Lebanon's parliament elected Army Chief Joseph Aoun as the country's new President, bringing an end to a prolonged political deadlock and presidential vacancy.
Aoun was elected after two rounds of voting, following extensive efforts by the United States and Saudi Arabia to garner support for him. Both countries have close ties with Aoun, who is aligned with Washington and Riyadh.
Jan 10, 2025
World's Most Powerful Passports of 2025 Declared
The Henley Passport Index 2025 revealed a significant drop in India's ranking, slipping five places from 80th to 85th, in the list of the world's most powerful passports. This ranking is based on the number of destinations that can be accessed visa-free, using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
As of the latest standings, Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to 57 destinations, sharing the 85th rank with Equatorial Guinea and Niger. In contrast, Singapore has maintained its top spot, with its passport holders enjoying visa-free access to an impressive 195 destinations worldwide.
The top 10 countries are: Singapore (195 destinations), Japan (193), France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland, South Korea (192), Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway (191), Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom (190), Greece, Australia (189), Canada, Poland, Malta (188), Hungary, Czechia (187), Estonia, United States (186) and Lithuania, Latvia, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates (185).
Jan 09, 2025
West Asia's Largest Plastics Exhibition Spotlights India's Green Manufacturing Push
The 17th edition of ArabPlast, West Asia's premier trade exhibition for plastics and petrochemicals, was held in Dubai with India emerging as a key player in sustainable manufacturing solutions. The three-day event attracted over 750 exhibitors across 12 international pavilions, showcasing innovations in plastics, recycling, petrochemicals, packaging, and rubber industries.
India's delegation, comprising 125 companies led by the Plastic Export Promotion Council of India (PLEXCONCIL), marked a 70% increase from the previous edition, underscoring the country's expanding role in the global plastics sector.
The Indian Pavilion was inaugurated by Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, underscoring the country's commitment to global collaboration in sustainable manufacturing.
Jan 08, 2025
Indusfood 2025: India Hosts Global Exhibitors from 30 Countries
Indusfood 2025, Asia's premier food and beverage trade exhibition, is being held from January 8 to 10, 2025, at Greater Noida, India. The event, organised by the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) in collaboration with the Department of Commerce, is set to feature over 2,300 exhibitors from 30+ countries and attract 7,500 international buyers, along with 15,000 Indian trade visitors.
This three-day event aims to bridge gaps across the farm-to-fork value chain, enhancing trade opportunities, market access, and farmer incomes.
Dubai Ranks among World's Top 10 Cities in Global Power City Index
Dubai secured the eighth spot globally and the top position in the Middle East in the Global Power City Index (GPCI) 2024, maintaining this ranking for the second consecutive year.
The index, released annually by Japan's Mori Memorial Foundation, highlights Dubai's leadership in innovation, economic growth, and global connectivity. It is the only city in the Middle East to make it to the top 10, solidifying its status as a global hub for business, talent, and investment.
Sheikh Hamdan, Crown Prince of Dubai, credited the city's success to its modern infrastructure, progressive laws that encourage innovation, and strong public-private partnerships fostering collaboration and growth. He emphasised that Dubai is not just keeping pace with global trends but setting new standards for excellence.
Jan 07, 2025
Indonesia Officially Joins BRICS as Full Member
Brazil, the current presiding nation of BRICS, officially announced Indonesia's membership as a full member of the influential bloc of emerging economies.
The decision to admit Indonesia, the world's fourth-most populous nation, was confirmed by Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marking a significant milestone in BRICS' expansion.
Over the past year, the group has significantly expanded, incorporating new members such as Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. Despite an invitation, Saudi Arabia has yet to join the bloc.
Indonesia's induction further exemplifies the bloc's expanding reach and appeal. Other countries, including Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia, have formally applied to join, with additional nations expressing interest in becoming part of BRICS.
Justin Trudeau Resigns
Justin Trudeau the 23rd Prime Minister of Canada stepped down after years of leading the country. Facing internal party struggles, criticism of his policies, and a growing lead by the opposition Conservative Party, Trudeau announced his resignation, saying he could no longer be the best option for Canada's leadership.