BusinessA World Bank report says Pakistan has made meaningful progress on fiscal federalism since 2010, but major weaknesses remain in spending assignments, tax design, transfers and local government financing.
WorldThe United States and Israel have signed an agreement to build a permanent US embassy compound in Jerusalem. The deal follows Washington’s 2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
NATIONALInterior Minister Mohsin Naqvi says cashless transactions are now operational at all passport offices across Pakistan. The move comes as the passport department advances a broader digital reform plan including a mobile app, QR payments and home delivery.
ISLAMABADThe ECP has said Islamabad’s local government polls were delayed for several reasons, including the federal government’s non-assistance. It has summoned the ICT chief commissioner and deputy commissioner to appear on July 7.
WorldA UN scientific panel has warned that AI development is outpacing scientific understanding and regulation, raising the risk of severe harm. It also flagged deceptive behaviour, weak oversight and growing misuse concerns.
WorldPresident Donald Trump said the US is getting along well with Iran as indirect talks began in Doha through mediators. He said denuclearisation discussions were moving positively, while Iran insisted no direct talks were taking place.
WorldKYIV: Ukrainian personnel carrying out long-range drone strikes inside Russia are operating under stringent secrecy, with hidden identities, encrypted communications and strict limits on daily life. AFP said the teams are targeting Russian fuel infrastructure as part of Kyiv’s retaliatory campaign.
WorldDonald Trump on Wednesday took his first flight aboard a Qatar-gifted Air Force One aircraft and defended the controversial arrangement. The luxury jet is expected to serve as a temporary presidential plane until Boeing delivers two new aircraft.
NATIONALTwo children were killed when lightning struck a house in Landi Kotal, while 20 female students were injured in a separate strike at a seminary in Upper Dir. Officials said the injured students were out of danger.
BusinessThe Sindh Revenue Board recorded its highest-ever annual collection at Rs370.064bn in FY2025-26, beating its target by nearly Rs8bn. Sales tax on services remained the main contributor, while June posted the board’s highest monthly collection on record.
TechnologyThe World Bank has approved a $70 million loan for Punjab’s Connected Punjab Programme to expand broadband, improve digital services and promote cashless payments. The wider investment package is valued at $278 million, including Punjab government funding.
NATIONALPakistan has urged India to free and repatriate 97 Pakistani prisoners who have completed their sentences. The request came as both countries exchanged updated prisoner lists under the 2008 consular access agreement.
