Poverty As A Weapon: The Hidden War On Pakistan’s Tribal Belt – OpEd

U.S’ Most Stupid Decision Ever? Trade Deal With India Stalled As US Reaches ‘Understanding’ with Pak

In a major breakthrough just days before the July 9 deadline, Pakistan and the United States have reached an understanding on a crucial trade and tariff agreement. Led by Commerce Secretary Jawad Paal, the Pakistani delegation held four days of negotiations in Washington aimed at avoiding the re-imposition of a 29% tariff on key exports like textiles and agricultural products. While a formal announcement awaits the conclusion of similar talks with other U.S. partners, officials confirm that a broad framework has been agreed upon. The deal is expected to unlock access to the U.S. market, secure tariff relief, and attract potential American investment in Pakistan’s mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors — especially Reko Diq. The understanding also opens doors to cooperation with the U.S. Export-Import Bank. Both sides now look to reset strained economic ties dating back to the Trump-era tariff hikes, giving exporters and investors renewed confidence. #pakistanusdeal #tariffagreement #rekoDiq #uspakistantrade #exports #jawadpaal #uscommerce #textileexports #agriexports #pakusrelations #mininginvestment #energydeal #bilateralties #pakusnews #exportimportbank #usinvestments #pakistaneconomy #tradetalks #tariffrelief #july9deadline ~GR.125~HT.408~

'Choose Friendship’: Kabul’s First Reaction As Russia Becomes First To Recognize Taliban Government

In a historic and controversial move, Russia has become the first nation to officially recognise the Taliban government in Afghanistan. The announcement was met with cautious optimism on the streets of Kabul, where many Afghans are now urging neighboring powers like Iran, Pakistan, and India to “choose friendship” over continued conflict. Locals say the recognition brings hope for stability, economic revival, and an end to international isolation. “War brings only destruction. We want peace and cooperation,” said Ahmad Zia Popal, a Kabul resident. The Taliban, still sanctioned by the West and condemned for its human rights record—especially on women’s rights—called Russia’s decision “courageous” and a model for others. While global criticism looms, many ordinary Afghans see this as a turning point. Moscow’s move also raises geopolitical questions as it deepens its footprint in the region amid growing tensions with the West. #RussiaTaliban #TalibanRecognition #AfghanistanNews #KabulVoices #PutinTaliban #RussiaAfghanistanTies #Geopolitics #TalibanRule #AfghanPeople #RegionalPeace #IndiaPakistanAfghanistan #AfghanPeace #MiddleEastNews #IranTaliban #RussiaInAsia #GlobalDiplomacy #FriendshipNotWar #AfghanistanFuture #WorldNews #TalibanGovernment ~HT.318~ED.102~PR.152~