Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is undergoing its most severe bleaching event ever, with 730 out of 1,000 reefs affected. This marks the fifth bleaching event in eight years. Climate change is identified as the biggest threat, and the extent of the damage and future recovery remains uncertain.

Apple CEO Tim Cook met with Indonesia’s president to discuss investing in the country’s tech sector. This move aligns with the US’s effort to diversify supply chains outside of China and cultivate trade partnerships in Asia. Cook acknowledged Indonesia’s market potential and announced plans to expand developer academies to tap into its young and tech-savvy population. Talks also took place with president-elect Prabowo Subianto, possibly regarding new Apple investments, including a smartphone factory.

A Russian strike in Chernigiv, Ukraine, resulted in the death of 11 individuals and left 20 wounded, highlighting Kyiv’s concerns about air defense capabilities. President Zelensky calls for more missiles to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses against future attacks. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to enhance air defense capabilities.

Pakistan’s rice exports have surged, surpassing last year’s achievements in just seven months. Rice shipments are expected to exceed 5 million tons for the first time in history, with projected exports of 5.5 million tons in 2023/24. Increased planting area and advancements in technology contribute to the growth.

Former Pakistani leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed has been appointed as the spin bowling coach for the Bangladesh cricket team. Ahmed’s extensive experience and expertise are expected to strengthen the team’s spin bowling department, contributing to their preparation for the upcoming T20 series against Zimbabwe and the T20 World Cup.

Inflation and energy price hikes have devastated SMEs in Pakistan, leading to bankruptcies and economic instability. Founder and President of IWCCI, Samina Fazil, emphasizes the urgent need for significant tax policy improvements to secure a brighter future for businesses in the country.

Former Pakistan leg-spinner and World Cup winner, Mushtaq Ahmed, has been appointed as the spin bowling coach for the Bangladesh cricket team. He brings extensive experience as a former coach for England, West Indies, and Pakistan. Mushtaq is thrilled to work with the talented players and aims to instill belief in the team.

Spanish tennis player Paula Badosa’s unwavering determination to continue her career despite health concerns serves as an inspiration. Ranked 62nd in the world, Badosa’s resilience and passion for the sport are commendable as she navigates the challenges of competing at the highest level while dealing with ongoing health issues.

Minister of Agriculture calls on federal government to set a support price for cotton in Pakistan, proposing a range of Rs10,000 to Rs11,000 per 40kg. Inadequate prices for cotton have left farmers in Sindh facing hardships, and a suitable support price is crucial for sustaining the textile industry and promoting agricultural growth.

Pakistan is optimistic about the visit of a high-level Saudi delegation, which is expected to result in several billion dollars of investments in various sectors of Pakistan’s economy, including Reko Diq. Efforts are being made to increase exports and sign a formal Free Trade Agreement with Saudi Arabia.