The Jordanian Businessmen Association (JBA) and the Syrian government signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost bilateral economic cooperation. The MoU aims to facilitate joint events, conferences, and forums to advance economic relations between the two countries. It also encourages the exchange of expertise and information on opportunities in various sectors such as education, banking, health, IT, insurance, construction, and transportation. A Jordanian delegation is set to visit Syria to explore cooperation opportunities in these areas. The MoU is expected to enhance bilateral trade flow by activating a "transit route" between the two countries. Notably, over 300 Jordanian trucks have crossed into Syria in one week, with more than 85 vegetable lorries exported to the country.
https://www.jordantimes.com/news/business/jordanian-syrian-business-associations-sign-memo-advance-economic-relationsPakistan's maritime minister spoke at the Karachi Press Club, stating that several international companies, including Maersk Line and Hutchison Ports, have expressed interest in investing in Pakistan's ports and shipping sector. The minister highlighted the potential of the Gwadar port, which is 90% owned by China, to route 60% of Pakistan's public sector foreign trade through it. He noted that improvement in the law and order situation would attract private sector shipping companies to use the port, which is strategically located for landlocked Central Asian states. The minister also mentioned that Russia and Malaysia have shown interest in using Pakistan's ports as transshipment points due to their location.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40342274/significant-investment-coming-into-port-shipping-sector-ministerIndonesia and Japan have strengthened their cooperation in the energy sector, particularly in geothermal power generation. The Muara Laboh PLTP in West Sumatra is one of three priority projects under the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) initiative, a joint venture between PT Supreme Energy, ENGIE, and Sumitomo Corp. The project has already seen the commercial operation of its Phase 1 with an 85 megawatt capacity since December 2019, and plans to expand with units 2 and 3, requiring a $900 million investment.
https://en.tempo.co/read/1962996/pm-shigeru-ishiba-confirms-japans-participation-in-indonesias-muara-laboh-power-plant-developmentThe list of possible deliverables for the President's visit to China includes a range of agreements and memoranda of understanding between Pakistani and Chinese institutions. These include agreements on infrastructure development such as the KKH realignment project and the construction of the Eastbay Expressway Phase-II, as well as cooperation in areas like media, culture, education, and healthcare. Specific agreements include a financing agreement for the ML-1 railway project, an MoU between China Media Group and Pakistan Television Corporation, and a framework agreement for the construction of the Eastbay Expressway Phase-II. Other agreements cover cooperation on industrial development, agricultural demonstration stations, and cultural heritage preservation.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40342299/zardari-likely-to-visit-china-next-monthPakistan's vice foreign minister highlighted the mutually reinforcing relationship between five new corridors under CPEC 2.0 - growth, livelihood, innovation, open and green corridor - with Pakistan's national development framework centered on 5Es: Exports, E-Pakistan, Energy, Environment and Equity. The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to deepen their All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership during the Fourth Round of Pakistan-China Bilateral Political Consultations (BPC) in Beijing. Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch led the Pakistani delegation, while Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong led the Chinese side. They exchanged views on regional and international issues and agreed to enhance mutual coordination and consultations through high-level exchanges and dialogue mechanisms. The two sides also discussed deepening partnerships in sectors such as information technology, agriculture and clean energy, driven by win-win cooperation and people-centric development.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40342297/high-quality-cpec-20-development-pakistan-and-china-reaffirm-commitmentPakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Dar spoke at the South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA) conference, stating that regional trade in South Asia is a major impediment to growth, with only 5% of total trade volume coming from within the region. He emphasized Pakistan's commitment to economic reforms and transformation, including initiatives such as its Strategic Trade Policy Framework, energy diversification, and digital transformation agenda. Dar highlighted the need for addressing trade barriers to unlock export potential and acknowledged that Pakistan's economy faces challenges like global economic uncertainties and climate change, but also sees it as a moment of opportunity. He emphasized the importance of governance and policy reforms in strengthening institutions and ensuring transparency and accountability.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1270969-dar-asks-south-asian-countries-to-boost-regional-tradeReeves, the UK's Secretary of State for Business and Trade, spoke at the reopening of finance talks between the UK and China, highlighting opportunities for cooperation on capital markets and regulatory issues. She stated that London is a natural hub for Chinese financial services firms to raise capital and expand globally. The two countries agreed on £600 million worth of deals over five years, with areas of common ground including financial services, trade, investment, and climate change. Reeves acknowledged pressure from the opposition to address the UK's financial crisis but maintained that her visit would unlock benefits for British businesses. She also emphasized the need for open and frank exchange on issues such as national security, market access, and human rights concerns in Hong Kong.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40342296/uk-treasurer-says-london-natural-home-for-chinese-financeShanghai has strengthened its partnerships with Liverpool and Greater London, achieving positive outcomes. The mayor, Gong, extended an invitation to British companies to participate in the China International Import Expo, focusing on investments in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare. He also emphasized the importance of deeper financial market connections, research exchanges between universities, and joint innovation in digital economy and AI sectors to promote high-quality development for both regions' citizens. Key outcomes from a recent economic dialogue included agreements on capital market connectivity and the expansion of British financial institutions in China.
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202501/1326726.shtmlSomalia and Ethiopia have agreed to restore full diplomatic relations after a year-long rift. The decision was made during a visit by Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. The two leaders signed a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to a peace deal mediated by Türkiye, which aimed to resolve long-standing grievances between the countries. They also discussed deepening trade and security cooperation, particularly in combating extremist militant groups.
https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/somalia-ethiopia-restore-diplomatic-ties-204596