President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the Pakistan International Airlines Corporation (Conversion) (Repeal) Bill, 2026, completing what authorities described as the final legal step required for the privatisation of the national flag carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). According to an official statement from the Presidency, the assent fulfils all necessary legal formalities and requirements for […]
economic reform
Qatar launches 10-year residency for entrepreneurs, expands venture capital
DOHA: Qatar will introduce a 10-year residency programme for entrepreneurs and senior executives, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani announced on Sunday, aiming to attract global talent and investment. The initiative aligns Qatar with regional neighbours such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have implemented long-term residency schemes to draw […]
Lessons from PIA’s privatisation go far beyond the sale price
The transfer of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to private ownership has been widely welcomed as a step toward reform. However, much of the debate has focused narrowly on the sale price, overlooking deeper structural and governance issues that shaped the outcome. A closer examination shows that privatisation did not create PIA’s massive financial burden but […]
PM orders speedy, transparent PIA privatisation
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday directed authorities to expedite all phases of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) privatisation, stressing complete transparency in the process. Chairing a meeting on the national flag carrier, the premier emphasised enhancing operational efficiency, increasing airworthy aircraft, and ensuring punctual flight departures. Officials briefed him on the privatisation plan, which […]
How Pakistan trapped itself in an economic deadlock
In every successful economy, one constant stands out: policy stability. Countries that progress economically — from Singapore to Germany — do so because their business environment is predictable, transparent, and efficient. Investors know that their capital is safe from political upheaval and arbitrary rule changes. In contrast, Pakistan’s economy has become a hostage to instability […]