AKDN is a group of private, international and non-denominational agencies. Today, it employs approximately 96,000 people and operates in 30 countries. Its work covers education, healthcare, rural development and culture in the not-for-profit sector. It also works in financial services, infrastructure, telecommunications, industry and tourism.

The Network’s impact is wide and measurable. Each year, it generates electricity for 10 million people. It provides healthcare to 5 million people. It educates 2 million students. In addition, it hosts 5 million visitors at its parks and gardens.

The AKDN includes two universities, more than 200 schools and over 700 health facilities. These institutions show his belief that lasting progress requires strong systems and long-term partnerships with governments and communities.

Commitment to education and culture

Education remained one of his highest priorities. In 1983, he established the Aga Khan University as Pakistan’s first private, internationally chartered university. The university houses leading faculties in medicine, nursing and education. He later founded the University of Central Asia in partnership with regional governments to support social and economic development, especially in high mountain societies. Through these initiatives, he expanded access to quality education and professional training.

He also valued culture and heritage. Through the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, he established the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, dedicated to Muslim civilisations. He founded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, which distributes prizes totalling US$1 million every three years. The award recognises excellence in architecture, planning, preservation and landscape design. These efforts reflected his view that culture and heritage are essential to human dignity.

Personal interests and recognition

Beyond his institutional work, he maintained several personal interests. He was an accomplished competitive skier and represented Iran in the 1964 Winter Olympics. Continuing a family tradition, he became the owner and operator of one of the world’s most successful horse racing and breeding operations. He also pursued a lifelong passion for yachting and helped found the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, which promotes ocean conservation and marine preservation.

Because of his contributions to human development, he received numerous decorations, honorary degrees and awards from institutions and nations around the world. In 2018, at the invitation of the Government of Portugal, he established the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon as the global headquarters of the Imamat.

A lasting legacy

His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s life stands as a clear example of faith in action. He combined spiritual guidance with practical development work. He built institutions that continue to serve millions of people. His legacy of service, compassion and human development will endure for generations to come.

Xi offers Russia to work together for global strategic stability

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Xi offers Russia to work together for global strategic stability

BEIJING, Feb 4 (ABC): Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called for deeper China-Russia ties and closer strategic coordination with Moscow, saying both countries should expand high-level exchanges, strengthen practical cooperation and jointly work to maintain global strategic stability amid growing international uncertainty.

Xi made the remarks during a virtual meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the state-run Xinhua news agency.

At the start of the talks, Xi extended New Year greetings to Putin and the Russian people. He noted that the meeting coincided with the Beginning of Spring on the Chinese lunar calendar, which symbolises renewal and fresh opportunities.

On the auspicious occasion, Xi said he is ready to work with Putin to chart a new blueprint for China-Russia ties in the year ahead.

Putin, in response, wished Xi and the Chinese people a happy Spring Festival and success in all endeavours.

High-level exchanges and cooperation

Xi said both countries should increase high-level contacts and deepen pragmatic cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, economy, education and cultural exchanges.

He recalled that the two leaders held two meetings last year that pushed China-Russia ties into a new phase of development.

According to Xi, both sides sustained strong economic and trade exchanges. They also expanded people-to-people cooperation and worked together to promote a fairer and more equitable global governance system.

As a result, he said bilateral relations continued to grow steadily despite global challenges.

New opportunities for development

Xi highlighted several milestones this year that could further strengthen China-Russia ties.

China will begin its 15th Five-Year Plan period. During this phase, Xi said Beijing will pursue higher-level opening up and share new development opportunities with partners, including Russia.

He added that this year also marks the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination and the 25th anniversary of the Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation.

In addition, both sides will launch the China-Russia Years of Education to promote closer academic and cultural links.

Given these developments, Xi urged both countries to ensure that relations continue along the right path through deeper strategic coordination and stronger cooperation.

Focus on global strategic stability

Xi stressed that maintaining global strategic stability has become increasingly important.

He said the international situation has grown more turbulent since the start of the year. Therefore, China and Russia must work together to safeguard peace and stability.

As permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, both countries have special responsibilities, he added.

They should encourage the international community to uphold fairness and justice, defend the outcomes of World War II and protect the UN-centred international system and international law.

Xi said closer China-Russia ties would contribute positively to global stability and development.

Putin backs stronger partnership

Putin expressed full confidence in Russia-China ties and said the partnership remains strong and resilient.

He said both countries should continue supporting each other in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests.

Putin also called for stronger education and cultural exchanges to benefit the people of both nations.

Facing a complex and fast-changing global environment, he said Russia is willing to deepen strategic coordination with China on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS.

He added that Moscow will actively support China’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

Outlook

The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Analysts say the renewed push for deeper China-Russia ties reflects efforts by both countries to enhance economic cooperation, strengthen diplomatic coordination and play a larger role in shaping global governance.

As geopolitical tensions persist worldwide, Beijing and Moscow signalled that closer coordination could help promote stability and balanced development in international affairs.

Xi says ready to work with Trump to steer China-US ties forward

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Xi says ready to work with Trump to steer China-US ties forward

BEIJING, Feb 4 (ABC): Chinese President Xi Jinping said he is ready to work closely with U.S. President Donald Trump to steer China-US ties forward in the new year, stressing the need for dialogue, mutual respect and practical cooperation between the world’s two largest economies.

During a phone conversation with Trump, Xi described China-US ties as one of the most important bilateral relationships globally. He said stable relations benefit not only both countries but also the wider international community.

According to the state-run Xinhua news agency, Xi said he attaches great importance to China-US ties and values continued communication with the U.S. leadership.

Dialogue and cooperation stressed

Xi noted that over the past year both leaders maintained sound communication. He also recalled their successful meeting in Busan, which he said helped chart the direction for future China-US ties.

He added that people in both countries, as well as the global community, welcomed efforts to stabilise relations.

At the same time, Xi acknowledged that both sides have concerns.

“Just as the United States has its concerns, China for its part also has concerns,” he said.

However, he stressed that China always matches words with actions. Therefore, he said both sides can resolve differences if they work together in the spirit of equality, respect and mutual benefit.

Key events for both countries

Xi highlighted important national milestones this year.

China will begin its 15th Five-Year Plan. Meanwhile, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of its independence.

In addition, China will host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, while the United States will host the G20 Summit.

Given these events, Xi said both countries should enhance dialogue and communication. He urged both sides to properly manage differences and expand practical cooperation in trade, economy and global affairs.

“It is always right to do a good thing, however small,” Xi said. “And it is always wrong to do a bad thing, however small.”

He added that step-by-step progress can help build mutual trust and create a stable path for China-US ties.

Xi expressed hope that 2026 would become a year of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.

Taiwan remains sensitive issue

Xi emphasised that the Taiwan question remains the most important and sensitive issue in China-US ties.

He said Taiwan is China’s territory and that Beijing must safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He added that China would never allow Taiwan to separate.

Xi also urged the United States to handle arms sales to Taiwan with prudence.

Trump signals positive outlook

For his part, Trump described China and the United States as great countries and said the bilateral relationship is the most important in the world.

He said he maintains a good relationship with Xi and respects him.

Trump added that under their leadership both countries were performing well in areas such as economy and trade.

He also said he wants China to succeed and expressed willingness to deepen cooperation.

The U.S. president said Washington would like to work with Beijing to make further progress in China-US ties. He added that he understands China’s position on the Taiwan issue.

Trump concluded by saying both sides should continue dialogue and maintain stable China-US ties during his presidency.

Outlook

Analysts say sustained communication between the two leaders could help reduce tensions and create opportunities for cooperation in trade, technology and global governance.

As both nations prepare for major domestic and international events this year, Xi and Trump signalled that steady engagement remains key to steering China-US ties forward.

Pakistan’s olive oil industry banks on China for growth

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Pakistan’s olive oil industry banks on China for growth

ISLAMABAD, Feb 02 (ABC): Pakistan’s olive oil industry is stepping up efforts to attract Chinese investment as entrepreneurs pitch large joint ventures to boost production, create jobs and open new export routes to China’s vast food market.

Local producers say cooperation with Chinese firms can help scale up farming, processing and exports. They believe the partnership can turn olive oil into a high-value agribusiness sector.

Large-scale estates planned with Chinese partners

Shaukat Rasool, founder of the internationally award-winning brand Loralai Olives, said his company is in advanced talks with Chinese firms to sign memoranda of understanding.

He said the discussions gained momentum after the recent Pak-China Agri Investment Conference.

“We are proposing three corporate olive estates spread over 3,000 acres, with a total investment of about $20 million,” Rasool told Wealth Pakistan.

He added that the projects could create more than 3,000 direct jobs. Within six to seven years, they may generate olive oil worth $18–20 million annually.

China seen as natural export destination

According to Rasool, China offers a strong market for Pakistan’s olive oil exports. The country imports more than $300 million worth of olive oil each year. At the same time, its middle class is becoming more health-conscious.

“Olive oil is medicine for a healthy life,” he said. “China is the most populous country in the world, and people are increasingly aware of healthy food choices. Pakistan can meet this demand.”

He noted that Pakistan also offers Chinese investors lower land costs and improving logistics under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

“This is an ideal and win-win opportunity for Chinese companies,” he added.

Existing supply chain links with China

Rasool said Loralai Olives already works closely with Chinese suppliers. The company sources its packaging and bottling materials from China.

Future cooperation may include extraction machinery, bottling plants and harvesting equipment. This, he said, will improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Global recognition boosts credibility

Pakistan’s olive oil industry has started gaining international recognition. Last year, Loralai Olives won a silver award at the New York International Olive Oil Competition (NYIOOC).

The contest featured more than 1,200 brands from traditional olive-producing countries.

The NYIOOC is widely regarded as the world’s largest olive oil competition. Judges evaluate quality, flavour and aroma. Rasool said the company plans to compete again this year.

Domestic demand rising

Although exports remain limited and mainly target Gulf markets, domestic demand is increasing.

Pakistan imports more than $12 million worth of olive oil annually. However, consumers are gradually shifting toward locally produced brands due to better quality and growing awareness of health benefits.

Industry activity is also expanding. Rasool said more than 80 olive-related startups now operate across farming, processing and marketing.

Wide cultivation potential across Pakistan

Experts say olives can grow in many parts of Pakistan. Suitable regions include Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Sindh. Arid areas such as Cholistan and southern Punjab also show strong potential.

“Olive is a complete value chain,” Rasool said. “It is not just oil. We can produce tea, cosmetics, medicines and many other value-added products.”

New pillar of Pakistan-China cooperation

Rasool recalled that imported brands once dominated the local market. However, international awards helped change perceptions.

“When we started, few people trusted local olive oil,” he said. “Global recognition built confidence and pride among consumers.”

With Chinese investors now showing interest, stakeholders expect the Pakistan olive oil industry to enter a new growth phase. Analysts say stronger cooperation with China could make olive oil exports a fresh pillar of Pakistan-China economic ties, linking agriculture, health and trade.

Pakistan’s mobile phone industry braces for 5G rollout by mid-year

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Pakistan’s mobile phone industry braces for 5G rollout by mid-year

LAHORE, Feb 3 (ABC): Pakistan’s mobile phone industry is preparing for the launch of next-generation 5G services by the middle of the year, as manufacturers upgrade hardware, software and production plans to meet rising demand.

Local manufacturing gains momentum

Over the past few years, the mobile phone industry in Pakistan has emerged as one of South Asia’s key manufacturing success stories. More than 30 local assembly units now produce nearly 30 million handsets every year.

“Local assembly and manufacturing capabilities have strengthened significantly, and producers of leading brands have already aligned their roadmaps with next-generation technologies,” Zeeshan Mianoor, Chief Executive Officer of Inovi Telecom, told Wealth Pakistan.

Ecosystem must move together

He said 5G readiness requires coordination across the entire ecosystem. Although handset makers appear prepared, the country still needs timely spectrum allocation, a phased network rollout and affordable pricing.

“When these elements move in tandem, Pakistan can fully capitalise on 5G, especially in the mobile phone sector,” he said.

Moreover, many smartphones currently assembled or sold in Pakistan already support key 5G frequency bands expected to operate locally. However, most of these devices fall into the mid- to high-price segment, starting at around Rs75,000.

Adoption to grow gradually

Zeeshan expects demand for 5G phones to grow steadily rather than surge overnight. Early users in large urban centres such as Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad will likely adopt first, as operators plan to introduce coverage there initially.

Later, adoption should expand once consumers experience faster speeds and lower latency. At the same time, cheaper devices and easier financing options will encourage mass uptake. He noted that Pakistan’s young and digital-first population provides strong long-term growth potential.

Hardware upgrades essential

He clarified that 5G cannot run on software updates alone. Instead, manufacturers must install specialised hardware, including 5G-capable chipsets, antennas and radio frequency components.

Therefore, companies will introduce new or upgraded 5G models while continuing to supply 4G devices for price-sensitive buyers.

“This dual strategy ensures inclusion and consumer choice during the transition period,” he said, adding that production volumes will match network rollout timelines and market demand.

Policy clarity remains critical

Zeeshan stressed that widespread 5G adoption depends not only on handset availability but also on regulatory clarity, spectrum readiness and well-defined rollout frameworks. Strong coordination among these areas, he added, will ensure smooth adoption and long-term sustainability.

He also said local production of 5G-capable devices could boost Pakistan’s competitiveness in regional and emerging markets.

“With consistent quality standards, certifications and cost competitiveness, 5G manufacturing can strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global supply chain over time,” he said.

Manufacturers expect gradual gains

However, industry leaders expect benefits to appear in phases. Mian Abdul Rehman, Chairman of the Pakistan Mobile Phone Manufacturers Association, told Wealth Pakistan that only 20 to 30 percent of manufacturers may initially benefit from the new technology.

He added that 5G-compatible handsets could account for about 20 percent of total sales in the early stage, with the share rising gradually.

Prices will also remain higher at first. According to him, 5G phones may cost Rs5,000 to Rs15,000 more than current models. In some cases, the difference could reach Rs20,000 to Rs30,000.

Three more model cattle markets to improve livestock trade in Punjab

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Three more model cattle markets to improve livestock trade in Punjab

LAHORE, Feb 3 (ABC): The Punjab government is setting up three more model cattle markets in the province to help livestock breeders secure fair prices for the animals they raise.

New markets in three districts

Punjab Cattle Markets Management and Development Company (PCMMDC) Chief Executive Officer Bilal Hashim said new model cattle markets are under development in Bhakkar, Mohammadpur, and Chowk Azam.

Talking to Wealth Pakistan, he said these additions will increase the total number of model cattle markets to five. Two modern facilities already operate in Lahore and Jhang. Once completed, the new markets will serve thousands of farmers, particularly those living in remote areas.

Modern facilities for farmers and traders

Hashim said the company is building these markets according to international standards. Workers are installing tensile sheds to protect cattle from the intense summer heat of the Punjab plains.

In Lahore, the Shahpur Kanjran cattle market now has a waterbed tank with a storage capacity of 50,000 gallons. The facility, considered Pakistan’s largest state-of-the-art cattle market, can accommodate up to 25,000 large animals and 150,000 small animals at a time.

Moreover, authorities are constructing security walls at all cattle markets across the province. They are also installing CCTV cameras at every model cattle market to ensure safety.

“We want livestock farmers to trade in a comfortable and secure environment,” Hashim said.

Better trading infrastructure

To improve trading, officials have built auction rings at the Lahore and Jhang markets. These rings allow traders to display animals more effectively and help buyers make informed decisions.

In addition, the markets now offer washrooms, spacious parking areas, loading and unloading bays, veterinary clinics, and banking services. These facilities aim to make livestock trading easier and more organized.

Digital platform launched

Hashim said PCMMDC established the company about a decade ago to regulate and modernize cattle markets across Punjab. Currently, it operates 113 cattle markets in all 41 districts.

Furthermore, the company has launched an e-cattle market application. The app allows buyers and sellers to trade animals from home. It proved particularly useful during the last Eidul Azha, the peak season for livestock sales.

Small farmers to benefit most

According to the National Agriculture Census 2024, Pakistan’s livestock population stands at 251.3 million. Punjab holds the largest share, with 104.2 million animals.

Prof Irshad Muhammad Khan, former dean at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, said nearly 70 percent of livestock belongs to small farmers who own only two or three animals.

“They deserve better prices for animals they raise for months and even years,” he told Wealth Pakistan.

He explained that modern cattle markets equipped with proper facilities can help farmers sell animals quickly, especially when they urgently need money.

Need for improved marketing systems

While medium and corporate farms face fewer marketing issues, small livestock farmers often struggle to secure fair rates. Therefore, Prof Khan urged the government to introduce stronger marketing mechanisms to protect these farmers.

“The government must support small farmers so they do not wait long to receive fair prices,” he said.

Pakistan to play T20 World Cup 2026 but boycott India match

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Pakistan to play T20 World Cup 2026 but boycott India match

ISLAMABAD, Feb 1 (ABC): Pakistan has decided to participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 but will boycott its scheduled group-stage match against India, citing concerns over the International Cricket Council’s handling of Bangladesh’s exclusion from the tournament, official sources said on Sunday.

The decision was taken following a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi amid rising regional tensions in South Asian cricket.

In a post on X, the government said it had approved Pakistan’s participation in the tournament but barred the team from taking the field in the match scheduled for February 15, 2026, against India.

Solidarity with Bangladesh cited as key reason

Government sources said the decision was intended as a gesture of solidarity with Bangladesh following what Pakistan views as unfair treatment of the Bangladesh Cricket Board by the ICC.

According to the sources, Pakistan’s protest targets the ICC’s refusal to relocate Bangladesh’s matches outside India despite security and political concerns raised by Dhaka. They said the Pakistan team was instructed not to play against India as a form of symbolic protest rather than a withdrawal from the tournament.

Officials also alleged that recent decisions by the ICC leadership had undermined the principles of neutrality and equal treatment among member boards.

Allegations of ICC bias

Sources accused ICC chairman Jay Shah of adopting decisions that favoured the Indian cricket board, claiming this had weakened confidence in the governing body’s impartiality.

They said such actions had effectively created different standards for different countries, particularly in the treatment of smaller cricketing nations.

PCB and captain support government stance

Pakistan T20 captain Salman Ali Agha backed the government’s decision, saying the team would follow instructions issued by the cricket board.

“We are going to the World Cup, and we will do whatever our cricket board instructs us to do,” he said during a post-match press conference in Lahore after Pakistan completed a T20I series sweep against Australia.

He added that the decision not to play India was taken at the government level.

Bangladesh replaced by Scotland

The controversy emerged after the ICC rejected a request from the Bangladesh Cricket Board to move its matches to a neutral venue outside India.

Bangladesh had raised concerns following the removal of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League on the instructions of the Indian cricket board, a move that triggered strong reaction in Dhaka.

Last week, the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland, saying it was not feasible to revise the tournament schedule so close to the February 7 start of the World Cup.

Matches to be played at neutral venue

Under an existing arrangement between Pakistan and India, both teams play ICC fixtures at neutral venues due to bilateral tensions.

As part of this arrangement, Pakistan’s matches in the 2026 T20 World Cup will be held in Sri Lanka, even though the tournament is co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Pakistan have been drawn in the same group as defending champions India but will not face them on February 15 as originally scheduled.

ICC response awaited

The decision has raised questions over possible financial and legal implications, including potential revenue losses for broadcasters if the high-profile match does not take place.

The ICC has not yet issued an official response to Pakistan’s announcement.

The Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to begin on February 7, with regional tensions adding a new layer of uncertainty to the tournament’s proceedings.

Digital livestock monitoring to strengthen disease control in Punjab

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Digital livestock monitoring to strengthen disease control in Punjab

ISLAMABAD, Jan 30 (ABC): Punjab’s newly launched digital livestock monitoring system is expected to improve disease control and animal healthcare by enabling real-time tracking of veterinary services, officials and experts say.

The Punjab government approved the initiative to modernise livestock management across the province. The Punjab Information Technology Board developed the digital platform.

Real-time monitoring of veterinary services

The system brings all services of the Livestock and Dairy Development Department into one digital framework. It connects field operations with the “Livestock Connect” platform.

As a result, authorities can monitor mobile veterinary units, staff attendance and service delivery in real time. This monitoring also improves transparency and accountability.

Vice-Chancellor of Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Prof Mazhar Ayaz said the system would ensure timely vaccination and treatment for farmers.

“Farmers can now access vaccines and treatment in real time,” he told Wealth Pakistan. “They will also receive guidance on seasonal and animal health issues.”

Moreover, the system allows farmers to report missed vaccinations or staff absenteeism. This feature strengthens oversight at the field level.

Focus on border districts and disease prevention

Prof Mazhar said the system would closely monitor border districts, including Attock, Dera Ghazi Khan, Koh-e-Suleman, Bhakkar and Rahim Yar Khan.

These areas face a higher risk of trans-boundary animal diseases. Therefore, digital surveillance will help authorities respond faster.

He identified Lumpy Skin Disease, Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Peste des Petits Ruminants as major threats. Peste des Petits Ruminants mainly affects sheep and goats.

“Most of these diseases enter through border areas,” he said. “With digital surveillance, control will improve significantly.”

Support for field staff and farmers

Meanwhile, the provincial cabinet has approved a fixed monthly travel allowance of Rs4,000 for veterinary assistants and artificial insemination technicians.

Prof Mazhar described the decision as a long-pending reform. He said the allowance would cover fuel and maintenance costs.

As a result, field staff will improve mobility and focus better on service delivery.

Livestock sector shows steady growth

These measures come as Pakistan’s livestock sector continues to show steady growth. Official data show the sector grew by 4.72 percent in FY25.

According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, livestock growth stood at 2.80 percent in FY20. It rose to 2.38 percent in FY21 and 2.25 percent in FY22.

Growth then accelerated to 3.70 percent in FY23 and 4.38 percent in FY24. It further improved in FY25.

Prof Mazhar linked this progress to rising demand for milk and meat. He also cited better farm management and improved animal health services.

He added that small farmers play a key role in this growth. For them, livestock remains a vital source of income and security.

Need for targeted investment

However, Prof Mazhar said sustained growth requires further investment. He called for stronger focus on feed development, disease control and value-added processing.

In addition, better market linkages can boost rural employment and food security. Such steps can also support national economic goals, he added.

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