US President Donald Trump and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani spoke by phone on Friday, with Qatar's mediation and energy security on the agenda.
Vessels carrying imported fertiliser are waiting at Karachi Port, and industry sources warn that late phosphate supplies could cut the 2027 wheat harvest and raise flour prices.
Shehbaz Sharif ordered that pumps refusing to serve registered beneficiaries lose their licences, while officials said Rs28.6 billion had been paid out by Nov 4.
The Election Commission set the date after a hearing in which the Punjab government asked for polls after January 20, citing winter fog, cold weather and the time needed for preparations.
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