News published on Globe Banner in February 2025

News from February 2025


U.S. embassy honors return of possible remains of servicemembers

On February 19, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane conducted a remembrance ceremony to honor possible remains of missing U.S. servicemembers recovered earlier this year.


U.S. State Department designates multiple international cartels as terrorist organizations

The U.S. Department of State has announced the designation of several international cartels and transnational organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs).


Protests expected across Slovakia as citizens commemorate murder anniversary

U.S. citizens in Slovakia are advised to be cautious as tens of thousands are expected to participate in nationwide demonstrations on February 20 and 21.


Salmon Wars: Chinese government flexing global muscle through fish

After the Oslo-based Nobel Peace Prize Committee awarded its 2010 award to a Chinese dissident, the Chinese responded by shutting Norweigan salmon out of the Chinese market.


U.S. Embassy seeks bids for Make Ready work in Singapore

The U.S. Embassy has announced a solicitation for Make Ready work at a U.S. Government-owned residence in Singapore.


U.S. supports Philippines against China's naval actions near Scarborough Reef

The United States has expressed its support for the Philippines following a recent incident involving the Chinese People's Liberation Army-Navy (PLAN).


Rubio meets UAE president to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues

Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.


World Bank approves $700 million loan for Colombia's sustainable development

The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors has approved financing to support Colombia in promoting equitable and sustainable development.


Women leaders share experiences in tech industry

Katarzyna Orantek, a 41-year-old resident of Katowice, Poland, shares her journey and experiences in the technology industry.


Burkina Faso farmers trained on using rain gauges for improved agricultural practices

Farmers in Burkina Faso's Balés region recently took part in a training session focused on the installation and use of farmer rain gauges.


World Bank launches photobook showcasing Libya’s contrasts

The World Bank has introduced a new photobook titled "Shades of Libya: Contrasts, Hope, and Resilience" in Tripoli.


WTO official urges support for multilateral trading amid geopolitical challenges

Deputy Director-General Angela Ellard addressed the European Parliament and the Interparliamentary Union Steering Committee, emphasizing the significance of their involvement in World Trade Organization (WTO) matters.


U.S. Department of State updates traveler enrollment program

The U.S. Department of State has launched an updated version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service designed to keep U.S. citizens informed while traveling or living abroad.



Ethiopia launches $226M education transformation under AIM4Learning

The Advancing Innovative Methods to Promote Learning (AIM4Learning) Program is a $1.54 billion initiative funded by the International Development Association (IDA) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD).


US sanctions Rwandan officials linked to Congo violence

The United States has announced sanctions against two individuals and two entities connected to violence and human rights abuses in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).


WTO launches new book exploring links between trade and global peace

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has introduced a new publication titled "Trade for Peace: Pathways to Sustainable Trade and Peace."


Troika addresses slow implementation of South Sudan peace commitments at RJMEC meeting

Michael J. Adler, U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan, delivered a statement on behalf of the Troika—comprising the United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway—during a meeting of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC)...


U.S. discusses peaceful dispute resolution at UN Charter Committee

The United States has expressed its views on the peaceful settlement of disputes, highlighting the importance of procedures outlined in the UN Charter and other international instruments.


World Bank launches $1.54 billion program to boost education in Africa

A new initiative is set to improve access and learning outcomes in basic education for over 70 million children across Eastern and Southern Africa.