News from February 2024


Xero, BILL team up to offer small businesses new ways to pay bills

Small business platform Xero and financial operations platform Bill have announced a partnership aimed at enhancing the accounts payable capabilities for Xero’s customers in the United States. The collaboration is designed to streamline bill payment processes, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently.


Singapore Tourism Board, Saks Fifth Avenue debut ‘Made in Singapore’ campaign

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Saks Fifth Avenue have launched a campaign to highlight Singapore's landmarks at the Saks Fifth Avenue New York flagship store, which will run until March 13. Each store window features a different location and experience, accessible via QR code.


Commemoration marks 80 years since U.S. bomber crash in Austria

On February 23, 1944, a tragic event linked Austria and the United States when a U.S. bomber crashed in Bad Wimsbach-Neydharting, resulting in the loss of ten American airmen.


EU Strengthens Ties with Africa and Latin America Through New Trade Deals

The European Parliament has given its consent to the ratification of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement and to the Advanced Framework Agreement and an Interim Trade Agreement with Chile. These agreements are seen as significant milestones in strengthening the EU's relationships with key partners in Africa and Latin America. BusinessEurope Director General Markus J. Beyrer highlighted the importance of these deals, stating, "These agreements mark an important step, consolidating the EU's ties with important partners in Africa and Latin America. They show real...


United States outlines priorities at UN Global Digital Compact consultation

The United States recently shared its perspectives at the United Nations meeting focused on the Global Digital Compact (GDC) during its second informal consultation.


The Sun Princess sets sail

The latest addition to the Princess Cruise line, a ship capable of accommodating 4,300 guests, has embarked on a 10-day Mediterranean cruise from Rome.


Sweden pledges SEK 27 million to EIF interim facility for LDC economic growth

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has announced a contribution of SEK 27 million from Sweden, aimed at supporting least-developed countries (LDCs) in maintaining economic growth. The funds will be directed towards the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF), specifically to the newly established EIF Interim Facility. This commitment was confirmed during a meeting attended by Per-Arne Hjelmborn, the Director General for Trade Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ratnakar Adhikari, Executive Director of EIF.


Pew Charitable Trust announces new Fellows in Marine Conservation

The 2024 Pew fellowship in marine conservation has been awarded to scientists from six countries: the Philippines, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States.


Hard Rock International, Major Food Group enter agreement to provide new dining experience for Hard Rock guests

Hard Rock International has embarked on a new venture that is set to revolutionize dining experiences for its guests across the United States and globally. The company recently announced a partnership with Major Food Group, a contract that was signed on February 27.


CRH to purchase Australia's Adbri

CRH and the Barro Group are set to become the owners of Adbri once a transaction currently in progress is completed later this year. CRH will possess approximately 57% of Adbri's stock, while the remaining shares will be held by the Barro Group.


Art exhibit highlights human impact of war in Nicosia

The American Embassy sponsored the art exhibit "The Womanly Face of War" to mark the second anniversary of Russia's re-invasion of Ukraine.


Ambassador calls for urgent UN action on humanitarian crisis in Sudan

In a recent statement, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, exacerbated by ongoing civil conflict.


Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield hears testimonies on October 7 Hamas attacks

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Representative to the United Nations, participated in a roundtable discussion with witnesses of the attacks committed by Hamas on October 7.


UN Security Council discusses ongoing challenges in Syria

The United Nations Security Council recently held a briefing on the political and humanitarian situations in Syria.


U.S. calls on Israel to ensure safe passage of humanitarian aid into Gaza

The United States has called for increased efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging Israel to open border crossings for aid and facilitate the rapid delivery of relief items.


Women leaders honored for peace efforts at US Institute ceremony

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield delivered remarks at the United States Institute of Peace Women Building Peace Award Ceremony.


Air Lease Corporation announces lease with Thai Airways International for three Boeing 787 planes

Thai Airways International is set to receive three Dreamliner aircraft from the 787-9 line in 2025.


U.S. ambassador discusses climate crisis at CARICOM meeting

During her second day in Guyana, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield led the U.S. delegation at the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting.


U.S.-Caribbean partnership strengthened at CARICOM summit amid focus on Haiti

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield recently led the United States delegation to the CARICOM Summit in Guyana.


Thomas-Greenfield discusses Haiti's crisis at CARICOM meeting

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield participated in a meeting with Haitian government leaders, CARICOM heads of government, and representatives from the United Nations, United Kingdom, Canada, and France.