Lebanon, UAE ink deals, deepen economic ties on Emirati Beirut visit An Emirati business delegation signed the agreements in Beirut and met with President Joseph Aoun, indicating the UAE's interest in deepening economic ties with Lebanon. Lebanon
China's Xi to visit Egypt for first time in decade as military, Huawei ties grow The visit comes as Chinese telecoms giant Huawei seeks to supply more than 2,000 advanced AI chips for Egyptian government data centers. Egypt
China warns US not to interfere with Iran trade: What to know China's Foreign Ministry said Beijing was firmly opposed to what it called “illegal unilateral sanctions” and would take “all necessary measures” to safeguard its rights. Iran
Large UAE delegation set to arrive in Lebanon in major investment push A large Emirati delegation of around 70 business leaders and government officials is heading to Beirut, in the latest sign of thaw between the United Arab Emirates and Lebanon. Lebanon
Gaza businesses forced to close The economic and humanitarian crises in the Gaza Strip have left stores with no option but to shut down. Palestine
Assad, Turkey hamper US assistance for Syria The Assad regime’s territorial gains and the Turkish offensive in Afrin are conspiring to keep the world’s largest aid donor on the sidelines. Syria
Can Tunisia’s economy be saved? Due to financial crisis, Tunisia's foreign currency reserves have hit a record low, and some goods have been banned from importation. Tunisia
Dropping interest rates could increase inflation in Iran While high interest rates continue to keep liquidity locked into bank deposits, a nonholistic approach to job creation could lead lower interest rates to simply result in the return of high inflation. Iran
As US disengages in North Africa, France's Macron looks to boost his profile During his visit to Tunisia, French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to bolster the country’s faltering economy. Tunisia
MBS plans first US visit since becoming Saudi crown prince Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation is high on the agenda for the upcoming trip. Saudi Arabia
Will Brexit jump-start Iran-UK trade? While bilateral trade has increased following the implementation of the nuclear deal, trade between Iran and Britain remains far below its potential. Iran
Will Iran’s military really divest from business holdings? Despite its complex challenges, the Iranian military’s planned divestment from the economy holds the potential for more transparency and accountability. Iran
Why Gaza merchants are forgiving debt A new social campaign in the Gaza Strip encourages debt forgiveness in light of people's economic straits due to the 11-year blockade. Palestine
Rouhani moves to leverage unrest to loosen IRGC grip on economy The Hassan Rouhani administration appears to be leveraging the recent protests in Iran to continue pushing for its agenda of greater accountability and lesser military involvement in the economy. Iran
Tunisian protesters get seven-year itch The austerity measures announced by the Tunisian government as part of this year's budget seem to be targeting the most vulnerable groups in society, including the middle class and the poor. Tunisia
Rouhani doubles down on Iran's conservatives with 'digital economy' plan Unlike conservatives, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani sees opportunities rather than threats in the expansion of the country's cyberspace. Iran
