Hong Kong exchange expands Gulf presence with new Dubai commodities arm The emirate has positioned itself as a global commodities trading hub, with the UAE ranking second globally after the US in last year’s Commodity Trade Index. United Arab Emirates
US Senate approves repeal of Caesar Act sanctions on Syria: What to know The 2019 Caesar Act imposed sweeping sanctions on Syria to hold the government accountable for human rights abuses committed during the country’s civil war. Syria
Saudi investment minister visits Morocco, Senegal on Africa trade drive Saudi Arabia has pledged more than $41 billion in investment in sub-Saharan Africa over the next decade. Saudi Arabia
Iran, Russia, Central Asia states ink Caspian Sea pact, plan naval drills The navies of Iran, Russia, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan signed a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement on Wednesday, aimed at strengthening security in the Caspian Sea basin as the four countries deepen their relations. Iran
Lebanon forms new government The formation of a new government led by Prime Minister Najib Mikati brings to an end a 13-month gridlock in Lebanon. Lebanon
Chinese-operated port opens in Israel despite American concerns The Biden administration is relaying to Jerusalem the same fears expressed by former US administrations over Chinese investments in Israel. Israel
Absence of government, parliament negatively affects Tunisia’s economy The complex political and economic scene in Tunisia is deepening concerns over the negative economic repercussions on the sovereign ratings of the economy and the business and investment climate, as political experts warn of an unprecedented economic disaster. Tunisia
Israel opens Chinese-run terminal at Haifa port Biden's CIA director raised concerns about Beijing's growing investment in Israel, according to a report. Israel
Turkey’s record growth rate belies murky economic prospects Eager to woo back disgruntled voters, Erdogan appears bent on stimulating economic growth at the risk of stoking Turkey’s currency troubles. Turkey
Will Riyadh's efforts to Saudize workforce reduce unemployment? Saudi Arabia’s quest for regional economic leadership sheds light on the largest reserve of citizens in the Gulf Cooperation Council, reigniting debate over localization policies. Legacy: Gulf
Turkey views ties with Ethiopia as key to influence in Africa Turkey’s quest for normalization with Egypt and a new beginning with Sudan hinges on how far Ankara takes its relations with Ethiopia amid a simmering water dispute in the region over Ethiopia’s mega dam on the Nile. Turkey
Afghan chaos further incentive for India’s efforts to strengthen ties with Iran The recent rise of the Taliban in Kabul has expedited New Delhi's efforts to boost ties with Iran, which is positioned to be India's main corridor to Afghanistan, yet major challenges remain. Iran
Egyptians hoard gold jewelry The price of gold in Egypt has declined, amid growing demand for jewelry. Egypt
Israel loosens restrictions on trade, travel from Gaza Israel is reopening the Erez pedestrian crossing to merchants and businesspeople after closing over coronavirus concerns last year. News Brief
Israeli budget approved in victory for Arab coalition party The big winner of the approval of Israel’s 2021 state budget is the leader of the Arab coalition party Ra’am, Mansour Abbas. Israel
Middle East economic outlook hinges on vaccinations Five countries to watch: Tunisia, Iran, Iraq, Egypt and Oman. Egypt
