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Pakistan, Germany reaffirm to strengthen bilateral ties

ISLAMABAD: In the wake of strengthening Pakistan-Germany relations and bilateral cooperation between both nations, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar had a telephonic conversation with German Foreign Minister Dr. Johann Wadephul on Wednesday night, ARY News reported.

The discussion aimed to reaffirm both nations’ commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across different sectors of mutual interest.

During the telephonic discussion, both leaders stressed the importance of unwavering mutual support and strategies to foster Pakistan-Germany relations. Additionally, methods to improve economic, diplomatic, and regional collaboration were also discussed, with a mutual focus on enhancing stability and development.

In the conversation on regional developments, both leaders also showed interest in maintaining open channels for geopolitical discussion.

This move is part of Pakistan’s efforts to foster bilateral cooperation with other countries, following recent talks with Egypt, Algeria, and other members of the OIC.

This renewed effort shows that Islamabad wants to build stronger relationships with countries around the world, especially in Europe, by using friendly talks and working together.

Read More: PM Shehbaz signs deal for Pakistanis to work in Belarus

Earlier in Islamabad, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during a meeting with Belarusian Interior Minister in Islamabad to facilitate skilled Pakistani individuals to work in Belarus.

This agreement will open new employment opportunities for Pakistani professionals and extend people-to-people ties.

The MoU signing followed a welcome ceremony by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, presented to a Belarus high-level delegation led by their Interior Minister, Aleksandr Lukashenko, during their recent visit to Pakistan.

Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that Pakistan and Belarus are improving their relationship by the passage of time, supported by mutual respect and growing cooperation

Both sides expressed a mutual desire to work together in different sectors, such as trade, technology, education, and internal security.

The meeting reflects a broader strategic intent not only to strengthen Pakistan-Belarus relations but also to transform diplomatic goodwill into actionable partnerships.

August 29, 2025
NADRA succession certificate: Major facility announced for seekers

ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced the expansion of the facility for obtaining Succession Certificates.

“The facility for obtaining a Succession Certificate is now available at all NADRA centers nationwide,” the regulatory authority said in a post on its official social media account.

NADRA- CNIC, NICOP, FRC Information Portal

It added that citizens can now visit any NADRA center across the country to submit their application with ease.

Previously limited to selected centers, this service has now been expanded nationwide, allowing citizens to submit their applications for succession certificates at any NADRA office without restriction.

For more information, citizens can visit NADRA’s official website or contact their nearest center.

These units are available across Islamabad, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan—regardless of where the inherited property is located.

The biometric verification process has also been upgraded for greater convenience. Legal heirs can now verify their identity at the nearest NADRA center or remotely via the Pak ID Mobile App.

Read More: NADRA Family Registration Certificate fee update – August 2025

Previously, applicants were required to apply for a certificate in the province where the inherited property was located. This restriction caused difficulties for heirs residing in other provinces.

While NADRA had introduced biometric verification through the mobile app earlier, application submission still had to be done in the relevant province—posing difficulties for heirs living elsewhere.

With the latest update, this restriction has been removed, allowing citizens to initiate and complete the entire process from any part of the country.

A NADRA spokesperson confirmed that official notifications have been issued to all centers equipped with SFUs, enabling citizens to access the service at their convenience.

August 28, 2025
Karachi rain alert: NDMA warns of heavy rainfall from August 30

KARACHI: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has recently released a rain alert, indicating that Karachi may have heavy rainfall in the upcoming monsoon spell, starting from August 30 and will last until September 02, ARY News reported.

In the recent Karachi rain alert, NDMA has indicated that the other cities will also be affected by the rainfall, including Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Sujawal, Tharparkar, Sukkar, Ghotki, Larkana, Jacobabad, Kashmor, and Dadu. Other nearby areas may also have rain.

According to NDMA, the upcoming rain can cause urban flooding in the city.

Previously, the Meteorological Department had issued a prediction that it was not going to rain in Karachi for next coming days; however, the city may have light drizzling only during the day and night.

It is worth noting that during heavy rain in Karachi last week, the city was turned into a river. In many areas, boats had to be sent to rescue affected residents.

Due to electricity and other rain-related incidents, the lives of 15 people were claimed, while a partial flood snatched the livelihood of many people.

With over 200 millimetres of rainfall recorded, the city’s structure was badly disrupted, and roads are badly ruined now. It has been more than a week now since it rained in Karachi, and the rainwater mixed with sewage is present in the damaged areas of roads.

Even days after the rain stopped, citizens have been facing prolonged power outages.

The Karachi rain alert is released to aware citizens to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary activities that could cause any unforeseen situation.

Read More: President Zardari urges support for flood-hit victims

Earlier, President Asif Ali Zardari had expressed profound sorrow over the flood destruction during the intense monsoon weather across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit Baltistan.

President Asif Zardari, in his official statement, extended deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and assured all affected people that the government is with them during this hard time and will assist them by all means.

August 28, 2025
Call of Duty: World War II returns to PC Game Pass

Activision has announced bringing back Call of Duty: World War II to the Microsoft Store and Xbox PC App.

In a statement, the developer announced that the 2017 title was available for PC Game Pass players, more than a month after it was taken down.

Call of Duty: World War II was delisted from PC Game Pass and Microsoft Store on July 4 after hackers accessed players’ PCs and install malware.

While Activision did not explicitly mention the hacking activity behind the decision, it did say that the game was pulled to investigate “an issue.”

The developer had delisted the Call of Duty: WWII from the PC Game Pass, however the Xbox version remains active since its launch in June.

Not much is known about the issue and its fix as Activision usually avoids talking about security issues in its games, saying that disclosing such information would only help bad actors create new workarounds and exploits.

Read more: Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 gameplay footage, release date revealed

Call of Duty: WWII from developer Sledgehammer Games was launched on November 3 on PC, Xbox One, and PS4.

The game takes take place between 1944 and 1945, and engages players in combat across many of the most iconic locations of World War II.

Gamers play as Ronald “Red” Daniels, with supporting squadmates including soldiers voiced by Josh Duhamel, Jeffrey Pierce, Jonathan Tucker, and Brett Zimmerman.

The next entry in the franchise is Black Ops 7, which is set in 2035, over 40 years after the events of its predecessor, and will feature a star-studded cast.

August 28, 2025
Blood moon eclipse to light up skies over Pakistan on THIS day

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said that the country will witness its first blood moon eclipse of the year during the night between September 7 and 8.

According to a statement issued by the PMD, the rare celestial event occurs during a total lunar eclipse, during which the moon appears red due to the Earth’s shadow, hence the name “Blood Moon.”

The lunar eclipse will begin on September 7 at 8:28 PM with the penumbral phase, followed by the partial eclipse starting at 9:27 PM. The eclipse will reach its peak at 11:12 PM and the partial phase will end at 12:57 AM on September 8. The eclipse will completely conclude at 1:55 AM, making the total duration approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes.

A part from Pakistan, the Blood Moon will be visible across much of the world, including Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia, and the Pacific region. Countries such as India, Bangladesh, China, Japan, and Saudi Arabia are also expected to experience the full view of this astronomical event. Observers in parts of western North America and eastern South America will also be able to witness the eclipse.

August 28, 2025
Mega Hawlucha Revealed in Pokémon Legends: Z-A Gameplay Trailer

Pokémon Legends: Z-A, set to release on October 16, 2025, introduced Mega Hawlucha, the 51st Mega Evolution, alongside other exciting additions like Mega Dragonite and Mega Victreebel. This Kalos-native Pokémon’s dramatic transformation has sparked massive buzz among fans, showcasing its enhanced design and battle prowess. Here’s everything we know about Mega Hawlucha in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Lifestyle News from ARY News

A recent gameplay trailer for Pokémon Legends: Z-A unveiled Mega Hawlucha, highlighting its dynamic transformation into a powerhouse of the Kalos region. The Wrestling Pokémon’s new form features a bold black-and-gold mask, a robust collar, and flowing cape-like feathers, amplifying its luchador and superhero aesthetic. Fans on X and other platforms are buzzing with excitement over Mega Hawlucha’s striking design and enhanced capabilities.

Mega Hawlucha’s revamped appearance emphasizes its Fighting/Flying-type roots, with a physique built to absorb powerful attacks. In the trailer, Mega Hawlucha faces off against Machamp, showcasing its resilience and signature move, Flying Press. This move allows Mega Hawlucha to lure opponents into striking before countering with devastating precision, making it a formidable contender in battles.

The introduction of Mega Hawlucha marks the third confirmed Mega Evolution for Pokémon Legends: Z-A, following Mega Dragonite and Mega Victreebel. This reveal underscores the game’s focus on reviving the Mega Evolution mechanic, a fan-favorite feature from the Pokémon series. By spotlighting Kalos-native Pokémon like Mega Hawlucha, the game strengthens its connection to the Kalos region, hinting at potential new Mega Evolutions for other regional Pokémon.

The emphasis on Mega Hawlucha and Mega Evolutions suggests Pokémon Legends: Z-A will deliver a fresh and strategic battle experience. Set to launch on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, the game promises to captivate fans with its innovative approach to Pokémon battles and lore.

The reveal of Mega Hawlucha has ignited speculation about additional Kalos Pokémon receiving Mega Evolutions. With the game’s release date approaching, fans are eager for more updates on Mega Hawlucha’s abilities and other surprises in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Stay tuned for more news as the October 16, 2025, launch draws closer.

August 28, 2025
UAE Dirham to Pakistani Rupee Rate Today- August 28, 2025

Dubai, August 28, 2025 – The UAE Dirham (AED) has edged down to 76.74 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today, a slight decline of 0.01 PKR from yesterday’s rate of 76.75 PKR, as verified by trusted financial sources tracking interbank and open market rates.

AED to PKR- Latest Rates

This minor dip follows a robust June, when the AED gained 0.81 PKR, climbing from 76.44 PKR at the month’s start to 77.25 PKR by its close, peaking at 77.6111 PKR on July 1, 2025. Despite this small drop, the Dirham’s resilience underscores the United Arab Emirates’ innovative economic strategies and its pivotal role as a global financial powerhouse. This movement in the AED-PKR exchange rate carries significant implications for trade, remittances, and economic strategies between the UAE and Pakistan in 2025.

The UAE Dirham, established as the UAE’s official currency in 1973, is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of 3.6725 AED to 1 USD, managed by the Central Bank of the UAE. This fixed peg ensures the AED’s reliability, making it a trusted currency for global commerce and investment across the UAE’s seven emirates, from Dubai’s vibrant markets to Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks. In contrast, the Pakistani Rupee, Pakistan’s currency since 1948, operates as a floating currency under the State Bank of Pakistan’s oversight, making it susceptible to fluctuations driven by domestic economic conditions, global market trends, and geopolitical events, which often challenge Pakistan’s financial stability.

Today’s AED-PKR exchange rate of 76.74 PKR reinforces the economic bond between the UAE and Pakistan, presenting both opportunities and challenges. For the millions of Pakistani expatriates working in the UAE, the still-robust Dirham continues to enhance remittance values, which reached $717.2 million in June 2025, per State Bank of Pakistan data, cementing the UAE as Pakistan’s second-largest remittance source after Saudi Arabia. These funds are a lifeline, supporting essentials like education and healthcare while driving economic activity in regions such as Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, the elevated exchange rate sustains high import costs for UAE goods, from luxury electronics to everyday commodities like food and clothing, putting pressure on Pakistani businesses and consumers facing inflation. The AED’s tie to the US Dollar may further strain Pakistan’s trade deficit and increase costs for servicing debts in USD or AED. Economists recommend Pakistan focus on boosting export growth, diversifying trade partnerships, and implementing policies to stabilize the PKR to address these challenges.

The UAE’s economic vitality continues to fuel the Dirham’s strength. The nation has strategically shifted from oil dependency to a diversified economy, investing heavily in technology, renewable energy, and thriving tourism and trade sectors. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have become global hubs, attracting significant foreign investment, as evidenced by World Bank reports. The Central Bank of the UAE’s meticulous oversight ensures the Dirham’s dependability, reinforcing[groupId]reinforcing its status as a trusted currency for international transactions. This economic resilience supports the AED’s steady performance, even amidst today’s slight decline, making it a cornerstone of the UAE’s financial influence.

The Dirham’s slight dip to 76.74 PKR today reflects a minor adjustment in the UAE’s strong economic landscape, while Pakistan continues to navigate trade and debt challenges, making this a key topic for businesses, expatriates, and policymakers in 2025.

August 28, 2025
Hasaranga returns as Sri Lanka name Asia Cup squad

Star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga returned as Sri Lanka announced their squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

Led by Charith Asalanka, the 16-member squad includes three spinners in Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage and Hasarange for the continental tournament, set to commence on September 9.

Wanindu Hasaranga is making a return to the T20I side after missing the Zimbabwe tour due to an injury he sustained during their series against Bangladesh.

However, Sri Lanka named him in the squad as he is expected to be fit for the Asia Cup 2025.

Sri Lanka also have multiple pace bowling all-round options in the squad, including Chamika Karunaratne, and former skipper Dasun Shanaka.

Read more: Naqvi addresses Babar, Rizwan exclusion from Asia Cup 2025

They are the second most successful side in Asia Cup, having triumphed six times in the tournament.

The island nation is drawn in Group B of the Asia Cup 2025 alongside with Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong.

They will begin their campaign in the tournament on September 13 against Bangladesh.

The continental tournament is scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi and Dubai from September 9 to September 28.

Sri Lanka squad for Asia Cup 2025:

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, and Matheesha Pathirana.

August 28, 2025
Saudi Riyal to Pakistani Rupee Rate Today-August 28, 2025

KARACHI, August 28, 2025: The Saudi Riyal (SAR) slipped to Rs75.11 against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in today’s open market, down slightly from Rs75.13 on August 27 and significantly lower than Rs76.03 on July 28, according to currency dealers.

SAR to PKR Rate- Daily Updates

The selling rate adjusted to Rs75.68. This minor decline, driven by market adjustments and sustained remittance inflows, highlights the Saudi Riyal’s critical role in Pakistan’s economy.

Why the Saudi Riyal Fuels Pakistan’s Economy

The Saudi Riyal is a vital economic driver for Pakistan, supported by deep ties with Saudi Arabia, where millions of Pakistani workers contribute to industries like construction, healthcare, and services. In May 2025, Saudi Arabia accounted for $913.3 million of Pakistan’s remittance inflows, the largest share, per the State Bank of Pakistan. From July 2024 to May 2025, total remittances reached $34.9 billion, a 28.8% increase year-over-year. Today’s rate of Rs75.11 converts 1,000 Saudi Riyals to Rs75,110, down from Rs75,130 yesterday, slightly impacting household budgets for essentials like education, healthcare, and daily expenses.

Economic Impact of the Riyal’s Decline

The Saudi Riyal’s drop to Rs75.11 has immediate and broader effects. For households, the lower rate marginally reduces remittance purchasing power amid rising costs. Businesses importing oil and petrochemicals from Saudi Arabia benefit from the Riyal’s dollar-pegged stability, and this decline eases import costs, supporting Pakistan’s trade balance. On a macroeconomic level, the Riyal’s performance continues to bolster Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, which surpassed $11 billion in October 2024, aiding inflation control and debt management. A weaker Rupee enhances export competitiveness, aligning with Pakistan’s economic resilience.

Understanding the Saudi Riyal and Pakistani Rupee

The Saudi Riyal (SAR), divided into 100 halala, is Saudi Arabia’s currency, managed by the Saudi Central Bank and pegged to the US dollar for reliability. This stability makes it a trusted medium for remittances and trade, especially for Pakistanis in the Kingdom. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), symbolized by ₨, has been Pakistan’s currency since 1948, regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan under a managed floating exchange rate. Its value is shaped by inflation, trade flows, and remittance inflows, with the Riyal-PKR rate reflecting market dynamics.

Outlook for the Riyal-PKR Exchange Rate

The Saudi Riyal’s decline to Rs75.11 reflects ongoing market corrections, supported by remittances and trade with Saudi Arabia. Traders and policymakers should monitor these trends closely, as even small shifts can affect remittances, import costs, and economic planning. For millions of Pakistanis, the Riyal’s reliable value remains a financial lifeline, sustaining Pakistan’s economic stability.

Sources: State Bank of Pakistan, Forex Association of Pakistan

August 28, 2025
Three children die, three hospitalised after consuming poisonous food

PINDI BHATTIAN: At least three children lost their lives after consuming poisonous food in the village of Kot Nikka near Pindi Bhattian, a city in Punjab, ARY News reported.

According to rescue officials, the tragic incident unfolded, where three children lost their lives after reportedly consuming a toxic substance, while three others from the same family remain in critical condition.

All the affected children belong to a single household. The incident triggered an immediate response from Rescue 1122, who rushed the children to a nearby hospital. Sadly, three of them succumbed to the effects, while the remaining three are under intensive medical care.

Police from the Saddar Police Station arrived at the scene and have launched an investigation to determine the nature of the substance and the circumstances leading to the tragedy. Earlier in a similar heart-wrenching incident, four minor girls and their mother died after consuming poisonous food in Tandlianwala, Punjab.

Read More: Four of family die after consuming poisonous tea

The police confirmed the casualties and said that the deceased were identified as three-year-old Farzana, four-year-old Aqsa, five-year-old Rukhsana, eight-year-old Muskan and their 34-year-old mother Muskan.

The incident took place in Tandlianwala located 40 kilometre from Faisalabad and 45 km from Okara on May 5.

August 28, 2025