News & Events
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India, China agree to resume direct flights, boost business links
In a move to rebuild their strained relationship, India and China have agreed to resume direct flights and step up trade and investment flows between the two neighbours. The agreement came during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s two-day visit to New Delhi for talks with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.
The two countries will also reopen border trade at three designated points and facilitate visas, according to the Indian Foreign Ministry. The direct flights, which were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, are expected to resume, although no specific timeline has been provided.
The latest discussions also covered issues related to troop withdrawal, border delimitation, and boundary affairs. Both sides agreed to set up a working group to coordinate on border affairs and advance demarcation negotiations, with another round of talks on the western section to be held soon.
The agreement to enhance economic and diplomatic ties comes against the backdrop of the two countries’ border dispute, which led to a deadly clash in 2020. The leaders of the two nations have emphasised the need for “stable, predictable, and constructive” relations, recognising their importance for regional and global peace and prosperity.
Read the original article here: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/india-china-agree-to-resume-direct-flights-boost-business-links/ar-AA1KPWvq?ocid=BingNewsVerp

Australia to help fund two data centers in Vanuatu island
In a move to bolster its security ties with Vanuatu, a Pacific Island nation, Australia is set to provide AU$120 million (US$79 million) for the development of two data centres in the capital of Port Vila and on the island of Santo. This funding is part of a broader “Nakamal Agreement” between the two countries, under which Australia will invest a total of AU$500 million (US$330 million) in various projects over the next decade.
The data centre initiative aims to strengthen Vanuatu’s digital infrastructure and connectivity, following the country’s recent rollout of 5G coverage. The agreement also covers areas such as climate resilience, key infrastructure, security support, and economic development. This investment comes as Australia seeks to solidify its position as a security partner for Vanuatu, following a previous agreement that was scrapped in 2022. The move is seen as a response to China’s efforts to court the island nation.
Read the original article here: https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/australia-to-help-fund-two-data-centers-in-vanuatu-island/

New Tanzanian fintech firm launches digital payment services in Tanzania
Stakaba Technologies, a Tanzanian fintech company, has launched a suite of digital payment services to boost financial inclusion and support Tanzania’s transition to a cashless economy. Founded by entrepreneur Philip Mchau, the platform offers secure digital payments, agency banking, card issuance, bill payments, e-commerce integration, and remittance solutions.
Stakaba aims to empower all Tanzanians, from urban vendors to rural farmers, by connecting them to modern financial systems. With over 50 million registered mobile money accounts and annual transactions exceeding Sh100 trillion, the company plans to onboard 30,000 agents and merchants by 2027, positioning itself as a key player in East Africa’s digital transformation.
Despite Tanzania’s growing digital finance landscape, about 60% of the population remains underserved by formal banking. Stakaba’s launch addresses this gap, providing financial tools and opportunities for empowerment, dignity, and inclusive economic growth across the country.
Read the original article here: https://www.msn.com/en-xl/money/other/new-tanzanian-fintech-firm-launches-digital-payment-services-in-tanzania/ar-AA1KLn6w?ocid=BingNewsVerp

Bangladesh’s Mega Projects: Reviving the economy amidst COVID-19
Bangladesh’s economy is showing its potential through these mega projects. Government officials and experts say that if these Mega Projects can be implemented, Bangladesh’s status in the world court will increase.

Access Asia: Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & Pakistan Offer New Combinations For Regional Supply Chains
Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are all near neighbours in South Asia, orbiting around the influence of India. All four share common ties both in terms of their history with the United Kingdom and through more recent ties through membership of the SAARC trade bloc.

How the Commonwealth is championing teamwork and vaccine equity
Dr. Hasan discusses the COVID pandemic and the Commonwealth’s part in the global recovery effort, especially vaccine equity and sharing of technology, via platforms like the ACT Accelerator, CPA, and CHPA.

Blockchain Security & Stablecoins: Emerging Standards in the Commonwealth | Webinar Recording
As blockchain adoption accelerates across all 56 Commonwealth nations—representing over 2.5 billion people—understanding digital asset security and regulatory frameworks has never been more important.

Pacific Leadership in a Global Context: A Conversation with John Loau | Webinar Recording
In a recent webinar hosted by Julia Charlton, John Loau, chair of the National Party’s Pacific branch in New Zealand, shared insightful perspectives on Pacific leadership in a global context. Highlighting Samoa’s historic hosting of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM)

Blockchain Security & Stablecoins: Emerging Standards in the Commonwealth
Join the Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce for an insightful virtual discussion focused on blockchain security and the rising impact of stablecoins across Commonwealth nations.