IMF-Energy Talks: Energy Minister Awais Leghari says the IMF is blocking Pakistan’s off-peak electricity discount proposal, even as the government pushes energy reforms and plans a first comprehensive energy plan by April 2027. Power Policy & Clean Energy: Leghari also stressed Pakistan’s “flexibility problem” (moving midday solar to evening peak) and reiterated the push to reach 90% clean electricity by 2035, with battery storage central to the plan. Pakistan-Iran Trade Diplomacy: Pakistan and Iran reaffirmed a $10bn trade target in the 10th Joint Trade Committee in Islamabad, with both sides urging early completion of the free trade agreement and highlighting Karachi/Gwadar as key gateways. US-Iran Mediation Effort: Pakistan invited Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi and parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf to Islamabad to discuss restarting stalled US-Iran talks amid heightened regional tensions. China Loan Refinancing: Pakistan has asked China to fast-track refinancing of a $1.3bn commercial loan to ease FX pressure, with officials expecting an August inflow. Interior Reforms: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi approved a uniform nationwide system for police character certificates via the National Police Bureau and directed standardization for international driving permits. Overseas Pakistanis: The London High Commission launched a direct digital Punjab property transfer facility, letting overseas Pakistanis transfer without power of attorney. Security & Public Order: Chehlum security is in full swing nationwide with major traffic diversions in Lahore and heavy police deployment. Crime & Violence: A police officer was killed in Karachi in a shooting near Jamali Bridge, as attacks on law enforcement continue. Economy in Daily Life: Kerosene prices were cut after petrol and diesel reductions; gold dipped to Rs427,936 per tola. Sports: PCB appointed Michael Smith as Pakistan men’s batting coach on a two-year contract ahead of the England Tests.