Daily Times Editorials 21th August 2026

Sweet Shift

The government’s decision to export 108,000 metric tons of sugar from the stocks held by the Trading Corporation of Pakistan is a welcome step for the millers, not farmers. It can help reduce government-held stocks and may bring some relief to the market. The Economic Coordination Committee approved the export through international tenders under the rules of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority.Booking Historical Guided Tours

The sugar is part of the remaining stock from around 300,000 metric tons imported last year. This is where the government needs to ask a basic question: why did Pakistan need to import sugar in the first place?

Exporting surplus sugar can be a sensible decision when domestic supplies are sufficient. However, importing sugar because local production is weak and then later exporting the surplus reflects a problem in policy and planning. Pakistan should aim to produce enough sugar for its own needs and create a stable surplus for export.

The real solution lies with farmers. The government should give stronger incentives to sugarcane growers so that they can increase production and improve the quality of their crop. Better seeds, affordable inputs, modern farming methods, water management and timely payments can make a major difference.

At the same time, policies should not simply provide more benefits to sugar mills. Farmers must receive a fair return for their crop. If the government wants Pakistan to become a regular sugar exporter, the incentives should begin at the farm level.

The sugar industry can contribute to the economy, but its growth should not come at the cost of farmers or consumers. The government must also ensure transparency in sugar exports and prevent artificial shortages that can push up domestic prices.

The ECC’s decision is therefore positive, but it should be part of a bigger policy. Sugar export is good when Pakistan has a genuine surplus. Sugar import should not become the easy answer to poor planning.

Syria’s Symphony

Pakistan and Syria are trying to give their relationship a fresh start. The visit of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani to Islamabad is important because it is the first foreign minister-level visit from Syria to Pakistan in almost 20 years.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held talks with Al-Shaibani on Thursday. The two sides discussed ways to improve political, economic and diplomatic cooperation. They also exchanged views on regional developments and other issues of common interest.

Syria is going through a difficult period and is trying to rebuild its institutions and economy. Pakistan, meanwhile, has consistently supported Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Islamabad has also called for an end to actions that could further destabilise the region.

The two ministers are also expected to discuss regional and international issues. The situation in the Middle East, Israeli military actions and the wider security environment are likely to remain important subjects.Geographic Reference

Pakistan recently condemned Israeli strikes on a Syrian military facility in Idlib, describing them as a violation of international law. Islamabad has warned that continued military action could deepen instability and increase the risk of a wider conflict.

Pakistan should use this opening to support Syria without becoming involved in rivalries. A balanced policy can protect Pakistan’s interests while helping promote stability. For Syria, ties with Pakistan can provide a channel for diplomatic engagement and economic cooperation. Regular contact will matter than symbolic visits.

Pakistan and Syria have longstanding political ties, but those ties need stronger economic and institutional foundations.

If the visit produces concrete agreements and regular engagement, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Pakistan-Syria relations. *