Oman
UK Pension Boost for Grandchild Carers
British working parents can now access additional pension contributions worth approximately £359 annually if they regularly care for their grandchildren. This new policy aims to support the growing role of grandparents in childcare while maintaining workforce participation.
Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo Exceeds 1,000 Cases
The Democratic Republic of Congo's Ebola outbreak surpassed 1,000 confirmed cases with 254 deaths, registering a 25 percent fatality rate. Hantavirus also poses a simultaneous public health threat across affected regions.
Gulf States Discuss Regional Stability and Iran
Oman and Qatar coordinate dialogue on Strait of Hormuz security with Iran and Gulf states. Reports indicate Qatar supplies military and fuel support to Iran amid regional tensions.
Educational Institutions Modernize Curriculum Standards
Universities and schools worldwide are updating educational programs to emphasize digital literacy, critical thinking, and sustainability topics. Reforms aim to prepare students for evolving job markets.
UK and Egypt Hold Association Council Meeting
The UK-Egypt Association Council convened with representatives from both nations discussing bilateral cooperation and regional issues. The meeting was co-chaired by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Egyptian officials.
Oman and Iran Pledge Hormuz Navigation Safety
Oman and Iran affirm commitment to ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement includes coordination with international maritime authorities.
Niger and Libya exchange military commanders
Niger's military junta transferred a Libyan warlord to Tripoli while Libya freed a pro-Bazoum Nigerien militia leader. The prisoner exchange reflects shifting diplomatic relations in the Sahel.
Bangladesh Bank Holds Board Meeting
Islami Bank Bangladesh held its board meeting chaired by an executive director representing the Bangladesh central bank. Multiple financial institutions also convened supervisory and governance meetings.
Kenya President Ruto Launches Coffee Sector Revival
President William Ruto inaugurated the Coffee Revival Through Cooperative Societies Programme to increase farmer earnings and strengthen Kenya's struggling coffee sector. Launched in Kianyaga, Kirinyaga County, the initiative redesigns returns mechanisms for agricultural producers.
Kenya Community Land Advocacy Demands Title Deed Reform
Community land advocates in Kenya are calling for accelerated formalization of land titles by 2030, citing slow implementation of the Community Land Act since 2016. The push addresses ancestral and communal land ownership documentation challenges affecting millions of Kenyans.
DARPA experimental aircraft receives prototype wings
The DARPA X-65 experimental aircraft, designed to maneuver using only bursts of air, has received its test wings after delays and budget overruns. Aurora Flight Sciences and DARPA aim to conduct first flight in 2027.
Oman Summer Program Focuses on Innovation and AI
Universities in Oman launched summer programs highlighting artificial intelligence and innovation. The initiatives aim to promote creative thinking and technological advancement among young participants.
Sheikh Mohamed Meets Abu Dhabi Investment Authority
President Sheikh Mohamed received a delegation from the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. The meeting focused on bilateral investment opportunities.
Al Wafa Centre Marks Disability Rehabilitation Success
Al Wafa Centre for the Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities in Nizwa celebrated the conclusion of its 2025-2026 training course with a ceremony under official patronage.
Former Israeli legislator detained on incitement charges
Former Knesset member Mohammad Barakeh was arrested for alleged inflammatory remarks made during a 2022 speech in Ramallah. Police executed the warrant after Barakeh rejected questioning summons.
Pakistan, Libya Strengthen Military Ties
Pakistan's Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir met with Libya's armed forces deputy commander to discuss military cooperation and bilateral defence ties. The meeting reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to regional peace and stability, building on a multi-billion-dollar military equipment deal signed in December.
Oman, Morocco Expand Legal Training Partnership
Oman and Morocco signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in legal qualification, professional training, and research. Oman explored Morocco's pioneering practices in training programs and qualification standards.
Oman Film Society Celebrates Silver Jubilee
The Oman Film Society marks its 25th anniversary as a leading hub for training filmmakers and promoting Omani cinema. The organization strengthens Asian partnerships while advancing Oman as an international filming destination.
Oman Launches New Digital Statistics Platform
Oman's National Centre for Statistics and Information launched the 'Artaj' interactive application and three additional initiatives to enhance the country's data ecosystem and support digital transformation. The platform expands public access to national statistical knowledge.
IMO Plans Evacuation in Persian Gulf
The International Maritime Organization is coordinating an evacuation operation for over 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf region due to months of shipping disruptions linked to US-Iran conflict. Oman and the IMO established a temporary transit corridor through the Strait of Hormuz to enable safe navigation and crew movements.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Appoints Private Secretary
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay appoints film producer Jagadish Palanisamy, a close aide, as his private secretary. Palanisamy also maintains his entertainment industry connections.