Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to develop a comprehensive roadmap and reform agenda to promote investment and trade across all key sectors of Pakistan's economy. Chairing a high-level virtual meeting from London, the prime minister emphasized that advancing these sectors would attract investors while boosting economic stability and employment opportunities nationwide. The directive reflects the administration's determination to address structural economic challenges while positioning Pakistan as a competitive destination for global capital.

The prime minister specifically highlighted agriculture, information technology, minerals, tourism, and renewable energy as promising areas for foreign investment. He stressed that enhancing trade is equally crucial for economic growth, with increasing Pakistan's exports remaining a central policy objective. Ministries have been tasked with utilizing all available resources to ensure timely completion of ongoing projects, creating a stronger foundation for sustainable economic development through improved trade performance alongside investment opportunities.

Shehbaz Sharif instructed ministers to identify feasible projects and take immediate steps to implement them without delay. He emphasized that the roadmap and reform agenda must be forward-looking, ensuring organized and measurable progress toward long-term national goals. The meeting, attended by multiple federal ministers including those for environment, petroleum, finance, commerce, information, and economic affairs, focused on enhancing investment volume and economic activities throughout Pakistan.

The prime minister underscored that the private sector will play a pivotal role in the new economic roadmap, noting that ensuring private sector participation is essential for creating innovative solutions. He added that ongoing economic and financial reform policies have given new direction to the economy, and due to innovation and transparency, the country is now on the path of development. The comprehensive approach aims to leverage both public and private resources to drive Pakistan's economic transformation.

Shed Seven, the Yorkshire Britpop legends, have announced a special one-off summer 2026 performance at Halifax's Piece Hall to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their landmark 1996 album 'A Maximum High'. The band will deliver a full album performance followed by a second set of greatest hits during the Live At The Piece Hall concert series on June 6. This Halifax date will represent Shed Seven's only headline show of summer 2026, making it a particularly significant event for both the band and their dedicated fanbase.

The anniversary concert will feature special guest performances from Seb Lowe and The Guest List, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Tickets for this exclusive event are scheduled to go on general sale at 10am on Friday, October 24, available through major ticketing platforms including Ticketmaster, Live Nation, and the Piece Hall's official website. The band's return to the Halifax venue follows their previous 2021 performance at the historic courtyard, establishing a continuing relationship with the West Yorkshire location.

'A Maximum High' represented a defining moment in Shed Seven's career, reaching the UK top 10 and selling more than 250,000 copies while spawning five Top 40 singles. Band frontman Rick Witter expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming celebration, stating the band is 'looking forward to giving A Maximum High the birthday party it deserves' and noting particular excitement about 'revisiting some of the songs we haven't played for decades.' The event promises to attract fans from across the country for what organizers describe as a 'one night only' celebratory event.

Shed Seven joins a diverse lineup of artists scheduled for the 2026 Live At The Piece Hall series, including Embrace, Ethel Cain, David Gray, Billy Ocean, Opeth and The Ks. The band's upcoming schedule also includes appearances at the Isle Of Wight Festival in June, featuring headliners Lewis Capaldi, Calvin Harris and The Cure, followed by a supporting performance for Richard Ashcroft at Englefield Estate in Berkshire as part of the Heritage Live series in July. Nicky Chance-Thompson MBE DL, CEO of The Piece Hall Charitable Trust, emphasized the significance of hosting these 'Yorkshire heroes' back at the venue for this milestone celebration.