Galaxy Treats Blast Bars: A Stellar Adventure for Your Taste Buds

Published

3 weeks ago

November 15, 2023

1. Introduction

Welcome to a cosmic journey through the universe of sweetness – the Galaxy Treats Blast Bars! In this exploration, we’ll unravel the phenomenon behind these celestial confections and dive into the irresistible allure of their cosmic flavors.

1.1 Unveiling the Galaxy Treats Blast Bars Phenomenon

Galaxy Treats

Picture this: a treat that transcends ordinary desserts, taking inspiration from the vastness of the galaxy. Galaxy Treats Blast Bars have burst onto the scene, captivating taste buds around the world. From their mesmerizing appearance resembling distant galaxies to the enchanting blend of flavors, these bars have become a cultural sensation, fueling a sweet revolution.

In this section, we’ll delve into the origins and evolution of the Galaxy Treats Blast Bars phenomenon. What sparked this cosmic craze, and how has it evolved into a social media sensation? Join us as we uncover the secrets behind the trend that has dessert enthusiasts reaching for the stars.

1.2 The Allure of Cosmic Flavors

Beyond their eye-catching appearance, what sets Galaxy Treats Blast Bars apart is the enchanting array of cosmic flavors they bring to the table. From interstellar chocolate to stardust-infused caramel, these bars offer a taste experience that transcends the ordinary.

In this segment, we’ll explore the diverse range of flavors that make Galaxy Treats Blast Bars so irresistible. Discover the magic behind the combinations that mimic the essence of distant galaxies and learn how each bite is a journey into the cosmos of taste.

2 The Galaxy Treats Blast Bars Craze

In the vast landscape of sweet indulgences, the Galaxy Treats Blast Bars have emerged as a phenomenon that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of dessert enthusiasts worldwide. Let’s take a closer look at the origins and evolution of this cosmic confectionary delight and explore how it’s become a star on social media platforms.

2.1 Origins and Evolution

The Galaxy Treats Blast Bars didn’t just appear overnight; they have a fascinating origin story. These delectable bars draw inspiration from the mesmerizing beauty of the cosmos, with swirls of vibrant colors reminiscent of distant galaxies. The trend started in artisanal bakeries and creative kitchens, where bakers experimented with combinations of ingredients to achieve a taste that’s truly out of this world.

As the concept gained momentum, the Galaxy Treats Blast Bars evolved in terms of flavor, texture, and appearance. Bakers began incorporating a diverse range of ingredients, from cosmic-colored sprinkles to edible glitter, to create a visual spectacle that matched the delightful taste. The evolution of these bars reflects not only culinary innovation but also the universal appeal of exploring new, exciting flavor profiles

2.2 Trending Across Social Media

In the age of Instagram and TikTok, the visual appeal of Galaxy Treats Blast Bars has played a pivotal role in their rapid rise to fame. Foodies and influencers alike have embraced the bars for their photogenic qualities, turning them into social media sensations. The hashtag #GalaxyTreats has become a virtual portal to a galaxy of mouthwatering creations, with users sharing their own renditions, reviews, and even recipes.

From celestial-themed flat lays to mesmerizing videos of the bars being sliced open to reveal their inner galaxy, social media platforms have become a stage for the Galaxy Treats Blast Bars craze. This not only amplifies the popularity of the bars but also inspires creativity among home bakers and encourages a sense of community as enthusiasts share their love for these cosmic sweets.

3. Exploring the Galactic Ingredients

Welcome to the heart of the galaxy, where the magic of Blast Bars unfolds through a symphony of tantalizing ingredients. In this section, we’ll delve into the core elements that make up these cosmic treats and explore the secrets behind decoding their out-of-this-world flavors.

3.1 The Core Elements of a Blast Bar

Imagine a universe encapsulated in a single bite – that’s the essence of a well-crafted Blast Bar. These heavenly creations typically boast a trifecta of core elements:

Chocolatey Nebulas: At the very core lies the rich and velvety chocolate base. Whether it’s dark, milk, or white chocolate, this forms the celestial canvas upon which the entire galactic experience unfolds.

Crunchy Stardust: The second element introduces the textural marvel that elevates Blast Bars to a whole new dimension. Crispy rice, crushed nuts, or cookie bits provide the satisfying crunch, akin to traversing through the vastness of cosmic terrains.

Swirling Galaxy of Mix-ins: To add a burst of flavor diversity, Blast Bars often incorporate a myriad of mix-ins. Think caramel swirls, fruit pieces, or even hints of exotic spices. This creates a symphony of tastes, mimicking the diverse wonders of a galactic landscape.

3.2 Decoding the Cosmic Flavors

Now that we’ve uncovered the foundational elements, let’s embark on a journey to decode the cosmic flavors that make each Blast Bar a unique delight.

Stellar Sweetness: The sweetness level is the gravitational force holding everything together. Balancing the sugar content is crucial, ensuring it complements the chocolate base without overpowering the entire experience.

Interstellar Textures: Beyond the crunch, the interplay of textures is essential. A velvety smoothness from the chocolate, punctuated by bursts of crunch and chewiness from the mix-ins, creates a multi-dimensional delight for your taste buds.

Flavor Nebulas: The beauty of Blast Bars lies in their ability to create intricate flavor profiles. Whether it’s a salted caramel supernova, a fruity galaxy explosion, or a classic chocolate cosmos, each variant takes your palate on a unique intergalactic journey.

1. DIY Galactic Creations

Embark on a cosmic culinary adventure by crafting your very own Galaxy Treats Blast Bars. In this section, we’ll guide you through the process of creating these celestial delights and provide some tips and tricks to ensure your results are nothing short of stellar.

4.1 Crafting Your Own Galaxy Treats Blast Bars

Creating your own Galaxy Treats Blast Bars at home is a delightful and rewarding experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Ingredients:

Dark chocolate (for the base)

Various food colors (gel or liquid)

Edible glitter or edible star sprinkles

Your favorite mix-ins (crushed cookies, nuts, dried fruits)

Instructions:

Melt the Chocolate:

Begin by melting dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave. Stir until smooth.

Color the Chocolate:

Divide the melted chocolate into separate bowls and add different food colors to each bowl. Mix well to achieve vibrant hues.

Layering Magic:

Pour the colored chocolate onto a parchment-lined tray in layers. Use a spatula to spread and swirl the colors together, creating a galaxy-like effect.

Add Texture:

Sprinkle edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles onto the wet chocolate. Experiment with textures by adding crushed cookies, nuts, or dried fruits.

Freeze and Set:

Place the tray in the freezer to allow the chocolate to harden. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.

Cut and Enjoy:

Once fully set, remove the tray from the freezer and cut your galaxy creation into bars. Enjoy the burst of colors and flavors with each bite!

4.2 Tips and Tricks for Stellar Results

Experiment with Colors: Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors to achieve a truly galactic appearance. Blues, purples, and blacks work exceptionally well.

Texture Variety: Play around with different textures by incorporating various mix-ins. The contrast adds excitement to each bite.

Precision Tools: For a more intricate design, consider using toothpicks or fine brushes to create swirls and patterns in the chocolate.

Layering Techniques: Experiment with pouring techniques to achieve unique patterns. Pour from different heights or in circular motions for a mesmerizing effect.

Chill Effectively: Ensure your bars freeze evenly by spacing them appropriately on the tray. This prevents colors from bleeding into each other.

5. A Taste Test Journey

The galaxy treats blast bars craze has taken the culinary world by storm, and what better way to dive into this cosmic confectionery than through a taste test journey? In this section, we’ll explore firsthand reviews and recommendations, as well as compare popular brands to help you navigate the universe of flavors.

5.1 Reviews and Recommendations

Embarking on the galaxy treats blast bars adventure, many enthusiasts have shared their delightful experiences. Here’s a collection of reviews and recommendations from fellow taste explorers:

Review 1: Stellar Sweetness

“Indulging in a Galaxy Treats Blast Bar was like taking a trip through the Milky Way. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy bits, and a hint of cosmic flavors left me craving more. It’s a taste sensation that’s truly out of this world!”

Review 2: Perfect Balance

“What sets these blast bars apart is the perfect balance of sweetness. Not too overpowering, but enough to satisfy your sweet tooth. The texture is amazing, with layers that create a symphony of flavors in every bite. A must-try for dessert enthusiasts!”

Review 3: Instagram-Worthy Delight

“Aside from the incredible taste, the visual appeal of these blast bars is Instagram-worthy. The galaxy-inspired colors make them a standout treat for social media, perfect for sharing your cosmic indulgence with the world.”

Recommendation: Pairing with Coffee

“For a delightful afternoon treat, I highly recommend pairing your galaxy blast bar with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The contrast of the sweet and the bitter creates a heavenly experience that elevates the entire snacking ritual.”

5.2 Comparing Popular Brands

With numerous brands entering the galaxy treats blast bars scene, it’s essential to explore the differences. Here’s a brief comparison of some popular brands to help you choose your next cosmic delight:

Brand 1: Celestial Crunch

“This brand is known for its emphasis on texture. The blast bars from Celestial Crunch have a satisfying crunch with a medley of flavors. If you’re a texture enthusiast, this brand is worth exploring.”

Brand 2: Galactic Elegance

“For those who appreciate a touch of elegance, Galactic Elegance stands out. Their blast bars often feature intricate designs, and the flavors are carefully curated for a sophisticated taste experience.”

Brand 3: Nebula Noms

“Nebula Noms takes a creative approach to flavor combinations. From fruity bursts to unexpected savory notes, their blast bars are a journey of surprises. Perfect for those who love experimenting with taste.”

6. Sweet Universes at Home

6.1 Hosting a Galaxy-Themed Dessert Night

Welcome to the cosmic extravaganza! Hosting a Galaxy-Themed Dessert Night is your ticket to a sweet universe right in the comfort of your home. Transform your space into a celestial wonderland with twinkling lights, starry decorations, and perhaps even a DIY galaxy backdrop. Set the mood for a stellar experience that’s not just about taste but also about ambiance.

6.2 Pairing Galaxy Treats Blast Bars with Other Delights

Galaxy Treats Blast Bars are delicious on their own, but why not take your taste buds on an even more exciting journey by pairing them with complementary delights? Here are some stellar pairing suggestions:

Cosmic Coffee Creations: Brew a rich cup of coffee or indulge in a creamy latte to enhance the flavors of your Galaxy Treats Blast Bar. The combination of the sweet bars with the boldness of coffee creates a delightful contrast.

Nebula Ice Cream Delights: Create a cosmic ice cream sundae featuring your Blast Bar crumbled on top. The cold and creamy texture of the ice cream paired with the crunchy Blast Bar creates a mouthwatering symphony of flavors and textures.

Galactic Fruit Medley: Fresh fruits like berries, kiwi, and starfruit can add a refreshing element to your dessert spread. The natural sweetness of the fruits complements the sweetness of the Blast Bars.

Celestial Cocktails: For an adult twist, consider crafting galaxy-themed cocktails to enjoy alongside your treats. Experiment with colorful mixes that mirror the vibrant hues of the cosmos.

7. The Science Behind the Sweetness

7.1 Understanding the Chemistry of Flavor

Ever wondered why your favorite Galaxy Treats Blast Bar has such a delightful taste? It’s all about the chemistry of flavor. The magic happens when various ingredients come together, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your taste buds.

Key Concepts:

Aromas and Molecules: Flavors are a result of complex interactions between different molecules. Each ingredient contributes its unique aroma and taste, and when combined, they form the distinct flavor profile of your Blast Bar.

Chemical Reactions: During the baking or setting process, chemical reactions occur. Sugars caramelize, fats undergo changes, and proteins denature—all contributing to the final flavor. Understanding these reactions can empower you to experiment and create your own flavor masterpieces.

Balance is Key: Achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, bitterness, and acidity is an art. Experimenting with ingredient ratios allows you to tailor your Galaxy Treats Blast Bar to your personal preference.

7.2 How Colors Affect Taste Perception

Believe it or not, the color of your food can significantly impact how it tastes. The visual appeal of Galaxy Treats Blast Bars goes hand-in-hand with the overall taste experience.

Color Psychology: Colors evoke emotions and expectations. Warm colors like red and orange can suggest sweetness, while cool colors like blue may give a refreshing sensation. The vibrant and cosmic hues of Blast Bars not only make them Instagram-worthy but also influence your taste perception.

Multisensory Experience: Eating is a multisensory experience. The color of your Blast Bar can set the mood for your taste buds, enhancing the overall enjoyment. Bright and bold colors often signal a burst of flavors, making your treat even more exciting.

Presentation Matters: The way food is presented can influence your perception of its taste. Galaxy-themed colors create a sense of anticipation, making each bite a delightful adventure.

8. Galaxy Treats Blast Bars Around the World

8.1 Global Variations and Interpretations

Embark on a journey through the diverse galaxies of taste as we explore how Galaxy Treats Blast Bars take on unique forms across the globe. Each region adds its own flair, blending local ingredients and culinary traditions to create a fusion of flavors that’s nothing short of celestial.

North America:

In the United States and Canada, Galaxy Treats Blast Bars often showcase the classic combination of rich chocolate and velvety caramel, drawing inspiration from traditional candy bars. Some variations even include regional favorites like maple or pecans for an extra cosmic twist.

Europe:

As we venture into Europe, the Blast Bars embrace a more nuanced approach. European interpretations may feature layers of nougat, hazelnuts, and a touch of sea salt, offering a sophisticated blend of textures and tastes reminiscent of classic confections.

Asia:

In Asian countries, you’ll discover a fascinating interplay of sweet and savory. Galaxy Treats Blast Bars might incorporate exotic ingredients like matcha, lychee, or sesame, elevating the experience to a whole new level. The vibrant colors and bold flavors reflect the region’s culinary creativity.

8.2 Influences on International Cuisine

The influence of Galaxy Treats Blast Bars extends beyond the realm of desserts, making a mark on international cuisine. From dessert-inspired drinks to savory dishes, the impact is undeniable.

Culinary Innovation:

Galaxy Treats Blast Bars have inspired chefs worldwide to infuse their creativity into various culinary creations. Restaurants might offer Galaxy Treats-flavored milkshakes or incorporate the distinct colors and textures into plated desserts, turning the candy bar into a muse for culinary innovation.

Social Media and Culinary Trends:

The global popularity of Galaxy Treats Blast Bars is not just confined to the kitchen—it’s a social media sensation. Food influencers and chefs share their unique interpretations, inspiring others to experiment with these cosmic flavors. The result? A global community of culinary enthusiasts pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the kitchen.

Conclusion

As we reach the end of our cosmic journey through the delectable world of Galaxy Treats Blast Bars, it’s time to reflect on the stellar adventure we’ve experienced for our taste buds.

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German software giant SAP steps up efforts to cut down

Published

20 hours ago

December 8, 2023

HABIB ABBASI

KARACHI: German software giant German software, SAP, is introducing green solutions, including green ledgers, to cut down carbon footprint in the Middle East and Pakistan region to ensure and foster sustainability, the SAP regional chief said on Thursday.

Based in Walldorf, SAP develops enterprise software to manage business operations and customer relations. It ranks among one of the world’s leading enterprise resource planning (ERP) software vendors and publicly traded software companies by revenue.

The German firm collaborates with organizations, governments, and non-government organizations (NGOs) on a global scale to drive sustainability initiatives aimed at raising awareness, sharing best practices, and developing innovative solutions to tackle environmental challenges.

German software

“SAP is doing its due role especially into the sustainability sector. When we talk about the Middle East region and the Pakistan region, we are coming up with clear green solutions, we are coming up with green ledgers, and climate-friendly solutions,” Saquib Ahmad, the SAP managing-director for Pakistan, Iraq and Afghanistan, told Arab News, on the sidelines of a media roundtable in Karachi.

Ahmad terming climate change was one of the major issues and his organization with global footprint was coming up with solutions that could help and improve lives of the people in Pakistan.

“I think it’s very important to understand that we are working with the Government of Pakistan, we are working with the private sector and trying to make and ensure that such solutions are getting implemented which can help the current climate target that we are looking at currently,” he added.

About the ongoing UN climate conference, COP28, in Dubai, the SAP regional chief said it was a very important factor that the conference was taking place in the region and making it visible “because climate change is hitting this region in a very, very important way.”

“I think we can already see the impacts that has floods, that has bang in Pakistan. We are also seeing overall forest fires. We are talking about overall quality index of the air and all this is impacting Pakistan,” Ahmad said, adding the top SAP leadership was also attending the ongoing COP28.

“We are talking about how this COP28 can help the Pakistan government and the people of Pakistan in better maintaining climate change that is hitting our lives on a day-to-day basis.”

Pakistan last year witnessed one of the deadliest monsoon floods, blamed on climate change, which killed more than 1,700 people, affected nearly 33 million and caused over $30 million losses. In recent years, the South Asian country has also experienced frequent forest fires in its northwestern and southwestern regions.

SAP works with the concept of ‘intelligent enterprise,’ wherein advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and analytics are harnessed to create more sustainable business models, according to the official.

These tools enable the German software giant to improve resource efficiency, reduce energy consumption and make informed decisions that contribute to sustainability.

Ahmad said technology enabled organizations to address gaps in physical infrastructure.

“It connects globally and ensures timely decisions to be implemented across the landscape,” he said. “Pakistan, being a developing economy, stands to gain strong competitiveness in the region through technological prowess, fostering connections and collaboration for positive environmental impact.”

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s election regulator will issue a schedule for the upcoming national elections “in few days,” its top official said on Thursday, as the South Asian country gears up for the February 8 polls.

Elections were originally expected to take place in November after Pakistan’s national and two provincial assemblies were dissolved in August before reaching the end of their tenure. However, Pakistan’s election regulator decided to redraw hundreds of national and provincial constituencies based on a digital census carried out in April before arranging the electoral contest.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) later scheduled the voting process for the last week of January, before announcing Feb. 8 as the final date after consultations with the country’s President Dr. Arif Alvi on the Supreme Court’s instructions.

In his message on Voters Day, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja once again assured the masses that February 8 would be the polling day, dispelling speculation about further delay in the conduct of national elections.

“Election schedule will be issued in few days,” Raja said in a statement. “Polling [for the general election] will be held on February 8, 2024.”

As Pakistan gears up for the general elections, many analysts expect the polls to lead to the South Asian country to some stability after more than a year of political turmoil, following the ouster of ex-prime minister Imran Khan in a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022.

The CEC’s statement came a day after Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi said the federal cabinet did not have any “second thoughts” about holding the polls on February 8.

“The thing is, problems of security and the weather will always remain,” Solangi said in an interview. “But in the federal cabinet, there is no doubt, neither is there any worry nor any second thoughts that we would not hold elections on Feb. 8.”

Pakistan has seen a surge in militant attacks in its western regions bordering Afghanistan ever since a fragile truce between Islamabad and the Pakistani Taliban broke down in November 2022.

The Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam Pakistan (JUI-F), a prominent religious party, last month urged the ECP to delay polls till the security situation in the country improved.

Solangi said Pakistan had held elections in the past despite the threat of militancy, when the security situation was far worse.

“Maybe our memories are a bit weak,” he said. “What was the security situation in 2008 and 2013? If we compare it [to now] then it is nothing.

This week, the ECP also issued a directive for satellite television channels, warning them against airing speculative news about a delay in elections.

Reports suggested Sirajuddin Haqqani was issued Pakistani passport which he used to travel abroad, particularly to Qatar
Foreign office spokesperson acknowledges Pakistan has received ‘updated list’ of Afghans who are to be repatriated to US

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s foreign office on Thursday exercised caution in its response to media reports about Afghanistan interim interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani’s use of the Pakistani passport for international travel in the past.

Haqqani was issued a Pakistani passport for five years which he used to travel abroad, particularly to Qatar for negotiations with the United States (US) for the Doha Agreement that resulted in the US exit from Afghanistan, Pakistan’s The News and Jang newspapers reported.

The reports, citing interior ministry officials, said these passports were issued from different cities of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Sindh provinces, and Pakistani authorities had arrested two officials in connection with issuance of passport to Haqqani, one of whom had retired from service.

Asked about these reports, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, a spokesperson for the Pakistani foreign office, said she did not have “facts” to respond to the query.

“I have just seen the report in the Jang. I do not have the facts to respond to your question,” she said at a weekly press briefing. “Maybe I will be able to comment on some other occasion when I have more information.”

The name of Sirajuddin Haqqani, Afghanistan’s acting interior minister and the Taliban’s second-in-command, started echoing around the world in 2008 as a young commander of the most-feared Haqqani Network that was executing a series of deadly attacks on US-allied forces in Afghanistan.

The powerful Taliban commander made the headlines in March 2022 after he revealed his face in a rare public appearance in Kabul. He was attending the graduation ceremony of the first batch of police recruits at the National Defense Police Academy in Kabul since the Taliban took over the reins of Afghanistan in August 2021.

The reports about his travel on Pakistani passport come at a time of a series of visits to Pakistan by senior US officials, including Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration Julieta Valls Noyes, Special Representative on Afghanistan Thomas West, and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Elizabeth Horst.

These visits are part of ongoing dialogue with the US on a range of issues, including the situation in Afghanistan, according to the Pakistani foreign office.

The US has in the past accused Pakistan of backing the Afghan Taliban and not supporting Washington’s decades-long military campaign in Afghanistan the way the US wanted it to.

The allegations, denied by Islamabad, particularly soured ties between the two countries in 2021, following the hasty US exit from Afghanistan.

’Updated list’ of Afghan nationals to be repatriated to US

During the briefing, the foreign office spokesperson said Pakistan had received an “updated list” of Afghan nationals from the US and Islamabad was in touch with the US embassy for their repatriation to America.

“The meetings which are taking place today and have taken place in recent days are related to, yes, Afghanistan and Afghanistan related matters. There are some other bilateral aspects which may come up under discussion in coming days,” she said.

“With respect to the list that you have referred to, we have received an updated list from the US side and we are in contact with the American Embassy in developing the mechanics for the early repatriation of individuals on those lists to the United States.”

Pakistan has previously chosen to ignore individual calls from Western nations for the repatriation of Afghan nationals. This is the first time Islamabad has acknowledged having received a list of Afghans from a foreign country.

“We have already said that it is important that the process of verification and issuance of visas should be expedited and we hope that this process will be completed at the earliest,” Baloch said.

The development comes months after Islamabad asked all undocumented foreigners, mostly Afghans, to leave the country by Nov. 1, accusing that some of these Afghans had been involved in militant attacks and other offenses in Pakistan. Since the expiry of Nov. 1 deadline, Pakistan has launched a crackdown on all illegal foreigners and has been deporting them to their home countries.

Hundreds of thousands of Afghans have since left the South Asian country as Islamabad brushed aside calls from the United Nations (UN), Western embassies and rights groups to halt the deportations.

Pakistan exercises caution over reports of Afghan minister using its passport for international travel

Published

20 hours ago

December 8, 2023

HABIB ABBASI

Repo Foreign office spokesperson acknowledges Pakistan exercises Pakistan has received ‘updated list’ of Afghans who are to be repatriated to US

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s foreign Pakistan exercises office on Thursday exercised caution in its response to media reports about Afghanistan interim interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani’s use of the Pakistani passport for international travel in the past.

Asked about these reports, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, a spokesperson for the Pakistani foreign office, said she did not have “facts” to respond to the query.

These visits are part of ongoing dialogue with the US on a range of issues, including the situation in Afghanistan, according to the Pakistani foreign office.

The US has in the past accused Pakistan of backing the Afghan Taliban and not supporting Washington’s decades-long military campaign in Afghanistan the way the US wanted it to.

The allegations, denied by Islamabad, particularly soured ties between the two countries in 2021, following the hasty US exit from Afghanistan.

’Updated list’ of Afghan nationals to be repatriated to US

Hundreds of thousands of Afghans have since left the South Asian country as Islamabad brushed aside calls from the United Nations (UN), Western embassies and rights groups to halt the deportations.

Pakistan regulator to issue schedule for upcoming national elections ‘in few days’

“Election schedule will be issued in few days,” Raja said in a statement. “Polling [for the general election] will be held on February 8, 2024.”

The CEC’s statement came a day after Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi said the federal cabinet did not have any “second thoughts” about holding the polls on February 8.

Pakistan has seen a surge in militant attacks in its western regions bordering Afghanistan ever since a fragile truce between Islamabad and the Pakistani Taliban broke down in November 2022.

The Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam Pakistan (JUI-F), a prominent religious party, last month urged the ECP to delay polls till the security situation in the country improved.

Solangi said Pakistan had held elections in the past despite the threat of militancy, when the security situation was far worse.

“Maybe our memories are a bit weak,” he said. “What was the security situation in 2008 and 2013? If we compare it [to now] then it is nothing.

This week, the ECP also issued a directive for satellite television channels, warning them against airing speculative news about a delay in elections.

IMF board to meet on Jan. 11 for Pakistan loan program approval

Published

21 hours ago

December 8, 2023

HABIB ABBASI

The IMF last month said it had reached a staff-level agreement with Pakistan on the first review of a $3 billion bailout If approved by its board, the global lender will release IMF board a tranche of $700 million to the cash-strapped South Asian nation

The executive board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will meet on Jan. 11 to consider the final approval to hand out to Pakistan the next $700 million tranche of its loan program.

Last month, the IMF said it had reached a staff-level agreement with Pakistan on the first review of a $3 billion bailout, which will unlock $700 million in funding for the country.

The funds to be issued are a second tranche of the bailout, which is subject to an approval from the IMF’s executive board.

“We can confirm that the Board meeting for Pakistan will take place on January 11,” the IMF said in an emailed statement.

Pakistan has been facing an acute balance of payment crisis, with its foreign exchange reserves diminished, along with historically high inflation and an unprecedented currency devaluation.

Bloomberg News first reported on the IMF meeting.

Pakistani-Canadian horror flick ‘In Flames’ wins top award at Red Sea Film Festival

In Flames is Pakistan‘s submission to the Oscars‘ international feature category

Film has also played at festivals in Toronto, Busan, Sitges, Sao Paulo and Pingyao

ISLAMABAD: “In Flames,” Pakistan‘s submission to the Oscars‘ international feature category, has won the Golden Yusr for Best Feature Film at the 3rd edition of the Red Sea Film Festival, taking place in Jeddah from Nov. 30 to Dec. 9.

The gathering, which attracted Hollywood stars like Will Smith, Johnny Depp, Chris Hemsworth and Sharon Stone, on Thursday evening unveiled the winners of its Red Sea competition honors, the Yusr awards, as well as other prizes.

Pakistan-Canadian director and writer Zarrar Kahn said his indie movie was shot for “just $300,000 — the size of a Red Sea Fund production grant.”

“Everyone who gets a grant to go make a movie, because this was made for nothing,” he said.

Last month, In Flames won the International Newcomer Award at the 72nd International Film Festival Mannheim-Heidelberg. Earlier this year in May, the horror-drama became the second Pakistani film in 43 years to make it to Directors’ Fortnight, an event that runs parallel to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. In October, the film was independently released at the Atrium Cinemas in Pakistan’s southern Karachi city for a 12-day run which was later extended until November 9. The film has also played at festivals in Toronto, Busan, Sitges, Sao Paulo and Pingyao.

In an interview to Arab News earlier this month, actor Bakhtawar Mazhar described In Flames as a psychological thriller that follows the struggle of a mother (Mazhar) and her daughter (Ramesha Nawal) after the loss of the patriarch of the family. The film has been produced by Anam Abbas.

“Even though this film was shot in Karachi, women around the world were crying [after watching the film] and they were like, we know the struggle this character went through, we know the struggle of Fariha and Mariam,” Nawal told Arab News.

“In Flames” is also Pakistan’s official submission under the Foreign Language Film category for the 96th Academy Awards next year.

‘Prudent decision,’ says Pakistan as Denmark passes law to ban Qur’an burnings

Foreign minister says hopeful other European countries follow suit, pass similar laws
Over 500 demonstrations that included Quran burnings registered since July in Denmark

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani has said it was a “prudent decision” by Denmark’s parliament to pass a law this week making it illegal to burn the Qur’an in public places.

Denmark and Sweden experienced a series of public protests this year where anti-Islam activists burned or otherwise damaged copies of the Qur’an, triggering demands that the Nordic governments ban the practice. Over 500 demonstrations that included burnings of the Qur’an or flags have been registered since July, according to Denmark’s justice ministry.

“A prudent decision on the part of the Danish Parliament. Hope other European countries follow suit and pass similar legislation,” Jilani said on X on Thursday night, commenting on the new law. “Desecration of holy books of any faith is against the tenets of all religions, even under the guise of freedom of speech.”

Thursday’s vote on the law followed a five hour debate in parliament and 94 members voted in favour, 77 against.

Breaking the new law will be punishable by fines or up to two years in prison.

Denmark has sought to strike a balance between constitutionally protected freedom of speech, including the right to criticize religion, and national security amid fears that Qur’an burnings would trigger attacks by militants. But domestic critics in Sweden and Denmark have argued that any limitations on criticizing religion, including by burning Qur’an, undermine hard-fought liberal freedoms in the region.

Sweden is also considering how to prevent burning of the Qur’an but is looking at whether police should factor in national security when deciding on protest applications rather than a ban.

In Flames is Pakistan‘s submission to the Oscars‘ international feature category

Film has also played at festivals in Toronto, Busan, Sitges, Sao Paulo and Pingyao

Pakistan-Canadian director and writer Zarrar Kahn said his indie movie was shot for “just $300,000 — the size of a Red Sea Fund production grant.”

“Everyone who gets a grant to go make a movie, because this was made for nothing,” he said.

“In Flames” is also Pakistan’s official submission under the Foreign Language Film category for the 96th Academy Awards next year.

In a first, Pakistan unlocks Islamic bond market for retail investors with Ijarah Sukuk launch

Sukuk is an Islamic financial certificate that represents ownership in a tangible asset or a pool of assets
Pakistan plans to raise Rs90 billion in total from the stock market through three Ijarah Sukuk bond auctions

KARACHI: In a groundbreaking development, the Pakistani government on Friday unlocked the Islamic bond market for retail investors through an auction of the country’s first-ever sovereign Ijarah Sukuk bond at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), aiming to raise Rs30 billion ($105.8 million).

Sukuk is an Islamic financial certificate that represents ownership in a tangible asset or a pool of assets. It is similar to a bond but is structured in a way that complies with Islamic law, which prohibits interest-based transactions.

In connection with the launch of the first Ijarah Sukuk a ‘gong ceremony’ was held at the PSX in Karachi, which was attended by Caretaker Prime minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and Finace Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar.

“The auction gives PSX investors the chance to invest, contributing to a more diverse investor base,” said Shahid Ali Habib, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Karachi-based Arif Habib Limited brokerage house.

“The move also promises a substantial boost to the Islamic capital market in Pakistan.”

The tenure of the Ijarah Sukuk issued by Pakistan Domestic Sukuk Company Limited through the finance ministry is one year that will mature on December 09, 2024. The face value of a Sukuk is Rs5,000 ($17.6), according to a PSX document.

The bidding process for the auction of the Islamic bond will start at around 4pm today, on Friday, for which the process of registration had been completed. Joint financial and Shariah advisers for the issuance of the bond include Meezan Bank Limited, Dubai Islamic Bank (Pakistan) Limited, Bank Islami Pakistan Limited and Bank Alfalah Limited.

The federal government plans to raise an overall Rs90 billion ($315 million) with three Ijarah Sukuk auctions. The second auction is scheduled for January 23, 2024 and the third for February 20, 2024, according to the PSX auction calendar.

Habib said the issuance will help in developing Islamic capital market in the country and will encourage more investors to look for interest free avenues.

Experts also believe the auction has ended the monopoly of big banks who would earlier take part in the auctions.

“The Sukuk would now be in the access of common investor as compared to the past practice where only big banks or mutual fund would invest,” Ali Nawaz, CEO of Chase Securities, told Arab News.

Nawaz said investors now would be able to avail entire profit of their investment, without the involvement of any intermediaries.