Kuwait city: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah met with Sultan Haitham bin Tareq of Oman at Al Baraka Palace in Muscat. According to Kuwait News Agency, the meeting was part of ongoing diplomatic engagements between the two nations. In Kuwait, Minister of Justice Nasser Al-Sumait announced that the cabinet has approved decrees-into-law aimed at combating international crime and safeguarding the rights of missing persons. This legislative move reflects Kuwait's commitment to enhancing its legal framework in line with global standards. Meanwhile, Kuwait's Cabinet commended the efforts of regional and international allies, which have resulted in the signing of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. This agreement represents a significant diplomatic achievement in the region. In Washington, Kuwait's Minister of Finance Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem emphasized the necessity of diversifying the national economy as a strategic goal to achieve sustainable development across various sectors. This s trategic shift is seen as crucial for Kuwait's long-term economic stability. Additionally, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) finalized loan agreements with Belize and Saint Lucia during the World Bank Group meetings in Washington. These agreements mark Kuwait's ongoing commitment to supporting economic development in other nations. In the Gaza Strip, health authorities reported receiving 45 bodies of Palestinian martyrs from the International Committee of the Red Cross. Despite a ceasefire, five Palestinians were killed, and others were injured by Israeli forces, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Geneva estimated the reconstruction cost for Gaza at USD 70 billion. UN agencies stressed the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza, noting that current supplies fall short of the population's needs. In Beirut, France announced plans to organize two conferences to support the Lebanese Army and Lebanon's reconstruction efforts. Th ese initiatives underscore France's continued support for Lebanon amid its ongoing challenges. In Beijing, China reiterated its stance to "fight to the end" in any tariff and trade war with the United States, while remaining open to dialogue. This statement reflects China's firm position on international trade issues. In Algiers, Madagascar's political landscape shifted as a powerful military unit assumed power after lawmakers voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina. Army Colonel Michael Randrianirina confirmed the military's takeover. In sports, Saudi Arabia qualified for the 2026 World Cup Championship following a goalless draw with Iraq. Meanwhile, Qatar secured its place in the same tournament by defeating the UAE 2-1 in the AFC playoff qualifiers' fourth round. These achievements mark significant milestones for both nations in international football.
