1. Escalating Violence in Balochistan: 2. Pakistan's Imminent Carbon Levy and IMF Agreement: 3. Bangladesh Seeks Reduced Interest Rates from China: 4. US Interest in Supplying Military Hardware to Bangladesh: 5. Adani Power Restores Electricity Supply to Bangladesh: 7. Sri Lankan Navy Arrests Indian Fishermen for Poaching: 8. Pro-Monarchist Groups Threaten Escalated Protests in Nepal:

 

1. Escalating Violence in Balochistan:

Terror incidents in Balochistan have resulted in at least eight fatalities, 17 injuries, and three abductions. A Thursday bomb attack in Quetta's Barest Market, targeting a police vehicle with an IED concealed in a motorcycle, caused two deaths and injured 17. This followed a Wednesday night attack in Gwadar district where insurgents killed six passengers on a bus and abducted three, subsequently fleeing into the mountainous terrain. The condition of four injured individuals from the Quetta blast remains critical.

2. Pakistan's Imminent Carbon Levy and IMF Agreement:

Pakistan is preparing for increased taxation as a carbon levy is anticipated following a new $1.3 billion agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) aimed at addressing climate change. Officials confirmed that the IMF has also approved the disbursement of the second tranche, approximately $1 billion, from the existing $7 billion loan program.

3. Bangladesh Seeks Reduced Interest Rates from China:

Bangladesh's Chief Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, attending the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference in Hainan, has appealed to China to lower interest rates on its loans and waive commitment fees for Chinese-funded projects. During a meeting with Chinese Executive Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, Yunus requested support for various development initiatives, advocating for a reduction in interest rates from three percent to between one and two percent. He is scheduled to meet President Xi Jinping to further discuss these matters.

4. US Interest in Supplying Military Hardware to Bangladesh:

The United States has expressed strong interest in providing military hardware to the Bangladesh Army, emphasizing its importance for regional security. During a 24-hour visit to Dhaka, US Army Deputy Commanding General for the Pacific, Lieutenant General Joel 'JB' Vowell, discussed shared security interests and ongoing collaboration with Bangladeshi military officials. They highlighted the potential acquisition of US-origin equipment to enhance interoperability and capabilities, also acknowledging the Bangladesh Army's role in domestic security, particularly in disaster response.

5. Adani Power Restores Electricity Supply to Bangladesh:

Adani Power Ltd. has resumed full electricity supply to Bangladesh following the resumption of regular payments, according to Rezaul Karim, chairman of the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB). The supply, previously halved due to payment delays, has been restored as BPDB anticipates reducing outstanding dues from over USD 850 million to USD 800 million within six months. This restoration is crucial for Bangladesh, especially during peak summer months when temperatures exceed 38 degrees Celsius.

6. India's Commitment to Strengthening Ties with Bangladesh:

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India's commitment to advancing India-Bangladesh relations, emphasizing mutual interests in regional stability and cooperative partnerships.

7. Sri Lankan Navy Arrests Indian Fishermen for Poaching:

The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 11 Indian fishermen and seized their trawler for alleged poaching in Sri Lankan waters. The arrests occurred during a "special operation" in the northern sea area off Delft Island. The detained fishermen have been brought to Kankasanthurei Harbour and will be handed over to the fisheries inspector of Mailadi for legal proceedings, highlighting the ongoing issue of inadvertent trespassing by fishermen from both nations.

8. Pro-Monarchist Groups Threaten Escalated Protests in Nepal:

Pro-monarchist groups in Nepal have threatened to intensify protests demanding the restoration of the monarchy if the government fails to reach an agreement within a week. Convenor Nabaraj Subedi stated their commitment to escalating demonstrations. The newly formed Joint People’s Movement Committee plans a rally near Tribhuvan International Airport, while the Socialist Forum, representing pro-republic parties, will stage a counter-demonstration in Kathmandu to defend the republic.