Environmental breach? Philippines awaits report on cyanide use in disputed shoal
Dubai: The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has declared that it is awaiting the results of a “scientific and technical analysis” into the alleged use of cyanide in waters of Ayungin Shoal or Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed area in the South China Sea, before determining its next st»»»
Pope blasts ‘tyrants’ ravaging the Earth during his visit to Cameroon
Bamenda: Pope Leo XIV blasted the “handful of tyrants” who are ravaging Earth with war and exploitation, as he preached a message of peace Thursday in the epicentre of a separatist conflict considered one of the world’s most neglected crises. Leo travelled to the western Cameroon city of Bamenda, w»»»
Moment Israeli strikes hit southern Lebanon areas
Dubai: A series of Israeli airstrikes struck multiple مناطق in southern Lebanon, hitting areas around Nabatieh and nearby villages. Explosions were reported in Kfar Roummane, where strikes targeted the outskirts of an industrial zone and areas near a local supermarket. Additional airstrikes hit Arn»»»
Liwa project supports houbara breeding and desert wildlife conservation
In the heart of the Liwa desert, an Emirati-led project is helping protect wildlife and preserve heritage, with a focus on breeding the houbara bustard, a key symbol of the UAE’s desert environment. The project, led by Ahmed Hayay Al Mansoori, began as a personal initiative and has grown into a str»»»
Roxana Memetea (DDB): In a world where everyone can produce quickly, the role of the idea is more important than ever
In a new series of interviews launched today, BR set down with Roxana Memetea, Managing Director DDB, and talked about her wishes for 2026, both for the agency and the advertising industry, clients and what they are looking for, trends and many more. By Romanita Oprea How did you start the year / W»»»
Sig Sauer CEO Ron Cohen visits Cugir to built partnership
His itinerary included Cugir, Alba County, and Bucharest, with the objective to assessing the potential for industrial partnerships with Romanian defense manufacturers and opening a series of bilateral discussions with relevant industry and institutional stakeholders. The visit has three concrete o»»»
UAE workshop discusses gap between legal education and job market needs
More than 90 legal experts, academics and industry representatives gathered at a national workshop to discuss the gap between legal education and labour market requirements in the UAE. The workshop was organised by Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and hosted by the Legal Talent »»»
Farhana Bodi breaks down during interview: 'I was shattered when my son was diagnosed with autism'
Dubai: In a scenic lake-side resort in Geneva, miles away from Dubai, Indian reality star, model, and influencer Farhana Bodi logs in for our conversation with her usual polish and flourish. She was on a work trip for a luxury watch event and was naturally composed, camera-ready, and effortlessly g»»»
Agroland Group Q1 2026: 40% increase in volume and 25% increase in average price for eggs
“First-quarter results in the table egg segment show a significant increase in sales volumes, against a backdrop of steadily rising average prices. This trend confirms the validity of the decisions we have made in recent years to expand production capacity in a region with growing consumption trend»»»
No date fixed for next US-Iran talks, says Pakistan Foreign Office
Dubai: Pakistan on Thursday said no date has been set for the second round of talks between the United States and Iran, urging the media to avoid speculation as diplomatic consultations continue under a highly confidential process. Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi, during »»»
Anti-France influencer Kemi Seba arrested in South Africa for inciting rebellion in Benin
An anti-France activist and influencer has been arrested in South Africa for “inciting rebellion” by openly supporting last year’s foiled coup in Benin. Kemi Seba was born in France to Benin parents but was stripped of his French nationality two years ago for his many attempts to fuel anti-French s»»»
Sudan civil war: Civilians caught in the deadly crossfire of a ruthless army-RSF power struggle
François Picard welcomes Dallia Abdelmoniem, Political / Media Analyst and Commentator on African and Middle Eastern affairs. Sudan is a war-torn nation unraveling in real time, warns Abdelmoniem. She says that we are not just witnessing a conflict between rival armed factions; it is a systematic w»»»
SIGNAL IDUNA accelerates transformation in Romania: the group closes 2025 with 19% growth
SIGNAL IDUNA ASIGURARE REASIGURARE (life and health insurer) reported RON 376.7 million in gross written premiums, up 19% year-on-year. SIGNAL IDUNA ASIGURĂRI (general insurer) grew by RON 21% to 131.5 million, while GARANTA ASIGURĂRI (life and general insurer) increased by 9%, reaching RON 60.2 mi»»»
Etihad launches $399 pet travel offer, brings more pets into cabins
Dubai: Etihad Airways has introduced a limited-time pricing offer for its Pets Onboard service, lowering the cost of travelling with cats and dogs in the cabin in response to rising demand from passengers. Sign up for our daily business newsletter, Cheques & Balances.The airline is offering the ser»»»
How alternative schooling models are gaining momentum in the UAE
Dubai: Changing lifestyles, increased mobility, and the rise of hybrid work models are reshaping how families in the UAE and regionally approach education, prompting a clear shift towards more flexible and personalised learning models. While traditional schooling remains central, online and hybrid »»»
Ombudsman Delcheva: Any Constitutional Amendment Should Safeguard Institutional Balance and Public Trust
Any amendment to the Constitution should be made with particular responsibility, not only through the lens of political expediency, but with due regard for the balance of institutions and public trust in them, Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva said in her opening remarks during the Constitution Day cele»»»
Claret Credit announces 150% increase in sales in 2025
These results validate Claret Credit’s development strategy, which focuses on strengthening the management team and digitalizing operations. In 2024, the company appointed Mircea Lupu as CEO, an executive with over 20 years of experience in the banking and non-banking financial sectors. Claret Cred»»»
Gold Rises as Middle East Optimism Calms Inflation Fears
Gold prices rose on Thursday as growing optimism about a possible end to conflicts in the Middle East calmed inflation worries and improved prospects for lower interest rates. Spot gold rose 0.5% to $4,815.15 per ounce by 0926 GMT, after rising to a one-month high in the previous session. US gold f»»»
Study: Pessimism is on the rise in Romania’s construction and installation market
The report highlights both operational pressures—particularly the shortage of skilled labor—and a shift in how companies plan their investments, with an increasingly clear focus on efficiency, infrastructure, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Long-term planning and the absorption of Euro»»»
Turkish Airlines appoints new CEO and chairman in leadership reshuffle
Dubai: Turkish Airlines has reshaped its leadership structure, appointing a new chairman and chief executive as it moves to align management with its next phase of growth. Sign up for our daily business newsletter, Cheques & Balances.The airline named Prof. Murat Şeker as Chairman of the Board and »»»
Automobile market in Kyrgyzstan grows by 50 percent since start of 2026 - | 24.KG
In the first quarter of 2026, the turnover of wholesale and retail trade, as well as automobile repair, in Kyrgyzstan amounted to 465,267.6 billion soms. Compared to 2025, this figure increased by 12.1 percent, the National Statistical Committee reported. Automobile market The most active growth wa»»»
NUQI GOLD and Mawarid Finance sign MoU to launch the GCC's first gold-backed co-branded card
Nuqi Gold, a DMCC-registered fintech entity, and Mawarid Finance, a UAE Central Bank–regulated institution, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch the GCC's first gold-backed co-branded card — a landmark step in ethical, asset-backed digital finance. The partnership brings togeth»»»
Not Voting Does Not Fix Democracy's Problems - Anti-Corruption Bloc Top-of-the-List Candidate in Vratsa
Democracy in Bulgaria is facing a crisis, driven by a disconnect between citizens and those in power. But choosing not to vote will not fix the problems of democracy, Filip Pavlov, top-of-the-list candidate of the Anti-Corruption Bloc Coalition in Vratsa, said during a meeting with local residents,»»»
Hopes for deal to end Iran war grow, but nuclear issues unresolved – Ya Libnan
Share: Israeli soldiers next to artillery vehicles near the Israel-Lebanon border, in northern Israel, April 15, 2026. REUTERS/Florion Goga Optimism grew on Thursday that the Iran war may be near an end, with a key Pakistani mediator having made a breakthrough on “sticky issues”, a source said, alt»»»
Park Hyatt Dubai to close for final renovation phase
Dubai: Park Hyatt Dubai Creek will temporarily close from May as it enters the final phase of a planned renovation, with the operator moving to upgrade the property ahead of its next reopening. Sign up for our daily business newsletter, Cheques & Balances.The Dubai Creek property, part of the wider»»»
Public Tension Index Remains High at 6.88 in First Quarter
Public tension in Bulgarian society remains high, with the index measured jointly by the Centre for Analysis and Crisis Communications and the Myara polling agency standing at 6.88 in the first quarter of the year, the two organizations said on Thursday. They publish the index every three months. T»»»
Dh100m on the table: UAE launches empowerment fund for non-profit organisations
Dubai: The UAE has taken a significant step towards strengthening its non-profit sector with the launch of the non-profit organisations (NPO) empowerment fund, a Dh100 million initiative designed to support community-driven programmes across the country. The launch ceremony has been held today at t»»»
UAE elected to World Food Programme Executive Board
Abu Dhabi: The UAE has been elected to the Executive Board of the World Food Programme (WFP) for the 2026–2028 term, at a time of escalating global food security challenges and mounting risks linked to disruptions in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, developments that could push tens of million»»»
Anantara World Islands Dubai closes, operator resets focus
Dubai: Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort has ceased operations, bringing a pause to one of the more distinctive hospitality concepts within Dubai’s World Islands development. Sign up for our daily business newsletter, Cheques & Balances.Minor Hotels confirmed in a statement that the resort stoppe»»»
The Inside Track | One United Properties: Pioneering urban transformation and sustainable living in Romania
Leading real estate developer One United Properties is known for its modern mixed-use developments, sustainable initiatives, and investments in the Bucharest and Romanian regional property markets. The company is committed to creating vibrant, eco-friendly communities while respecting local heritag»»»
UK Economy Surged Ahead of Iran War, but Energy Shock to Test Resilience
Britain's economy put on a burst of growth in February, suggesting it was in slightly better shape before the start of the Iran war than many economists had feared, official figures showed on Thursday. Gross domestic product expanded 0.5% month-on-month in February, the biggest increase since Janua»»»
UAE details nuclear safety gains at IAEA meeting
Abu Dhabi: The UAE has presented its Tenth National Report at the Review Meeting of the Contracting Parties to the Convention on Nuclear Safety (CNS), held at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The UAE delegation presented the report as part of the review process under the Convention, h»»»
Trump claims Israeli and Lebanese leaders will speak directly as IDF expands buffer zone
US President Donald Trump has claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will speak directly with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on April 16. Israel and Lebanon held their first direct bilateral negotiati»»»
Trump claims Israeli and Lebanese leaders will speak directly as IDF expands buffer zone
US President Donald Trump has claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will speak directly with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on April 16. Israel and Lebanon held their first direct bilateral negotiati»»»
Iran considering petrochemical imports after Israeli strikes hit output
Iran may be forced to ramp up imports of petrochemical products to supply feedstock for downstream industries after US-Israeli air strikes hit its main production hubs earlier this month, a government spokesperson said, in remarks carried by state news on April 16. »»»
Iran considering petrochemical imports after Israeli strikes hit output
Iran may be forced to ramp up imports of petrochemical products to supply feedstock for downstream industries after US-Israeli air strikes hit its main production hubs earlier this month, a government spokesperson said, in remarks carried by state news on April 16. »»»
The Inside Track | Auchan Romania: Two decades of innovation and local impact
As Auchan celebrates two decades of activity in Romania, the company’s journey reflects both impressive growth and a strong commitment to innovation. From its early days to its current role as a leader in modern retail, Auchan has consistently shaped the market, supported local producers, and intro»»»
Gold Prices Ease in Egypt as Global Markets Stabilize
Cairo — Gold prices in Egypt recorded a notable decline during Wednesday the 15th of April morning trading, falling by approximately EGP 30 per gram following gains registered in the previous session, according to local market data reported by Youm7. Prices for 24-karat gold fell to around EGP 8,12»»»
Trump bets on blockade to force Iran deal — will Tehran budge?
WASHINGTON: Donald Trump has pivoted from military escalation to economic warfare, betting that a sweeping naval blockade of Iran’s ports and shipping can succeed where weeks of US-Israeli strikes have not — forcing Tehran back to the negotiating table. The strategy is stark: Cut off Iran’s ability»»»
Crypto loses ground as UAE investors double down on gold and oil bets
Dubai: Retail investors in the UAE are turning towards commodities, with gold and oil emerging as the preferred assets in a period marked by geopolitical tension and market volatility. Sign up for our daily business newsletter, Cheques & Balances.Fresh data from eToro’s latest UAE Retail Investor B»»»
DIB launches “Standing Together with Our Heroes, as ONE” reaffirming commitment to the Nation
Dubai: DIB, the world’s leading Islamic financial group and the largest in the UAE, has launched a dedicated financial support initiative for the UAE’s frontline heroes, reinforcing its commitment to the nation and those who continue to serve at the forefront during critical times. Designed to deli»»»
The Inside Track | Cosmopolis: A visionary journey to enhance the residential landscape
Over the past two decades, Cosmopolis has evolved from a bold vision into a thriving urban community, setting new standards for residential development in Romania. Business Review sat down with CEO Ozan Tuncer and talked about how this journey exemplifies not only ambitious growth but also a steadf»»»
Trump claims Strait of Hormuz “open” while blocking Iranian trade
US President Donald Trump has said he is “permanently opening” the Strait of Hormuz, presenting the move as benefiting “China and the world” after claiming Beijing agreed “not to send weapons to Iran.” Trump’s remarks come as the US military claims American warships have effectively blocked Iranian»»»
Court blocks Kea mobile antenna project
An Athens court has blocked installation of a mobile phone antenna in the Xyla bay area of Kea island, overturning a permit issued by the Hellenic Telecommunications and Post Commission. This annulled the agency’s approval for a 64.5‑meter tower planned at a 40.5‑meter elevation. The case reached t»»»
How to authenticate specialised employment contracts in Qatar
Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Labour Qatar (MoL) has issued guidelines on accessing its digital service for authenticating specialised employment contracts, aimed at meeting the needs of national talent and specialised professions. In a social media post, the ministry stated that the service provide»»»
Media Review: April 16
APRIL 19 PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS A sociological survey commissioned by bTV and conducted by the Market Links polling agency shows that five parties are expected to enter next Parliament, with one of them clearly standing out above the rest. The survey was conducted among 1,003 respondents aged over»»»
Ministry of Innovation and Growth Submits Sofia Tech Park’s Application for NATO’s DIANA Accelerator
The Ministry of Innovation and Growth has officially submitted the application of Sofia Tech Park for an accelerator in the DIANA network (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic), NATO’s initiative for accelerating defence innovation, the Ministry’s press centre announced Thursday. T»»»
Doctor shortage in rural Kyrgyzstan four times worse than in cities - | 24.KG
Kyrgyzstan faces a significant imbalance in the geographical distribution of healthcare workers, with a much higher concentration in urban areas than in rural regions, officials said during a presentation of a healthcare labor market analysis. According to representatives of the World Health Organi»»»
Aldar raises $1.36bn in new loan backed by 10 banks
Abu Dhabi: Aldar Properties has raised Dh5 billion through a new sustainability-linked revolving credit facility, giving the Abu Dhabi developer additional firepower to fund future projects. The five-year syndicated loan, backed by 10 UAE, regional and international banks, lifts Aldar’s total avail»»»
UAE labour market remains stable amid regional developments
Dubai: The UAE’s labour market continues to demonstrate resilience and stability despite ongoing regional developments, with businesses operating smoothly and workers receiving wages on time, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). In a statement issued on Thursday, »»»