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News from 2025


UOB joins CIPS for enhanced cross-border renminbi services

UOB and its subsidiary, UOB China, have entered into agreements to become direct participants in China's Cross-border Interbank Payment System (CIPS).


Djibouti launches new portal for macroeconomic data under IMF initiative

Djibouti has launched the National Summary Data Page (NSDP), implementing a key recommendation of the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Enhanced General Data Dissemination System (e-GDDS).


Planned demonstration near U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur set for June 20

A demonstration is planned near the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur on June 20, 2025.


Facebook introduces mobile device passkeys for enhanced security

Facebook is introducing passkeys for mobile devices, aiming to enhance user privacy and security.


U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Greece to close for federal holiday

The U.S. Embassy in Athens, along with its Consular Section and the U.S. Consulate General in Thessaloniki, will be closed on Thursday, June 19, 2025.


Refugee support programs continue amid global displacement crisis

World Refugee Day is observed annually on June 20, serving as a reminder of the universal right to protection for all individuals, regardless of their origin or circumstances.


State Department expands screening for student and exchange visitor visas

The State Department has announced an expansion of its screening and vetting process for visa applicants.


NCUA places Aldersgate Federal Credit Union under conservatorship

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has placed Aldersgate Federal Credit Union, located in Marion, Illinois, into conservatorship.


WTO conducts trade policy review for Colombia

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has conducted a Trade Policy Review for Colombia.


Volcanic eruption impacts air travel across Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province

Mount Lewotobi in East Flores, Indonesia, erupted on June 17, 2025.


World Bank debars Iranian company over fraudulent practices in Afghan projects

The World Bank Group has announced the debarment of Pars Tableau Joint Stock Company, an Iran-based supplier and general contractor, for a period of 63 months.


State Department updates screening for student and exchange visitor visas

The State Department has announced new measures to enhance the screening and vetting process for visa applicants, emphasizing national security and public safety.


U.S. Embassy in Helsinki announces closure for Juneteenth and Midsummer Eve

The U.S. Embassy in Helsinki will be closed on Thursday, June 19, to observe Juneteenth and on Friday, June 20, for the local Midsummer Eve celebration


Nicaragua enforces new speed limits; US Embassy provides guidance

Effective June 17, 2025, Nicaragua has introduced new national speed limits.


USDA seeks quotes for agribusiness trade mission to Taiwan

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Foreign Agriculture Services (FAS) has issued a request for quotes for an Agribusiness Trade Mission to Taipei, Taiwan.


Sun Life launches Expert Cancer Review for second opinions on diagnoses

Sun Life U.S. has announced the launch of its Expert Cancer Review service, aimed at providing members with a second opinion from an independent oncology specialist when faced with a cancer diagnosis.


Global Wealth Report shows uneven growth; Americas lead while APAC lags

In 2024, global wealth saw an increase of 4.6%, building on a 4.2% rise in the previous year.


State Department expands vetting for student and exchange visitor visas

The State Department has announced an expansion of its screening and vetting procedures for visa applicants.


United States supports Doreen Bogdan-Martin for ITU Secretary-General re-election

The United States has declared its support for Doreen Bogdan-Martin's re-election as Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).


U.S. criticizes global compacts at UNHCR meeting

The United States has emphasized the importance of sustainable responses to refugee crises at the 93rd Meeting of the UNHCR Standing Committee in Geneva, Switzerland.