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Rwanda's economy grows by nearly ten percent amid global slowdown

Rwanda's Economy Registers Strong Growth in Early 2024 Despite Persistent Challenges


WTO advances Sixth Review of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Agreement

At a recent meeting of the SPS Committee, WTO members discussed the revised background document, the draft report of the Sixth Review, and the draft recommendations proposed by the WTO Secretariat. These discussions were based on previous dialogues held during the review process. All pertinent documents are accessible on the webpage dedicated to the Review of the SPS Agreement.


WTO members discuss post-MC13 e-commerce work programme focusing on development

Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) convened to discuss the work programme on e-commerce following the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13), with a particular focus on development. The meeting took place on September 17, 2024.


World Bank outlines strategies for Maldivian climate resilience in new report

The Maldives, with an economy heavily reliant on tourism and fisheries, faces significant threats from climate change. These two sectors account for nearly half of the nation's GDP and employment. The impacts of climate change on coral reefs and fisheries are already evident and are projected to worsen by mid-century under both high and moderate emission scenarios. This environmental degradation poses severe risks to the Maldives' economy and ecosystems.


Dominica leverages natural resources for climate resilience and economic growth

Dominica is not a typical Caribbean island. While it lacks white sand beaches, its beauty is evident through its lush forests, geothermal springs, rivers, and waterfalls. Dominica's forests cover more than 60 percent of the island's landmass and are home to diverse species such as the Jaco parrot and the Manicou possum.


Fintopio CEO on imprisoned Binance employee: 'What is happening to Tigran is unconscionable'

Fintopio CEO Steve Milton described the Nigerian government's treatment of Binance's Tigran Gambaryan as "unconscionable" given his dedication to law enforcement and his lack of decision-making authority within the company. Milton shared his statement in a September 2 post on X.


Department of State launches updated Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The Department of State has unveiled a revamped version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) on September 16, 2024.


UAE donates USD 1 million to WTO Fish Fund

The United Arab Emirates has donated USD 1 million to the World Trade Organization (WTO) Fish Fund, marking a significant contribution towards global sustainable fishing practices. WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged the donation, stating, "The generous contribution from the United Arab Emirates to the WTO Fish Fund is an important step towards supporting sustainable fishing practices globally. It will help fellow WTO members meet their obligations under the landmark Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and manage their fisheries sustainably. I am grateful for...


Solomon Islands study identifies key areas for economic growth

The Solomon Islands Country Economic Memorandum Sources of Growth Study emphasizes opportunities to boost growth in the country through digitalization, improved transport connectivity, and better urban planning. It also outlines steps to stimulate private-sector investment in tourism, agriculture, and fisheries.


Western Cape report suggests strategies for improving education sector

The Western Cape Education Sector Analysis, jointly prepared by the World Bank and South Africa’s Western Cape Education Department (WCED), offers key insights and recommendations for improving the quality of learning in the province’s schools while addressing the growing demand for access due to rising enrolments. The Western Cape is a coastal province at the southernmost tip of South Africa, home to a culturally diverse population spread across agricultural and fishing towns, various townships, and the city of Cape Town.


World Bank launches innovative project supporting Uzbekistan's green transition

Across the globe, countries are looking to cut their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to meet the national determined contributions (NDCs) they have committed to as part of the Paris Agreement to combat climate change.


State Department launches updated Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

On September 16, 2024, the Department of State introduced a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens are encouraged to re-enroll in this updated system at step.state.gov to continue receiving alerts.


Climate change threatens key Maldivian industries per World Bank report

MALE’, September 17, 2024 – The Maldives’ economy, heavily reliant on tourism and fisheries, is facing severe risks due to climate change, according to a new World Bank Group report released today.


Voting guidelines for U.S citizens residing in Slovakia ahead of upcoming elections

Voter registration deadlines for U.S. citizens living in Slovakia vary by state, with some requiring registration 30 days before an election.


State Department launches updated Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The Department of State has introduced a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) as of September 16, 2024.


WTO supports ELSA's Moot Court competition with legal mooting masterclass

The competition is a simulated hearing under the rules of the WTO dispute settlement mechanism involving exchanges of written submissions and oral pleadings before panelists on international trade law issues. The competition is organized by the European Law Students' Association (ELSA) with the technical support of the WTO.


Department of State launches updated Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

On September 16, 2024, the Department of State introduced a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens are encouraged to re-enroll at step.state.gov to continue receiving important alerts.


NCUA reports decline in assets but rise in loans for Q2 2024

Total assets, shares and deposits, and membership at federally insured credit unions declined at the median over the year ending in the second quarter of 2024, while loans outstanding increased, according to the latest Quarterly U.S. Map Review released today by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).


USCIS opens new field office in Quito

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has inaugurated a new field office in Quito, Ecuador.


Binance gives Vietnam users impacted by Typhoon Yagi $50 worth of BNB

Binance Charity announced it will airdrop up to $1 million in Binance Coin (BNB) to registered Binance users identified as living in areas in Northern Vietnam that were devasaid by Typhoon Yagi.