News published on Globe Banner in October 2025

News from October 2025


Malaysia’s push for GovTech requires reforms in platforms, policies, people & participation

Digital transformation is increasingly central to the modernization of governments, with the aim of making public services more efficient and accessible.


WTO discusses recognition of professional qualifications and addresses services trade concerns

WTO members met on 2 and 3 October to discuss the recognition of professional qualifications (RPQs) for service providers and other issues related to services trade.


Investors show rising interest in Germany’s security and defence sector

A recent survey by KfW Research and the German Private Equity and Venture Capital Association indicates that 30 percent of investors in Germany have already invested in companies within the security and defence sector.


U.S. congratulates Equatorial Guinea on 57th independence anniversary

The United States has extended congratulations to Equatorial Guinea on the occasion of its 57th anniversary of independence, which is celebrated on October 12.


UBS hosts roundtable with George Russell for aspiring F1 drivers in Singapore

UBS organized a roundtable event in Singapore on October 1, 2025, aimed at supporting young aspiring Formula 1 drivers.


University supports Eager Explorers initiative bringing science outreach to Abbey Ward

In Cambridge, the Eager Explorers event is working to make science more accessible to residents of Abbey Ward.


Sarawak signs agreement with World Bank to reform state-owned enterprise governance

Sarawak has entered into a three-year agreement with the World Bank and Malaysia’s Federal Government to improve governance in State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and public financial management.


Toyota Financial Services announces new executive appointments

Toyota Financial Services (TFS) has announced a series of executive changes intended to support the company’s strategic direction and leadership continuity.


Siemens eMobility launches SICHARGE Flex EV charger for megawatt applications

Siemens eMobility has introduced SICHARGE Flex, a new electric vehicle (EV) charging system designed for the megawatt era.


U.S. Secretary of State congratulates Uganda on independence anniversary

On October 11, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement congratulating Uganda on its 63rd anniversary of independence, which was celebrated on October 9.


UOB Heartbeat Run raises S$3.1 million for charities across Asia

About 24,000 participants joined the annual UOB Heartbeat Run across several Asian markets, raising S$3.1 million for children and families supported by 25 charities worldwide.


WTO members discuss plastics pollution measures and highlight new support initiatives at MC14

Representatives from China and Australia, acting as co-coordinators of the Dialogue on Plastics Pollution (DPP) along with Barbados, Ecuador, Fiji, and Morocco, presented five draft documents proposed for consideration at the 14th WTO Ministerial...


FSB advises authorities on improving AI risk monitoring in finance

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has released a report offering guidance to authorities on monitoring the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the financial sector.


U.S. Embassy Sarajevo issues notice on EU entry/exit system rollout for travelers

The U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo has issued a notice regarding the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will begin implementation on October 12, 2025.


World Bank publishes five-volume report on desalination governance and economics

The World Bank has released a new report addressing the growing issue of water scarcity, which is being made worse by factors such as increasing population, changing rainfall patterns, and heightened water stress.


World Bank launches incentive framework supporting cross-border solutions for global challenges

The World Bank introduced its Framework for Financial Incentives (FFI) in February 2025, offering middle-income countries benefits such as increased financing, extended repayment terms, and reduced interest rates for projects that generate...


IMF reviews progress on economic reform program with Haitian authorities

A virtual mission led by Camilo E. Tovar from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was held between September 30 and October 8, 2025, to review Haiti’s progress under its Staff-Monitored Program (SMP).


U.S. Embassy Belgrade issues alert ahead of student demonstration on October 11

On October 11, a student demonstration is scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. in front of the Faculty of Law in Belgrade.


Volkswagen Group reports higher global vehicle deliveries driven by strong electric car demand

Volkswagen Group reported that its global vehicle deliveries reached 6.6 million by the end of September 2025, reflecting a 1.2 percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year.


European Union introduces new biometric entry/exit system for U.S. travelers

The European Union will introduce the Entry/Exit System (EES) for foreign travelers, including U.S. citizens, beginning October 12, 2025.