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On this day…

Good morning and welcome to The Blue Express! As we step into another day, let's take a moment to reflect on some of the significant historical events that occurred on July 7th:

• 1929: Vatican City Becomes a Sovereign State: The Lateran Treaty established Vatican City as an independent state.

• 1942: The Battle of Midway Ends: The U.S. secured a decisive victory in the Battle of Midway during World War II.

• 1977: Apple II Release: Apple launched the Apple II, sparking the personal computer revolution.

• 1982: Graceland Opens to the Public: Elvis Presley's home, Graceland, was opened as a museum.

• 1991: Mount Pinatubo Eruption Begins: The eruption of Mount Pinatubo started, becoming one of the largest eruptions of the 20th century.

Open Market Forex Rates

Data is provided by Link Exchange

Todays Gold and Silver prices

Gold Prices (per Tola) in Pakistan:

• 24 Karat: PKR 244,700​

• 22 Karat: PKR 224,200

• 21 Karat: PKR 214,150

• 18 Karat: PKR 183,225

Silver Prices (per Tola) in Pakistan:

• Silver: PKR 2,550

  *These prices are consistent across major cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi with minor variations

Data is provided by Waseem Jewellers

WORLD

President Biden Addresses Concerns on Mental Fitness and Electability

• Challenges to Biden's Fitness: President Joe Biden addressed concerns about his mental fitness and electability in a critical ABC interview, following a lackluster debate performance that sparked calls for him to withdraw from the re-election bid.

• Health and Performance: Biden attributed his sub-par debate performance to illness, stating he had a bad cold. Despite criticisms, he asserted his capability to lead, dismissing calls for cognitive assessments and emphasizing daily cognitive tests.

• Political Response and Campaign Strategy: Despite growing pressure within his party, Biden affirmed his commitment to stay in the race, pushing back against suggestions of withdrawal. His campaign has intensified efforts, including an aggressive travel schedule and rally appearances.

• Public and Political Reaction: Post-debate polls showing Trump gaining ground, coupled with internal Democratic dissent, reflect ongoing challenges for Biden's campaign. The interview underscored divisions within the party regarding his candidacy and future electoral strategy.

Key Highlights from Iran's Presidential Election Runoff

• Candidates and Their Stances: Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, advocating for improved ties with the West, faced off against ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, known for his staunch anti-Western positions. Jalili mobilized hardline support and criticized previous moderate policies, especially the 2015 nuclear deal which he deemed unfavorable to Iran.

• Low Voter Turnout and Supreme Leader's Call: Only 40% of eligible voters participated in the first round, prompting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to stress the importance of higher participation in the runoff. Khamenei's comments aimed to bolster public confidence in the electoral process amidst concerns over legitimacy and voter engagement.

• Campaign Focus and Debates: Televised debates between Pezeshkian and Jalili centered on economic challenges, international relations, and social policies like women's rights and internet freedoms. The debates highlighted contrasting views on Iran's strategic direction, with Jalili advocating for a more confrontational stance against Western powers.

PAKISTAN

Flash Flood Warning Amid Torrential Rains

• NDMA Warning: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a flash flood warning due to ongoing torrential rains.

• Regions Affected: Potential flash floods in local streams in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Narowal, Murree, Galliyat, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Dir, Swat, Kashmir, and the hill torrents of D.G. Khan and Rajanpur.

• Urban Flooding Risk: Urban flooding is anticipated in major cities including Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar.

• Public Advisory: The NDMA urges the public to stay informed, follow local authorities' instructions, and download the ‘Pak NDMA Disaster Alert’ mobile app for timely updates.

BYD Enters Pakistan's EV Market: Opportunities and Outlook

• BYD's Entry in Pakistan: China's BYD, in collaboration with Hub Power Company Ltd (Hubco), aims to locally assemble electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan, potentially boosting exports.

• Global Market Shift: With restrictions in North America and Europe, China is targeting new EV markets such as the Middle East, Far East Asia, and Australia. Pakistan can benefit by converting internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs.

• Cost and Benefits: Contrary to popular belief, the breakeven period for EVs versus petrol/diesel vehicles is 1.8 years, considering acquisition, operational, and maintenance costs. Pakistan's duty structure supports CKD EVs and hybrids, making EV production feasible.

• Future Prospects and Infrastructure: The adoption rate of EVs in Pakistan is expected to rise rapidly. Foreign and local investors are awaiting a conducive environment to develop the necessary charging infrastructure, integrating with high-growth domestic solar charging solutions.

Muharram moon not sighted today

• Committee Meeting: The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee met in Quetta today to sight the Muharram crescent.

• PMD Forecast: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had predicted that the Muharram moon was unlikely to be sighted.

• Outcome: The committee confirmed that the Muharram moon was not sighted today.

• Weather Conditions: Partly cloudy to cloudy weather in most parts of the country contributed to the moon not being visible.

Punjab Government Imposes Section 144 During Muharram for Public Safety

• Section 144 Imposed: The Punjab government has enforced Section 144 across the province during the first 10 days of Muharram due to potential threats to public tranquility, sectarian harmony, and general law and order.

• Prohibitions Announced: The order bans innovations at processions, display of arms, hate speeches, distribution of sectarian material, and occupation of rooftops along procession routes. Pillion riding is also banned from Muharram 7-10, except for senior citizens, women, and law enforcement agencies.

• Security Measures: The Punjab government has requested the deployment of 150 Pakistan Army and Rangers companies to maintain law and order, and has also sought the suspension of six social media platforms during Muharram, pending a decision by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Miftah Ismail and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Launch Awaam Pakistan to Address National Crises

• Launch of Awaam Pakistan: Former PML-N leaders Miftah Ismail and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi launched a new political party, Awaam Pakistan, aimed at addressing the country's crises and promoting equal economic opportunities.

• Party Vision and Structure: Awaam Pakistan opposes hereditary politics and dynasties, promising no senior member will serve more than two terms and no family succession.

• Addressing Pakistan’s Challenges: The leaders highlighted Pakistan's struggles, including high poverty rates, malnutrition, and poor education outcomes, emphasizing their party’s commitment to providing opportunities and improving these conditions.

• Commitment to Constitutional Values: The party is firmly rooted in Pakistan’s Constitution and parliamentary democracy, with plans to release a mission statement outlining specific goals and policies to address the country's issues.

22 brigadiers promoted as major general

• Diverse Corps Representation: Newly promoted brigadiers come from various corps including Armed Corps, Artillery, Air Defence, Aviation, Infantry Corps, Military Intelligence, and EME (Electrical and Mechanical Engineering).

• Significant Appointments: The promotions include officers serving as military secretaries to the President and the Prime Minister, highlighting their crucial roles within the military hierarchy.

• Prominent Names: Among those promoted are Brigadier Adnan Sultan, Brigadier Usman Kiyani, Brigadier Imran Sartaj, Brigadier Yahya Usman, Brigadier Mehr Omer, Brigadier Imtiaz Gillani, and several others, reflecting a broad spectrum of talent and leadership within the army.

BUSINESS

Elon Musk Seeks Dismissal of Lawsuit Over Delayed Disclosure of Twitter Stake

• Lawsuit Details: Elon Musk is seeking to dismiss a lawsuit by former Twitter shareholders who allege he delayed disclosing his 9.2% stake in Twitter, violating SEC rules and causing them financial harm. They claim Musk's delay allowed him to buy more shares at lower prices, saving over $200 million.

• Musk's Defense: Musk argues that the delay in disclosing his stake was due to a misunderstanding of SEC rules, not an attempt to defraud shareholders. He asserts that he intended to disclose his stake by the end of 2022 but did so promptly upon realizing his mistake, emphasizing it was not a deliberate scheme.

• Legal Proceedings: The lawsuit, led by an Oklahoma public pension fund, alleges that Musk, along with his wealth manager Jared Birchall, knowingly withheld information about his Twitter stake to exploit market conditions. The case has drawn attention due to Musk's high-profile status and the financial implications involved.

• SEC Involvement: The SEC has reportedly investigated Musk's Twitter stock purchases. Despite Musk's arguments, earlier court findings suggest evidence that Musk was aware of SEC disclosure requirements, complicating his defense in the ongoing legal battle.

Salaried class protests against “unfair“ tax

• Massive Protest in Islamabad Hundreds of employees from various private companies staged a protest in Islamabad's Blue Area against the recently announced budget for 2024-25, which has imposed additional taxes on the salaried class, further burdening inflation-hit citizens.

• Company President's Statement The president of the protesting private company expressed deep concern over the new taxes, stating that the salaried class is already struggling with inflation. He emphasized the need for the government to revise the tax policy, warning that many citizens are considering leaving the country due to the financial strain.

• Appeal for Tax Withdrawal Protestors are urging the government to withdraw the newly imposed taxes, arguing that the increased financial burden is unbearable for ordinary citizens. They highlighted that the current economic policies are unsustainable for the salaried class.

• Government Accountability Questioned In a post-budget press briefing last month, Finance Minister and other officials faced tough questions from journalists. A reporter criticized the government's fiscal policies, pointing out the discrepancy between harsh penalties for ordinary citizens and the lack of accountability for high-ranking officials with unexplained wealth, as revealed in the Dubai Leaks.

TECHNOLOGY

Government Allocates Over Rs. 18.718 Billion for Technology Park Projects

• Establishment of Technology Park in Islamabad The Technology Park in Islamabad is set to become a state-of-the-art facility that fosters collaboration, innovation, and product development. It aims to create a cohesive environment among academia, research, industry, and planners both locally and internationally. The park will focus on the commercialization of knowledge through managing innovations, providing business support services, promoting entrepreneurship, and offering consultancy services. It will also provide essential IT-enabled office space and facilities to IT companies registered with the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB).

• Development of IT Park in Karachi The IT Park in Karachi is designed to act as a catalyst for creating job and business opportunities, especially targeting the youth. This initiative is part of the government's broader strategy to stimulate economic growth and employment in the IT sector.

• Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) Funding The government has allocated a total of Rs. 28,929 million for the financial year 2024-25 for ongoing and new schemes under the Information Technology and Telecom Division. This includes Rs. 23,535 million for 16 ongoing schemes and Rs. 5,394 million for five new schemes. Notable allocations include Rs. 300 million for Smart Office Federal Ministries Department (NITB), Rs. 1000 million for Cyber Security for Digital Pakistan (NTISB), and Rs. 2000 million for Prime Minister’s Initiatives-Support for IT Startups, Specialized IT Training, and Venture Capital (IGNITE & PSEB).

• New Schemes and Investments For new schemes, significant allocations include Rs. 3500 million for the Digital Economy Enhancement Project (WB Funded), Rs. 800 million for the National Semiconductor HR Development Program (NSHRDP) Phase-I, Rs. 194 million for the Expansion of Cellular Services in AJK and GB Phase-IV, and Rs. 800 million for Revamping the IT Industry Landscape. These investments highlight the government's commitment to advancing the digital economy and IT infrastructure in Pakistan.TikTok Introduces 'Genie': A New AI Chatbot with Advanced Features

TikTok intruduced Genie: An Ai Chatbot

• Introduction of 'Genie' AI Chatbot: TikTok has introduced a new AI chatbot named 'Genie' that integrates advanced AI elements, including generative AI search capabilities from Douyin. This enhancement aims to improve content discovery within and outside the app, enhancing user interaction and engagement.

• Innovative AI Features: The updated chatbot is expected to incorporate TikTok's evolving AI technologies, such as virtual humans for live-streaming, the "StreamVoice" system for voice simulation, AI music generation, and text-to-video tools. These features are designed to enrich user experiences by offering creative tools directly through the chatbot interface.

• User Experience Focus: Unlike Meta's AI chatbots, which emphasize text summaries across apps, TikTok's Genie focuses on functional discovery and seamless access to its diverse set of tools. This strategic approach aims to enhance practical utility for users, potentially setting TikTok apart in the social media landscape.

Japanese Scientists Develop Living Skin for Robotic Surfaces

• Biohybrid Robot Development: Japanese scientists at the University of Tokyo have developed a robotic surface covered with living skin-like material using human cells. This innovation aims to create androids with human-like appearances and expressions.

• Technological Goals and Applications: The researchers aim to advance android technology by integrating self-healing capabilities into robots, akin to biological skin. This breakthrough could also contribute to understanding facial physiology, developing transplant materials, and enhancing cosmetics.

Meta Tests 'Imagine Me' AI Selfie Generator for WhatsApp Profiles

• Introduction of "Imagine Me" Feature: Meta is testing a new AI-powered image creation tool called "Imagine Me" on WhatsApp. This feature allows users to create variations of their profile pictures by placing themselves in imaginative settings like forests or outer space based on text prompts and uploaded selfies.

• Functionality and Comparison: Similar to Snapchat's "Dreams" tool, users upload selfies and receive AI-generated images depicting themselves in different environments. This feature aims to offer creative options for profile customization, leveraging Meta's AI capabilities.

• Meta's AI Integration Strategy: Meta has been integrating AI elements across its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and now WhatsApp. Despite these efforts, the impact of these AI features on user engagement and experience remains to be fully realized.

• Broader Implications: While providing fun and novelty, questions persist about the long-term utility of such features beyond enhancing profile customization. Meta continues to invest heavily in AI development, aiming to establish leadership in AI technologies across its platforms.

Meta's Commitment to Responsible Content Creation in Pakistan

• Podcast #CreatewithCare: Meta collaborates with Ali Gul Pir to host a weekly podcast aimed at fostering thoughtful content creation and positive online interactions within the Facebook community in Pakistan.

• Live Event in Karachi: Meta hosted a Meet & Greet event at Avari Towers Karachi, featuring a live recording of the final episode of #CreatewithCare. Content creators discussed the importance of responsible online sharing.

• Safety Tools and Initiatives: Dr. Priyanka Bhalla, Meta’s Head of Safety Policy for South Asia, highlighted safety tools available on Facebook to ensure users have safe and positive experiences online.

• Community Engagement: The event connected content creators, Facebook Group admins, digital publications, and small business owners, reinforcing Meta's commitment to engaging with and supporting the Facebook community in Pakistan.

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Mind-Blowing Insights

Stretching the Truth: Why Giraffes Have Long Necks

Ever wondered why giraffes look like they’re on permanent stilts? These lanky legends of the savanna aren’t just flaunting their fabulous necks for style points. There’s some serious science behind those sky-high noggins. Let’s unravel the tall tale of giraffes’ long necks!

The High Life: Giraffes dine in style, munching on the tender leaves of tall trees that other herbivores can only dream of reaching. This all-you-can-eat buffet in the treetops is possible thanks to their elongated necks. While the shorter creatures are stuck with ground-level grub, giraffes enjoy a leafy feast high above the competition.

Neck-to-Neck Combat: Think giraffes are all about graceful grazing? Think again! These gentle giants can throw down like nobody’s business. Male giraffes engage in epic battles called “necking,” where they use their necks as giant sledgehammers to duel for dominance and the affections of lady giraffes. The longer and sturdier the neck, the better their chances of winning the bout and impressing the ladies.

Cool Customer: Despite their towering height, giraffes have mastered the art of staying chill—literally. Their elongated necks help regulate body temperature. As blood travels up the neck, it cools down, preventing overheating in the blazing African sun. Think of it as a built-in air conditioning system for these spotted skyscrapers.

Head and Shoulders Above the Rest: Spotting predators from a distance is a breeze when your head is way up in the clouds. With their lofty vantage point, giraffes can keep an eye out for lions and other threats. This early warning system gives them a head start on high-tailing it to safety, proving that sometimes, it pays to have your head in the clouds.

Evolution’s Tall Order: Over millions of years, giraffes’ necks didn’t just grow overnight. Evolution favored those with longer necks for reaching food, winning mates, and staying cool and safe. Each generation stretched a bit further, turning the giraffe’s neck into one of nature’s most extraordinary features.

So, next time you see a giraffe, give a nod to their necks. They’re not just for show—they’re a marvel of evolutionary engineering, perfect for a life lived large and lofty. Stay curious, and keep reaching for the stars (or at least the tallest trees)!

HEALTH

Beaware of weight loss medications; they can make you go blind

• Increased Risk of Rare Blindness: A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology suggests an increased risk of developing nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) among users of Ozempic and Wegovy, though further research is needed to confirm causality.

• Study Findings: Over six years, researchers analyzed over 16,800 people, finding that patients with Type 2 diabetes or obesity who took semaglutide were more likely to develop NAION compared to those who did not take the drug.

• Manufacturer's Response: Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, emphasized that the study is observational and cannot establish a causal link between semaglutide and NAION, highlighting their commitment to patient safety.

SPORTS

No decision yet on Babar Azam`s future as captain

• Consultation and Evaluation: PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has emphasized the importance of thorough consultation with former players and head coach Gary Kirsten before making any decisions regarding Babar Azam's future as captain. He plans to discuss the T20 World Cup performance in detail with Kirsten and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood based on Kirsten's comprehensive report.

• Caution in Decision-Making: Mohsin Naqvi has stressed the need to avoid making hasty decisions influenced by social media or public sentiment. He acknowledges the gravity of the team's performance and the calls for change but insists on a measured approach to avoid complications and ensure any decisions are well-considered.

• Focus on Improvement: While acknowledging the need for significant changes within Pakistan cricket, Mohsin Naqvi is focused on improvements both within the team and the PCB itself. He is seeking input from former players who are genuinely committed to the betterment of Pakistan cricket, aiming for a constructive path forward rather than reacting impulsively.

PCB Invests Billions in Stadium Upgrades Ahead of 2025 Champions Trophy

• Stadium Upgrades by PCB: PCB is investing billions to refurbish stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy, despite ICC's confirmation that the venues were already fit for hosting. This decision has sparked debate about its necessity under PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

• Timeline Challenges: With construction ongoing just months before the tournament, PCB faces tight deadlines. Designs from a UK firm are awaited, and local firms will execute the projects. Meanwhile, upcoming Test series visits from Bangladesh and England add to PCB's logistical pressures.

What else is happening?

• Pakistans local industry demands further duty on Imports.

• 57.6 Billion Rupees was the import value of iron and steel in May 2024, up 43% compared to 40.3 billion rupees in May 2023, according to pakistan beauru of statistics.

• 2.17Billion Rupees was the export value of rubber tyres and tubes in May 2024, up 42.7% compared to May 2023.

• OpenAI was hacked last year, raising fears about the safety of its data going forward.

• New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art returned 14 looted sculptures to Cambodia as museums grapple with what to do about pieces taken from other countries during moments of political turmoil.

• Drain cleaning remains unfinished - 541 is the number of drains across the city of Lahore need to be cleaned.

• The iPhone 16 Pro is again rumored to be matching the 15 Pro Max with 5x optical zoom.

• Pakistani Government has not made any decision on social media ban during Ashura days.

• 15 LPG refilling units were sealed over black marketing in Multan on Friday.

• 477 is the number of terrorist activities recorded in KP.

• 1023 is the number of cases disposed of by the islamabd high court in June 2024.

• Qualified Pakistani nurses will be sent to NewYork for jobs: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

• Meta added new tools to help creators.

• Fawad Khan Returns to bollywood.

• Rain related incidents claim 3 lives in Pakistan.