US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has emerged as the central figure in the Trump administration’s bold economic maneuvers, including global tariffs, trade negotiations with China, and now, a high-stakes intervention in Argentina. The US stepped in during September to stabilize the plummeting peso, fearing it could undermine President Javier Milei, a key Trump ally, in the midterm elections. The intervention included purchasing pesos and establishing a $20 billion currency swap line, bolstering Milei’s political standing and helping his party secure significant gains in the elections. However, the financial success of this intervention remains uncertain. Despite US efforts, the peso has fallen 30% this year, raising concerns about the sustainability of the strategy. Critics argue that the move contradicts the administration’s ‘America First’ policy, while Bessent defends it as a necessary step to prevent regional destabilization. Analysts warn that Argentina’s history of currency devaluation and debt default adds significant risk, and the peso’s artificial support may not be sustainable. The US Treasury has remained tight-lipped about key details, leaving questions about the long-term implications of this unprecedented gamble.
作者： admin
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Rare minerals-tied new-generation industries emerge in Texas
In a strategic shift, major oil companies are now drilling in East Texas, not for oil, but for lithium and other rare earth elements essential for advanced manufacturing. Chevron, Halliburton, and Exxon are leading the charge, with significant projects announced in 2025. The Smackover Formation, a massive brine deposit, has been identified as the most lithium-rich site in North America, sparking a rush of investment and development.
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UAE-Pakistan flights: Low-cost airline begins 2 weekly flights between Dubai, Lahore
In a groundbreaking effort to enhance early detection of breast cancer, the Burjeel Cancer Institute has launched a mobile screening initiative aimed at making mammography services accessible to all. This innovative program deploys state-of-the-art mobile units equipped with advanced diagnostic tools to reach underserved communities, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against breast cancer. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce mortality rates by catching the disease in its early stages when treatment is most effective. By bringing screening services directly to people’s doorsteps, the institute is breaking down barriers such as transportation, cost, and awareness. The program also includes educational campaigns to empower women with knowledge about breast health and the importance of regular screenings. This initiative has already garnered widespread support from healthcare professionals and community leaders, who praise its potential to save lives and reduce healthcare disparities. The Burjeel Cancer Institute’s mobile mammography drive is a testament to the power of innovation and compassion in addressing critical public health challenges.
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Years after Argentina shut a notorious zoo, the stranded animals are finally being rescued
In a dramatic turn of events, lions, tigers, and bears that endured years of neglect at the now-defunct Lujan Zoo near Buenos Aires, Argentina, are finally receiving critical veterinary care. The animals, confined to cramped and unsanitary enclosures, are being evaluated and treated by experts from the international animal welfare organization Four Paws. This marks one of the most complex animal rescue missions ever undertaken in Argentina, following a recent agreement between the organization and the Argentine government. The zoo, once infamous for allowing visitors to interact with big cats, was shut down in 2020 due to safety concerns. However, the animals’ conditions deteriorated further, with many succumbing to illness, malnutrition, and injuries. Since the closure, the population of lions and tigers has plummeted from 136 to 62, with nearly half of the animals dying from preventable causes. Four Paws, known for its global animal rescue efforts, has now taken responsibility for the surviving animals. The organization plans to transfer them to expansive wildlife sanctuaries worldwide, offering them a chance to live in natural habitats. Veterinarians on-site are conducting urgent medical procedures, including surgeries and vaccinations, to stabilize the animals before their relocation. While the rescue mission brings hope, it also highlights the challenges of enforcing animal welfare laws across Argentina’s 23 provinces. The initiative represents a significant step toward ending the private ownership and exploitation of exotic animals in the country.
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Jamaica’s ‘ground zero’ – Assessing hurricane damage in Black River
The southwestern region of Jamaica, particularly the town of Black River, has been declared ‘ground zero’ following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa. On Tuesday, the area endured the brunt of the storm’s ferocious 185 mph (295 km/h) winds, leaving behind a trail of destruction. The hurricane’s unprecedented intensity has caused widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and natural landscapes, with Black River emerging as the epicenter of the devastation. Emergency response teams are currently assessing the extent of the damage, while local authorities are mobilizing resources to aid affected communities. The resilience of Jamaica’s residents is being tested as they begin the arduous process of recovery and rebuilding in the aftermath of one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the island in recent history.
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Syrian military cadets to begin schooling in Turkey
In a significant development for regional defense cooperation, Turkish military academies are set to commence training for 49 Syrian military cadets starting this Friday. This initiative underscores the deepening military ties between Turkey and Syria, following the signing of a bilateral military accord in August. According to Middle East Eye, Turkey has already begun training approximately 300 Syrian troops, including soldiers and police officers, at bases in central and eastern Turkey. Ankara’s broader plan aims to train up to 5,000 Syrian personnel in the short term, with a long-term goal of reaching 20,000. The Syrian cadets will receive education in air, land, and naval academies, marking a prestigious aspect of this collaboration. Upon completion, they will return to serve in the Syrian military. The Turkish Defense Ministry confirmed the training, stating that certain Syrian army units are utilizing Turkish military facilities. This cooperation comes amid Syria’s efforts to rebuild after a decade of civil war, with President Ahmed al-Sharaa seeking Turkish assistance following Israeli air strikes on Damascus and Sweida. Turkey, which maintains around 20,000 troops in northern Syria, has emerged as a key regional power. The U.S. has also recognized Turkey’s influence, lifting sanctions on Syria earlier this year. While discussions on a broader defense pact continue, the current agreement focuses on training and consultancy, with no immediate framework for Turkish troop deployments to Syrian bases.
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Crew members ready for Shenzhou XXI mission
China is poised to launch the Shenzhou XXI mission, marking another significant milestone in its space exploration endeavors. The mission, scheduled for Friday night, will send three astronauts to the Tiangong space station for a six-month stay. The crew, led by mission commander Senior Colonel Zhang Lu, includes spaceflight engineer Major Wu Fei and payload specialist Zhang Hongzhang. Their primary objectives include conducting 27 scientific projects, performing spacewalks, and undertaking China’s first in-orbit experimentation on rodents. The launch will take place at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China, with the Long March 2F rocket propelling the Shenzhou XXI spacecraft into low-Earth orbit. The mission will also involve a crew shift, replacing the Shenzhou XX astronauts who have been aboard the space station for over six months. The Tiangong space station, completed in late 2022, remains the only independently operated space station in orbit. The Shenzhou XXI astronauts will focus on research in space life sciences, biotechnology, space medicine, and new spacecraft technologies. Additionally, the mission will observe the behavioral and physiological impacts of space on four mice, which will return to Earth for further analysis. This mission underscores China’s growing capabilities in space exploration and scientific innovation.
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Trump hosts White House Halloween bash with superheroes and presidential lookalikes amid shutdown
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosted a festive Halloween celebration at the White House on Thursday evening, welcoming hundreds of costumed guests, including children dressed as superheroes, dinosaurs, and even the first couple themselves. The event took place on the South Lawn, where the Trumps emerged to the orchestral rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” While neither donned costumes, the president sported his signature blue suit, red tie, and “USA” cap, while Melania wore a brown coat over an orange dress. The couple distributed full-sized Hershey bars and Twizzlers in boxes adorned with the presidential seal to a long line of children and parents. The festivities proceeded despite the ongoing 30-day government shutdown and Trump’s recent return from a six-day Asia trip. Temporary walls obscured the construction of the new White House ballroom, which has led to the demolition of the East Wing, though a bulldozer was visible nearby. The White House exterior was decorated with autumn leaves and fall flowers, and carved pumpkins adorned the balcony stairs. Attendees included children of military members and White House staffers, with costumes ranging from Spider-Man to ballerinas. Despite the political tensions, the event provided a moment of lighthearted celebration.
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Pumpkins, princesses and a mini Trump trick-or-treat at the White House
The White House transformed into a festive Halloween haven as President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed children from Washington, D.C., for the annual trick-or-treat event. The iconic residence was adorned with seasonal decorations, creating a lively atmosphere for the young visitors. Children dressed in creative costumes, ranging from pumpkins to princesses, and even a mini Donald Trump, roamed the grounds, collecting candies and enjoying the festivities. The President and First Lady personally greeted the attendees, sharing smiles and warm interactions. This cherished tradition not only brought joy to the local community but also highlighted the White House’s role in fostering a sense of unity and celebration during the holiday season.
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Dubai unveils plan for new financial centre in DMCC
Dubai is set to redefine its role in the global financial landscape with the unveiling of a new financial centre within the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC). This strategic move marks a significant evolution for the city, transitioning from a global gateway hub to a seamless convergence point for trade, finance, technology, and capital. The announcement was made during DMCC’s Made For Trade Live roadshow in Vietnam, where over 550 Vietnamese business leaders explored Dubai’s potential as a platform for international expansion. The event also highlighted the strengthening economic ties between the UAE and Vietnam under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
The upcoming financial centre will serve as a financial engine for DMCC’s thriving business ecosystem, integrating banks, fintech innovation labs, digital asset platforms, venture capital firms, and specialized financial service providers into one cohesive district. This initiative aims to create a robust financial backbone that supports Dubai’s trade flows, entrepreneurial growth, commodity networks, and digital economy. Companies within DMCC’s 26,000-strong community will gain streamlined access to capital, structured finance, risk solutions, cross-border settlement frameworks, and investment partnerships.
Ahmed bin Sulayem, DMCC’s Executive Chairman and CEO, described the project as transformative, emphasizing its role in connecting member companies directly to the global financial system. The centre will focus on trade finance, fintech innovation, and digital-asset solutions, aligning with the UAE’s ambition to position Dubai among the world’s most influential financial hubs. The new centre is expected to complement the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), with DMCC focusing on trade-related financial services such as commodity finance, supply-chain financing, and blockchain-enabled settlement systems.
The timing of this development coincides with Dubai’s growing appeal as a global wealth hub. Independent research projects that the UAE will attract 9,800 high-net-worth individuals in 2025, the largest net inflow globally. Additionally, trade connectivity between the UAE and Southeast Asia is rapidly expanding, with the UAE-Vietnam CEPA driving bilateral non-oil trade to $7 billion in the first half of 2025. The new financial centre will further enhance Dubai’s position as a command centre where global capital meets global trade, shaping the next generation of financial systems.