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Pakistan’s Eurobond Yields Drop Following Credit Rating Upgrade

Pakistan’s Eurobond yields have declined across all maturities after a recent sovereign credit rating upgrade. The yield on the 2025 bond dropped to 13.3%, while the 2026 bond fell to 12.6%. Longer-term bonds, such as those maturing in 2031, 2036, and 2051, also saw noticeable decreases in yields, reflecting improved investor confidence.

The decline in yields signals a positive shift in investor sentiment following the rating agency’s improved outlook on Pakistan’s fiscal management and external financing capabilities. The trend indicates increased optimism about the country’s economic trajectory and ability to meet debt obligations over time.

Pakistan’s Eurobond yields fell sharply across all maturities after a credit rating upgrade. The drop reflects enhanced investor confidence in the country’s fiscal health and debt management. Bonds maturing in 2025, 2026, 2031, 2036, and 2051 all posted lower yields amid optimism over Pakistan’s economic prospects.
Eurobonds, credit rating upgrade, investor confidence

Bank Islami Launches 0% Short-Term Auto Finance Plan for Inverex Electric Vehicles

Bank Islami has introduced an exclusive 0% short-term auto financing offer for Inverex electric vehicles (EVs), aiming to boost eco-friendly transportation in Pakistan. This financing option is designed for customers seeking affordable, interest-free installment plans while contributing to a greener future. The initiative is part of Bank Islami’s broader commitment to sustainable finance and technological advancement.

Inverex, known for its solar and renewable energy products, recently ventured into the EV market with the launch of compact electric cars tailored for urban commuters. Through this partnership, both entities aim to make EV ownership more accessible to the public by reducing upfront financial burdens and promoting clean energy solutions.

Bank Islami has launched a 0% short-term auto finance offer for Inverex electric vehicles, aiming to promote affordable green mobility in Pakistan. The partnership supports EV adoption by offering interest-free payment plans, making eco-friendly transport more accessible to the public.

Bank Islami, Electric Vehicles, Green Financing

Lahore’s Iconic Liberty Cinema Gears Up for Grand Revival

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Lahore is set to welcome back its legendary Liberty Cinema, located in the historic heart of the city, as renovation work is now underway. Once known as the “Showplace of the Nation,” the single-screen theatre aims to revive communal film culture for grown-ups and new audiences alike.

The restoration is viewed as a nostalgic nod to the Golden Age of cinema, as well as an effort to offer affordable and accessible screenings amid rising multiplex ticket prices. While reopening timelines and programming details haven’t yet been released, buzz is building. The revitalized venue is expected to feature both classic film screenings and contemporary releases—bridging generations through the shared love of the big-screen experience.

Lahore’s historic Liberty Cinema is undergoing renovation and preparing to reopen, reviving its reputation as a beloved single-screen venue. The project seeks to restore communal spectacle, offer affordable cinema access, and screen a mix of classics and new releases. Excitement and nostalgia are growing among local audiences.

heritage cinema, Lahore city news, cultural revival

Government Shortlists 30 Candidates for Top Roles in Key Ministries

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The federal government has finalized a shortlist of 30 individuals for top-level appointments across crucial ministries and divisions. These candidates were selected based on qualifications and experience from a larger pool of applicants. The selection process is part of ongoing efforts to bring competent professionals into leadership roles to improve governance and institutional performance.

The selected candidates are now under final review before formal appointment. These roles include strategic positions in finance, planning, energy, and other vital sectors. Officials emphasized transparency and merit in the selection procedure, which aligns with the government’s broader institutional reform agenda.

The federal government has shortlisted 30 candidates for senior positions in key ministries, aiming to boost governance through merit-based appointments. These candidates, chosen from a large pool, will undergo final review before official confirmation. The move is part of a broader effort to enhance institutional efficiency and leadership quality.

government appointments, civil service reform, key ministries

Babar, Rizwan Back for West Indies ODIs

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The Pakistan Cricket Board has unveiled the ODI squad for the upcoming series against the West Indies, marking the return of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to the national setup. Both players were rested during the previous ODI assignment but now rejoin to bolster the team’s batting strength.

Young pacer Shahnawaz Dahani and spinner Usama Mir also make a comeback, while the squad reflects a mix of experience and emerging talent. Selectors aim to strengthen the team’s preparation for future ICC events, focusing on player fitness and form ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Head Coach Gary Kirsten expressed confidence in the squad’s composition, emphasizing the value of consistency and leadership brought by returning seniors. The ODI series is expected to serve as a platform for testing combinations and refining strategies.

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan return to Pakistan’s ODI squad for the West Indies series, strengthening the batting lineup. Shahnawaz Dahani and Usama Mir also rejoin the side. The selection blends experienced players with new talent, aiming to prepare a balanced team ahead of major international cricket tournaments.

cricket news,pakistan vs west indies,babar azam

Govt Considers Dissolving NAPHDA, Jeopardizing Low-Income Housing Projects

The government is reportedly planning to dissolve the National Affordable Housing Development Authority (NAPHDA), raising concerns about the future of low-income housing projects across the country. Established to facilitate affordable housing under various schemes, NAPHDA’s dissolution could halt ongoing developments and undermine efforts to provide shelter to marginalized communities.

The move is said to be part of a broader restructuring plan within the housing sector, aimed at reducing administrative overlaps and financial burdens. However, critics argue that such a decision could delay or derail housing commitments made to the public, particularly under flagship welfare programs. Stakeholders are urging the government to reconsider or provide a clear alternative to ensure the continuity of affordable housing initiatives.

The government plans to dissolve NAPHDA, a key institution for affordable housing, sparking fears about the future of low-income housing projects. The move, part of a sectoral overhaul, may stall ongoing development and disrupt shelter initiatives for underprivileged communities unless alternative frameworks are swiftly introduced.

NAPHDA dissolution, affordable housing crisis, government restructuring

Shaheen Afridi Set for Pakistan T20I Comeback as Selectors Finalize Plans

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Shaheen Afridi is likely to return to Pakistan’s T20I setup, with selectors close to giving the left-arm pacer the green light for the next international window. He has reportedly cleared fitness assessments and shown sharp form in domestic cricket, while the management prepares a workload plan to ease him back.

The selection committee is understood to be aligning with medical and coaching staff on how many matches he should play initially, aiming to balance impact with long-term fitness. His inclusion would immediately bolster Pakistan’s powerplay and death-overs options, areas that have lacked consistency lately.

An official squad announcement is expected soon, once final consultations with team management are complete.

Shaheen Afridi is poised to rejoin Pakistan’s T20I squad as selectors finalize plans for the next window. The left-arm pacer has cleared fitness tests and impressed domestically, with workload management guiding his return. An official PCB announcement is expected soon, pending final medical clearance and captaincy consultations with team management.

Pakistan cricket, Shaheen Afridi, T20I squad

AirSial to Launch Weekly Flights to Dubai from Sialkot Airport

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AirSial is expanding its international network by introducing weekly direct flights between Sialkot and Dubai. This new route aims to improve travel options for passengers from Punjab’s export hub, offering greater convenience for both business and leisure travelers. The service is set to enhance connectivity and support regional economic activity.

AirSial will start weekly direct flights from Sialkot to Dubai, aiming to boost travel convenience for passengers from Punjab. This move supports business and leisure travel, strengthens regional connectivity, and reflects AirSial’s growing international presence.

aviation, AirSial expansion, Pakistan-UAE flights

PIA Introduces Direct Flights to Saudi Arabia from Quetta

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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is expanding its international operations by launching direct flights from Quetta to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This move aims to facilitate passengers in Balochistan, particularly for religious travel and business purposes. The first flight is scheduled for July 28, with weekly services planned every Sunday.

The initiative marks a significant step toward improving connectivity for Quetta residents, reducing their need to travel to larger cities like Karachi or Islamabad for international flights. Officials hope this addition will boost regional economic activity and offer greater convenience for pilgrims heading to Saudi Arabia for Umrah and Hajj.

PIA is also focusing on improving service quality and restoring passenger confidence by expanding its route network. The airline continues to explore more international destinations from different cities across Pakistan.

PIA is launching weekly direct flights from Quetta to Jeddah, starting July 28, to improve travel access for Balochistan residents. The initiative supports religious and business travel while boosting local connectivity. This expansion is part of PIA’s broader strategy to revitalize its international operations.
PIA expansion, Quetta-Jeddah flights, Saudi travel Pakistan

Border Tensions Erupt into Gunfire Between Thai and Cambodian Forces

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Armed clashes broke out between Thai and Cambodian soldiers along their disputed border, escalating long-standing territorial tensions. Both sides exchanged gunfire near a contested area claimed by each nation, with reports of injuries but no confirmed fatalities. The skirmish triggered local evacuations and prompted calls for restraint from both governments.

Officials from both countries have accused each other of initiating the confrontation. Military reinforcements have been deployed, and diplomatic channels have been activated to prevent further escalation. The border dispute, rooted in historical claims, has been a recurring flashpoint, though full-scale conflict has been previously avoided.

Thai and Cambodian troops exchanged gunfire along a disputed stretch of their shared border, reigniting regional tensions. While casualties remain unconfirmed, both countries have blamed each other for the incident and dispatched reinforcements. The skirmish highlights the volatility of long-standing territorial disputes in Southeast Asia.

border clashes, Southeast Asia tensions, Thailand-Cambodia conflict