In the second edition of Climate & Energy corner I discuss the results of Kerry’s visit to China & how this visit is more important than just climate talks. Also discussed the lack of agreement on phasing out fossil fuels at the G20 energy minsters summit in Goa. Lastly discussed the soaring oil revenues for Iran & oil & gas revenues for Russia, despite both the countries being under sanctions.

Analysing the new report of IMF on Pakistan’s economy. The need for Pakistan to make substantial efforts to ensure that the economy gets back on track. Also talked about how this report is a direct indictment of Pakistani governance elite’s handling of the economy.

Talking about few of the most important updates form the world of climate & energy. Discussed the importance of Kerry’s visit to China & the talks between the two big players on climate. Devastating heatwaves are spreading across Europe posing new challenges to the continent. Also talking about the dip in Brent crude prices as the China’s economic data is weaker than expected. Lastly, Kuwait is planning to increase its oil production, what is the significance of this move for OPEC+ & the wider world.

What is the path forward for Pakistan post the SBA with the IMF? Does the state of Pakistan has the capacity to carry out important reforms? Most importantly once the new government forms, Pakistan needs to enter a new EFF program with the IMF, what would that program look like? Reforms in the power, legal & tax sector are exceptionally important if Pakistan aims to grow economically.

Discussing role of SCO & why it is becoming an important forum. Analysing the relations between states & how it impacts the working of SCO. Also included in the discussion are China’s global ambitions & how SCO compliments them.

Outlining the data of China’s energy, especially the oil & gas sector. China continues to consume fossil fuel on enormous scale. But this provides a vulnerability in a politically divided world. Discussed the geopolitical trends of China’s reliance on imported energy & the relations it shares with those countries.

Discussing the formation of SIFC for attracting investment in Pakistan. What are the issues for investors in Pakistan. & why Pakistan needs to attract investment from private companies rather than relying only upon government/state level investments.

Understanding the role of IMF, & it’s impact upon states. Addressing the addiction of Pakistan to IMF & also giving few ways on how Pakistan can address the IMF challenge.

Making sense of the greek boat tragedy & the knee jerk reaction coming from Pakistan. Talking about migration, failed states, institutional incapacity & the European aspect of migration. Most importantly how Pakistan is lacking in tackling the migration issue.