OECD warns of protectionism weeks before Trump return

• Trump has threatened blanket tariffs of at least 10% on all imports and since his election has vowed to slap 25% import tariffs against Canada and Mexico, the US trade partners.
• "Increases in trade-restrictive measures could raise costs and prices, deter investment, weaken innovation and ultimately lower growth," the OECD warned in its economic outlook.

France, Saudi Arabia to co-chair June meet on creating Palestinian state: Macron

• Macron said that France and Saudi Arabia have the "will to move forward" on a deal to sell Rafale fighter jets to the Kingdom.
• Discussions had already been underway for Riyadh to acquire the French-made jets and, though no definitive announcement was expected during Macron's visit.

Tech firms aiming for smaller, leaner AI models

Macron attends PIF-hosted Riyadh One Planet Sovereign Wealth Funds meet

• Discussions at the summit focused on the pivotal role of sovereign wealth funds as global investors in addressing climate challenges among others.
• Key action tracks were identified to enhance investment decision-making for climate action, boost efficiency and impact within the global financial system.

Developing countries paid $1.4 trillion to service their debts in 2024

• The World Bank report noted that high interest rates have been a key driver of the rising cost of servicing foreign debt.
• Rates charged by private creditors were even worse, rising to a 15-year high of six percent -- an increase of more than one percentage point.

How Eco-Conscious Practices Are Shaping the Future of Luxury Spas?

• The region boasts a unique combination of cutting-edge technologies and world-class spa facilities.
• Today’s consumers are looking for more than lavish amenities; they want brands that stand for something and align with their values.

QatarEnergy inks gas supply deal for China with Shell

• The liquefied natural gas deliveries would begin in January as part of a "new long-term sale and purchase agreement."
• Qatar is one of the world's top gas producers alongside the United States, Australia and Russia

Aramco-Horse Powertrain deal completed

• Aramco said it bought the stake through its directly and wholly owned subsidiary, Aramco Asia Singapore Pte. Ltd.
• The transaction builds on Aramco's efforts to develop new mobility solutions with the potential to reduce transport emissions.

Macron to hold talks with Crown Prince Salman on Saudi visit

• Macron's three-day stay also coincides with a flare-up of violence in Syria, where anti-government rebels have seized Aleppo, the second largest city.
• The fighting in Syria comes after France helped to broker a fragile ceasefire in neighboring Lebanon, where Israel has been fighting Iran proxy Hezbollah.

Desertification talks open in Saudi Arabia as experts fire warning

• 3.7 billion acres must be restored by decade's end to combat crises
• Forest loss and degraded soils were reducing resilience to climate change and biodiversity loss