Oceania Palau A historic $15 million financing agreement has been signed with Saudi Arabia, marking a shift in how Palua's National Development Bank will now operate, as the loan will be directly invested into building affordable housing
Europe Slovenia Prison staff across the country protested for an hour on Thursday to draw attention to what they say is an alarming situation due to severe overcrowding in prisons, staff shortages and low wages
Europe San Marino In 2024 the San Marino Outlet Experience further consolidated its growth trend; since its inauguration in January 2021, it has been progressively advancing in its expansion plan, as also confirmed by three recent new openings
Africa Republic of the Congo Houses on stilts have been gaining popularity, in Makotimpoko, in the flood-prone highlands, as they offer a sustainable option for housing
Africa South Africa A green hydrogen directive is set to be launched on 17 February, which is expected to simplify approval procedures for green hydrogen projects that would stimulate economic growth, reduce environmental risks and encourage the creation of new jobs
Africa Sao Tome and Principe São Tomé's parliament approved, with all-party support, the government programme led by Américo Ramos, which it said focused on 'wealth creation' and the 'structural transformation of the economy and the state'
Asia Iraq Iraq has been elected vice-president of the Middle East Committee of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation during the 51st committee meeting
Africa Gambia Schools will start teaching the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation and provide support to those who may be at risk, upon directive by Neneh Touray, Deputy Executive Director for Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment at the Ministry of Gender Policy
Europe Russia Russia reportedly struck with a drone the protective shield built over reactor number 4 of the former Chernobyl power plant, exploded in 1986 causing the worst nuclear disaster in history, now still dangerously radioactive
Asia Kazakhstan Three new visa categories – Neo Nomad Visa B12-1, Digital Nomad Visa B9-1, and Visa for Permanent Residence B9 – have been launched targeting skilled professionals, entrepreneurs and remote workers seeking long-term opportunities for career or business
Asia Saudi Arabia The Saudi Fashion Commission launched the innovative 'Sustainable Ihram' initiative, the first recycling programme for pilgrims' garments, at the Islamic Arts Biennale
Europe Iceland The Kindergarten Teachers' Association has announced an indefinite strike in all 22 kindergartens in Kópavogur starting 3 March
Asia Jordan US President didn't soften his proposal to relocate Palestinians in Gaza and develop the land into premium housing, even as King Abdullah II of Jordan, in the Oval Office, suggested the Arab world opposed the idea of moving them to third countries
Asia Qatar The Qatar Foundation, in cooperation with HundrED, awarded ten innovative educational projects as part of 'Spotlight Qatar', an initiative designed to highlight the most effective and scalable educational innovations in Qatar