The IT Minister stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has set a target of extending wired broadband internet to at least 10 million households within the next three years to improve digital connectivity. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2013161/it-minister-stresses-proposed-telecom-bill-needed-as-existing-laws-insufficient-for-5g-other-modern-tech, 05 Jul 2026]
322
Consider the following statements about the fuel price update of July 2026:
1. The new fuel prices became applicable on July 22, 2026.
2. The price of petrol was increased by a higher margin than the price of high-speed diesel.
3. The government cited renewed regional hostilities in the Persian Gulf as a reason for the price hike.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Statement 1 is correct as the notification specified July 22 as the effective date. Statement 3 is correct as the government cited Persian Gulf hostilities. Statement 2 is incorrect because petrol increased by Rs4.93, which is less than the Rs7.15 increase for diesel. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017311/govt-increases-petrol-price-by-rs493-diesel-by-rs715-per-litre, 21 Jul 2026]
323
Which international security doctrine explicitly identified the Persian Gulf as a vital interest area, justifying military intervention to protect energy supply routes?
The Carter Doctrine, articulated in 1980, established that any attempt by an outside force to gain control of the Persian Gulf region would be regarded as an assault on the vital interests of the United States, necessitating a military response.
Which of the following global governance institutions is primarily tasked with the oversight of international financial stability and the prevention of systemic economic crises?
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is the central institution in the global financial architecture, mandated to ensure the stability of the international monetary system through surveillance and financial assistance.
During his visit on June 23, 2026, the Iranian President identified which region as requiring a new security structure through intra-regional cooperation?
President Pezeshkian specifically highlighted West Asia and the Persian Gulf as the strategic regions where sustainable security must be ensured through regional cooperation. Other regions listed are geographically distinct from the focus of his diplomatic proposal. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2010220/hands-of-friendship-iran-president-calls-for-new-regional-security-structure-among-muslim-nations, 23 Jun 2026]
326
In the context of constitutional mechanisms, which doctrine defines the relationship between the executive branch and the legislature regarding the declaration of war?
War powers delegation refers to the constitutional arrangements that delineate how authority to initiate military conflict is shared or transferred between the executive and legislative branches of government.
Ali Pervaiz Malik is the Petroleum Minister who addressed the press conference regarding the new fuel pricing policy. Attaullah Tarar is the Information Minister, and Shehbaz Sharif is the Prime Minister. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2016227/govt-to-fix-fuel-prices-daily-due-to-renewed-hostilities-in-persian-gulf-petroleum-minister, 17 Jul 2026]
328
What is the primary geopolitical driver cited for the shift to daily fuel price adjustments in Pakistan?
The government explicitly linked the new pricing mechanism to the volatility caused by the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States. While other factors like currency fluctuation affect prices, the specific trigger for this policy change is the Persian Gulf conflict. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2016227/govt-to-fix-fuel-prices-daily-due-to-renewed-hostilities-in-persian-gulf-petroleum-minister, 17 Jul 2026]
329
Which of the following principles serves as the foundational basis for the collective security doctrine within the United Nations Charter?
Article 51 of the UN Charter provides the legal framework for collective self-defense, which is a cornerstone of international security doctrines, allowing states to act in response to armed attacks.
Which regional geopolitical framework primarily emphasizes the 'Shanghai Spirit' to foster cooperation on security, counter-terrorism, and economic development?
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is defined by the 'Shanghai Spirit,' which promotes mutual trust, equality, and cooperation in regional security and counter-terrorism efforts among its member states.
