Senior officials from Israel, Greece, and Cyprus are reportedly discussing the formation of a joint rapid-response military force. This initiative, comprising approximately 2,500 troops, aims to deter Turkey's military activities and safeguard critical energy infrastructure in the Eastern Mediterranean, enhancing regional security cooperation.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, investigating criminality and corruption in South Africa's criminal justice system, has submitted its interim report to President Cyril Ramaphosa. Established in July 2025, the commission has heard from 37 witnesses over 45 days, gathering extensive evidence on alleged political interference and syndicate infiltration.
Brazil is set to drive nearly half of the 800,000 bpd global crude oil production increase in 2026, according to the U.S. EIA. The nation's output surpassed 4.0 million barrels per day in October 2025, largely due to new deepwater FPSOs and pre-salt field developments, solidifying its role alongside Guyana and Argentina in non-OPEC growth.
Political parties within the Turkish Grand National Assembly have agreed to form a drafting team to prepare a joint report on national solidarity, expected to be submitted after the New Year. The initiative aims to address broader political and social issues.
The World Bank projects Indonesia's economy to grow by 5% in 2025-2026, citing resilience and strategic investments. Concurrently, President Prabowo Subianto has called for expanded oil palm cultivation in Papua for biofuel production, a move drawing environmental scrutiny.
Mexico is strategically responding to persistent US steel tariffs, challenging protectionist policies and implementing its own tariff package on imports from non-FTA countries. This multi-layered approach aims to protect domestic industries, ensure fair competition, and influence North American trade relations, particularly ahead of the 2026 USMCA review.
A new study reveals the number of internet service providers in Brazil has stabilized at around 11,853, marking a shift from rapid expansion to a focus on service diversification. Providers are increasingly offering VoIP, IPTV, and digital security, reflecting a maturing market and enhanced competition for quality.
An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission, led by Alina Iancu, concluded its 2025 Article IV consultation with Moldova, highlighting a gradual economic recovery and significant opportunities arising from EU accession. The mission, which took place from December 4-17, 2025, noted a projected real GDP growth of 2.7% for the current year and emphasized the need for decisive reforms to sustain growth and improve living standards.
Belarus' First Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Lukashevich announced flourishing cooperation with African countries at a Moscow business forum on December 16, 2025. The event highlighted intensified interactions, high-level meetings, and plans for long-term economic partnerships across various sectors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Ethiopia's highest civilian award, 'The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia', by his Ethiopian counterpart Abiy Ahmed Ali on December 16, 2025. This marks the first time a global Head of State or Government has received this prestigious accolade, recognizing Modi's contributions to strengthening India-Ethiopia ties and his global leadership.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth briefed Congress on Tuesday regarding the escalating U.S. military force and deadly boat strikes near Venezuela. The closed-door sessions addressed congressional concerns over a September 2 strike that killed two survivors and the broader U.S. military buildup in the region, which has included numerous lethal boat strikes and the recent seizure of an oil tanker.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Saudi officials, including Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, met in Riyadh on December 14, 2025, to bolster strategic cooperation. Discussions focused on deepening ties in energy, technology, trade, and regional stability, alongside signing a mutual visa exemption agreement. Both nations affirmed commitment to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
South Africa's Communications Minister Solly Malatsi has directed amendments to Black ownership rules in the ICT sector, allowing 'equity-equivalent investment programs' as an alternative to direct ownership. This move, aimed at attracting investment and expanding internet access, particularly benefits companies like Starlink but faces strong opposition from some political factions.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to meet with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on December 17. The high-level talks will focus on international issues, Iran's nuclear program, regional matters, and the deepening strategic partnership between Russia and Iran.
A Confederação Brasileira de Triathlon (CBTri) tem implementado diversas políticas e regulamentos para o paratriathlon, abrangendo critérios de apoio, auxílio financeiro, remuneração da área técnica, registro de atletas, gestão de riscos e anticorrupção. A modalidade tem demonstrado crescimento significativo no Brasil, com um aumento de 20% no número de participantes no Campeonato Brasileiro de Paratriathlon de 2025.
The MonaBam initiative has been launched to enhance cooperation between Monaco and The Bahamas across education, science, economy, and culture. Led by the Honorary Consulate of The Bahamas in Monaco, the initiative recently held its first educational webinar for Bahamian high school students, building on diplomatic relations established in April 2024.
President Vladimir Putin has stated that the restoration of the Soviet Union is 'simply excluded,' primarily due to the critical changes it would bring to the ethnic and religious composition of the Russian Federation's population. This recent declaration clarifies Russia's official stance on the matter.
China continues to strengthen its leading position in the global battery market, driven by substantial investments and rapid technological advancements. Chinese manufacturers now control a significant majority of the world's EV battery installations and production capacity, while also dominating the critical raw materials supply chain.
Argentina has acquired 24 F-16 fighter jets from Denmark, a move intended to modernize its air force and restore supersonic capabilities. While Argentine officials hail the purchase as a significant defense upgrade, some defense experts warn it could pose a threat to the Falkland Islands, prompting scrutiny of the UK's defense posture in the region.
Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi concluded a four-day official visit to Brazil, engaging with top Brazilian defence officials to enhance strategic maritime cooperation. The visit saw the signing of a key MoU for Scorpène submarine maintenance and discussions on joint shipbuilding, operational linkages, and regional security in the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific. The engagements reinforced the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership.
