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Ireland Advances Limited Settlement Trade Law Amid U.S. and Israeli Criticism

Ireland Advances Limited Settlement Trade Law Amid U.S. and Israeli Criticism

The Irish government is moving forward with a controversial bill aimed at restricting trade with West Bank settlements, despite facing criticism from Israel and the United States. The legislation, which is limited to banning the import of goods from these territories, has been clarified by Thomas Byrne, Ireland's minister of state for European affairs and defense. The bill excludes services, a decision made to avoid complications for technology firms and other industries with ties to Israel. The law, which will not be implemented this year, is expected to influence similar measures in other European countries. The proposal has sparked debate within Ireland, with some activists pushing for a broader scope, while others, including U.S. companies, urge its abandonment.

Bolivia and Israel to restore ties severed over the war in Gaza

Bolivia and Israel to restore ties severed over the war in Gaza

Bolivia’s new right-wing government says it will restore diplomatic relations with Israel, the latest sign of the dramatic geopolitical realignment underway in the South American country

NAMC CEO Highlights 10% Growth in South African Agricultural Exports Amid Global Trade Challenges

NAMC CEO Highlights 10% Growth in South African Agricultural Exports Amid Global Trade Challenges

The National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) of South Africa has reported a 10% growth in agricultural exports during the second quarter of 2025, reaching approximately $3.69 billion. This growth is notable given the challenging global trade environment. Dr. Simphiwe Ngqangweni, CEO of NAMC, emphasized the resilience of the agricultural sector, with key export destinations including the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Products such as macadamia nuts, lemons, and oranges showed significant growth, although some commodities like avocados and maize experienced declines.

Bolivia Restores Diplomatic Relations with Israel After Two-Year Break

Bolivia Restores Diplomatic Relations with Israel After Two-Year Break

Bolivia has restored diplomatic relations with Israel, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy under the new right-wing government led by President Rodrigo Paz. The decision comes after Bolivia's previous left-wing government severed ties with Israel two years ago due to its military actions in Gaza. Bolivian Foreign Minister Fernando Aramayo and Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar met in Washington to sign a declaration to revive bilateral ties. This move is part of Bolivia's broader strategy to improve relations with Western countries, including the United States, after years of alignment with China, Russia, and Venezuela. The restoration of ties includes reinstating ambassadors and easing visa restrictions for American and Israeli travelers.

Trump Administration Proposes Mandatory Social Media Disclosure for U.S. Visitors

Trump Administration Proposes Mandatory Social Media Disclosure for U.S. Visitors

The Trump administration has introduced a proposal requiring foreign tourists to disclose up to five years of their social media history before traveling to the United States. This proposal, published in the Federal Register, aims to make social media history a mandatory data element for travelers applying through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). ESTA allows citizens from visa-waiver countries to apply for travel authorization to the U.S. for short-term visits without a traditional visa. The proposed changes would also require applicants to provide information about family members, previous telephone numbers, email addresses, IP addresses, and metadata from photos. This move extends social media vetting to countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and South Korea, which were previously exempt. The proposal is part of President Trump's broader strategy to tighten entry restrictions to the U.S.

FIFA World Cup Ticket Sales Open Amid High Demand and Prices

FIFA World Cup Ticket Sales Open Amid High Demand and Prices

FIFA World Cup Ticket Sales Open Amid High Demand and Prices

Federal Reserve Anticipated to Cut Interest Rates, Impacting Asian Markets

Federal Reserve Anticipated to Cut Interest Rates, Impacting Asian Markets

Federal Reserve Anticipated to Cut Interest Rates, Impacting Asian Markets

Mexico's lower house approves tariff hikes on Chinese, other Asian imports

Mexico's lower house approves tariff hikes on Chinese, other Asian imports

By Diego Oré MEXICO CITY, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Mexico's lower house early Wednesday approved tariffs of up to 50% next year on imports from China and several other Asian countries, aiming to boost domestic production and address trade imbalances.

Trump Administration Proposes Social Media Vetting for U.S. Visitors

Trump Administration Proposes Social Media Vetting for U.S. Visitors

The Trump administration has proposed a new requirement for foreign tourists to disclose up to five years of their social media history before traveling to the United States. This proposal, published in the Federal Register, would make social media history a mandatory data element for travelers applying through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). ESTA allows citizens of visa-waiver countries to apply for travel authorization to the U.S. without a traditional visa. The proposal also includes the collection of information about family members, previous telephone numbers, email addresses, IP addresses, and metadata from photos. This measure extends social media vetting to countries previously exempted, such as the UK, Germany, Japan, and South Korea.

Israel and Bolivia Renew Diplomatic Ties, Emphasizing Security and Tourism

Israel and Bolivia Renew Diplomatic Ties, Emphasizing Security and Tourism

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has congratulated Bolivian President Luis Arce on the renewal of diplomatic relations between Israel and Bolivia. The two leaders held a phone conversation to discuss the renewed ties, focusing on enhancing security cooperation and boosting tourism between the nations. This development marks a significant diplomatic shift, as Bolivia had previously severed ties with Israel in 2009 over the Gaza conflict. The restoration of relations is seen as a move to strengthen bilateral cooperation in various sectors.

North Korea Unveils New Air Force Capabilities, Enhancing Strategic Military Assets

North Korea Unveils New Air Force Capabilities, Enhancing Strategic Military Assets

North Korea has showcased new capabilities within its air force, as announced by leader Kim Jong-un during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the Korean People's Air Force (KPAF). The event featured a display of the latest unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), fighter aircraft equipped with new missiles, and an airborne warning and control system (AWACS) platform. Notably, the Saetbyol-9 multirole UAVs, resembling the MQ-9 Reaper, were equipped with advanced glide weapons, indicating a significant enhancement in North Korea's military technology. These developments are part of North Korea's efforts to bolster its strategic military assets.

Israel and Bolivia to Restore Diplomatic Relations After 16-Year Break

Israel and Bolivia to Restore Diplomatic Relations After 16-Year Break

Israel is set to renew diplomatic relations with Bolivia after a 16-year hiatus. This development follows a meeting in Washington between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Bolivian counterpart Fernando Aramayo. The two countries had severed ties in 2009 following Israel's military operations in Gaza. The recent election of Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz has opened the door for renewed relations, with both nations expressing a desire to start afresh. Bolivia has also announced the cancellation of its visa requirement for Israelis, signaling a warming of relations. The move is part of a broader strategy by Israel to strengthen ties with Latin American countries.