Overview

• Government officials plan to sign agreements today with 18 banks to raise Rs1,275 billion to cut circular debt, with repayments over 24 quarterly installments funded through consumer surcharges as the prime minister joins virtually and IFIs observe.
• World Bank findings show national poverty has climbed to 25.3% in FY2024–25, reversing earlier declines due to COVID-19, high inflation, floods and structural weaknesses such as pervasive informal employment.
• The UK Department for Transport granted Pakistan International Airlines permanent clearance for direct cargo flights after five years, with approval also issued for resuming passenger services thereafter.
• The White House signaled possible institutional sanctions against the International Criminal Court over investigations involving Israel, as court officials convened and prepared contingency measures.
• An OIC contact-group meeting at the UN General Assembly reviewed deteriorating conditions in Indian‑administered Kashmir with Pakistan urging pressure on India, while rail operations on the Jaffer Express remained suspended after the Dasht blast and Sindh held by-elections under tight security.