Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Cyprus: Navigating the future of global shipping

    Cyprus: Navigating the future of global shipping

    Positioned at the strategic intersection of Europe, Africa, and Asia, Cyprus has solidified its status as a premier global maritime center. The Mediterranean island nation has developed a comprehensive shipping ecosystem that merges operational excellence with innovative environmental stewardship, establishing itself among the world’s largest shipping registries and top ship management hubs.

    The Cypriot maritime sector has undergone transformative modernization through strategic initiatives implemented by the Shipping Deputy Ministry (SDM). The establishment of a streamlined One-Stop Shipping Center has significantly enhanced administrative efficiency, providing shipowners and maritime operators with accelerated services and reduced bureaucracy. This customer-centric approach is supported by round-the-clock professional assistance and an extensive global network of offices ensuring uninterrupted support regardless of operational geography.

    Cyprus maintains a robust legal framework rooted in English common law principles, regularly updated to preserve competitive advantage. The nation’s Tonnage Tax System, fully compliant with European maritime transport regulations, offers unprecedented stability for shipping entrepreneurs. Environmental responsibility has become central to Cyprus’s maritime strategy, with the 2024 Tonnage Tax (Environmental Incentives) Order providing up to 30% tax reductions for vessels implementing eco-friendly technologies and emissions-reduction equipment.

    Digital transformation represents another cornerstone of Cyprus’s maritime advancement. The SDM is progressing toward complete digitalization of services to boost sector efficiency and competitiveness. Beyond technological progress, Cyprus actively promotes workforce development through diversity initiatives and career promotion programs. These include specialized scholarships at the IMO International Maritime Law Institute and World Maritime University, alongside national campaigns encouraging youth and women to pursue maritime professions.

    With its dual commitment to operational excellence and environmental sustainability, Cyprus has secured consistent placement on the Paris and Tokyo MoU White Lists, reflecting exceptional safety and quality standards. The nation continues to navigate evolving global shipping challenges while maintaining its position as a trusted maritime flag for the future.

  • Experience Larnaka — A Mediterranean getaway

    Experience Larnaka — A Mediterranean getaway

    Positioned as an ideal Mediterranean escape for UAE travelers, Cyprus’s Larnaka region presents a compelling fusion of coastal vibrancy and mountain serenity within a remarkably short flight duration. The destination’s strategic accessibility—merely three to four hours from the Gulf—places visitors at the heart of its diverse offerings immediately upon arrival at Larnaka International Airport, where most accommodations and key attractions lie within a fifteen-minute radius.

    The region’s unique character unfolds from the moment of arrival, where the otherworldly Larnaka Salt Lake serves as a gateway spectacle. Between November and March, this ecological marvel hosts magnificent flocks of greater flamingos, while a forest-encircled pathway provides year-round leisurely strolls under typically agreeable temperatures. Overlooking the serene waters stands the architecturally significant Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, an active pilgrimage site constructed under Caliph Muawiya’s commission. This sacred monument marks the believed resting place of Umm Haram, the Holy Helper and aunt of Prophet Muhammad, who died during the 648 AD Arab landing in Larnaka.

    Urban exploration reveals Larnaka’s dynamic evolution as an emerging investment and tourism hub. While international hotel brands increasingly establish presence alongside comprehensive European infrastructure upgrades, the city maintains profound authenticity through its layered historical narrative. The palm-lined Foinikoudes promenade introduces visitors to British Colonial Administration buildings, while the marina—once Cyprus’s primary commercial gateway for copper and carob exports—now hosts luxury yachts and sailing regattas.

    The city’s cultural complexity manifests through architectural juxtapositions like the Larnaka Medieval Castle standing adjacent to the Kebir (Buyuk) Mosque. Enhanced walkability connects landmarks, interactive QR-activated storytelling statues, the revitalized Zouchouri Square Complex, and the artistic Larnaka Art Workshops neighborhood where local creators welcome engagement. Comprehensive English signage and widespread multilingual communication ensure seamless navigation and meaningful cultural exchange.

    Beyond the urban center, Larnaka’s geographical diversity spans 75 kilometers of coastline transitioning into rolling countryside and traditional mountain villages. The agrotourism experience thrives through nine distinct Honey Villages renowned for apiculture, alongside destinations like Lefkara—celebrated for intricate lacework and silver filigree craftsmanship. Visitors engage directly with regional traditions through hands-on workshops in basketry, pottery, halloumi cheese production, and unique Cypriot pasta preparation.

    Gastronomically, Larnaka presents a fresh synthesis of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors best experienced through alfresco dining in both urban and village settings. This culinary approach mirrors the region’s overall lifestyle rhythm, where seasonal variations continuously offer new reasons for repeated visitation—embodied in Larnaka’s official tourism slogan: ‘Welcome Back.’

  • Cyprus Trade Centre in the GCC region (Dubai) deepens Cyprus and GCC engagement through strategic initiatives in 2025

    Cyprus Trade Centre in the GCC region (Dubai) deepens Cyprus and GCC engagement through strategic initiatives in 2025

    The year 2025 marked a transformative period in Cyprus-Gulf Cooperation Council economic relations, characterized by groundbreaking institutional frameworks and strategic cross-sector collaborations. Spearheading this diplomatic-economic offensive, the Cyprus Trade Centre in Dubai (CTC) executed an ambitious agenda that fundamentally reshaped bilateral engagement between Cyprus and Gulf nations.

    Central to this evolution was the formal establishment of the Cyprus Business Council in Dubai under the auspices of Dubai Chambers. This private-sector-driven platform, comprising 30 founding members from both Cypriot and UAE-based enterprises, emerged as the cornerstone for structured economic dialogue. The Council’s inauguration at Dubai Silicon Oasis featured high-level executive participation, symbolizing the institutionalization of long-standing bilateral ties.

    Throughout 2025, Cyprus demonstrated its export capabilities and technological prowess through strategic participations in premier regional exhibitions. The National Pavilion at GulfFood 2025 featured twenty-five Cypriot companies establishing crucial market connections across Middle Eastern, Asian, and African markets. Technology took center stage at GITEX Global 2025, where fourteen Cypriot firms showcased cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and regulatory technology.

    The World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi witnessed Cyprus’s inaugural national pavilion focusing on energy and water security, featuring participation from the Electricity Authority of Cyprus and the Cyprus Solar Energy Industrial Association. This presence generated significant leads for strengthening energy sector cooperation with GCC nations.

    Beyond the UAE, the CTC expanded engagement across the Gulf region through strategic missions to Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. These efforts included registration on Qatar Chamber’s digital platform, substantive discussions with Lulu Bahrain regarding Cypriot product exports, and exploration of cooperation opportunities in technology, innovation, and energy with Saudi counterparts.

    The diplomatic crescendo occurred in December 2025 with the first-ever UAE presidential visit to Cyprus, culminating in the signing of a landmark memorandum of understanding establishing the Joint Cyprus-UAE Business & Investment Council. This agreement, signed between the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Invest Cyprus, and the Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce & Industry, created an institutional framework for deepening trade, investment, and business partnerships across multiple sectors.

    A significant humanitarian and strategic achievement emerged through the UAE’s donation of fourteen mobile desalination units with daily production capacity of 15,000 cubic meters, addressing Cyprus’s water scarcity challenges while demonstrating deepening bilateral cooperation.

    The CTC’s Export Helpdesk registered unprecedented demand, processing 34% of all global requests from Cypriot companies seeking market entry support in the GCC region. This statistic underscores both the strategic importance of the UAE as a regional business hub and the confidence Cypriot enterprises place in the CTC’s facilitation capabilities.

    Concurrently, the CTC maintained active participation in multilateral initiatives including the International Renewable Energy Agency (where Cyprus served as Vice-Chair) and the EU-GCC Cooperation on Green Transition platform, leveraging Cyprus’s unique geostrategic position bridging European and Gulf markets.

  • Traffic alert: Dubai Police warn of accident on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road

    Traffic alert: Dubai Police warn of accident on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road

    Dubai authorities issued an urgent traffic advisory on Wednesday, January 28th, 2026, following a vehicular incident along the prominent Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The collision occurred during morning hours in the vicinity approaching the Airport Road exit, specifically affecting lanes directed toward Jebel Ali.

    The incident precipitated considerable traffic congestion along this critical transportation artery, prompting immediate response from local law enforcement. Dubai Police disseminated official notifications through multiple communication channels, alerting motorists to anticipate delays and exercise heightened vigilance when navigating the affected sector.

    Authorities emphasized defensive driving protocols and recommended that commuters consider alternative routes where feasible to alleviate congestion. Emergency response teams were deployed to manage the situation, though specific details regarding the nature of the accident or potential injuries remained undisclosed in the initial bulletin.

    This development underscores the ongoing challenges of urban mobility in rapidly growing metropolitan areas and highlights the efficiency of Dubai’s emergency response systems in managing roadway incidents. The police communication served both to warn drivers and to demonstrate the jurisdiction’s proactive approach to traffic incident management and public safety dissemination.

  • Comedy Mixtape Fest Vol. 2 returns to Dubai this Valentine’s Day

    Comedy Mixtape Fest Vol. 2 returns to Dubai this Valentine’s Day

    Dubai prepares to host an evening of unparalleled laughter as Comedy Mixtape Fest Vol. 2 returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre on February 14, 2026. Following its successful inaugural edition, the festival promises to redefine Valentine’s Day celebrations with a powerhouse lineup of South Asia’s most celebrated comedic talents.

    Event organizers Midas Events and Eva Live Middle East, in collaboration with DXB LIVE, have curated an exceptional roster featuring comedy sensations Munawar, Kanan Gill, Harsh Gujral, Ravi Gupta, and emerging stars including Kaustubh, Mohd Suhel, Urjita Wani, Sonali Thakker, and Vivek Desai. The performances will commence at 6:00 PM, offering attendees an alternative romantic celebration filled with high-energy humor and crowd-favorite acts.

    The festival’s timing coincides with the growing appetite for stand-up comedy in Dubai’s multicultural landscape, where digital-first performers have cultivated substantial followings. This convergence of cultural influences and comedic styles creates a unique entertainment experience that resonates with the city’s diverse population.

    Tickets for the highly anticipated event are currently available for purchase, with organizers anticipating robust demand given the festival’s previous success and the stellar reputation of its featured performers. The event underscores Dubai’s evolving position as a regional hub for international entertainment and live performances.

  • Ancient Chinese artifacts dug up in Ras Al Khaimah reveal centuries-old Silk Road link

    Ancient Chinese artifacts dug up in Ras Al Khaimah reveal centuries-old Silk Road link

    Recent archaeological excavations in Ras Al Khaimah have unearthed rare Ming Dynasty ceramic artifacts, providing compelling evidence of centuries-old maritime trade routes between China and the Arab world. The discovery emerged from a collaborative international effort involving Beijing’s Palace Museum, Ras Al Khaimah’s National Museum, and UK’s Duke University.

    Consul General Ou Boqian of the People’s Republic of China in Dubai emphasized the significance of these findings during Spring Festival celebrations, noting they demonstrate how historical trade, exploration, and cultural exchange bridged civilizations. “These artifacts serve as powerful symbols of friendship, teamwork, and shared heritage,” she stated.

    The historical connections find contemporary expression in Ras Al Khaimah’s expanding economic partnerships with China. Brent Anderson, Chief Commercial Officer at RAK Tourism Development Authority, reported substantial growth in Chinese companies establishing presence through the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). Collaborative ventures span multiple sectors including technology, engineering, construction, automotive manufacturing, and tourism development.

    Technology giant Huawei plays a particularly significant role through its Developer Conference, which facilitates Chinese business exploration in the emirate. Knowledge-sharing initiatives between Chinese and Emirati companies are fostering advanced technological development and sustainable economic growth. Aviation connectivity may soon expand, with plans underway for direct flights between Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and Chinese destinations.

    The cultural dimension of this relationship was showcased during recent Spring Festival celebrations at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah. Attendees experienced traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, mother-of-pearl hairpin crafting, paper-cutting, lacquered fan production, Hanfu costume trials, and calligraphy demonstrations. A theatrical performance recreated historical Silk Road gatherings, offering immersive cultural engagement.

    Imad, a mechanical engineering student from South Africa, described the festival as “highly informative” and appreciated the hands-on approach to understanding Chinese traditions. The cultural events will culminate in a major February 8 celebration at Dubai Expo City featuring performances, parades, and technology showcases.

    Through both archaeological discoveries and cultural exchanges, Ras Al Khaimah continues to celebrate its deep historical connections with China while building contemporary partnerships across multiple sectors.

  • Rwanda sues the UK over controversial migrant deal

    Rwanda sues the UK over controversial migrant deal

    Rwanda has commenced formal legal proceedings against the United Kingdom through the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, seeking financial compensation following the abrupt termination of a controversial migration agreement. The East African nation alleges that the UK government violated the terms of the bilateral treaty when Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared the arrangement “dead and buried” in July 2024 without prior consultation.

    The agreement, initially established under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on April 25, 2024, stipulated that Britain would financially compensate Rwanda for accepting asylum seekers who had arrived illegally in the UK. However, the scheme faced immediate legal challenges, with the UK Supreme Court ruling it unlawful in 2023 due to violations of both domestic and international law. Only four individuals ultimately relocated to Rwanda voluntarily before the policy’s collapse.

    Rwandan authorities contend that the UK’s unilateral withdrawal breached Article 18 of the treaty regarding financial arrangements and Article 19 concerning the resettlement of vulnerable refugees. The dispute centers around outstanding payments totaling £100 million, scheduled for April 2025 and 2026, which the UK requested Rwanda waive in anticipation of formal termination. While Rwanda indicated willingness to negotiate new financial terms upon proper treaty termination, discussions between the two nations ultimately failed to materialize.

    International law expert Jonathan Musangwa argues that domestic court rulings do not automatically invalidate international treaty obligations. The arbitration tribunal must determine whether the UK lawfully terminated the agreement according to the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties. Previous estimates indicated the failed scheme had already cost British taxpayers £290 million in payments to Rwanda, with the current government maintaining it will not make further payments under the defunct agreement.

  • Gut-friendly meals, plant-based milk: UAE customers actively seek out healthy food

    Gut-friendly meals, plant-based milk: UAE customers actively seek out healthy food

    A significant consumer shift toward wellness-oriented nutrition is reshaping the United Arab Emirates’ food market, as evidenced by groundbreaking product launches and overwhelming customer response at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai.

    Exhibitors at the world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing event report unprecedented demand for digestive-friendly options and advanced plant-based alternatives, signaling a fundamental transformation in regional eating habits. This movement toward conscious consumption combines scientific innovation with convenience, addressing both health concerns and modern lifestyle demands.

    Heather Mills, Guinness World Record holder and food innovator, introduced her revolutionary ‘No Bloat’ line of low-FODMAP, plant-based meals after overcoming severe digestive challenges from Lyme disease. Her personally-developed meals—scientifically validated by Monash University and freeze-dried to preserve nutrients without additives—require only hot water and eight minutes for preparation.

    “The response has been phenomenal,” Mills stated. “With up to 80% of people globally experiencing bloating or gut reactions, our solution meets an urgent need. We’re seeing tremendous interest from diverse sectors including travelers, hospitals, hikers, and military organizations.”

    Parallel innovations emerged in the plant-based dairy category, with Estonian brand Yook presenting oat milk technology that represents a quantum leap in product quality. CEO Katre Kõvask explained their unique approach: “Unlike conventional oat milk, we use whole-grain oats milled and enzymed in our Nordic factory, resulting in just one gram of sugar per 100 milliliters—significantly lower than the industry standard of 3.5 grams.”

    The company’s 20-million-euro production facility also yields fermented oat-based yogurts using vegan cultures that contain approximately half the sugar of traditional dairy products while delivering gut-health benefits.

    Industry analysts observing Gulfood 2026 note that UAE consumers have progressed beyond experimental purchasing to deliberate selection of nutritionally sophisticated foods. This maturation of the market reflects growing awareness of food intolerance issues and demand for products that deliver both health benefits and culinary satisfaction without compromising busy schedules.

  • Ex-Nigerian minister in bribery trial went on spending sprees, court hears

    Ex-Nigerian minister in bribery trial went on spending sprees, court hears

    A London court has heard detailed allegations of how Nigeria’s former petroleum minister Diezani Alison-Madueke allegedly funded an extravagant lifestyle through bribes from industry executives during her tenure from 2010 to 2015.

    Southwark Crown Court prosecutors presented evidence showing how business figures with interests in Nigerian oil contracts allegedly bankrolled Alison-Madueke’s luxury shopping sprees across London’s most exclusive stores. The 65-year-old former minister, who denies five counts of bribery and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery, was described as living ‘a life of luxury in the United Kingdom’ at the expense of Nigerian businessmen.

    The court heard remarkable details of her spending patterns, including a single visit to Harrods in November 2013 where she allegedly purchased thousands of pounds worth of luxury rugs, including items from designer Alexander McQueen. Store executives testified that she appeared ‘extremely glamorous’ and wore ‘very expensive clothing’ during these shopping excursions.

    Evidence presented revealed Alison-Madueke was a regular customer at high-end London establishments including Vincenzo Cafferella decorative arts store, where she used the pseudonym ‘Sharon D,’ and Thomas Goode china and silverware shop in Mayfair. According to testimony, she once remarked during a shopping session: ‘I don’t even know why I’m buying this, I haven’t got the room for it.’

    Prosecutors allege Nigerian businessman Kolawole Aluko, who accompanied her on shopping trips, purchased over £370,000 worth of items for the minister between October 2012 and November 2013 alone. The court heard that Alison-Madueke never personally paid for these purchases, with bills instead settled by businessmen whose companies held lucrative contracts with Nigeria’s state-owned petroleum corporation.

    The alleged corruption extended beyond retail therapy. Evidence included a £89,410 private jet charter from Luton to Lagos in January 2012, luxury furniture shipments from Houston, Texas to London properties, and a documented instance where £100,000 in cash was delivered to Alison-Madueke at a flat maintained at Aluko’s expense.

    Recorded conversations from Alison-Madueke’s seized phone revealed tense exchanges with Aluko as their relationship deteriorated. In one May 2014 conversation, she allegedly threatened: ‘I will be happy to escort all of you to jail along with myself… I will come out and tell the Nigerian people this is what happened.’

    Also on trial are industry executive Olatimbo Ayinde, charged with bribery related to Alison-Madueke, and her brother, former bishop Doye Agama, charged with conspiracy to commit bribery. Both deny the charges as the trial continues.

  • Head coach Golemac hails Dubai Basketball’s resilience

    Head coach Golemac hails Dubai Basketball’s resilience

    Dubai Basketball has solidified its dominant position in the ABA League with an impressive 98-82 victory over FMP at Coca-Cola Arena, maintaining their status as the league’s only undefeated team. The Monday night showdown showcased the UAE-based team’s exceptional form, pushing their remarkable record to 14-0 in their second season competing in the regional basketball championship.

    Head Coach Jurica Golemac praised his squad’s resilience and defensive prowess following the convincing win. “This was a serious performance and a well-deserved victory,” Golemac stated. “Defensively, especially in the second half, we demonstrated the competitive standard we aim to maintain, while our team spirit continues to strengthen with each game.”

    The match marked a triumphant return for Džanan Musa, one of Dubai Basketball’s most significant acquisitions, who had been sidelined with injuries for much of the season. The Bosnian shooting guard delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 21 points in just over 21 minutes of play. Supporting contributions came from Aleksa Avramović, who added 13 points, 6 assists, and three rebounds while effectively controlling the game’s tempo during crucial phases.

    Dubai’s frontcourt demonstrated consistent efficiency with Mfiondu Kabengele contributing 16 points and Kenan Kamenjaš finishing with 13 points and seven rebounds. The team’s balanced scoring distribution prevented any prolonged offensive droughts throughout the contest.

    Despite Filip Barna’s strong performance of 21 points and six rebounds for FMP, supplemented by scoring efforts from Scott, Stefanović, Stanojević, and Gašić, the visitors couldn’t match Dubai’s overall efficiency and strategic execution during key moments in the second and fourth quarters.

    The victory sets the stage for Dubai Basketball’s upcoming challenging encounter against Red Star at Belgrade Arena for EuroLeague Round 25. Reflecting on the team’s continued success, Golemac emphasized the long-term perspective: “The season extends over many months, and we’ve faced various challenges, but the collective character of this group is evident—we maintain positivity, continue developing, and concentrate on each game as it comes.”