September 11, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: International

Trump Announces U.S.–Pakistan Oil Partnership Amid New India Tariffs

U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a new trade agreement with Pakistan, pledging that Washington and Islamabad will jointly develop what he described as Pakistan’s “massive oil reserves.” In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said the United States is in the process of selecting an oil company to lead this partnership and speculated that Pakistan “maybe” could one day sell oil to India. Details about the size or location of these reserves remain unclear. Pakistan currently relies on Middle Eastern imports to meet its energy needs, though geological surveys have hinted at substantial offshore deposits. Islamabad has long sought foreign investment and technical expertise to explore and exploit these fields, but so far has made limited progress. Trump’s announcement came just hours after he unveiled a 25% tariff on all imports from India—plus an additional penalty on purchases of Russian military equipment and energy—effective August 1. Labeling India’s trade policies “most strenuous and obnoxious,” Trump reiterated his administration’s view that Delhi maintains “one of the highest tariffs in the world.” He added that the United States is still negotiating a bilateral trade deal with India, even as he described India’s membership in the BRICS grouping as “anti-U.S.” India’s government responded by noting that it has “taken note” of Trump’s statements and is studying their implications. A spokesperson emphasized that India and the U.S. have been engaged in talks to negotiate “a fair, balanced and mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement” and remain committed to reaching such a deal. Trump also mentioned that trade delegations from South Korea and other countries are in discussions with the White House, and he promised a full report on tariff negotiations “at the appropriate time.” With the August 1 deadline approaching, all eyes will be on whether the new Pakistan oil partnership and fresh India tariffs will reshape America’s broader trade strategy in South Asia.

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India Stands Firm Amid U.S. Tariff Hike and Trade Pressure

U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed 25% tariffs on imports from India along with an unspecified “penalty,” but India has remained largely unfazed by the move. While the U.S. has been actively securing trade deals with other nations like Japan—focused on expanding market access for American automobiles and agricultural products—India has taken a more cautious stance, especially when it comes to its domestic agricultural sector. India’s reluctance stems from its aim to protect local farmers, a significant electoral base. In its recent trade deal with the U.K., New Delhi successfully shielded sensitive agricultural sectors from tariff reductions. Likewise, India has shown no urgency to conclude a deal with the U.S., despite the recent tariff hikes. Carlos Casanova, senior economist at UBP, explained that India’s exports to the U.S. are not substantial enough to pressure New Delhi into quick compromises. In 2024, U.S. goods imports from India stood at $87.4 billion. Opening India’s agricultural sector to American firms—especially those dealing with genetically modified foods and dairy—remains a political and economic non-starter. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized in a CNBC interview that India is deeply committed to protecting its farmers and MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises). He also reiterated that India does not negotiate trade deals based on artificial deadlines but on national interest. Goyal expressed confidence that a balanced trade agreement could be reached by the October-November 2025 timeframe. Experts like Jayant Dasgupta, India’s former ambassador to the World Trade Organization, pointed out that India’s stance on agriculture is uncompromising. There is little room for concessions, particularly on genetically modified food products and dairy imports. Meanwhile, Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, President of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), acknowledged that higher U.S. tariffs would affect Indian exports but remained optimistic that a long-term agreement could eventually be reached. Strategically, India continues to be a valuable partner for the U.S. in the broader Indo-Pacific region. Analysts say Washington is unlikely to alienate New Delhi, especially as it seeks to counter China’s growing global influence. As part of the “China plus one” manufacturing strategy, India is seen as a viable alternative hub. The U.S. may retain control of high-end manufacturing, while India supports lower-cost production, creating a symbiotic economic relationship. According to Vishnu Varathan of Mizuho Bank, shifting manufacturing to India can help the U.S. reduce dependency on China while maintaining global supply chain resilience. In doing so, India may enhance its strategic position, supporting U.S. interests while carefully navigating its own diplomatic and economic priorities.

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Editor04 mins

João Félix Joins Al-Nassr in €30M+ Move, Reunites with Cristiano Ronaldo

Barely a year after rejoining Chelsea in a short-lived return, João Félix has officially completed a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in a deal worth €30 million, potentially rising to €50 million with add-ons. Félix’s trajectory continues to be one of immense promise tempered by underwhelming consistency. In his latest Chelsea stint, he flashed his trademark flair — but mainly against weaker opposition in the UEFA Conference League. When the stakes were higher, his influence waned. A loan spell at AC Milan followed, where the narrative remained much the same: brilliance in glimpses, but no decisive breakthrough. This summer, Félix found himself in the so-called “Bomb Squad,” training separately from the main group at Chelsea, alongside out-of-favour names like Ben Chilwell and Raheem Sterling. For months, a romantic return to Benfica — where his meteoric rise began and led to a record €126 million move to Atlético Madrid in 2019 — seemed likely. But in modern football, money and marquee connections often speak louder. Al-Nassr offered both: a lucrative deal and the chance to link up with Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo and manager Jorge Jesus. With Félix still just 25, this move might be seen by some as a detour from the European elite. But in the Saudi Pro League’s ever-expanding footballing experiment, it could be a career reboot — or at the very least, a financially rewarding new chapter. Best of luck, João — Saudi Arabia awaits your magic.

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Editor02 mins

Thailand-Cambodia Conflict Raises Concerns Among Kerala Tourists and Travel Operators

Thiruvananthapuram: The ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has raised concerns among tourists and tour operators in Kerala, following a travel advisory issued by the Indian embassy. The war, now in its fourth day, has seen heavy shelling along the border between the two countries. Despite the situation, there have been no immediate cancellations, as most travelers from Kerala typically visit Thailand destinations like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket — areas that remain unaffected by the shelling. Cambodia, meanwhile, is currently in its off-season for Kerala tourists. Sejo Jose of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) clarified that the tourist areas flagged in the advisory are not commonly visited by people from Kerala. “Most Keralites travel to Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket, which are safe,” he said. However, he added that the situation is being closely monitored, and local tour operators have reached out to counterparts in Thailand for updates on safety. Basheer Ahemed, a committee member for the southern region of the Outbound Tour Operators Association, echoed this sentiment, stating that travel has not been affected yet. “But it could become an issue if the conflict persists,” he warned. He also confirmed that life in Bangkok and Pattaya remains normal and that feedback from local contacts in Thailand has been reassuring. Cambodia, which has recently emerged as a popular destination, is not expected to see immediate impacts due to the timing. “Kerala tourists usually start traveling to Cambodia from mid-August, often combining it with Vietnam,” explained Jose. “If the conflict continues, travel plans could be disrupted during the peak season.” Manjari Singhal, Chief Growth and Business Officer at Cleartrip, noted a slight dip in travel to Thailand and Cambodia since the advisory was issued during the week of July 24. However, she remained optimistic. “The recent ceasefire, coupled with upcoming long weekends and festive holidays, could help revive travel interest,” she said. Tourists and travel companies are now hoping for a ceasefire to ensure safe and uninterrupted travel to these popular Southeast Asian destinations.

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Editor03 mins

India Calls for Two-State Solution and Urgent Humanitarian Relief in Gaza

India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, called today for an urgent two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, stressing that only dialogue and diplomacy can bring lasting peace. Delivering India’s statement at the High-Level International Conference on “The Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of The Two-State Solution” in New York, he reiterated New Delhi’s demand for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza. Ambassador Harish drew attention to the catastrophic humanitarian toll in Gaza, where “tens of thousands have been killed, and many more injured,” medical facilities lie in ruins, and children have been deprived of schooling for over 20 months. “Sustaining life is beyond any realm of politics or conflict,” he said, underscoring that humanitarian assistance—food, fuel, and medical relief—must remain “outside the realm of politics or conflict” and flow without hindrance. He outlined India’s four-point short-term roadmap: “Humanitarian aid needs to flow without impediments,” Ambassador Harish insisted, expressing appreciation for nations that have already facilitated relief efforts. He warned against paper-only resolutions and called instead for follow-through on concrete action points from the conference. “Let us not be content with paper solutions but strive to achieve practical solutions that actually make a tangible difference in the daily lives of our Palestinian brothers and sisters,” he urged. Reaffirming India’s readiness to support these efforts, Ambassador Harish concluded, “It is also India’s earnest desire to see peace and calm prevail in the Middle East. Lasting solutions are required to achieve this… India expresses its complete readiness to contribute to this noble endeavor.”

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Editor03 mins

Dollar Strengthens as U.S., EU Strike Trade Deal; Stocks Mixed Ahead of Central Bank Meetings

The U.S. dollar climbed against major currencies on Monday after Washington and Brussels agreed to a framework trade deal, easing fears of a full-blown global tariff war. Under the pact, the U.S. will impose a 15% tariff on most EU imports—a compromise from the 30% rate President Trump threatened to levy starting August 1. With fresh U.S.–Japan trade terms already in place and high-level U.S.–China talks resuming in Stockholm to extend their truce by three months, investors sensed a return to normalcy in world trade. “Since early April, markets were selling U.S. assets in light of tariff uncertainties,” said Eugene Epstein, head of North American structuring at Moneycorp. “Now we’re seeing a semblance of stability.” Currency Moves: Analysts note that yield differentials would typically drive these moves, but today’s action reflects shifting trade-war expectations. “Few predicted such euro strength at the start of the year,” observed Anthi Tsouvali, a strategist at UBS Wealth. “Yet we still see longer-term dollar weakness.” Equities and Yields:U.S. equity benchmarks traded mixed but remained near record highs: the Dow dipped 0.3%, the S&P 500 fell 0.15%, and the Nasdaq added 0.14%. Treasury yields ticked higher; notably, the two-year note yield rose to 3.932%, signalling lingering Fed rate-cut uncertainty amid President Trump’s public pressure on the central bank. Looking Ahead:Attention now turns to this week’s Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan meetings, both expected to keep rates unchanged. Markets will parse post-meeting commentary for clues on when each central bank may next pivot. Cryptocurrencies:Digital assets also retraced losses on calmer risk sentiment: bitcoin eased 0.52% to $118,205, while ethereum fell 0.61% to $3,800.90.

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Editor03 mins

Arsenal Secure Prolific Striker Viktor Gyökeres in £55m Deal

Arsenal have addressed their long-standing need for a reliable goalscorer by signing Sweden international Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP for an initial £55 million, potentially rising to £64 million with add-ons. The 27-year-old forward, fresh from a stunning season in which he netted 39 goals to win the Portuguese league and recorded a Champions League hat-trick against Manchester City, has committed to a five-year contract at the Emirates Stadium. His arrival brings Arsenal’s summer outlay to around £200 million and represents Mikel Arteta’s sixth new face this window, following the additions of defender Cristhian Mosquera, midfielders Martin Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard, goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, and forward Noni Madueke. The club confirmed the transfer via a succinct post on X: “This is where you need to be. Viktor Gyökeres is a Gunner.” Gyökeres is expected to join his new teammates on Arsenal’s pre-season tour in Singapore and Hong Kong, with fixtures against Newcastle United on July 27 and North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on July 31. Manager Mikel Arteta praised his newest signing’s attributes: “Viktor has so many qualities. He is quick and powerful, with incredible goalscoring numbers at club and international level. His intelligent movement and clinical finishing will make him a constant threat in the box.” A product of Brommapojkarna’s youth system, Gyökeres moved to Brighton in January 2018 but spent spells on loan at St Pauli, Swansea, and Coventry before a permanent switch to the Sky Blues in July 2021. After Coventry’s heartbreaking playoff final loss in 2023, he joined Sporting for £20.5 million and went on to score 97 goals in 102 appearances. Arsenal’s attacking options were stretched last season by long-term injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, and Arteta has made no secret of his ambition to end the club’s 20-year Premier League title drought. New sporting director Andrea Berta has wasted no time in bolstering the squad, with Gyökeres expected to lead the line as Arsenal target silverware for the first time since their 2020 FA Cup triumph.

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Editor03 mins

England Retain Women’s Euro Crown with Penalty Shootout Triumph Over Spain

England secured back-to-back Women’s European Championship titles on Sunday, July 27, 2025, by defeating Spain 3–1 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1–1 draw following extra time. Chloe Kelly delivered the decisive spot-kick, drilling her shot confidently into the net and sealing yet another Euros final victory for the defending champions. Spain struck first in the 25th minute when Mariona Caldentey converted Ona Batlle’s floated cross. England fought back early in the second half, levelling in the 57th minute through Alessia Russo’s powerful header off a Chloe Kelly delivery. Despite Spain’s dominance in possession during extra time, neither side could find the winner, sending the match to penalties. In the shootout, England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton rose to the occasion, saving efforts from Caldentey and tournament star Aitana Bonmatí. Spain substitute Salma Paralluelo saw her attempt drift wide, while England’s Leah Williamson and Beth Mead both had their penalties saved by Spain’s Cata Coll. Mead was granted a retake under a new rule after her initial effort slipped and struck her boot before crossing the line—though it ultimately did not alter the outcome. “I was cool, I was composed, and I knew I was going to hit the back of the net,” said Kelly, who also scored the extra-time winner in England’s 2022 final against Germany. “That’s the feeling you want in these moments.” Spain coach Montse Tomé lamented her side’s misfortune. “We played better and created more chances, but in soccer, sometimes that’s not enough,” said Bonmatí, who was named the tournament’s best player. England’s triumph continues coach Sarina Wiegman’s remarkable record—she has never been eliminated from the Women’s Euros and has now lifted the trophy three times (2017 with the Netherlands, and 2022 and 2025 with England). The final was attended by royalty from both nations, including England’s Prince William and Princess Charlotte, as well as Spain’s Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, highlighting the match’s significance on the European sporting stage.

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Editor03 mins

US and EU Strike Last-Minute Trade Deal to Avert 30% Tariffs, Settle at 15%

In a dramatic 11th-hour breakthrough, the United States and the European Union have reached a pivotal trade agreement that will impose a 15% tariff on EU goods entering the US — replacing the previously threatened 30% levy. The announcement came just days before the looming August 1 deadline, following high-level negotiations between US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at Trump’s Turnberry golf resort in Scotland. “It was a very interesting negotiation. I think it’s going to be great for both parties,” Trump said, calling the new deal a step forward in correcting long-standing imbalances in US-Europe trade relations. “We’ve had a hard time with trade with Europe, a very hard time,” he added, citing fairness as the key sticking point. 15% Flat Tariff Across EU Exports The deal imposes a flat 15% tariff on all EU exports to the US, including automobiles, which were previously taxed at 25%. The rate aligns with the terms of the recent US-Japan agreement finalized earlier this week. “We are agreeing that the tariff straight across, for automobiles and everything else, will be a straight across tariff of 15 percent,” Trump confirmed. EU Commits to Massive US Energy Buys and Investment A major win for the US side is the EU’s pledge to purchase $750 billion worth of American energy and commit an additional $600 billion in investments into the US economy. Trump hailed the deal as “a good deal for everybody,” while von der Leyen emphasized the importance of the agreement for economic certainty: “It will bring stability. It will bring predictability. That’s very important for our businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.” Commerce Secretary: “No More Extensions” US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick underlined the finality of the agreement, saying, “No extensions, no more grace periods. August 1, the tariffs are set, they’ll go into place, Customs will start collecting the money and off we go.” US Locks In Trade Deals with Six Nations The EU is the latest among six nations — including the UK, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines — to ink trade agreements with the US ahead of the rapidly approaching deadline. These deals are part of President Trump’s aggressive efforts to reform the global trade system, targeting what his administration sees as unfair foreign trade practices. While the new tariff rates are generally higher than the 10% base level the US has maintained since April, they are notably less punitive than the steeper tariffs threatened in recent months. Global Markets on Edge With only a few days left before the tariff implementation deadline, global markets remain watchful. Economists and business leaders alike are warning that failure to secure deals with remaining trading partners could rekindle trade tensions and destabilize global supply chains, especially in the transatlantic corridor.

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Editor05 mins

Long-Term Air Pollution Exposure Linked to Higher Dementia Risk: Cambridge Study

A large-scale review by the Medical Research Council (MRC) Epidemiology Unit and the University of Cambridge has found strong evidence linking long-term exposure to outdoor air pollution with an increased risk of dementia. The study, involving 51 studies and data from over 29 million people, concluded that pollutants like PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and soot are significantly associated with cognitive decline: These pollutants can enter the brain directly or via the bloodstream, causing inflammation similar to that in lung and heart diseases. Expert Concerns: The researchers noted that although the data mostly came from high-income countries, marginalised groups, often more exposed to pollution, remain underrepresented—calling for greater inclusivity in future research.

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