The measures are contained in Statutory Instrument 215 of 2025, formally titled the Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment (Foreign Participation in Reserved Sectors) Regulations, 2025. They establish a phased but accelerated localisation regime, compelling affected firms to divest at least 25% of their equity each year, beginning immediately.

From the date of gazetting, foreign-owned companies operating in the reserved sectors have 30 days to submit regularisation plans, setting out how they will comply with the new ownership requirements.

At the heart of the regulations is Zimbabwe’s attempt to reserve select industries for its citizens — most of which have long been dominated by small and medium-sized enterprises, but which have increasingly been taken over by foreign operators in recent years.

The sectors now fully reserved for indigenous citizens include:

Passenger transport services such as taxis and commuter buses, along with estate agencies, clearing and customs services, are also effectively restricted, though with limited exceptions.

In three sectors, foreign participation is permitted only where the business operates under a recognised international brand or franchise. These include passenger transport, estate agencies, and clearing and customs services.

For other sectors, foreign investors are not banned outright but face steep entry barriers designed to restrict participation to large-scale operations. Regulations set explicit minimum investment and employment thresholds :

Penalties

Existing foreign-owned businesses operating in reserved sectors are given three years to comply with the localisation timetable.

The regulations explicitly criminalise attempts to circumvent the law, including the use of fronting arrangements or nominee shareholders. Authorities are empowered to suspend or cancel operating licences for companies that fail to regularise their ownership structures within the stipulated period.

State media reports say enforcement will be strict, particularly in sectors such as artisanal mining, where the government has for years struggled to curb illegal operations and foreign syndicates, many of them involving Chinese nationals extracting gold, chrome and lithium.

Unaffected sectors

The government has been keen to stress that the regulations do not apply across the entire economy. Strategic and capital-intensive sectors — including banking, large-scale mining and other major industries — remain open to foreign ownership under existing laws.

Officials argue that the policy is a corrective measure rather than a reversal of Zimbabwe’s broader investment strategy, aimed at protecting informal and small-scale sectors from foreign encroachment.

While authorities frame the regulations as a long-overdue empowerment drive designed to restore economic agency to ordinary Zimbabweans, analysts warn that the abrupt scope and scale of the changes could unsettle investors and disrupt supply chains.

Forced divestments, tight deadlines and criminal penalties risk deepening perceptions of policy unpredictability in a country already grappling with capital shortages and fragile investor confidence.

Still, the message from Harare is unequivocal: in much of Zimbabwe’s day-to-day economy, local ownership is no longer optional — it is now mandatory.

According to SCB Statistic s, Syrians make up the largest foreign-born population in many southern and central counties.

Their presence reflects migration patterns driven largely by the Syrian civil war and Sweden’s humanitarian response during the 2015 refugee influx.

Finns remain the largest foreign-born group in many northern counties, a long-standing pattern due to Sweden and Finland’s close historical, linguistic, and geographic ties.

Norway also appears as the top foreign-born group in one central county, consistent with the regular cross-border movement among Nordic citizens.

Iraqis stand out in Stockholm County, where long-term migration, family reunification, and labour opportunities have shaped the community over several decades.

Meanwhile, Eritreans form the largest foreign-born group in a key coastal county, reflecting ongoing migration from East Africa due to political instability and forced conscription.

This new data is especially relevant as Sweden engages in wider European discussions on migration management. The EU is moving forward with the Pact on Migration and Asylum, which aims to create a more balanced and predictable system for handling asylum applications.

"A new system replaces the old Dublin rules (regarding seeking asylum in the first EU country) and clarifies which Member State is responsible for the examination, and creates a fairer distribution of asylum seekers. It also introduces a new joint management of migration crises and cooperation with third countries," Migrationsverket reports.

Sweden’s own government has signalled a stricter approach to immigration while also acknowledging the country’s need for skilled labour in healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.

“China firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries' internal affairs, and threatening other countries with sanctions and force,” Mao said.

Trump made the remarks during a rally in Florida, citing reports of violence against Christian groups in northern and central Nigeria. Abuja swiftly rejected the comments, insisting the country upholds constitutional protections for religious freedom and denouncing what it called unwarranted external interference. Analysts also note that many victims of violence in northern Nigeria are Muslims.

During the briefing, Mao extended condolences to North Korea following the death of Kim Yong-nam, former president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly.

His comments came shortly after Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado was awarded this year’s Nobel Peace Prize . The Norwegian committee said it was honouring her for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights” and her “struggle to achieve a just and peace ful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”

Trump has long argued he was unfairly overlooked for the Nobel Peace Prize, pointing to his administration’s role in brokering the Abraham Accords between Israel and several Arab states, and his direct diplomacy with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un .

The Malaysian government has issued a strong call for the immediate release of volunteers detained while delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. These volunteers, who were part of a flotilla mission carrying essential supplies such as food, medical equipment, and shelter materials, were intercepted in international waters. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim condemned the detentions, describing them as a violation of international law and humanitarian principles. Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry is engaging with international partners and human rights organisations to secure the volunteers’ release and ensure their safe return home. The incident has stirred public outrage, with Malaysians expressing solidarity through nationwide vigils and social media campaigns. The government reiterated its commitment to defending humanitarian missions and supporting Palestinian civilians enduring severe hardship under continued conflict.

Anwar to meet NGO leaders to discuss humanitarian aid for Gaza via Egypt

In an ongoing effort to coordinate relief for Gaza, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced plans to meet with non-governmental organisation (NGO) leaders to discuss the logistics of channelling humanitarian aid through Egypt. The meeting aims to create a unified Malaysian relief framework that ensures aid delivery to affected civilians despite border restrictions. The discussion will include NGOs specialising in medical assistance, food distribution, and refugee support. Anwar emphasised that Malaysia’s humanitarian stance transcends political or religious lines, reflecting the nation’s moral obligation to assist the oppressed. He also called for greater collaboration among regional governments to pressure for safe humanitarian corridors into Gaza. The government’s proactive approach underscores Malaysia’s growing role as a humanitarian advocate in international crisesNews Briefs 9.10.

Indonesia appoints Iman Hascarya Kusumo as ambassador to Malaysia

Indonesia has officially appointed Iman Hascarya Kusumo as its new Ambassador to Malaysia, a move widely viewed as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between the two neighbouring nations. The appointment comes at a pivotal time as both countries seek to deepen cooperation on issues including migrant labour protection, trade, and education. Kusumo, known for his diplomatic experience and focus on ASEAN collaboration, is expected to prioritise enhancing mutual understanding and addressing long-standing concerns regarding worker welfare. Malaysian officials have welcomed his appointment, expressing optimism that it will usher in a new era of balanced and transparent diplomacy. Both governments reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering peace, regional integration, and economic resilience in Southeast Asia.

Need for flexible foreign policy that remains true to core values, says Tok Mat

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan (Tok Mat) has emphasised the importance of a flexible yet principled foreign policy in navigating Malaysia’s complex geopolitical landscape. He stated that while Malaysia must adapt to shifting global dynamics, it should never compromise on its core values of peace, justice, and mutual respect. Tok Mat highlighted that non-alignment remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s diplomatic strategy, allowing the nation to engage constructively with both Western and Eastern blocs. He also urged policymakers to strengthen regional diplomacy through ASEAN and to assert Malaysia’s voice on pressing international issues such as humanitarian crises, environmental sustainability, and fair trade. His remarks reflect a strategic balance between pragmatism and moral conviction in Malaysia’s approach to global affairs.

Malaysia ready to support any UN peacekeeping effort in Palestine

During a parliamentary session, members of the Dewan Rakyat were informed that Malaysia stands ready to support any United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission in Palestine should one be established. The government expressed its readiness to contribute personnel, logistics, and medical support to ensure peace and stability in the region. Lawmakers across party lines voiced strong backing for the initiative, highlighting Malaysia’s historical solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Malaysia’s participation would align with its long-standing policy of advocating for oppressed peoples and upholding international law. The announcement has strengthened Malaysia’s image as a defender of global peace and humanitarian principles, while also reflecting growing domestic demand for more active involvement in international peacekeeping

In a significant constitutional move, Tonga’s King has asserted control over foreign policy, sidelining parliamentary influence. The decision has sparked intense debate over the monarchy’s role in diplomacy and the balance of power between elected officials and the crown.

General election campaign underway

Tonga’s Legislative Assembly has closed its latest session to prepare for the November General Election. Before adjourning, lawmakers passed several key bills, including the Whistleblower Protection Bill and amendments to marriage laws.

PTOA challenges Diplomatic Services Act

The opposition PTOA party has petitioned the King to withhold assent on the Diplomatic Services Act, arguing it lacks public consultation. The Act would centralise foreign affairs under the monarchy, raising concerns about democratic accountability.

Parliament modernises civil registration

In a controversial move, parliament passed a bill raising the legal marriage age to 18 and explicitly prohibiting same-sex marriage. The bill also introduces a digital identification system, modernising Tonga’s civil registry.

Whistleblower protection enacted

The Whistleblower Protection Bill 2025 was passed unanimously, creating new safeguards for individuals who expose misconduct by public officials, a major step toward greater transparency.

Nawrocki's win, with 50.89% of the vote, marks a significant setback for Prime Minister Donald Tusk's pro-European Union (EU) government and signals potential policy clashes ahead.

As a conservative historian and former head of the Institute of National Remembrance, Karol Nawrocki campaigned on a platform which emphasised national sovereignty, traditional Christian values, and scepticism towards deeper European Union integration. His alignment with the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party and endorsement from former U.S. President Donald Trump bolstered his appeal among conservative voters.

This victory is expected to extend the legislative deadlock experienced under outgoing President Andrzej Duda, as he is likely to use his veto powers to block liberal initiatives from Tusk's government, particularly efforts to reverse PiS-era judicial reforms criticised by the EU.

Nawrocki has vowed to oppose liberalisation of abortion laws and the recognition of same-sex partnerships, reflecting his commitment to conservative social policies . He also supports nationalist economic measures favouring Polish citizens over refugees, including those from Ukraine.

On foreign policy, while Nawrocki backs military aid to Ukraine against Russia's invasion, he opposes Ukraine's accession to NATO, citing concerns about entangling Poland in broader conflicts . His stance may strain Poland's relations with both Ukraine and the EU.

Financial markets, however, responded negatively to Nawrocki's election, with Poland's blue-chip WIG20 index falling 2.14% amid investor concerns over potential legislative gridlock and fiscal uncertainty. Analysts warn that political polarisation could hinder fiscal consolidation efforts, especially given Poland's significant budget deficit and upcoming spending demands.

The sweeping tariffs , ranging from 10% to as high as 37%, impact a wide swath of European economies — particularly the EU's industrial powerhouses.

Germany, France, Italy, and Spain — major exporters of automobiles, heavy machinery, and luxury goods — are now subject to 20% tariffs under Trump’s revived trade strategy. These countries, which collectively account for over 60% of the EU’s exports to the U.S., are expected to feel immediate economic strain.

Eastern and Southeastern Europe have it even worse. Countries like Serbia, Albania, and Bosnia face tariffs as high as 30-37%, a staggering blow to their limited export capacity and growing trade ties with the U.S.

The tariffs target high-value sectors:

Interestingly, Russia , Ukraine, Belarus, and a few Balkan nations remain exempt from the new tariff regime. Analysts speculate that this selective targeting is part of Trump’s broader foreign policy posture, possibly aimed at redefining alliances and economic dependencies.

The European Commission in March shared its readiness to retaliate U.S. tariffs and potential legal action at the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Meanwhile, business lobbies on both sides of the Atlantic urge de-escalation before the tariffs take permanent root.

The US has been sending money to Zimbabwe to help with food, health, business, and government programs.

Since 1980, it has given more than 3.5 billion dollars. Every year, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) provided over 300 million dollars. Zimbabwe's banks also depended on these funds, with about 10% of bank deposits coming from international aid.

But on January 20, US President Donald Trump signed an order cutting most foreign aid, a decision that has caused panic in Zimbabwe’s financial system.

Banks use foreign money for trade, loans, and reserves. Without enough US dollars, banks may not have enough cash for customers to withdraw. They may also stop giving out loans, which could slow down business and trade.

Economic analyst Kudzanai Sharara warns that with banks struggling, businesses will find it harder to borrow money, making life even more difficult for ordinary people.

Trade and debt payments could also be affected, adding to Zimbabwe’s economic troubles.

Zimbabwe has used the US dollar for years to keep its economy stable.

In the late 2000s, hyperinflation made the local currency almost worthless, forcing people to rely on US dollars instead. Now, with US aid drying up, the country faces another tough financial challenge.

Max Bergmann, director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, described the meeting as "the worst public Oval Office meeting that I have ever witnessed." He called it a "dark day for the transatlantic alliance," warning that it could jeopardize NATO’s stability and Ukraine’s future.

"I think it's the worst public Oval Office meeting that I have ever witnessed or can ever remember. I think it's a dark day for the transatlantic alliance, and the transatlantic alliance may not recover. I think it's in some ways very much about Ukraine. So it obviously really puts the future of Ukraine, I think, in doubt, but also puts the future of the NATO alliance in doubt," he told the AFP.

Bergmann accused Trump and his ally, JD Vance, of adopting a confrontational stance, adding that the transatlantic alliance "may not recover" from the fallout. The tense exchange has further fueled geopolitical uncertainty as Ukraine continues to resist Russian aggression.

The law, called the Maintenance of Racial Harmony Bill, means race-based organisations must now reveal any foreign or anonymous donations they receive.

They also have to disclose any links they have with foreign groups and provide details about their leadership.

If necessary, the government can block these organisations from accepting money from foreign sources or force them to return certain donations.

The law also gives the home affairs minister the power to take action against people who spread content that could harm racial harmony, local news reports.

However, officials admit the law cannot stop everyday racial issues or offensive remarks although it will serve as a strong message that Singapore will not allow outside forces to create division.

Most lawmakers supported the law, but some warned it could cause problems.

According to them, some local groups have long-standing connections with organisations abroad, which have helped preserve Singapore’s cultural traditions.

Singapore is a multicultural country where about 74% of residents are Chinese, 13.6% are Malay, and 9% are Indian.

In recent years, the government has been keeping a closer watch on foreign influence.

The government says the new law is part of its efforts to protect Singapore from any external interference that could threaten its stability.

As typical of the radical Donald Trump, there is a condition.

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One on Saturday, January 25, Trump shared that his first country of visit "could be Saudi Arabia".

However, he was quick to explain that the last time he went to Saudi Arabia was when the kingdom was purchasing huge sums of US dollars in goods from the latter.

This stoked his condition that he would visit again if the offer was on the platter again.

“If that offer were right, I’d do that again,” he added.

Saudi Kingdom's intended $600 billion investment in the US during

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud announced the kingdom's interest in investing $600 billion in the United States over the next four years.

This was said in a phone call with Trump and reported by the state-run Saudi Press Agency.

If this offer is truly right, Trump will be headed to Saudi Arabia for his first international visit since he became America's 47th president on January 20.

"I believe that if we will achieve this hostage deal, we will have a majority in the government that will support the agreement. So, this is the simple answer. I believe, I know, there is a true willingness from our side to reach an agreement.," Sa'ar stated during a press conference in Rome alongside Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.

The negotiations, facilitated by mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, have reached an advanced stage. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated that a final proposal is on the table, awaiting Hamas's acceptance.

The call for sanctions relief comes from recent political changes in Syria. In December 2024, Islamist-led rebels succeeded in toppling the long-standing regime of Bashar al-Assad. The new Syrian leadership, represented by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, has sought international support to rebuild the war-torn nation.

"I would most probably say that the foreign policy will not change drastically, regarding some general directions that the US has always taken," Del Re said.

According to her, Trump’s election has been welcomed by many African countries, as his stance on national sovereignty resonates with policies promoted in nations like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.

Del Re also noted the importance of sovereignty as a guiding principle in both US and African policies.

"Sovereignty is an important principle in policy," she said.

She further projected a possible collaboration on security and development issues, between the U.S. and Africa particularly for regions like the Sahel.

Watch the full interview here:

As African nations consider what this means for trade, immigration, and foreign policy, many wonder if Trump’s second term will signal new challenges or opportunities.

An “America First” foreign policy 

Ghanaian Political Analyst, Professor Etse Sikanku, anticipates that Trump’s "America First" policy will take precedence, potentially limiting cooperation with African countries. Sikanku suggests that under Trump, the US may become more inward-looking: “America is going to return to its isolationism…to take a backward seat when it comes to global affairs. They'll be less interested in internationalism, less interested in international cooperation, less interested in multiculturalism,” he told GSW’s Wonder Hagan.

African leaders extend congratulations 

Despite concerns, several African leaders have congratulated Trump, expressing a willingness to work with his administration. Somalian President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, whose country recently had a $1.1 billion debt cancelled by the Biden administration, conveyed his eagerness to collaborate on security and peace efforts. For Somalia, struggling with internal conflicts and insurgencies, partnership with the US remains critical.

Key policies of concern for Africa

Trade and economic policies

The future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a programme allowing African exports tax-free access to US markets, is now uncertain. Trump previously indicated he would not renew AGOA when it expires in 2025, advocating instead for a universal 10% tariff on foreign goods. This shift could disrupt the economic benefits that African countries currently enjoy, impacting trade-dependent sectors.

Immigration and travel restrictions 

Trump’s hardline stance on immigration is a concern for many Africans, as migration to the US is a path toward better opportunities for many. During his first term, Trump implemented a travel ban targeting several African nations. With migration at record levels—58,000 African migrants were reported at the US-Mexico border in 2023 alone—a renewed travel ban could further limit African migration options, especially for those fleeing conflict and poverty.

Climate policy and fossil fuels  

Africa’s leaders have voiced the need for support in addressing climate change while balancing energy needs. Trump’s policies on climate are likely to favour fossil fuel expansion, a stance he emphasised in a post-election speech promising to “amp up oil production.” 

“We have more liquid gold than any country in the world… More than Saudi Arabia. We have more than Russia,” said the president-elect to a jubilant Republican crowd.

African nations seeking investment in both fossil fuel and renewable energy may find the Trump administration supportive of the former but potentially restrictive on climate-focused funding.

LGBTQ rights and social policies  

US foreign aid policies under Trump are also likely to shift, particularly concerning social issues like LGBTQ rights. Trump’s stance may appeal to some African leaders who have criticised past US administrations for tying aid to social value conditions. Following Uganda’s recent upholding of an anti-gay law and Ghana’s passage of an anti-gay bill, leaders like Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame have expressed hope for a US partnership rooted in mutual respect rather than “imposing its views and ways of life.”

During his congratulatory message to Trump, Kagame said: “Your clear message has been that the United States should be a partner of choice that attracts by the force of its example, rather than by imposing its views and ways of life on others. I therefore look forward to working with you for the common benefit of both our countries in the years ahead.”

With Trump’s presidency set to begin on January 20, as per the American Constitution's 20th Amendment ,  Africans are preparing for a new era of US-Africa relations. Whether through changes in trade, immigration, or climate policy, Trump’s second term will undoubtedly have implications for the continent. 

Here is a look at the U.S. presidents of the last four decades, according to White House history :

Ronald Reagan (1981-1989)

Reagan's presidency was marked by significant economic policies known as "Reaganomics," a strong stance against the Soviet Union, and the end of the Cold War. He was the 40th US president on the ticket of the Republicans.

George Herbert Walker Bush (1989-1993)

As a Republican and the 41st president, Bush oversaw the Gulf War and the fall of the Berlin Wall which navigated the end of the Cold War era.

Bill Clinton (1993-2001)

From 1993 to 2001, the Democrats Clinton's presidency saw economic prosperity, the signing of NAFTA, and the advent of the internet age.

George W. Bush (2001-2009)

George Walker Bush, a member of the Bush family and the Republican Party's presidency was defined by the response to the 9/11 attacks, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and significant domestic policies like the No Child Left Behind Act.

Barack Obama (2009-2017)

Obama's tenure focused on healthcare reform with the Affordable Care Act, navigating the Great Recession, and significant foreign policy initiatives like the killing of Osama bin Laden and Libya's Muammar Gaddafi.

Donald Trump (2017-2021)

Trump's term was characterised by major policy changes, an "America First" agenda, and often contentious domestic and international relations. Despite this, he has been re-elected as the 47th president in the 2024 elections.

Joe Biden (2021-present)

Biden's presidency has focused on addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, economic recovery, and rebuilding international alliances.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched the strikes in response to what they described as "months of continuous attacks" from Iran and its regional allies.

The IDF's operation, which involved three waves of precise strikes, was completed within a few hours, targeting key military sites but avoiding nuclear facilities and oil fields.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei during a weekly televised news conference emphasised that Iran would use "all available means" to respond to the Israeli aggression.

He stated that Iran's response would be proportionate to the nature of the Israeli attacks and aimed at defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"I emphasise that our position is clear, we are using all available means to respond firmly and effectively to the aggression of the Zionist regime. Basically, the nature of our response will depend on the nature of the attack," Esmaeil Baghaei said.

Iran, as a supporter of Hezbollah fighters, has been a target of Israel for several months.

Hezbollah, which is engaged in heavy fighting with Israeli forces in Lebanon, and also the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is battling Israel in the Gaza Strip.

Lin Jian, the country's foreign ministry spokesman, verified this during a press briefing on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

"The person from Volkswagen was detained for 10 days and deported by Chinese public security organs for the use of cocaine. For further information, please refer to the relevant authorities," he said.

The incident highlights China's stringent drug policies, which apply to both citizens and foreigners alike.

The country maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards drug use, with severe penalties for those found in violation. This policy extends to foreigners, who can face detention and expulsion if caught using or possessing illegal substances.

He takes over from Joko Widodo, who has been in power for a decade. Prabowo's victory has been controversial , with accusations that Widodo used state resources to support him and his running mate, Widodo's son Gibran Rakabuming Raka.

Despite his past, Prabowo has rebranded himself as a "cuddly" grandpa, appealing to younger voters. He plans to pursue a non-aligned foreign policy but has indicated a bolder stance on the world stage, as reported by the AFP.

The evolving geopolitical dynamics in Sri Lanka are significantly influenced by the recent election of Marxist-leaning President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Emphasis from India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on the necessity for India and China to cooperate in stabilising the region highlights the strategic importance of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean. Enhanced Sino-Lankan ties are anticipated, alongside a noteworthy shift in the nation’s foreign policy after the forthcoming elections, particularly the potential lifting of a ban on Chinese research vessels under pressures from India and the US. According to T he Manila Times , Dissanayake’s election reflects a homegrown "colour revolution," diverging from previous foreign-influenced political changes, and suggests a pivot towards China's development model.

Flooding kills three

Severe flooding in Sri Lanka, attributed to relentless torrential rains, has severely impacted over 134,000 individuals, causing three fatalities and two serious injuries. The districts of Colombo and Gampaha have been significantly affected, with 240 homes reported as damaged and around 7,000 residents forced to evacuate. The Watchers reports that the adverse weather patterns are projected to continue until October 17, significantly disrupting transportation systems with submerged roadways and public transport entanglements. The government has announced a relief package of LKR 50 million (approximately USD 170,000), with military crews actively engaged in rescue missions, as monsoon-related challenges have beset the nation since May.

Pharmaceutical production

In diplomatic developments, the Cuban government is steering its focus towards enhancing pharmaceutical production in Sri Lanka, as articulated by Ambassador Andres Marcelo Gonzalez Garrido during dialogues with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. As reported by the Daily News , the dialogue encompassed the fortification of their 65-year diplomatic bond, resuming mosquito control initiatives supported by Cuba, and extending scholarships in both medical and sports fields. The Prime Minister has acknowledged Cuba’s assistance amid its economic tribulations, extending an invitation for the Cuban Prime Minister to visit Sri Lanka. This cooperation is pivotal in ensuring that both nations continue their collaborative journey.

T20 victory

In sports, Dunith Wellalage's T20 debut has marked a dazzling performance, leading Sri Lanka to a considerable 73-run triumph against the West Indies during the second T20 International on October 15, 2024. Wellalage's bowling performance, which included figures of 3/9, greatly contributed to the West Indies' downfall, restricting them to a mere 89 runs in pursuit of a 163-run target. Coupled with supportive spins from Maheesh Theekshana and Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka displayed compelling dominance throughout the match. Batting first, Sri Lanka established an impressive total of 162/5, anchored by Pathum Nissanka's crucial 54 runs. Post-match analyses commended Wellalage's poise and technical prowess, indicating his rising potential in Sri Lankan cricket for forthcoming tournaments, Lanka Sara reports.

Dollar rates

Financially, as of October 16, the Sri Lankan Rupee has displayed stability against the US Dollar within commercial banking institutions. Seylan Bank registered rises in both buying and selling rates, whereas NDB Bank reflected a decline in these rates. Conversely, the Commercial Bank observed decreased rates as well, while Sampath Bank's rates held constant, reports Newswire . The notable currency exchange rates are as follows: Seylan Bank: Buying - Rs. 289.85, Selling - Rs. 297.35; NDB Bank: Buying - Rs. 289.25, Selling - Rs. 297.25; Commercial Bank: Buying - Rs. 287.50, Selling - Rs. 297.25; Sampath Bank: Buying - Rs. 289, Selling - Rs. 298.

The Senate Majority Leader, Chuck Schumer, voted "no" on procedural grounds, emphasizing the need for revision.

Following the vote, Schumer underscored the gravity of the situation, describing it as a "serious moment with lasting consequences for the 21st century." He urged against risking the decline of Western democracy.

President Biden had issued a warning before the vote, emphasizing the historical significance and urging against allowing Russian President Putin to gain an advantage.

Democrats argued that supporting allies and promoting global democracy is crucial in countering autocracies, and rejecting the bill would send a message of non-alignment with international partners.

In contrast, Republicans stood united in their opposition, citing priorities such as stricter immigration policies and southern border control. They emphasized the need for increased accountability for American taxpayer money directed overseas.

Schumer, aiming to break the deadlock, indicated plans to propose an amendment related to border policy. The funding dispute has been a prolonged point of contention between Democrats and Republicans, focusing on the allocation of billions in aid for Ukraine and Israel to safeguard US interests in the Indo-Pacific region and provide international humanitarian assistance.

The resolution of the deadlock came with the elimination of aid from the new budget plan. Notably, resistance remains, particularly among Republicans, regarding increased military aid to the Kyiv government.

The rejection of Biden's aid plan underscores the ongoing challenges in achieving bipartisan consensus on crucial international funding issues.