IMF approves immediate disbursal of USD 1.1 billion loan tranche to Pakistan
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved the immediate release of the final $1.1 billion tranche of a $3 billion bailout to Pakistan, aimed at stabili... The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved the immediate release of the final $1.1 billion tranche of a $3 billion bailout to Pakistan, aimed at stabilizing the country's economy and preventing default on foreign debts. As part of the bailout conditions, Pakistan had to reduce subsidies and impose new taxes, leading to public discontent. Moving forward, Pakistan must continue with macroeconomic policies and structural reforms, with external support being crucial for its recovery. The Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, indicated plans to seek a long-term loan after the current bailout, potentially $8 billion over three years. Despite this assistance, Pakistan faces significant challenges and must commit to sustainable growth and reforms.
Dubai Unveils Plans For $35 Billion World's Largest Airport Terminal
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, has announced the approval of a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, projected... Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, has announced the approval of a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, projected to cost 128 billion AED ($34.85 billion) and become the world's largest airport terminal. Located in Dubai South, the terminal will be the new base for Emirates and Flydubai, with a planned capacity to handle 260 million passengers annually and five parallel runways. The project aims to enhance Dubai's status as a global aviation hub, with the initial phase expected to serve 150 million passengers annually within a decade. This expansion will position Al Maktoum International Airport ahead of other major airports globally in terms of passenger capacity.
Armenia and Azerbaijan move closer to normalizing ties as the first border marker goes up
Armenia and Azerbaijan have started border demarcation efforts, marked by the placement of their first border marker, amid ongoing peace talks following the Nag... Armenia and Azerbaijan have started border demarcation efforts, marked by the placement of their first border marker, amid ongoing peace talks following the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. This region has been a source of conflict since the 1990s, with recent developments including Azerbaijan reclaiming parts of Nagorno-Karabakh and a territorial agreement affecting Armenian villages. Protests in Armenia reflect resistance to perceived encroachments by Azerbaijan, while leaders from both nations strive for a peace agreement despite military disparities. The role of Russian peacekeeping forces and challenges of displacement underscore the complexity of achieving lasting peace in the region.