Diplomacy in Africa: Qatar is helping broker progress in eastern DR Congo peace talks, hosting Switzerland meetings (Aug. 17-21) with the DRC government and AFC/M23 to agree a roadmap under the Doha Framework. Education & Global Standards: Qatar Foundation’s Academic Bridge Program won full ACS WASC accreditation, becoming Qatar’s first supplementary education center to receive it. Regional Cooperation: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan reaffirmed mutual support in international organizations and pledged deeper Central Asia cooperation at their Supreme Interstate Council meeting. Energy Partnership: India and Mauritius exchanged MoUs on oil and gas cooperation after talks in Port Louis, aiming to secure fuel supplies and support energy transition. Trade & International Law: A UK group warned a proposed ban on trade with Israeli businesses in the West Bank could breach Britain’s international obligations. Travel Rules: India will end boarding-pass stamping for international passengers from Sept. 1, allowing e-boarding passes at immigration. Business & Investment: India used its BRICS presidency to push cooperation among emerging economies and reforms in global governance. Tech & Wearables: Garmin teased a “Play Harder” livestream Aug. 25, hinting at rugged, seawater-resistant smartwatches. Markets: Global bond selloff pressure hit the 30-year US Treasury yield at its highest since 2007.