Far-reaching and unpredictable consequences Far-reaching and unpredictable consequences
The prolonged conflict in the Middle East has had a profound impact on labour markets, aviation, tourism, public finance, and growth prospects across many major economies in Asia and Europe. Experts warn that even if the conflict comes to an end, the scars it leaves behind may take years to heal.
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The key to unlocking the door to peace
08:44, 21/05/2026
The US cancelled its planned attack on Iran on May 19 following requests from three Gulf countries. Tehran also urgently sent Washington a 14-point peace proposal through Pakistani mediation. These positive moves by the parties involved have given observers reason to hope that the conflict in the Middle East may soon come to an end.
BRICS strengthens role in tackling global challenges
10:15, 18/05/2026
The expanded BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting has just concluded in New Delhi. The meeting underscored the need to continue reforming the global governance system and strengthening the voice of developing countries in addressing global challenges.
EU’s efforts to address migration and asylum: A thorny journey
14:54, 12/05/2026
The European Union (EU)’s Pact on Migration and Asylum - Brussels’ most comprehensive reform in migration management in recent years - is set to officially take effect in June. However, this marks only the beginning of a long and difficult journey.
Peace under pressure: record arms spending and the cost to humanity
08:59, 08/05/2026
The number of armed conflicts globally has risen sharply to levels not seen since the end of the Second World War, driving global military spending to a record high of nearly 2.9 trillion USD.
Europe’s autonomy challenge
10:31, 07/05/2026
New developments related to the conflict in the Middle East, together with rifts within the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), have confronted European countries with an unavoidable reality: being protected by a security umbrella does not necessarily mean enjoying sustainable safety.
Cracks in allied relations
16:10, 04/05/2026
Relations between the US and its allies in NATO have shown further strain after the Pentagon announced plans to withdraw around 5,000 troops from Germany within the next 6 to 12 months.
UN embarks on its first steps towards a long journey of reform
06:42, 27/04/2026
Over its history of more than 80 years, the United Nations has affirmed the enduring vitality of multilateralism, along with its role as a “beacon” guiding humanity towards peace and cooperation through turbulent times.
ASEAN Secretary-General affirms support for Viet Nam in cooperation activities
09:53, 22/04/2026
The ASEAN Secretary-General expressed confidence that Vietnam’s impressive economic achievements and consistent foreign policy will enable it to continue making active and effective contributions to regional integration and strengthening the ASEAN Community.
A political turning point for Hungary and Europe
09:51, 21/04/2026
Hungary’s Prime Minister-elect Peter Magyar is moving swiftly to implement sweeping reforms, seeking to deliver on his pledge to usher in “a new era” for the Central European nation.
Countries worldwide adapt to new price levels and emerging risks
11:38, 20/04/2026
Recent developments in the Middle East, particularly those involving Iran, have raised concerns that the era of cheap oil may be drawing to a close. In response, the energy policies of many countries are shifting towards proactive adaptation to a new price and risk environment.
Gaza situation: The prospect of peace remains remote
10:10, 11/04/2026
Disarming the Islamist movement Hamas, bringing Israel’s military operations to an end, and securing a full withdrawal are considered key prerequisites for a peace plan in the Gaza Strip. However, the parties’ failure to adhere to the roadmap has left the daunting challenge of restoring peace to the narrow Mediterranean enclave unresolved.
The irreplaceable position of the United Nations
15:59, 10/04/2026
After more than 80 years of formation and development, the United Nations has achieved remarkable accomplishments in its efforts to fulfil its mission of maintaining peace and security and building a more just and better world for all humanity.
Europe rolls out new entry/exit system: a historic turning point
16:41, 08/04/2026
The new Entry/Exit System (EES) will be fully implemented across Europe’s passport-free Schengen Area from April 10, marking a historic turning point in border management.
The challenge of maintaining energy flow
16:31, 07/04/2026
Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy shipping route, are causing a sharp decline in global oil flows. Major Gulf oil producers are considering diverting exports through alternative routes outside the Strait of Hormuz, while the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its partners (OPEC+) have agreed to increase production quotas to alleviate supply pressure on the oil market.