Pakistan Roundup: Olympian killed in climbing accident, U.S. deal, alleged terrorist camps

Pakistan wins U.S. tariff relief

The United States and Pakistan announced a trade deal Thursday, which Islamabad said would boost investment and reduce tariffs, though exact rates weren’t disclosed. Pakistan's finance ministry called it the start of a new era of economic cooperation across sectors like energy, IT, crypto, and mining. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said the agreement reflected broader strategic goals beyond trade. Previously facing a possible 29% tariff, Pakistan secured a suspension ahead of the August 1 trade talks deadline, aiming for better terms than regional competitors like Vietnam (20%) and India (threatened with 25%).

Intel says Pakistan is rebuilding terror camps

Pakistan is allegedly reviving terrorism infrastructure with a new approach, an intelligence report reveals. The Pakistan Army, ISI, and other agencies are reportedly aiding major terror groups in reconstructing at least 13 camps and launchpads destroyed in Operation Sindoor, especially near the Line of Control in PoK and the Jammu border. Sites named include Kel, Shardi, Dudhniyal, Lipa Valley, and Jura, among others. Four launchpads near Jammu — Masroor, Chaprar, and a drone hub in Shakargarh — are also being reactivated using advanced techniques and funding from state entities.

Olympian killed in climbing accident

Olympic gold medallist Laura Dahlmeier died after being struck by falling rocks while climbing Laila Peak in Pakistan’s Karakoram range, officials said Wednesday, July 30. Bad weather delayed rescue efforts, and her body has not been recovered. Her partner survived, and local authorities said any recovery attempt would respect her family’s wishes. An Instagram post stated Dahlmeier did not want anyone to risk their life retrieving her body. German President Steinmeier paid tribute, calling her an “exceptional sportswoman” and recalling awarding her the Silver Laurel Leaf in 2018.

Pakistan keeps key rate unchanged to curb inflation

Pakistan’s central bank kept its key rate at 11% on Wednesday, defying expectations of a cut due to worsening inflation driven by higher energy prices. The State Bank cited rising gas costs and a widening trade deficit as key risks, noting that inflation pressures had intensified. All 15 analysts in a Reuters poll had predicted a rate cut. Central Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad said it was prudent to wait rather than risk reversing a premature easing move.

Pakistan repeats claims of 'resounding success' in Operation Sindoor

Pakistan dismissed India’s Operation Sindoor statements in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, July 30, as “baseless and provocative,” accusing New Delhi of spreading disinformation and jingoism. It reiterated claims of military success and warned Indian leaders to acknowledge their losses and third-party roles in the ceasefire. Islamabad also alleged India lacked evidence for the Pahalgam attack and failed to meet strategic goals, while praising its military response as decisive.