ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday dismissed as “irresponsible and ill-informed” the comments made by certain British Members of Parliament and members of the Pakistani diaspora in the United Kingdom regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).

In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had noted with concern the “unwarranted insinuations” that reflected a lack of awareness and disregard for the historical background of the dispute. “For those still living in colonial times, it bears reiterating that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic republic,” the statement added. The Foreign Office urged the individuals to refrain from interfering in Pakistan’s internal affairs and instead contribute positively to their country of residence.

The response comes amid heightened tensions in AJK, where at least seven people have died in recent unrest. Police confirmed that four security personnel were martyred and three members of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) were killed during an operation to clear miscreants from the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalakot. The Foreign Office emphasized that while the governments of Pakistan and AJK fully respect citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and expression, “vandalism, destruction of public services, and the killing of innocent civilians and law enforcement officials cannot be permitted under any circumstances.”

Pakistan’s firm rejection of external commentary on AJK underscores its long-standing position that the region’s status is a bilateral issue between Pakistan and India, as outlined in UN Security Council resolutions. The Foreign Office called on the British government to “educate and caution those supporting proscribed organisations” and to respect the democratic process and rule of law enshrined in the constitutions of both Pakistan and AJK.

The development follows a series of protests and clashes in AJK, with local authorities accusing the JAAC of inciting violence. The Pakistani government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order while upholding fundamental rights. Analysts say the episode reflects broader concerns over external interference in the Kashmir dispute, which remains a flashpoint in South Asian geopolitics.

Source: ARY News

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) released its mark-to-market revaluation rates for Monday, June 8, 2026, showing the US Dollar (USD) and other major currencies against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). The interbank market saw the USD trading at 278.4033 PKR, virtually unchanged from Friday, reflecting sustained stability that has become the norm under the central bank’s management. Forward rates showed a gradual premium, with one-week at 278.8169 and one-year at 291.2324, offering predictability for importers and exporters after years of turmoil.

The Saudi Riyal (SAR) was quoted at 74.1104 PKR, barely moved due to its peg to the dollar, while the UAE Dirham (AED) stood at 75.7952 PKR. Both currencies, crucial for remittances from millions of Pakistani workers in the Gulf, maintained their steady corridors. The Qatari Riyal (QAR) traded at 76.3648 PKR, and the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) remained the heavyweight at 906.1133 PKR, reflecting its inherent strength. The Bahraini Dinar (BHD) was at 738.2746 PKR, providing high value for remittance families.

Among other currencies, the Australian Dollar (AUD) dipped to 196.3161 PKR, driven by soft commodity prices and the Reserve Bank of Australia’s cautious stance, offering relief for Pakistani students and importers. The Canadian Dollar (CAD) came in at 199.5651 PKR, slightly ahead of the Aussie, supported by steady remittance flows from Canada’s Pakistani diaspora. The Pakistani Rupee’s stability across these pairs underscores the SBP’s tight management, with forward rates indicating a controlled depreciation trajectory.

Source: ARY News

Karachi, June 8, 2026: Silver prices in Pakistan have steadied near normal levels, with the precious metal trading at Rs. 7,200 per tola in the domestic market. This marks a significant retreat from the record highs witnessed in late 2025 and early 2026, as demand has normalized.

According to the Karachi Sarafa Association, the current rate for 10 grams of fine silver stands at Rs. 6,171, while per gram is quoted at Rs. 617.1. Analysts attribute the stabilization to reduced buying interest after a prolonged price spike, which prompted many investors to pause purchases.

The movement in silver prices often mirrors that of gold, which remains elevated at over Rs. 510,000 per tola locally amid global uncertainties. However, silver’s unique position as both a precious metal and an industrial metal provides it with distinct support. Industrial demand, particularly from the solar energy, electric vehicles, and electronics sectors, has remained robust, buffering prices against sharp declines.

Market experts note that while gold sets the baseline for silver trading, the latter’s consumption in green technologies offers consistent underlying demand. This dual nature keeps silver relevant even as speculative buying ebbs.

The current rates are a far cry from the peaks seen earlier this year, when silver soared above Rs. 8,500 per tola. The correction has been gradual, driven by a combination of global economic factors and local market dynamics. Dealers report that retail buying has slowed significantly, with many investors adopting a wait-and-see approach.

Looking ahead, analysts expect silver to trade within a narrow range in the near term, barring any unexpected shocks in global markets. The metal is likely to continue benefiting from industrial demand while remaining sensitive to shifts in investor sentiment.

For daily updates, keep following PakistanFrontier.com.

Source: ARY News

Pakistan’s trade deficit has widened by 17.48% during the first eleven months of the current fiscal year 2025-26, according to the latest data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). The country recorded a trade deficit of US$34.758 billion in the July-May period, reflecting persistent imbalances in the external sector.

The PBS data revealed that imports increased by 5.94% year-on-year to US$62.662 billion, while exports declined by 5.61% to US$27.904 billion. This divergence underscores ongoing structural challenges, including dependence on imported energy and raw materials, and sluggish export growth despite government incentives. Analysts point to global economic uncertainties and domestic policy constraints as key factors.

For May 2026 alone, the trade deficit stood at US$2.582 billion, with exports of US$2.705 billion and imports of US$5.287 billion. On a month-on-month basis, exports rose by 9.59% compared to April, a positive but modest sign, while imports fell sharply by 21.45%. Compared to May 2025, exports grew by 1.26%, and imports declined by 6.63%, suggesting some improvement in the monthly trade balance, Ary News Reported.

Pakistan’s trade deficit has been a persistent concern, often leading to pressure on the rupee and foreign exchange reserves. The government has implemented various measures to boost exports, including easing access to credit and reducing duties on export-oriented industries. However, the results have been mixed, with the latest figures highlighting the need for more comprehensive reforms.

According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the trade data reflects the country’s economic activity and external vulnerabilities. The widening deficit also raises questions about the effectiveness of current trade policies in a challenging global environment, marked by rising inflation and supply chain disruptions.

Economic experts warn that without a strategic shift towards export diversification and import substitution, Pakistan may continue to face balance-of-payments pressures. The government’s focus on IT and textile exports may yield results in the medium term, but the latest numbers call for urgent action to stabilize the external sector.

In conclusion, the 17.5% widening of the trade deficit for the first 11 months of FY2025-26 highlights persistent challenges in Pakistan’s external sector. While monthly improvements in May offer some optimism, sustained efforts are needed to boost exports and manage imports effectively. For further context on trade dynamics, see Reuters’ global trade coverage.

Source: ARY News

KARACHI: Gold prices witnessed a significant decline in Pakistan on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in line with a downward trend in the international bullion market. According to rates issued by the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association (APSGJA), the price of 24-karat gold per tola dropped by Rs12,489 to Rs455,327, compared to Rs467,816 in the previous trading session.

Similarly, the price of 10 grams of 24-karat gold decreased by Rs11,240, settling at Rs389,772 against Rs401,012 a day earlier. In the international market, gold prices fell by $124.89 per ounce to $4,328.92, down from $4,453.81 in the previous session, according to Reuters. Silver prices also recorded a notable decline in the local market. The price of silver per tola dropped by Rs463 to Rs7,267 from Rs7,730 on the previous trading day.

Market analysts attributed the decline in precious metal prices to changing investor sentiment and fluctuations in demand for safe-haven assets amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties. Investors are closely monitoring developments in the Middle East, including the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Iran, as reported by Al Jazeera. These factors have contributed to shifts in global risk appetite.

Despite short-term volatility, analysts remain optimistic about gold’s long-term prospects, citing its traditional role as a hedge against inflation, currency depreciation, and geopolitical risks. The precious metal has historically performed well during periods of economic uncertainty, and current conditions may support a recovery in the coming weeks. For context, Wikipedia notes that gold has been a store of value for centuries.

Local jewellers reported subdued buying activity as consumers adopted a wait-and-see approach amid the sharp price correction. The APSGJA continues to update rates daily based on international trends and domestic demand. Market participants will watch upcoming economic data and central bank policies for further cues on bullion prices.

Source: ARY News

Security forces killed six terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan’s Panjgur district, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Friday.

The military’s media wing said the operation was conducted during the night of June 3 and 4 after receiving intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in Panjgur. Security forces targeted multiple locations and engaged the terrorists in an intense exchange of fire.

According to the ISPR, six terrorists were killed during the operation.

The statement said weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and a vehicle were recovered from the slain terrorists, who were allegedly involved in a number of terrorist activities in the region.

The military added that sanitisation operations were continuing to ensure that no terrorists remained in the area. It reaffirmed that security forces, in coordination with law enforcement agencies, would continue counterterrorism operations aimed at eliminating terrorist networks and safeguarding national security.

President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for the successful operation, describing the elimination of the six terrorists as an important step towards strengthening peace and stability in the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also commended the troops involved in the operation and reiterated the government’s resolve to eradicate terrorism and maintain peace across Pakistan.

The operation in Panjgur comes days after security forces conducted a series of intelligence-based operations across several districts of Balochistan, including Mastung, Nushki, Khuzdar and Kech, where 17 terrorists were reportedly killed following a suicide attack targeting a train in Quetta.

Authorities said counterterrorism operations would continue across the province as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent future attacks.