India–New Zealand Trade Push: PM Modi’s Auckland visit elevated ties to a Strategic Partnership and set a Rs 35,000 crore (NZ$7b) target to double bilateral trade by 2030, alongside maritime security, defence logistics, counter-terrorism and digital/UPI connectivity. EU Fiscal & Security Guidance: The EU Council adopted five country recommendations for Bulgaria, urging tighter budget discipline to exit the excessive deficit process, temporary targeted energy-price support, faster RRF/cohesion delivery, and stronger tax collection plus shadow-economy crackdowns. AI Meets Trade Facilitation: ESCAP/ADB report finds AI use in trade facilitation is still under 15% across surveyed Asia-Pacific economies, despite gains in customs automation, risk screening and border inspection. US–Pakistan Reciprocal Deal Talks: Washington and Islamabad reported significant progress toward a reciprocal trade agreement as a temporary US tariff expires on July 24, aiming for a more stable framework. Cuba Investment Rules: Cuba amended foreign investment regulations to speed approvals, cut intermediate steps and set clearer evaluation/approval deadlines. Energy Policy Debate (India): India’s Oil Ministry says E20 may cut mileage by 3–5% but argues cleaner combustion and lower lifecycle emissions outweigh the loss. Regional Macro: Thailand’s central bank expects inflation below 2.8% this year, keeping policy accommodative; Turkey’s central bank flagged disinflation support from easing rent/education rigidity.