BP shares rise but oil giant faces clean energy challenge            

Company said it already achieved its €29.7bn debt target, reaching the threshold at which it has said it can restart share buybacks about a year earlier than expected

BP’s shares rose in London trade, extending their gain this year to 18%.

BP said it already achieved its $35bn (€29.7bn) debt target, reaching the threshold at which it has said it can restart share buybacks about a year earlier than expected.

The news reflects an accelerated pace of asset sales and improved business performance, with BP’s trading division capitalising on dramatic moves in energy markets.