Talks between the United States and Iran to firm up a still shaky ceasefire began in the Pakistani capital today. However, the United Arab Emirates is withdrawing US$ 3.5 billion (over a fifth of Pakistan's reserves) to put political pressure on the South Asian country. For Archbishop Joseph Arshad of Islamabad-Rawalpindi, “war and conflict cause immense suffering” and this needs “solutions to problems through wisdom, tolerance and dialogue.”

Talks between Washington and Tehran will take place in Islamabad on Friday after threats of escalation. China has applied pressure, consolidating its influence in the region. Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir has played a crucial role. Uncertainties remain regarding the actual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the Israeli-Lebanon front. Pakistani Christians tell AsiaNews that they are praying for lasting “peace and prosperity”.

The accident occurred while a group of worshippers were on their way to a Easter vigil. The vehicle drove into the crowd at high speed. Following the incident, the local Catholic community protested the police failure to deploy officers to protect the celebration.

New Beijing-mediated talks took place today in Xinjiang to halt fighting along the Pakistan-Afghan border. Meanwhile, Islamabad is positioning itself as a mediator in the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran, after presenting a tentative ceasefire initiative, with Chinese backing.

The marriage of Maria Bibi of Lahore has been upheld, following an apparent conversion to Islam. Her father's appeal for her release has been rejected. Activists and the local Church are outraged. The Bishop of Faisalabad slams loopholes in the law, calling for urgent reforms to set the marriage age at 18 and boost the protection of minors.

Two weeks after his appointment, the installation ceremony was held for the Capuchin prelate, formerly Apostolic Vicar of Quetta. “I stand before you with humility and gratitude, ready to be guided by God.” This was the warning from Archbishop Travas, who has served as apostolic administrator of this Church for the past two years: “Beware of those who use you for their own interests and agendas.”