Sarawak, Malaysia's largest state, aims to become a "green battery" for South-east Asia by harnessing its hydroelectricity and renewable energy potential. The state is building a fourth hydropower plant, which will account for around 3,500 megawatts (MW), enough to light about two million to three million households daily. Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg has told investors that Sarawak is committed to a low-carbon and sustainable energy future. However, environmental groups warn that much of the green energy infrastructure contributes to deforestation and the displacement of indigenous groups. The state's main export is still liquefied natural gas, and concerns remain about the expansion of large hydropower infrastructure.
Shehbaz Sharif is likely to meet with President Trump at the UN General Assembly sidelines on September 25. This development comes after improving diplomatic relations between Islamabad and Washington, following the May conflict between Pakistan and India. In July, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to reaffirm their resolve to bolster Pakistan-US ties. The two countries recently announced a trade agreement, which aims to boost bilateral trade and cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism and regional peace. Pakistan secured $500 million investment from the US in its critical minerals sector under a new agreement with United States Strategic Metals.
Keir Starmer's aides resigned amid a scandal involving former US ambassador Ovenden, who exchanged emails with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer's response to the crisis was that there was a time difference with the US, preventing him from questioning Mandelson about Ovenden's conduct. However, this was contradicted by a briefing given earlier in the day stating that the Foreign Office had emails related to the scandal. Starmer's official spokesman claimed the Prime Minister was aware of the investigation, but Starmer himself did not inquire about the emails' content before addressing MPs.
Türkiye aims to become the top 5 seed market globally within a decade, with a focus on diversifying products and expanding into new markets such as Asia. The country currently exports to the EU, Russia, and ECO nations, with key priorities including enhancing global branding, promoting high-value-added seeds, and improving seed quality. Güler emphasized that while Türkiye does import special seeds, it also exports a significant amount each year, contradicting the misconception that the country relies heavily on foreign imports.
US Trade Team Arrives in Delhi, Talks on Reciprocal Tariffs and Russian Oil Penalty. US Trade Representative Katherine Tai arrived in Delhi as part of a US trade team, meeting with Indian officials to discuss reciprocal tariffs and the Russian oil penalty. The talks focus on India's concerns over US tariffs imposed on Indian steel products, with the US seeking to reduce its trade deficit. The Russian oil penalty is also on the agenda, as India seeks compensation for losses incurred due to US sanctions.
Taiwan and South Korea shares reached record highs, driving broader emerging Asian equities to a four-year peak. The MSCI Asia EM equities index jumped 0.8% to its highest since July 2021, while a gauge tracking stocks in ASEAN countries hovered around its early 2020 levels. Emerging Asian currencies firmed against the US dollar, with Taiwan's dollar appreciating the most in six weeks. South Korea's won snapped a four-day losing streak, while Brazil's real held steady ahead of a central bank policy meeting. Investors expect the US Federal Reserve to resume its easing cycle this week, signaling potential for further rate cuts.
The US has imposed tariffs on Indian textiles, gems and jewellery exports amid a trade war. The move affects Indian manufacturers such as Titan Company, which imports raw materials from the US to make its jewellery products. The tariffs are expected to increase costs for Indian exporters, potentially impacting the country's manufacturing sector.
The Trump administration has added Colombia to a list of nations failing to cooperate in the drug war for the first time in almost 30 years. This decision reflects a recent surge in cocaine production and fraying ties between the White House and President Gustavo Petro. Colombia had failed to comply with its international counternarcotics obligations, but the Trump administration issued a waiver of sanctions citing vital US national interests. The decision could hurt Colombia's economy and further hamper efforts to restore security in the countryside.
The US and UK are set to sign $10 billion in economic deals during Donald Trump's visit. This comes after a meeting with White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro, who stated that India is "coming to the table".