Politics

Ali Şahin, a prominent Turkish parliamentarian, has called for Pakistan to become a full member of the Organization of Turkic States, saying centuries of cultural links and growing geopolitical cooperation have created a bond deeper than ordinary diplomacy.

Indian defence analyst Pravin Sawhney has argued that Pakistan could play a major role in the emerging world order, describing a multipolar system in which each region is shaped by a key state that acts as a centre of balance, wisdom and influence.

Britain has removed Gilgit-Baltistan from the restricted section of its Pakistan travel advice, easing a notable warning on the country’s mountainous north in a move which could positively affect tourism, insurance and international perceptions of the region.

Pakistan is pushing to convert its ceasefire mediation into something larger: progress on the nuclear issue at the centre of the Iran crisis. But while optimism has grown, key disputes remain unresolved and officials say a second round of talks has not yet been formally dated.

Donald Trump has said fresh US-Iran talks in Islamabad could take place within days, reinforcing Pakistan’s growing role as a mediator. Why, he says? "Because the Field Marshal is doing a great job."