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Islamabad races to become Pakistan’s first cashless city

Islamabad is preparing to become Pakistan’s first fully cashless city as the CDA launches a sweeping digital payments strategy including QRs, mobile apps, and ERP integration across civic and commercial services to improve transparency and efficiency.

With phased rollouts beginning this month, Islamabad is on track to become not only Pakistan’s first cashless city but a national prototype for digital governance in the 21st century. — FILE/THE THURSDAY TIMES

Pakistan courts Web3 future in high-stakes US crypto talks

Pakistan and the U.S. are entering a new phase of cooperation with talks focused on digital assets and blockchain regulation following their recent trade deal, as Islamabad positions itself as a Web3 leader in South Asia and aligns with Washington's new crypto framework.

With both governments now formally in talks, the emerging crypto alliance may reshape not only how money moves across borders but how geopolitical alliances are forged in the age of code. — FILE
The Pakistan Army's sweeping offensive in Bajaur is rewriting the rules of engagement — and the TTP is running out of room.
An illustration shown of the Pakistan Stock Exchange during a bull run. — ORIGINAL/THE THURSDAY TIMES
With just weeks left until the Asia Cup begins, debate continues to intensify over whether sports can or should be separated from geopolitics. — Arvind Yadav/Hindustan Times via Getty Images
BYD is driving into Pakistan’s EV market — with plans to assemble 25,000 electric vehicles a year starting in 2026. — BLOOMBERG
A file photo is shown of French President Emmanuel Macron and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. — THE THURSDAY TIMES
Russia officially recognises Taliban rule in Afghanistan, removing legal barriers to engagement. — TASS

Pakistan’s energy intensity the highest in South Asia, warns World Bank

Pakistan’s suffers from inefficient industrial processes, rising costs, and heavy fossil fuel dependence; the World Bank warns that without integrated reforms in energy efficiency and decarbonisation supported by financing and policy clarity, Pakistan’s economic and climate goals are at risk.

To realise Pakistan’s industrial potential and climate commitments, the report urges clear policy direction, incentives for efficiency, and robust financing mechanisms. — THE THURSDAY TIMES
On its second anniversary, SIFC enabled PayPal-mediated payments for 10,000 Pakistani freelancers, allowing direct transfers to local bank accounts without individual PayPal access. — MONTAGE/THE THURSDAY TIMES
Published by Thursday Media International thursday.media