Oceania New Zealand 'Our Freshwater 2026' report highlights worsening quality of groundwater, rivers and lakes, with increasing levels of nitrates, E.coli above legal limit, and nearly half of New Zealand's river network unsafe for swimming due to faecal contamination
Asia Syria Turkey is ready to help set up a financial system in Syria; Goksel Asan, Head of Finance Office of Turkish Presidency, said it would enable Syria to achieve in three to five years what it would achieve in 20 years through traditional means
Asia Myanmar The abrupt US aid suspension to Myanmar threatens millions amid ongoing conflict; amnesty International warns that cutting humanitarian support worsens civilian suffering, limiting access to food, healthcare, and basic needs in war-affected regions
Africa Zimbabwe The European Union has removed Zimbabwe Defence Industries from its sanctions list, marking the end of targeted restrictions on Zimbabwean entities and individuals
Oceania Solomon Islands A Solomon Islands delegation is attending the first General Assembly of the International Organisation for Aid to Navigation; the team is led by Manasseh Maelanga, Minister of Infrastructure Development
Africa Egypt A building collapsed in Kerdasa neighbourhood, Cairo, killing at least 10 people: several others missing could still be under the rubble; the police opened an investigation, as building regulations are unevenly enforced in the 26 million people metropolis
Asia Uzbekistan More than 400 greenhouses, factories and social facilities were found in violation of emission regulations in the capital and Tashkent province, reported the press service of the Ministry of the Environment
Asia Japan Hokkaido and the Japan Sea coast have been covered in thick snow during the strongest cold front hitting parts of the country in years; local flights have been cancelled and train and road connections disrupted
Africa South Sudan After an initial pilot phase, South Sudan will fully introduce an instant payment system by December to enable faster monetary transactions
Asia Laos Champasack Province plans to elevate the Million-Year-Old Volcano in Paksong District to a national tourist attraction; development includes upgrading the 17 km road and adding restaurants and accommodations to boost eco-tourism and local economic growth
America Paraguay A severe drought in Paraguay's Chaco has forced the relocation of over 40.000 cattle due to low water levels in the Pilcomayo River, causing high costs, livestock losses, and market impacts
Asia Turkey Istanbul's security forces recorded a 6,5% reduction in crimes against persons and a 27,6% reduction in crimes against property in January 2025 compared to last year, said Istanbul Governor Davut Gül
Oceania Tuvalu Palau, Tuvalu and the Marshall Islands have decided to install microgrids for aquaculture and agriculture that will provide more than 50% of the energy needed for the demonstration farms and aquaculture centres on each island
America Suriname Suriname has implemented new anti-corruption measures, focusing on prevention, criminalization, international cooperation, and asset recovery, with attention to fair competition, law enforcement, and transparent bidding processes