Australia sourced much of its imported urea from the Middle East and Southeast Asia in 2024, with Saudi Arabia and Indonesia emerging as its largest suppliers, according to World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) trade data .

The map highlights Australia's dependence on imported urea, a nitrogen-rich fertiliser widely used to boost crop yields and also an essential ingredient in AdBlue, the diesel exhaust fluid required by many heavy vehicles to reduce emissions.

Saudi Arabia was Australia's largest individual supplier by trade value in 2024, exporting more than US$221 million worth of urea to Australia, according to WITS data based on UN Comtrade statistics. Indonesia also ranked among the country's biggest suppliers, alongside the United Arab Emirates, Oman, China and several other trading partners.

Australia imported around US$1.45 billion worth of urea from all countries in 2024, making it one of the world's five largest urea importers by value behind Brazil, the European Union, India and the United States.

Urea is the world's most widely used nitrogen fertiliser because it contains about 46% nitrogen, making it highly effective for crops including wheat, barley, canola, cotton and sugarcane. Australia imports most of its nitrogen fertiliser requirements despite being a major agricultural exporter, as domestic production has not kept pace with demand.

The country's reliance on overseas suppliers has become increasingly important during periods of global disruption. Supply chains have faced pressure in recent years from geopolitical tensions, shipping disruptions and export restrictions by some producing countries, leading to higher fertiliser prices and renewed discussions about Australia's fertiliser security .

Australia is pursuing greater domestic production capacity through new fertiliser projects, but imported urea is expected to remain a key component of the country's agricultural supply chain for the foreseeable future.

The statement added that the Houthi forces were fully prepared for “all options” and warned that any escalation by Saudi Arabia would be met with “comprehensive escalation and force”. It framed the stance as a defence of a “just cause”, saying the Yemeni people had the right to respond “by all available means”.

Saudi Arabia has launched a new international alliance at the United Nations aimed at advancing efforts toward a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The initiative reflects Riyadh's continued push for a diplomatic settlement that would establish an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. The alliance is expected to bring together countries and international organisations seeking to revive stalled peace efforts and reinforce support for a negotiated resolution. The move comes as the Kingdom seeks to play a more prominent role in shaping regional diplomacy and promoting stability in the Middle East. Two-State Solution at the UN. 

79th UN General Assembly

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan delivered a major address during the 79th United Nations General Assembly, outlining the Kingdom's positions on pressing international and regional issues. The speech highlighted Saudi Arabia's commitment to multilateral cooperation, conflict resolution, economic development and global security. The address also underscored the Kingdom's growing diplomatic influence as it seeks to strengthen partnerships and contribute to international efforts addressing crises across the Middle East and beyond.

Lebanon developments

Saudi Arabia and France have held high-level diplomatic consultations on the evolving situation in Lebanon. During a telephone conversation, the foreign ministers of both countries discussed recent political and economic developments in the crisis-hit nation and explored ways to support stability and institutional reform. The discussion reflects the continuing involvement of Riyadh and Paris in efforts to help Lebanon navigate its prolonged challenges, including economic hardship and political uncertainty. Both countries have repeatedly emphasised the importance of strengthening Lebanese state institutions and promoting national stability.

UN Envoy on Syria

On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with the UN Special Envoy for Syria to discuss the latest developments in the Syrian conflict. The talks focused on diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a political solution and supporting long-term stability in the country. Saudi Arabia has increasingly engaged in regional initiatives concerning Syria in recent years, advocating dialogue and cooperation as part of broader efforts to restore security and facilitate reconstruction across the region.

Environmental Cooperation at UN Assembly

Saudi Arabia's climate envoy met with a senior German official during meetings held alongside the United Nations General Assembly, highlighting the Kingdom's commitment to international climate cooperation. Discussions reportedly focused on sustainability initiatives, climate action and opportunities for collaboration on environmental challenges. The engagement forms part of Saudi Arabia's broader efforts to position itself as an active participant in global climate discussions while advancing its own environmental and energy-transition objectives under Vision 2030.

Yet, as the map above shows, a small group of countries remains outside this global circle. From communist giants to war-torn regions and ideologically rigid states, here’s a breakdown of why some nations still have no diplomatic ties with the Holy See.

Countries without diplomatic relations with the Holy See

Highlighted in red on the map, these countries currently have no formal diplomatic engagement with the Vatican:

Why do these countries stand apart?

1. China

China’s relationship with the Vatican is one of the most complex. Although there has been a provisional agreement since 2018 on the appointment of bishops, full diplomatic relations have not been restored since the Holy See recognised the government in Taiwan. The Chinese Communist Party maintains tight control over religion, making diplomacy difficult.

2. North Korea

With strict isolationist policies and no freedom of religion, North Korea has never established ties with the Holy See. There are no official Catholic churches, and any underground religious activity is met with severe punishment.

3. Vietnam

Vietnam and the Vatican have improved ties in recent years, with a resident papal representative now allowed, but no formal diplomatic status exists yet. Talks are ongoing, and observers expect a breakthrough shortly.

4. Saudi Arabia and Oman

Both nations are Islamic monarchies with no formal churches and strict bans on public Christian worship. Religious freedom is limited, making official ties with the Holy See nearly impossible under current laws.

5. Afghanistan

Ongoing conflict, the resurgence of the Taliban, and a strict interpretation of Islamic law leave no room for a formal Catholic presence or diplomatic recognition of the Holy See.

6. Somalia and Comoros

Both nations have weak governance and fragile internal conditions , especially Somalia, which faces instability and terrorism. Religious minorities, including Christians, are often persecuted.

The Holy See's global role

The Holy See isn’t just a religious authority—it’s a sovereign entity under international law , actively participating in:

Its diplomatic influence is seen as a moral and ethical counterbalance in global affairs, particularly on issues like migration, conflict resolution, poverty, and climate change .

According to Investopedia , Russia is the world's most resource-rich nation as it boasts an estimated $75 trillion in natural resources.

Russia leads the list due to its abundant reserves of coal, natural gas , oil, gold, timber, and rare earth metals. These resources are pivotal not only to Russia’s economy but also to global markets, especially in energy and industrial production.

The United States comes in second, with $45 trillion in natural resources, including coal, timber, natural gas, gold, and copper. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia rounds out the top three with $34 trillion, largely attributed to its vast oil reserves.

Other notable entries include:

This ranking underscores the strategic importance of natural resources in shaping global economic influence. The world's shift towards renewable energy and technological advancement means that control over critical materials such as rare earth metals may prove even more valuable than traditional fossil fuels.