Asia Tajikistan An amnesty law signed by President Rahmon to celebrate 35 years of independence will cover 18.038 convicted people, with full release for 11.305 people, reduced terms for 6.733; of 507 women, 248 will be released, of 134 minors, 99 will be freed
Europe Moldova Moldova has been selected to host its first European Digital Innovation Hub, a major step in the digital transformation of local businesses; under the initiative a total of 2 million euros will be invested to support the digitalization of enterprises
America Barbados The rise in farm theft during Christmas period, especially of yams and sweet potatoes; one of leading Barbadian producers is considering scaling back crop production after thieves stole up to 15.000 pounds of yams from his St John fields in recent weeks
Europe Belarus President Lukashenko has extended his congratulations to tennis player Aryna Sabalenka on her victory at the 2026 Brisbane International and her brilliant start to the new tennis season, BelTA reported from the head of state’s press service
Asia Thailand Photographers at Wat Arun in Bangkok will attend manners and ethics training, following reports of aggressive tactics, overcharging and pressuring on tourists; The measure aims to curb informal vendors, improve safety and protect the temple’s reputation
Europe Poland Greater support to national female athletes after childbirth or miscarriage is now provided by newly approved bill that also includes measures to guarantee to sports referees the same level of protection as public officials
Europe Austria Major changes have come into force in Austria in 2026 concerning vehicles and transport: reform of motorway tolls, a strengthening of environmental measures and a more restrictive management of heavy goods traffic along the Brenner corridor
Europe Bosnia and Herzegovina Despite the January 9 celebrations being ruled unconstitutional, the Bosnian Serb entity, Republika Srpska, again marked the day with a mass parade in Banja Luka
Asia Pakistan Hospital staff in Punjab has been ordered to wear body cameras to improve patient care and curb negligence; The move aims to boost accountability in public hospitals, monitor staff conduct and address complaints about poor treatment and corruption
America Chile A high-level meeting to reinforce maritime decarbonization as a long-term State policy has been held, aiming to boost Chile's global leadership in low-emission shipping despite delays in international climate agreements
Europe Germany Regional rail traffic was heavily disrupted in northern Germany and long-distance rail services fully suspended due to severe weather; services resumed about 24 hours later after trains were repositioned to their operating locations
Asia Mongolia A government working group will coordinate celebrations of 820th anniversary of the founding of Great Mongol Empire by Chinggis Khaan; events across Mongolia will be integrated into Naadam festival and promoted internationally through diplomatic missions
Asia Syria A Syrian tycoon linked to former regime has reportedly signed an agreement with the new government; al-Hal news outlet writes that the accord is a key test for the narrative of a "new phase"
America Costa Rica A new call for the 2026 Trans-fórmate program has been launched; the initiative has provided free digital training to over 1.550 entrepreneurs and has aimed to boost 135 more small businesses through personalized support and certified courses