News Buzz

March 2025

Nestlé Pakistan kickstarts 100,000 trees urban forest drive

Coordinator to Prime Minister on Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam inaugurated Nestlé Pakistan’s first 100,000 trees urban forest plantation drive in Islamabad. Organized in partnership with Capital Development Authority, the activity under the company’s Nestlé Cares initiative supports endeavors to reduce carbon footprint in its ambition to achieve Net Zero by 2050.

Talking on the occasion, Coordinator to PM on Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam said, “Planting an urban forest is a great example of what can be achieved when the public and private sectors come together with a common goal. We acknowledge Nestlé’s support and collaboration in driving this with CDA. Together, we are not just planting trees – we are nurturing a legacy for future generations.”

Jason Avanceña, Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Pakistan, said, “Climate change is a reality, and we all need to play a proactive role in mitigating this challenge. Nestlé has been continuously investing in sustainability initiatives such as planting urban forests for the well-being of our communities. It is our duty to reverse the trend of deforestation and work towards a greener future.”

“Initiatives such as urban forests and continuous investment in renewable energy reflects our dedication towards making a positive impact on society and environmental sustainability. We remain committed to being a force for good throughout our value chain by Creating Shared Value for communities,” he added.

Urban forest in Islamabad will include 100,000 indigenous trees comprising Kachnar, Sukhchain, Sapium, Amaltas, Jacaranda among others, will be planted in this urban forest in Islamabad. This initiative is aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13 and 15, Climate Action, and Life on Land respectively.

Nestlé, with its global headquarters based in Switzerland, has had a longstanding presence in Pakistan for over 35 years, and is committed to be a force for good throughout its value chain by Creating Shared Value for communities.

PayPak, Golootlo, and Imtiaz Stores Launch ‘Spend & Win’ Campaign

PayPak, Golootlo and Imtiaz Stores have joined forces to launch the “Spend & Win” campaign, offering shoppers incredible rewards while promoting cashless transactions. Timed perfectly with the high-traffic Pre-Ramzan and Ramzan season, this campaign will run from February 2025, till Chaand Raat, giving customers across 30 Imtiaz outlets nationwide the opportunity to win exciting prizes, thereby enhancing the shopping experience when customers are already in buying mode.

Customers who make a transaction of Rs.5000 or more with their PayPak Debit Card at any Imtiaz Store nationwide will be eligible to enter the Lucky Draw; the more the value of the transaction, the more entries in the Lucky Draw. The grand prizes of the Lucky Draw include 3 cars and 13 bikes alongside thousands of high-value electronic items, while multiple surprise gifts will be distributed to customers on the spot, making the campaign exciting for everyone.

Faiz Festival concludes amid thought-provoking sessions

The three-day Faiz Festival, attended by the poet’s fans, concluded at the Alhamra Art Centre in Lahore.
On the final day, there was a big turnout of visitors from various walks of life and age groups. They attended different sessions, talks, book launches, poetry sittings, and music performances, as well as visited different book stalls set up at the venue.

The Alhamra pavilion was a hot spot where many individuals and families posed for photographs. The festival also featured an open mic and drum circle, which visitors enjoyed. Many youngsters recited Faiz’s poetry at the open mic.

Many thought-provoking sessions were held. One such session, ‘Journey of TV Drama’ moderated by Tauseeq Haider, shed light on different periods and forms of TV dramas that continued to evolve with time.

The panellists at the session were playwright Fasih Bari Khan, director Kashif Nisar, and actor Amar Khan. Fasih, sharing his views, regretted that channels and producers dictated to writers what was popular among the masses and demanded content that should attract a large number of viewers.

HBL Partners with Ahya to Achieve Net-Zero and Climate Targets


HBL, Pakistan’s leading bank, has partnered with Ahya Technologies, a Pakistani company specializing in AI-powered climate software, to accelerate its journey towards net-zero emissions by 2030. This collaboration underscores HBL’s commitment to sustainability, in line with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) goals.

This partnership provides HBL access to a suite of advanced climate software products designed to simplify emissions management and reduction with accuracy, transparency, and cost efficiency. AhyaOS offers HBL a single platform to measure, analyze, reduce, and report on all emissions, enabling the Bank to create decarbonization plans and achieve science-based targets (SBTs).

Speaking at the occasion, Salaal Hasan, CEO – Ahya, stated, “Embedding sustainability into the business model of financial institutions is a core economic need. We are proud to partner with HBL, the region’s leading sustainable bank, in enabling their journey to net zero.”

Commenting on the partnership, Maya Inayat Ismail, Chairperson – HBL Sustainability Forum, said, “At HBL, sustainability is not just a commitment; it is a responsibility woven into the fabric of our operations. Partnering with Ahya Technologies marks a significant step in our aim to achieve net-zero operational emissions by 2030. We are determined to lead the way in sustainable banking, proving that financial success and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.”

Infighting poses threat to B’desh, army chief warns

Bangladesh’s army chief blamed infighting for deteriorating law and order, warning that the gains of the student-led revolution that toppled the government last August were at risk.

The country has been struggling to stem a surge in violent crime, with the security forces arresting thousands this month targeting gangs allegedly connected to the party of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

“If you can’t move beyond your differences and continue meddling and fighting among yourselves, the independence and integrity of the country will be at risk — I warn you,” said Gen Waker-uz-Zaman, without singling out any group by name.

“Since stakeholders are busy accusing each other, miscreants find the situation favourable. They believe they can get away with anything,” he said at an army memorial event.

Bangladesh has been riven by a surge of crime, as well as protests this month where crowds smashed buildings connected to Hasina’s family.

In February, rival student factions clashed at a university campus, a sign of serious discord between groups instrumental in driving the uprising against Hasina.

Security forces have arrested more than 8,600 people since it launched “Operation Devil Hunt” on Feb 8, which the government has accused of being Hasina loyalists and of wanting to “destabilise” the country. “The anarchy we have witnessed is manufactured by us,” Waker said.n to our barracks”

Khloé Kardashian to carve out her niche in showbiz

Khloé Kardashian has recently decided to carve her niche in the entertainment industry outside her family reality show.

A source told In Touch that the reality star is passionate about her new podcast, Khloe in Wonderland.

“Khloé isn’t just being a tourist in the podcasting and interviewing space; she’s wanted this for a while and slowly worked up to it, even shooting test interviews that have never aired anywhere to refine her interviewing skills,” explained an insider.

However, underneath all of her prep, the source mentioned a pretty clear restlessness about the reality franchise – “a big reason why The Kardashians are not getting multi-year renewals anymore.”

It is pertinent to mention that the era of Kardashian-led reality shows has declined, considering there’s less drama left for viewers to watch now.

New ADB President Masato Kanda Assumes Office

Assuming office in February as the 11th President of the Asian Development Bank, Masato Kanda expressed his commitment to advancing ADB’s mission to promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth in the region.

Mr Kanda succeeds Masatsugu Asakawa, continuing a legacy of excellence and innovation. According to a press release from ADB, with nearly four decades of experience in international finance and development policy, Mr Kanda is widely recognised for his forward-thinking leadership and decisive interventions during market volatility.

Mr Kanda’s appointment underscores ADB’s ongoing evolution and its commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of its developing member countries. As the bank embarks on a new phase of strategic growth, his leadership will build on ADB’s strong legacy while also positioning the institution to address future challenges and opportunities.

The ADB Board of Governors’ decision to elect Mr Kanda was unanimous, reflecting broad confidence in his ability to steer ADB during a time of significant change. His extensive background in managing complex economic policies and his hands-on experience in multilateral settings will be invaluable as ADB continues to adapt to a rapidly changing global landscape.

SouthAsia Forum joins hands with SwissCham Asia and Singularity Academy of Switzerland


SouthAsia Forum, SwissCham Asia, and Singularity Academy have joined hands to pool their synergies and facilitate economic, social, and cultural alliances among the South Asian countries’ fraternity. The ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ signed by the three on January 15, 2025, has laid down the foundation of this relationship.

Each partner in this relationship contributes its value to the common cause of prosperity and harmony in South Asia. As a traditionally neutral country, Switzerland is best positioned to open doors of cooperation among South Asian nations.

SouthAsia Forum, headquartered in Karachi, is a leading association for research and publications on matters of South Asia. Its panel includes well-accomplished experts on global diplomacy, cultural and social creativity, and promoters of prosperity in South Asia. The monthly publication of ‘South Asia Magazine’, which has wider circulation in South Asia, carries the messages of the region’s opinion makers and intellects to invoke the region’s economic and political dynamics and challenges.

SwissCham Asia, headquartered in Zurich, aims to support businesses and stakeholders through expert insights, strategic partnerships, and innovative solutions. One of its hallmark achievements has been its role in facilitating economic dialogue and organizing high-profile economic summits and business expos. The Chamber has provided a stage for policymakers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to engage in meaningful discussions. The stage set up by SwissCham at the World Economic Forum meeting at Davos in January 2025 is the continuity of this effort.

Singularity Academy, headquartered in Zurich, supports SwissCham’s global outreach and significant programmes. The organisation seamlessly integrates advanced technology into its academic programs, offering personalised and holistic learning experiences. Its comprehensive approach spans the entire personal and professional development spectrum, encompassing consulting, education, research, publications, incubation, wellness, legal counsel and compliance, and healthcare services.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agree to boost ties in showbiz

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to form a joint committee to produce songs, films, and documentaries, Pakistan’s information ministry said, as the two countries aim to foster stronger ties in the media industry.

Pakistan’s Information Minister, Ataullah Tarar, met Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Media, Salman Al-Dossary, in Riyadh as he attended the fourth edition of the Saudi Media Forum.

The event brings together over 200 leading media professionals, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. This year’s theme is “Media in an Evolving World.”

“Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agree to form a joint committee for joint productions, songs, films, and documentaries,” Pakistan’s information ministry said.

The ministry said discussions between the two ministers focused on strengthening media relations and enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in promoting regional peace and stability.