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Paris : French Constitutional Council (Conseil Constitutionnel)

<h2>Background of the Talks</h2><p>Paris is set to host crucial US-sponsored talks aimed at unifying rival governments, an initiative that underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts in resolving international conflicts. The discussions are expected to bring together key stakeholders from the involved nations, providing a platform for dialogue and potential reconciliation.</p><p>The decision to hold these talks in Paris highlights France's strategic role in global diplomacy and the international community's commitment to fostering peace. The involvement of the United States further emphasizes the significance of the negotiations, as the US seeks to mediate and facilitate a resolution that benefits all parties involved.</p><figure id="figure-dcc6do6jecml749vze"><img id="dcc6do6jecml749vze" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/27AQxwByYmDdJA9iRevKw0fvMOY7wHbQIpPluCGzIjhEttPE7HwqgK9GW0hokyyR.jpeg" alt="paris conference" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/27AQxwByYmDdJA9iRevKw0fvMOY7wHbQIpPluCGzIjhEttPE7HwqgK9GW0hokyyR.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Key Objectives of the Talks</h2><p>The primary objective of these talks is to establish a framework that promotes cooperation between the rival governments. By addressing core issues and finding common ground, the discussions aim to pave the way for a unified governance structure that can lead to lasting peace and stability.</p><p>Specific goals include:</p><ul><li>Creating a roadmap for political integration</li><li>Addressing economic disparities</li><li>Ensuring security and humanitarian support</li></ul><h3>The Role of the United States</h3><p>The United States plays a pivotal role as a sponsor and mediator in these discussions. By leveraging its diplomatic influence, the US hopes to guide the rival governments towards a mutually beneficial agreement. This involvement is part of a broader strategy to maintain global stability and protect international interests.</p><figure id="figure-38os4skmgeml74a572"><img id="38os4skmgeml74a572" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/33Q2e5nBPFxTnK0E4zTtGpEgYb1rNp3inWRpQS7GuLE0rwlIfbXHhwo3DmX1OGlq.jpeg" alt="united states diplomacy" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/33Q2e5nBPFxTnK0E4zTtGpEgYb1rNp3inWRpQS7GuLE0rwlIfbXHhwo3DmX1OGlq.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Challenges and Opportunities</h2><p>While the talks present a valuable opportunity for conflict resolution, they are not without challenges. Lingering mistrust between the rival governments, coupled with diverse political agendas, poses significant hurdles. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovative solutions and collaborative approaches.</p><p>Success in these talks could set a precedent for future diplomatic efforts, demonstrating that even deeply divided entities can find pathways to peace through dialogue and compromise.</p><h3>Expectations and Future Prospects</h3><p>The international community has high expectations for the outcome of these talks. A successful agreement could lead to enhanced regional stability and contribute to global peace efforts. Moreover, it would serve as a testament to the power of diplomacy in resolving complex geopolitical issues.</p><figure id="figure-f1cd8g4yqjml74aff0"><img id="f1cd8g4yqjml74aff0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/5TiwAWWfyYRMSYnphU84OpczRxI7GYiSvtBuwJLj0VK0vDSOeSWRJ6NF5CyY8Isr.jpeg" alt="global peace efforts" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/5TiwAWWfyYRMSYnphU84OpczRxI7GYiSvtBuwJLj0VK0vDSOeSWRJ6NF5CyY8Isr.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>As the world watches the developments unfold in Paris, there is a sense of cautious optimism. The potential for a breakthrough exists, but it will require concerted effort, goodwill, and a willingness from all parties to make necessary concessions.</p><p>In summary, the Paris-hosted US-sponsored talks represent a critical juncture in the quest to unify rival governments. With the right mix of diplomacy and determination, these discussions could mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation and peace.</p>

Paris to Host US-Sponsored Talks on Unifying Rival Governments

<p>A Syrian government delegation met on Thursday with <strong>Khalaf Al Habtoor</strong>, Chairman of the UAE-based Al Habtoor Group, to explore prospects for economic cooperation and the launch of new investment projects in Syria.</p><p>The meeting, held at the Habtoor Grand Hotel in Dubai, brought together <strong>Syria’s Minister of Finance Mohammed Yisr Barnieh</strong>, <strong>Central Bank Governor Abdulkader Husrieh</strong>, and <strong>Director-General of the Syrian Investment Authority Talal al-Hilali</strong>. The delegation presented upcoming investment plans and opportunities across several sectors, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting serious investors and providing the necessary measures to ensure the stable and successful implementation of projects.</p><p>For his part, <strong>Al Habtoor</strong> expressed readiness to pursue responsible investment in Syria and to contribute to reconstruction efforts. He stressed the importance of strong partnerships and investment protection frameworks as key drivers of sustainable development that delivers economic and social benefits.</p><p>The discussions build on a cooperation agreement signed in September between the Syrian Investment Authority and <strong>Al Habtoor Group</strong>, aimed at enhancing investment collaboration and promoting joint economic ventures.</p><p>Established in 1970 by <strong>Khalaf Al Habtoor</strong>, the <strong>Al Habtoor Group</strong> has evolved from a small contracting company into a diversified conglomerate with interests in hospitality, real estate, automotive, education, and publishing, employing thousands of people in the UAE and internationally.<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Syrian Delegation Holds Talks with Al Habtoor Group on Investment Opportunities

<p><strong>The 49th Baghdad International Fair </strong>is continuing at the Baghdad International Fairgrounds, drawing broad participation from 36 countries and more than 1,100 local and international companies. The event highlights key sectors including technology, energy, trade, and a wide range of industrial activities, and will run until February 7.</p><p>During the first days of the exhibition, organizers adopted a structured schedule, allocating morning hours to business leaders and official delegations to encourage partnership-building and investment discussions, while opening the fair to the public in the evenings. From the third day onward, the exhibition became accessible to all visitors throughout the day.</p><h3>Economic Indicator and Investment Gateway</h3><p><br>Engineering expert Mohammed Ali told the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that the fair serves as “a vital indicator of Iraq’s economic direction and a dynamic investment platform that brings together multiple sectors, creating real opportunities for communication between companies and investors.”</p><p>He added that visitors are increasingly seeking practical solutions related to pricing, product origin, and warranties—particularly for small-scale projects, packaging machinery, and raw materials. According to Ali, “the most successful pavilions were those that presented professional, market-ready solutions with the potential to develop into actual supply contracts.”</p><h3>Healthy Competition Between Local and International Firms</h3><p><br>Visitors also noted the strong presence of both Iraqi and foreign companies. Citizen Zainab Jassim told INA that one of the exhibition’s most distinctive features this year was the placement of local and international companies within the same halls, allowing visitors to directly compare quality, packaging, and marketing approaches.</p><p>She explained that food-sector pavilions attracted particularly large crowds, as Iraqi companies confidently showcased their products alongside imported goods, especially in dates, sweets, and canned foods. Jassim also highlighted the growing availability of healthy and sugar-free options, as well as product tastings that help visitors make more informed purchasing decisions.</p><h3>Spotlight on the Marshes and Environmental Protection</h3><p><br>In parallel, the Ministry of Water Resources drew attention through its participation at the Marshlands and Wetlands Revitalization Center pavilion, which focused on the environmental and social conditions of Iraq’s marshes.</p><p>Nasreen Ahmed Mustafa, Head of the Citizens’ Affairs Division and senior biologist, told INA that the ministry’s participation aims to offer city residents a direct insight into the reality of the marshes and to underline that their protection is closely linked to local livelihoods and ecological balance. She noted that the pavilion showcased biodiversity protection projects and water desalination initiatives in areas facing water scarcity.</p><p>Mustafa added that the exhibition also highlighted the cultural heritage of the marshes through traditional crafts and handicrafts, reinforcing the link between environmental preservation and cultural identity. She emphasized that the strong public turnout reflects growing awareness and interest in water and environmental issues across Iraq.<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Baghdad International Fair Emerges as Key Platform for Expanding Economic Partnership

<p>President<strong> His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan </strong>and <strong>His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum</strong>, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, have welcomed distinguished guests from around the world participating in the World Governments Summit 2026, which opens tomorrow in Dubai and runs for three days under the theme “Shaping Future Governments.”</p><p>The World Governments Summit 2026 brings together an exceptional global gathering, including more than 60 heads of state and government and their deputies, over 500 ministers, and representatives from more than 150 governments. The summit also hosts over 80 international and regional organisations, more than 700 CEOs of leading global corporations, and 87 scientists who are recipients of Nobel Prizes and other prestigious scientific awards. Total attendance is expected to exceed 6,250 participants.</p><figure id="figure-n3s8oniqdpml7rhxnt"><img id="n3s8oniqdpml7rhxnt" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4SDlXevcgFJfxe86Y7GFFJSRfnwypt1aMUBHSIIhpm00Z1Gr2b6vlxmyOCT2n0Vs.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4SDlXevcgFJfxe86Y7GFFJSRfnwypt1aMUBHSIIhpm00Z1Gr2b6vlxmyOCT2n0Vs.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Commitment to dialogue and cooperation</h3><p><br>His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed extended a warm welcome to world leaders, heads of government, thought leaders, and distinguished guests, emphasising that the World Governments Summit has become a vital global platform for coordinating international efforts and fostering constructive dialogue that translates into tangible outcomes for the benefit of humanity.</p><p>His Highness reaffirmed the UAE’s unwavering commitment to building bridges of partnership and cooperation, serving as a hub for diplomatic engagement, and supporting global initiatives that promote peace, prosperity, and sustainable development while addressing the needs of people and communities worldwide.</p><p>He underscored the importance of international cooperation and collective action in confronting global challenges and seizing emerging opportunities, stressing that governments must work together to secure long-term stability and shared prosperity.</p><h3>Inspiring hope amid global challenges</h3><p><br>His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum highlighted the UAE’s pride in welcoming representatives from 150 governments, including heads of state and government, alongside global thinkers and decision-makers, to the World Governments Summit 2026. He noted that the summit seeks to inspire collective action and renewed hope at a time of profound global change.</p><p><br></p><figure id="figure-9m9av0ov6ml7rimd2"><img id="9m9av0ov6ml7rimd2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fMKoDzzk2FPMZwfHyYbC4sYBOjlK3b4inYcV1Hh0AXpp7jwNidhhGA3SwPhBjuF.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fMKoDzzk2FPMZwfHyYbC4sYBOjlK3b4inYcV1Hh0AXpp7jwNidhhGA3SwPhBjuF.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>He expressed confidence that the gathering of leaders, policymakers, and scientists would contribute to shaping a clear roadmap toward a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.</p><h3>An unprecedented responsibility</h3><p><br>His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid emphasised that the UAE believes those who lead change—rather than wait for it—are best positioned to shape the future. Anticipating and proactively steering future developments, he noted, is a strategic investment in sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.</p><p>He added that governments today bear an unprecedented responsibility to design innovative systems capable of guiding societies through rapid global shifts and transformative economic, technological, and geopolitical changes.</p><p>Concluding his remarks, His Highness acknowledged the scale of challenges facing the world while reaffirming confidence in humanity’s resilience. He stressed that solidarity, cooperation, and knowledge-sharing remain the most powerful tools for progress, underscoring that true success must be inclusive and empower all segments of society.</p><figure id="figure-r75z78rvxfml7rjjo4"><img id="r75z78rvxfml7rjjo4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3517Fr3zS8hMr9KmH8Pfsy5kWvgzOoCcezwbVgxgI1H9lwSL2AI4LENk16iHxr9X.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3517Fr3zS8hMr9KmH8Pfsy5kWvgzOoCcezwbVgxgI1H9lwSL2AI4LENk16iHxr9X.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Expanded and dynamic agenda</h3><p><br>The World Governments Summit 2026 features an expanded agenda comprising more than 445 sessions, with participation from over 450 global leaders, ministers, experts, thinkers, and decision-makers.</p><h3>The programme focuses on five key themes:</h3><p>Global Governance and Effective Leadership<br>Societal Wellbeing and Capacity Building<br>Economic Prosperity and Strategic Investment<br>Urban Futures and Evolving Demographics<br>Future Realities and Emerging Frontiers<br>25 global forums and high-level meetings<br>This year’s summit includes 25 global forums addressing critical trends shaping the future of humanity, alongside more than 45 ministerial and high-level meetings. These include the Arab Finance Ministers Meeting, Arab Youth Ministers Meeting, World Councils Meeting for the Sustainable Development Goals, a ministerial meeting on the next generation of future governments, as well as forums on the future of retail, consumer experience, sport, and tourism.</p><p>The summit will also host specialised forums organised by international governments, including a high-level meeting by the Government of Uzbekistan, the New Ecuador Forum attended by the President of Ecuador, a bilateral dialogue on artificial intelligence involving Kazakhstan and South Korea, and the Kuwait–UAE Economic Forum.</p><p>Several strategic meetings organised by international institutions will take place during the summit, including the High-Level Investment Roundtable for Latin America and the Caribbean in collaboration with the IFC, the Arab Public Administration Forum, the 10th International Cooperation Conference (ACS) Roundtable, a closed IMF-led session on leveraging artificial intelligence and national preparedness, the Future of Aviation Roundtable with ICAO, the OECD–EU High-Level Dialogue, and the CLAD Governing Board High-Level Meeting.</p><p>In addition to these events, the summit will release 36 strategic reports in collaboration with international knowledge partners and launch the third edition of the Global Ministers Survey.</p><h3>Global awards and recognition</h3><p><br>Honours presented at the World Governments Summit 2026 include the Best Minister Award in partnership with PwC, the Most Reformed Government Global Award in collaboration with EY, the Dubai International Best Practices Award for Sustainable Development in partnership with UN-Habitat and Dubai Municipality, and the Global Teacher Prize in collaboration with the Varkey Foundation.</p>

UAE Leadership Welcomes Global Participants to the World Governments Summit 2026

<h2>Introduction to Dr. Salama Ibrahim Al-Gweil</h2><p><br></p><p><strong>Dr. Salama Ibrahim Al-Gweil</strong> is considered one of Libya’s most prominent economic figures to present a forward-looking vision for the country’s future—one based on diversification and sustainability, and on moving away from near-total dependence on natural resources toward investing in people, knowledge, and technology.</p><p>The message conveyed in the image clearly reflects Al-Gweil’s economic philosophy. He emphasizes that building a strong economy cannot rely on oil alone, despite its importance, but instead requires directing efforts toward education, human capital development, and technological innovation as key drivers of sustainable growth.</p><figure id="figure-s7qky2mnrfml74l24m"><img id="s7qky2mnrfml74l24m" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12FqBsPGuq1ATrWpDN0hlNHBqbGYbCefcxqhz4KLRH9kYvRMYfPxR3L5cJ5Sa4zP.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12FqBsPGuq1ATrWpDN0hlNHBqbGYbCefcxqhz4KLRH9kYvRMYfPxR3L5cJ5Sa4zP.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h3>A Diversified, Non-Rentier Economy</h3><p><br>Al-Gweil focuses on the risks of a rentier economy and the financial fragility it creates due to sharp fluctuations tied to energy prices. From this perspective, he calls for diversifying income sources by supporting productive sectors, encouraging investment, and building an economic environment capable of generating real employment opportunities.</p><h3>Investing in People</h3><p><br>At the core of this vision is the Libyan citizen, whom Al-Gweil views as the nation’s true wealth. Education, training, and institutional capacity-building represent—according to his approach—the foundation of any sustainable economic revival and the real guarantee for transforming resources into long-term added value.</p><figure id="figure-upq51vjpf3ml74qrr2"><img id="upq51vjpf3ml74qrr2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aVD1z5z3aRb4q9rWoxhQtDjfZEwaJw31bMAuuCvp3qFxtWTI5nHBJBDYawzGurD.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aVD1z5z3aRb4q9rWoxhQtDjfZEwaJw31bMAuuCvp3qFxtWTI5nHBJBDYawzGurD.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Technology and Modern Development</h3><p><br>His vision also highlights the role of technology in reshaping the economy, whether through digital transformation, attracting smart investment, or developing modern cities and infrastructure—steps that would connect Libya to the global economy and enhance its competitiveness.</p><h3>A Role at a Pivotal Moment<br></h3><p>This discourse comes at a critical stage for Libya, as the need grows for a clear national economic project that goes beyond temporary solutions and lays the groundwork for economic stability to support political and social stability.</p><figure id="figure-rc2yhtubfbml74zjao"><img id="rc2yhtubfbml74zjao" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/312LTQk86nUXKGJP5D2RVGkWL9zZCC1qdWQkz3ClTyl4XNtfGHiIaOqc3NtptN6E.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><p><strong>Dr. Salama Ibrahim Al-Gweil</strong> is widely regarded as one of the voices seeking to shift the economic debate from crisis management to vision-building, and from resource consumption to future-making.</p>

Dr. Salama Ibrahim Al-Gweil: Prioritizing People in Economic Development

<p><br>On August 11, 2025, Libya marked a symbolic moment in its modern military history. As the Libyan National Army celebrated the 85th anniversary of its founding, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar appointed Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa as Deputy General Commander of the Army—a decision aligned with the General Commander’s Vision 2030 to modernize and strengthen the armed forces.</p><p>Born in Benghazi, Saddam Khalifa grew up in a household shaped by discipline, military values, and pan-Arab ideals. As the youngest son of Field Marshal Haftar, his early life was closely intertwined with the culture of the armed forces, making a military career a natural path.</p><p>His formative years coincided with one of Libya’s most turbulent periods. During the February 17 Revolution in 2011, Saddam Khalifa was among the young Libyans engaged in the events that reshaped the country. This experience deepened his understanding of Libya’s political and security challenges and reinforced his belief that national stability requires a unified and professional military institution.</p><p>Educated at the Royal Military College in Jordan, where he graduated in 2017, Saddam Khalifa continued to build an extensive academic and professional portfolio. His training includes advanced courses in special operations, military intelligence, artillery, and information security, alongside counter-terrorism specialization in Egypt. He later earned a PhD in Military Sciences, reflecting a rare combination of operational and strategic expertise.</p><figure id="figure-thlrh44jaqmlakzlje"><img id="thlrh44jaqmlakzlje" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4e9sQYrRjVyFr1cavY7OBqzVUCSMxi48r0MIRAfzBotZAWI1pRumpftjhbLlMuDJ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><p>His rise through the ranks has been swift yet structured. As commander of the Tariq bin Ziyad Brigade, he oversaw its transformation into one of the Libyan National Army’s elite units. His leadership during the 2023 Derna flood relief operations further solidified his standing, leading to successive promotions and his appointment as Chief of Staff of the Land Forces before assuming his current role.</p><p>Beyond the battlefield, Saddam Khalifa has emerged as a key figure in military diplomacy, representing the General Command in high-level engagements across the United States, Russia, the UAE, Jordan, and other strategic partners.</p><p>Equally notable is his focus on reconstruction, national reconciliation, youth empowerment, and religious and social values—elements that together define a leadership style aimed not only at security, but at long-term state-building.</p><p><br></p>

Saddam Khalifa: A New Generation at the Helm of Libya’s Military Leadership

MIDDMARK CONSULTING GROUP

Middmark Consulting Group is a global strategic consulting firm serving government and private sector clients. The firm specializes in high-impact sectors including energy, infrastructure, telecommunications, logistics, and tourism. Middmark Consulting delivers in-depth market intelligence, policy and commercial advisory, and tailor-made development strategies grounded in proven international best practices. By combining regional insight with global experience, the company supports decision-makers in designing, implementing, and scaling sustainable growth initiatives.

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