Rawalpindi, May 20, 2025 — In a strong and assertive statement delivered today at Rawalpindi by Director General of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry of ISPR said that while Islamabad placed its trust solely in Allah but that its military was prepared to respond with full national force to any further aggression from India.
Gen. Chaudhry addressed recent tensions along the LoC and Indian political and military officials’ harsh rhetoric during a press conference at ISPR Headquarters in Rawalpindi on Monday, where he delivered an important statement: “Let me be very clear,” he declared: “Pakistan relies upon its own power — its resilience people, professionalism of its armed forces and strength of institutions – in addition to Allah.”
ISPR chief Shah Masood Ahmed stressed that Pakistan is a peaceful nation but will respond decisively if provoked into conflict. If war comes knocking, however, then Pakistan’s Armed Forces stand ready to defend every inch of their homeland,” stated Ahmed.
General Chaudhry’s remarks came at a time of renewed diplomatic friction due to India’s claims of cross-border support for militant groups as well as reports of increased military deployments near the LoC. Tensions also rose amid Indian elections with political figures making inflammatory statements regarding Pakistan.
ISPR spokesperson warned against attempts at creating false narratives for political gain, with certain circles within India trying to build cases for aggression through disinformation campaigns. He strongly advised the international community not to ignore this potentially hazardous path forward.
He highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to maintain regional peace, including its adherence to the 2003 ceasefire agreement. Pakistan had always shown restraint but this should not be taken as weakness or lack of resolve by other parties in conflict zones.
Referring to Pakistan’s internal strength, ISPR chief noted that unity and morale remain high despite economic and political challenges. He highlighted how Faith, Unity, and Discipline (FUD) constitute true strengths for Pakistan: “These have all proven resilient.”
General Chaudhry also addressed the Pakistani public, appealing for national unity. Our enemies seek to divide and weaken us internally, yet our people – civilians and soldiers alike – remain united behind a single purpose: the defense of sovereignty.”
Defense analysts have taken note of Pakistan’s statement as both an attempt to deter India, as well as an indication of their readiness to engage diplomatically or militarily should it become necessary. “Pakistan will not remain passive when faced with threats,” according to security analyst Brig. Asad Mahmood.
ISPR Chief Shah said Pakistan remains hopeful for peace while being prepared for all possibilities in South Asia, but stressed the need for all parties involved to be sincere, respectful and take responsibility. Pakistan believes in peace but stands ready to defend itself if necessary with Allah’s blessing and its own resources.
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ChatGPT mentioned: Pakistan Plans to Raise Petroleum Levy Above Rs100 Per Liter in Upcoming Fiscal Year.
Islamabad, May 20, 2025 — Beginning July 2025, Pakistan plans to increase the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) on petrol and diesel to over Rs100 per litre as part of an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), in an attempt to raise non-tax revenues and address mounting circular debt. Samaa TV reports the move while The News International reported on it.
Current PDL stands at Rs78 for petrol and Rs77 for diesel, with proposed increases expected to generate significant revenue and contribute towards meeting the government’s target of collecting Rs1.311 trillion from petroleum levies by the fiscal year 2025-26, an impressive leap over what was collected during fiscal year 2018-19 (Rs1.117 trillion). These numbers come as reported by Daily Ausaf, Pakistan Today, The News International and Daily Times; with The News International adding two profits while Daily Times added three. When asked by Daily Ausaf, three profits by Pakistan Today as reported by Pakistan Today but with both companies adding three daily compared with two before them
As part of climate-aligned fiscal reforms, Pakistan plans to implement a Rs5 per litre carbon levy on both petrol and diesel to discourage fossil fuel consumption and aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Its Pakistan Today and The News International report it as follows.
IMF officials have stressed the significance of timely electricity tariff adjustments and subsidy cuts in order to maintain energy sector viability. Accordingly, Pakistan will remove its 10% cap on Debt Service Surcharges applied to power bills by June 2025; this move aims to address rising circular debt. This move was reported in two publications – News International’s Daily Ausaf and Pakistan Today Daily Ausaf Daily.
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While these measures are necessary for fiscal consolidation, they could negatively affect consumers directly. Rising fuel costs will increase transportation costs and thus affect prices across-the-board; economists warn of indirect taxation contributing to inflationary pressures among low and middle income households.
The government recognizes the risks posed by reforms but believes they are essential in attaining long-term economic stability. By increasing PDLs and introducing carbon levies, Pakistan aims to meet fiscal targets under IMF Extended Fund Facility (EFF), as well as ensure sustainability in its energy sector. (ProPakistani +3 Daily Ausaf).
As the start of a new fiscal year approaches, stakeholders and citizens will closely scrutinize implementation of measures implemented during last fiscal year and their impact on the economy. Balancing fiscal responsibility with public welfare will be key in successfully leading this journey ahead.