Recap Pakistan

X (formerly Twitter) will release its new content recommendation algorithm as open-source code on GitHub within seven days, following Elon Musk’s announcement on January 10, 2026. The move aims to boost transparency by showing how organic and ad content is ranked and recommended, with updates promised every four weeks along with developer notes. While the code will appear on X’s existing GitHub repository, some skepticism remains due to past incomplete releases.

Immigration Clearance in Just 10 Seconds
The FIA is set to launch an AI-powered e-immigration mobile app that will allow travellers to complete immigration clearance in as little as 10 seconds. Passengers will enter their personal, passport, and flight details in advance, which will be verified through official databases and analysed using machine learning. The system will generate risk profiles before arrival, helping reduce queues, speed up clearance, and strengthen screening to curb illegal immigration.

Major Airlines Suspend Tehran Flights
Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and several European carriers have cancelled flights to Tehran amid Iran’s severe economic crisis and ongoing anti-government protests.

Pension After 14.5 Years Approved
The court ruled that 14.5 years of service counts as 15 years, making employees eligible for pensions. EOBI’s appeal was dismissed, protecting workers’ pension rights.

Overseas Pakistanis sent a record $3.6 billion in remittances in December, marking a 16.5% year-on-year increase and a 13% rise from November. In the first half of FY26, inflows reached $19.7 billion, up 11% from last year, driven by higher manpower exports, improved formal channels, and government incentives. Analysts project total remittances of $41 billion in FY26, highlighting their key role in supporting Pakistan’s economy and external stability.

Jeddah Tower has crossed 80 floors, moving closer to overtaking Dubai’s Burj Khalifa as the world’s tallest building. Designed to exceed 1,000 meters and scheduled for completion in 2028, the mega project reflects Saudi Arabia’s push toward economic diversification through landmark developments.

The government plans to develop a massive Export Processing Zone (EPZ) on 6,000 acres of Pakistan Steel Mills land to boost export-oriented industries, cut operational costs, and attract local and foreign investment, officials announced during a consultative session in Karachi.

Punjab has extended winter vacations by one week for all schools and colleges due to an ongoing severe cold wave and dense fog. Educational institutions will now reopen on January 19 instead of January 12, following strong public support and health concerns for students.

Chinese inverter giant Hoymiles has officially launched in Pakistan, partnering with Superstar and Harisun Energy to offer advanced solar inverters and long-duration energy storage solutions. The move targets Pakistan’s rapidly growing solar market, aiming to support residential, commercial, and industrial users with reliable backup and smart energy management systems amid rising electricity costs and load-shedding.

The PSL Sialkot franchise is set to unveil its official name, logo, and franchise president today. Confirmed as the league’s eighth team, Sialkot will debut in PSL 11 (2026), with owners planning a competitive squad by attracting top international players alongside a strong local coaching setup.