UN AI Guardrails: UN chief António Guterres urged countries to build shared “guardrails” for AI safety, warning the world can’t afford a race to the bottom amid geopolitical divides. Middle East Energy & Trade: Middle East Energy’s 50th edition in Dubai drew 39,000 attendees from 150+ countries, underscoring the region’s growing role in the global energy transition. Red Sea Tensions: Saudi airstrikes in Yemen and Houthi retaliation are escalating conflict and adding pressure to Red Sea shipping and global oil supply. US Development Finance: The US DFC approved $8bn+ in new investments aimed at boosting exports, energy security, and technology in Ukraine, Jordan and across Africa. China Global Tech Push: China is expanding BeiDou into overseas markets with new applications and a cooperation framework to link its industry with international demand. Russia’s Global South Outreach: Russia is deepening ties across the Global South, with fuel, trade and transit emerging as key themes in recent high-level meetings. India-US Energy Partnership: India and the US agreed to strengthen energy security cooperation, including clean energy, resilient infrastructure and nuclear power plans. Global Markets: Global bond yields eased after Fed rate pressure, while investors awaited Japan’s next move. Pakistan Investor Signal: Pakistan’s finance minister said global investor interest is rising again, citing progress under the IMF programme and ongoing reforms. South Korea Hormuz Position: South Korea said it is reviewing whether to join international efforts related to Hormuz, prioritizing safety and freedom of navigation.