Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh have emphasized their rejection of any threats to the security and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea during Sisi's visit to Djibouti. They agreed that the responsibility for securing this vital international maritime route lies exclusively with the coastal states of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

President Sisi also expressed Egypt's firm stance against any attempts to liquidate the Palestinian cause and rejected any threats to Sudan's unity and sovereignty, including efforts to form a parallel government within the country. He reiterated Egypt's readiness to cooperate with international partners to implement the Arab-Islamic plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, emphasizing that this should be done without any form of displacement of Palestinians.

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Egypt and China have conducted their first joint air combat exercises near the Israeli border, marking a new level of military cooperation between the two countries. The drills, named "Medeniyet Kartalları 2025," highlight Beijing's strategic interest in Africa and signal Egypt's intent to diversify its international partnerships amid shifting global dynamics. The exercises come as Egypt seeks to demonstrate to Washington that it has alternative options for security collaboration. This development occurs against the backdrop of broader geopolitical changes, including the U.S. administration under Donald Trump, which has influenced regional alignments. The joint drills underscore Egypt and China's growing military ties and reflect China's expanding influence in the region.

Libya continues to face security and political challenges amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the country. Libya's Attorney General announced the pretrial detention of a Central Support element accused of running over two citizens near the Tripoli stadium and ordered the pursuit of other suspects. The Gharyan Court of Appeals sentenced three defendants to death for the 2015 abduction, rape, and murder of two young girls aged 10 and 15. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) organized a seminar in Benghazi to enhance support for security and civil peace, involving civil society representatives and youth to promote dialogue and improve the security sector. The Libyan Presidential Council member Abdullah Al-Lafi met with defense officials to discuss the latest military developments and operational procedures. Additionally, the Libyan Prime Minister Osama Hammad held a high-level security meeting focused on the situation in southern Libya. The UN mission also facilitated consultations between the National Defense and Security Committee of the House of Representatives and the military prosecution to resume discussions on security legislation reforms. In parallel, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, during his visit to Djibouti, reaffirmed Egypt and Djibouti's rejection of any attempts to form a parallel government in Sudan and emphasized the exclusive responsibility of Red Sea and Gulf of Aden littoral states to secure this vital maritime corridor. Sisi also stressed Egypt's firm stance against the displacement of Palestinians and expressed readiness to cooperate internationally on the Arab-Islamic plan for Gaza's reconstruction. He highlighted the Egypt-Israel peace agreement as a model for conflict resolution and called for a just peace through establishing a Palestinian state according to international legitimacy. Furthermore, Sisi met with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional issues, including Libya's stability and political resolution. The Libyan Embassy reported participation in talks addressing Sudan's crisis. Security officials mourned the death of a national duty martyr, Faraj Mohamed Ali, who died in a traffic accident while on duty. The UN mission's security institutions division also facilitated meetings to support legislative development in Libya's security sector.

A recent discovery by a scientist in Paris has revealed seven secret messages hidden on the Egyptian Obelisk of Luxor. This finding adds to the ongoing intrigue surrounding ancient Egyptian monuments, including the pyramids of Giza, which continue to hold mysteries that archaeologists aim to uncover. Discussions on the broader context of ancient civilizations suggest that innovations from the Greco-Roman world may have been influenced by knowledge predating the biblical flood, knowledge that was later suppressed during the rise of Christian dominance. The Vatican's control over archival materials and its interest in ancient sites imply a custodial role over this ancient legacy. Additionally, there is growing skepticism toward mainstream archaeology's dismissal of findings that challenge established historical narratives, particularly regarding what lies beneath the Giza Plateau. These developments reflect a broader shift in understanding human civilization's ancient history.

British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abd el-Fattah has fallen seriously ill after 53 days of a hunger strike in Egypt's Wadi El-Natrun prison. Abd el-Fattah, who began the strike on March 1, has experienced severe stomach pain, repeated vomiting, and is being treated by prison doctors for suspected damage to his stomach and intestines. His family reported he has consumed only herbal tea, black coffee, and rehydration salts during the strike. Abd el-Fattah was due to complete a five-year sentence for "spreading false news" on September 29, but authorities have refused to release him, not counting two years of pre-trial detention toward his sentence. His hunger strike followed the hospitalization of his mother, who was also on a hunger strike demanding his release. Meanwhile, Egyptian rights groups have highlighted deteriorating conditions in Egyptian prisons, reporting at least 11 to 13 deaths in custody in early 2025 due to medical negligence, ill-treatment, and suicide attempts. In April alone, four detainees died, and two men recently attempted suicide. These abuses have reportedly increased since President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi came to power in 2014.

China is projected to achieve a record grain output of 709 million tonnes in 2025, up from the previous year's 706.5 million tonnes, according to reports from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and related agencies. The increase is supported by an estimated 17.9 billion mu of intended planting area nationwide, with spring planting covering 9.6 billion mu and winter wheat area expected to remain stable at 3.4 billion mu.

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Tunisia's 2024/2025 cereal harvest is projected to reach 1.45 million tonnes, nearly triple the previous season's output, with wheat accounting for 1.18 million tonnes of this total. Water reserves in Tunisia's dams have improved, with the total dam filling rate at 36.5% as of April 16, 2025, representing 865.3 million cubic meters, a 4% increase from the same period in 2024. In Egypt, the wheat sector aims to produce 10 million tonnes in 2024/2025, an increase of 1 million tonnes compared to 2023, despite cultivating 400,000 fewer hectares. Morocco's wheat production for the current season is estimated at 44 million quintals, marking a 41% increase from the previous campaign, according to initial estimates from the Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, reservoirs in Spain have experienced a rebound after Easter rains, surpassing 75% of their capacity.

Archaeologists have made notable discoveries related to Ancient Egypt in both Jordan and Egypt. In southern Jordan, near the Wadi Rum protected area, an inscription featuring the royal cartouche of Pharaoh Ramesses III, who reigned from approximately 1186 to 1155 BC, was uncovered. This finding was announced by Jordan's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, in the presence of Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass. Meanwhile, in Egypt's north-western Nile Delta near Alexandria, a settlement dating back around 3,400 to 3,500 years to the New Kingdom era has been discovered beneath Hellenistic ruins. This site includes a temple believed to have been dedicated to Pharaoh Ramesses II and is thought to have been constructed during the Eighteenth Dynasty, possibly under the reign of Tutankhamun. These discoveries provide further insight into the extent and influence of Ancient Egyptian civilization across the region.

On April 20, 2025, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers near Kadesh Barnea, a community close to the Egyptian border in southern Israel, reported hearing gunfire originating from the direction of Egypt. The IDF immediately conducted searches and patrols in the area to investigate the incident and rule out any security threats. Despite the initial reports of gunfire, no injuries or evidence of actual fire were found during the searches. By the evening, the IDF confirmed that the suspicion of a security incident had been dismissed. The military continues to monitor the area, but no further developments have been reported.

Egypt's National Food Safety Authority ordered the closure of over 100 branches of the popular dessert chain B. Laban across the country following inspections that revealed serious health violations. The violations included the presence of pathogenic bacteria, spoiled ingredients, and banned additives such as coloring agents in food samples. This action came after similar measures taken by Saudi authorities and followed a temporary closure of B. Laban's Casablanca outlet. The Egyptian Ministry of Health later announced the resumption of operations for the previously closed food establishments, including B. Laban, after confirming their compliance with the required health standards. This decision was made under the directives of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.

Orlando Pirates and Pyramids FC of Egypt played to a goalless draw in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, with the match kicking off at 6pm. The game saw two Pyramids FC goals disallowed by VAR, a decision that frustrated Pyramids coach Krunoslav Jurcic.

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro acknowledged Jurcic's frustration but defended the officials' use of VAR, noting it is a new experience for his team. Riveiro expressed pride in his players' performance and highlighted the competitive nature of the match, which featured opportunities for both sides.

Read more

South Korea is set to export up to 100 FA-50 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft to Egypt in what is described as the largest deal to date between the two countries. The agreement aims to support the development of Egypt's aviation industry and is estimated to be worth over $1 billion. Meanwhile, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a letter of intent to enhance military cooperation on the KF-21 fighter jet program. This preliminary agreement includes provisions for the UAE Air Force to observe KF-21 air exercises conducted by South Korea. Additionally, there are reports suggesting that Egypt's previous reluctance to accept Russian Super Flankers may have been influenced by factors other than U.S. sanctions, with recent developments indicating a contract signed by Russia.

Abiove, the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries, has revised its forecast for Brazil's 2025 soybean crop downward but increased its export projection to a record 108.5 million metric tons (MMT), up from the previous forecast of 106.1 MMT. The organization attributed the expected rise in exports partly to the ongoing US-China trade war, which is likely to benefit Brazilian soybean shipments. Meanwhile, Brazil's grain production for the 2024/2025 season is projected at a record 330.3 million tons, according to the Brazilian National Supply Company (Conab). In the egg sector, Brazil anticipates a 62% increase in exports in 2025, driven by acquisitions strengthening the industry. In North Africa, Tunisia forecasts its 2024/2025 cereal harvest at 1.45 million tons, nearly triple the previous output, with wheat accounting for 1.18 million tons. Favorable weather conditions have supported optimal cereal crop growth in Tunisia. Egypt is advancing a green hydrogen project with France, involving a €7 billion investment to build a green hydrogen plant at Ras Shukeir. The plan aims to produce 1 million tons of green ammonia annually by 2030, with an initial phase targeting 300,000 tons by 2029. Egypt also targets a wheat production of 10 million tons for 2024/2025, an increase of 1 million tons despite cultivating 400,000 fewer hectares. Additionally, Egypt has outlined a €7.4 billion comprehensive plan to stabilize its economy amid current challenges, leveraging its geographical position and solar resources to attract green hydrogen investments.

Syria is actively seeking international partnerships to revitalize its energy sector, focusing on oil, gas, and electricity. Syrian Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir recently met with a Kuwaiti investment delegation to explore cooperation opportunities in these fields. Additionally, Syria is engaging with Azerbaijan to develop its oil and gas infrastructure. During a meeting at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev discussed potential energy cooperation, including the role of Azerbaijan's state oil company SOCAR in rehabilitating Syria's oil and gas sectors. This outreach aims to attract foreign investment amid limited sanctions relief from Western countries and the United States. Meanwhile, Egypt is advancing its strategic energy partnerships, including discussions with Azerbaijan and France. Egypt and Azerbaijan are exploring a strategic energy partnership involving oil and gas, while Egypt and France have signed a €7 billion agreement to build a green hydrogen plant in Ras Shukeir, leveraging Egypt's geographic and solar energy advantages. Egypt is also implementing a €7.4 billion plan to stabilize its economy amid current challenges.

Recent genetic and archaeological studies indicate that domestic cats may have originated in ancient Egypt around 3,000 years ago. Evidence from ancient bones and DNA samples across Europe and the Mediterranean supports the theory that cats were domesticated in Egypt, potentially linked to their role in ritual sacrifices conducted by Egyptian cults. These findings suggest that cats were not only valued for companionship but also held a special cultural and religious significance in ancient Egyptian society.

A French Egyptologist has discovered and decoded seven hidden messages inscribed in cryptic hieroglyphs on the Obélisque de la Concorde in Paris. The monument, originally from Luxor, Egypt, contains references encrypted in its hieroglyphic inscriptions that appear to relate to Pharaoh Ramses II. This finding sheds new light on the historical and cultural significance of the obelisk, which is a prominent Parisian landmark. The discovery has attracted attention from various media outlets, highlighting the intricate and previously unnoticed details embedded in the ancient monument.

The French government has revised downward its targets for green hydrogen production, now aiming for up to 4.5 gigawatts installed by 2030 and a maximum of 8 gigawatts by 2035. This adjustment comes five years after launching an ambitious green hydrogen development program. Despite setbacks in various projects, France continues to support the hydrogen sector, having backed over 150 projects since 2020, which are expected to create 8,000 direct jobs by 2030. The government recently granted 100 million euros in aid to Gen-Hy, a start-up specializing in green hydrogen with facilities in Allenjoie and Belfort. Additionally, France and Egypt signed a 7 billion euro agreement to develop a green hydrogen plant in Ras Shukeir, leveraging Egypt's solar potential and strategic location. The French Ministry of Economy and Finance (Bercy) announced an additional 400 million euros in funding for industrial decarbonization efforts. Meanwhile, the European Union has provided support for two French tidal turbine projects, further advancing renewable energy initiatives.

Remittances from Egyptian expatriates surged to $20 billion in the first seven months of the 2024/25 fiscal year, up from $11 billion in the same period the previous year, according to the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE). Additionally, Egypt's tourism sector experienced an 18% growth in the second quarter of 2024/25, contributing positively to the country's economic expansion alongside net exports, marking the first positive contribution since 2023. In a monetary policy move, the Central Bank of Egypt cut interest rates by 225 basis points, the first reduction in nearly five years, lowering the overnight deposit rate to 25%, the overnight lending rate to 26%, and the main operation rate to 25.5%. This decision aims to stimulate investment and ease some of the region's highest debt-servicing costs. Meanwhile, the Turkish Central Bank raised its policy interest rate to 46%, reversing previous cuts and prompting speculation from foreign banks such as JP Morgan and Goldman Sachs about the timing of a potential new rate-cutting cycle. The Bank of Korea maintained its base rate amid tariff-related economic pressures.

Egypt's Suez Canal revenues experienced a sharp decline of 60% in 2024, resulting in monthly losses estimated at $800 million due to security disruptions in the Red Sea. Despite this, the Suez Canal Authority reported a 29% revenue increase in March 2025, reaching $335.6 million, with 264 ships rerouting to the canal instead of the Cape of Good Hope since February. Navigation in the Red Sea is expected to improve by September 2025 and return to normal by year-end, although security concerns continue to affect major shipping agencies, causing a 50% reduction in vessel transits through the canal. Egypt has called on foreign governments and shipping companies to resume routing vessels through the Suez Canal amid improved maritime security. Over the past five years, the canal has generated approximately $40 billion in revenue. Concurrently, Egypt's economy shows signs of recovery with an 18% growth in the tourism sector during the second quarter of fiscal year 2024/25 and a 23% projected increase in public revenues to EGP 3.1 trillion in the FY26 budget. Remittances from Egyptian expatriates surged by 81% to $20 billion in the first seven months of FY2024/25. Egypt has also repaid over $117 billion in external debt over five years, including $33 billion in the last fiscal year, and $7.95 billion in the last three months. The European Union has granted €4 billion in financial aid to support Egypt's economic reforms. The decline in Suez Canal revenues is partly attributed to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict affecting maritime routes, with Egypt becoming a geopolitical focal point amid the war in Ukraine and Red Sea crises.

A British anthropologist, Dr. Warner, has claimed to have located the tomb of Jesus Christ in a sealed chamber beneath the Great Pyramid of Giza. This assertion challenges the traditional belief that Jesus was buried in Jerusalem. Alongside the purported tomb, Dr. Warner also suggests that the Ark of the Covenant is hidden within the same chamber. The discovery has sparked interest and debate among archaeologists and historians. Meanwhile, other recent archaeological findings include the uncovering of a hidden chamber in a cave containing remnants of a lost civilization, a 3,000-year-old lost city, a 2,000-year-old garden beneath a church potentially linked to Jesus's tomb, and a 3,500-year-old Egyptian settlement beneath an ancient Greek city. These discoveries contribute to ongoing research into ancient civilizations and historical mysteries.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh have emphasized their rejection of any threats to the security and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea during Sisi's visit to Djibouti. They agreed that the responsibility for securing this vital international maritime route lies exclusively with the coastal states of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

President Sisi also expressed Egypt's firm stance against any attempts to liquidate the Palestinian cause and rejected any threats to Sudan's unity and sovereignty, including efforts to form a parallel government within the country. He reiterated Egypt's readiness to cooperate with international partners to implement the Arab-Islamic plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, emphasizing that this should be done without any form of displacement of Palestinians.

Read more

Egypt and China have conducted their first joint air combat exercises near the Israeli border, marking a new level of military cooperation between the two countries. The drills, named "Medeniyet Kartalları 2025," highlight Beijing's strategic interest in Africa and signal Egypt's intent to diversify its international partnerships amid shifting global dynamics. The exercises come as Egypt seeks to demonstrate to Washington that it has alternative options for security collaboration. This development occurs against the backdrop of broader geopolitical changes, including the U.S. administration under Donald Trump, which has influenced regional alignments. The joint drills underscore Egypt and China's growing military ties and reflect China's expanding influence in the region.

Libya continues to face security and political challenges amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the country. Libya's Attorney General announced the pretrial detention of a Central Support element accused of running over two citizens near the Tripoli stadium and ordered the pursuit of other suspects. The Gharyan Court of Appeals sentenced three defendants to death for the 2015 abduction, rape, and murder of two young girls aged 10 and 15. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) organized a seminar in Benghazi to enhance support for security and civil peace, involving civil society representatives and youth to promote dialogue and improve the security sector. The Libyan Presidential Council member Abdullah Al-Lafi met with defense officials to discuss the latest military developments and operational procedures. Additionally, the Libyan Prime Minister Osama Hammad held a high-level security meeting focused on the situation in southern Libya. The UN mission also facilitated consultations between the National Defense and Security Committee of the House of Representatives and the military prosecution to resume discussions on security legislation reforms. In parallel, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, during his visit to Djibouti, reaffirmed Egypt and Djibouti's rejection of any attempts to form a parallel government in Sudan and emphasized the exclusive responsibility of Red Sea and Gulf of Aden littoral states to secure this vital maritime corridor. Sisi also stressed Egypt's firm stance against the displacement of Palestinians and expressed readiness to cooperate internationally on the Arab-Islamic plan for Gaza's reconstruction. He highlighted the Egypt-Israel peace agreement as a model for conflict resolution and called for a just peace through establishing a Palestinian state according to international legitimacy. Furthermore, Sisi met with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional issues, including Libya's stability and political resolution. The Libyan Embassy reported participation in talks addressing Sudan's crisis. Security officials mourned the death of a national duty martyr, Faraj Mohamed Ali, who died in a traffic accident while on duty. The UN mission's security institutions division also facilitated meetings to support legislative development in Libya's security sector.

A recent discovery by a scientist in Paris has revealed seven secret messages hidden on the Egyptian Obelisk of Luxor. This finding adds to the ongoing intrigue surrounding ancient Egyptian monuments, including the pyramids of Giza, which continue to hold mysteries that archaeologists aim to uncover. Discussions on the broader context of ancient civilizations suggest that innovations from the Greco-Roman world may have been influenced by knowledge predating the biblical flood, knowledge that was later suppressed during the rise of Christian dominance. The Vatican's control over archival materials and its interest in ancient sites imply a custodial role over this ancient legacy. Additionally, there is growing skepticism toward mainstream archaeology's dismissal of findings that challenge established historical narratives, particularly regarding what lies beneath the Giza Plateau. These developments reflect a broader shift in understanding human civilization's ancient history.

British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abd el-Fattah has fallen seriously ill after 53 days of a hunger strike in Egypt's Wadi El-Natrun prison. Abd el-Fattah, who began the strike on March 1, has experienced severe stomach pain, repeated vomiting, and is being treated by prison doctors for suspected damage to his stomach and intestines. His family reported he has consumed only herbal tea, black coffee, and rehydration salts during the strike. Abd el-Fattah was due to complete a five-year sentence for "spreading false news" on September 29, but authorities have refused to release him, not counting two years of pre-trial detention toward his sentence. His hunger strike followed the hospitalization of his mother, who was also on a hunger strike demanding his release. Meanwhile, Egyptian rights groups have highlighted deteriorating conditions in Egyptian prisons, reporting at least 11 to 13 deaths in custody in early 2025 due to medical negligence, ill-treatment, and suicide attempts. In April alone, four detainees died, and two men recently attempted suicide. These abuses have reportedly increased since President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi came to power in 2014.

China is projected to achieve a record grain output of 709 million tonnes in 2025, up from the previous year's 706.5 million tonnes, according to reports from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and related agencies. The increase is supported by an estimated 17.9 billion mu of intended planting area nationwide, with spring planting covering 9.6 billion mu and winter wheat area expected to remain stable at 3.4 billion mu.

Read more

Tunisia's 2024/2025 cereal harvest is projected to reach 1.45 million tonnes, nearly triple the previous season's output, with wheat accounting for 1.18 million tonnes of this total. Water reserves in Tunisia's dams have improved, with the total dam filling rate at 36.5% as of April 16, 2025, representing 865.3 million cubic meters, a 4% increase from the same period in 2024. In Egypt, the wheat sector aims to produce 10 million tonnes in 2024/2025, an increase of 1 million tonnes compared to 2023, despite cultivating 400,000 fewer hectares. Morocco's wheat production for the current season is estimated at 44 million quintals, marking a 41% increase from the previous campaign, according to initial estimates from the Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, reservoirs in Spain have experienced a rebound after Easter rains, surpassing 75% of their capacity.

Archaeologists have made notable discoveries related to Ancient Egypt in both Jordan and Egypt. In southern Jordan, near the Wadi Rum protected area, an inscription featuring the royal cartouche of Pharaoh Ramesses III, who reigned from approximately 1186 to 1155 BC, was uncovered. This finding was announced by Jordan's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, in the presence of Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass. Meanwhile, in Egypt's north-western Nile Delta near Alexandria, a settlement dating back around 3,400 to 3,500 years to the New Kingdom era has been discovered beneath Hellenistic ruins. This site includes a temple believed to have been dedicated to Pharaoh Ramesses II and is thought to have been constructed during the Eighteenth Dynasty, possibly under the reign of Tutankhamun. These discoveries provide further insight into the extent and influence of Ancient Egyptian civilization across the region.

On April 20, 2025, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers near Kadesh Barnea, a community close to the Egyptian border in southern Israel, reported hearing gunfire originating from the direction of Egypt. The IDF immediately conducted searches and patrols in the area to investigate the incident and rule out any security threats. Despite the initial reports of gunfire, no injuries or evidence of actual fire were found during the searches. By the evening, the IDF confirmed that the suspicion of a security incident had been dismissed. The military continues to monitor the area, but no further developments have been reported.

Egypt's National Food Safety Authority ordered the closure of over 100 branches of the popular dessert chain B. Laban across the country following inspections that revealed serious health violations. The violations included the presence of pathogenic bacteria, spoiled ingredients, and banned additives such as coloring agents in food samples. This action came after similar measures taken by Saudi authorities and followed a temporary closure of B. Laban's Casablanca outlet. The Egyptian Ministry of Health later announced the resumption of operations for the previously closed food establishments, including B. Laban, after confirming their compliance with the required health standards. This decision was made under the directives of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.

Orlando Pirates and Pyramids FC of Egypt played to a goalless draw in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, with the match kicking off at 6pm. The game saw two Pyramids FC goals disallowed by VAR, a decision that frustrated Pyramids coach Krunoslav Jurcic.

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro acknowledged Jurcic's frustration but defended the officials' use of VAR, noting it is a new experience for his team. Riveiro expressed pride in his players' performance and highlighted the competitive nature of the match, which featured opportunities for both sides.

Read more

South Korea is set to export up to 100 FA-50 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft to Egypt in what is described as the largest deal to date between the two countries. The agreement aims to support the development of Egypt's aviation industry and is estimated to be worth over $1 billion. Meanwhile, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a letter of intent to enhance military cooperation on the KF-21 fighter jet program. This preliminary agreement includes provisions for the UAE Air Force to observe KF-21 air exercises conducted by South Korea. Additionally, there are reports suggesting that Egypt's previous reluctance to accept Russian Super Flankers may have been influenced by factors other than U.S. sanctions, with recent developments indicating a contract signed by Russia.

Abiove, the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries, has revised its forecast for Brazil's 2025 soybean crop downward but increased its export projection to a record 108.5 million metric tons (MMT), up from the previous forecast of 106.1 MMT. The organization attributed the expected rise in exports partly to the ongoing US-China trade war, which is likely to benefit Brazilian soybean shipments. Meanwhile, Brazil's grain production for the 2024/2025 season is projected at a record 330.3 million tons, according to the Brazilian National Supply Company (Conab). In the egg sector, Brazil anticipates a 62% increase in exports in 2025, driven by acquisitions strengthening the industry. In North Africa, Tunisia forecasts its 2024/2025 cereal harvest at 1.45 million tons, nearly triple the previous output, with wheat accounting for 1.18 million tons. Favorable weather conditions have supported optimal cereal crop growth in Tunisia. Egypt is advancing a green hydrogen project with France, involving a €7 billion investment to build a green hydrogen plant at Ras Shukeir. The plan aims to produce 1 million tons of green ammonia annually by 2030, with an initial phase targeting 300,000 tons by 2029. Egypt also targets a wheat production of 10 million tons for 2024/2025, an increase of 1 million tons despite cultivating 400,000 fewer hectares. Additionally, Egypt has outlined a €7.4 billion comprehensive plan to stabilize its economy amid current challenges, leveraging its geographical position and solar resources to attract green hydrogen investments.

Syria is actively seeking international partnerships to revitalize its energy sector, focusing on oil, gas, and electricity. Syrian Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir recently met with a Kuwaiti investment delegation to explore cooperation opportunities in these fields. Additionally, Syria is engaging with Azerbaijan to develop its oil and gas infrastructure. During a meeting at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev discussed potential energy cooperation, including the role of Azerbaijan's state oil company SOCAR in rehabilitating Syria's oil and gas sectors. This outreach aims to attract foreign investment amid limited sanctions relief from Western countries and the United States. Meanwhile, Egypt is advancing its strategic energy partnerships, including discussions with Azerbaijan and France. Egypt and Azerbaijan are exploring a strategic energy partnership involving oil and gas, while Egypt and France have signed a €7 billion agreement to build a green hydrogen plant in Ras Shukeir, leveraging Egypt's geographic and solar energy advantages. Egypt is also implementing a €7.4 billion plan to stabilize its economy amid current challenges.

Recent genetic and archaeological studies indicate that domestic cats may have originated in ancient Egypt around 3,000 years ago. Evidence from ancient bones and DNA samples across Europe and the Mediterranean supports the theory that cats were domesticated in Egypt, potentially linked to their role in ritual sacrifices conducted by Egyptian cults. These findings suggest that cats were not only valued for companionship but also held a special cultural and religious significance in ancient Egyptian society.

A French Egyptologist has discovered and decoded seven hidden messages inscribed in cryptic hieroglyphs on the Obélisque de la Concorde in Paris. The monument, originally from Luxor, Egypt, contains references encrypted in its hieroglyphic inscriptions that appear to relate to Pharaoh Ramses II. This finding sheds new light on the historical and cultural significance of the obelisk, which is a prominent Parisian landmark. The discovery has attracted attention from various media outlets, highlighting the intricate and previously unnoticed details embedded in the ancient monument.

The French government has revised downward its targets for green hydrogen production, now aiming for up to 4.5 gigawatts installed by 2030 and a maximum of 8 gigawatts by 2035. This adjustment comes five years after launching an ambitious green hydrogen development program. Despite setbacks in various projects, France continues to support the hydrogen sector, having backed over 150 projects since 2020, which are expected to create 8,000 direct jobs by 2030. The government recently granted 100 million euros in aid to Gen-Hy, a start-up specializing in green hydrogen with facilities in Allenjoie and Belfort. Additionally, France and Egypt signed a 7 billion euro agreement to develop a green hydrogen plant in Ras Shukeir, leveraging Egypt's solar potential and strategic location. The French Ministry of Economy and Finance (Bercy) announced an additional 400 million euros in funding for industrial decarbonization efforts. Meanwhile, the European Union has provided support for two French tidal turbine projects, further advancing renewable energy initiatives.

Remittances from Egyptian expatriates surged to $20 billion in the first seven months of the 2024/25 fiscal year, up from $11 billion in the same period the previous year, according to the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE). Additionally, Egypt's tourism sector experienced an 18% growth in the second quarter of 2024/25, contributing positively to the country's economic expansion alongside net exports, marking the first positive contribution since 2023. In a monetary policy move, the Central Bank of Egypt cut interest rates by 225 basis points, the first reduction in nearly five years, lowering the overnight deposit rate to 25%, the overnight lending rate to 26%, and the main operation rate to 25.5%. This decision aims to stimulate investment and ease some of the region's highest debt-servicing costs. Meanwhile, the Turkish Central Bank raised its policy interest rate to 46%, reversing previous cuts and prompting speculation from foreign banks such as JP Morgan and Goldman Sachs about the timing of a potential new rate-cutting cycle. The Bank of Korea maintained its base rate amid tariff-related economic pressures.

Egypt's Suez Canal revenues experienced a sharp decline of 60% in 2024, resulting in monthly losses estimated at $800 million due to security disruptions in the Red Sea. Despite this, the Suez Canal Authority reported a 29% revenue increase in March 2025, reaching $335.6 million, with 264 ships rerouting to the canal instead of the Cape of Good Hope since February. Navigation in the Red Sea is expected to improve by September 2025 and return to normal by year-end, although security concerns continue to affect major shipping agencies, causing a 50% reduction in vessel transits through the canal. Egypt has called on foreign governments and shipping companies to resume routing vessels through the Suez Canal amid improved maritime security. Over the past five years, the canal has generated approximately $40 billion in revenue. Concurrently, Egypt's economy shows signs of recovery with an 18% growth in the tourism sector during the second quarter of fiscal year 2024/25 and a 23% projected increase in public revenues to EGP 3.1 trillion in the FY26 budget. Remittances from Egyptian expatriates surged by 81% to $20 billion in the first seven months of FY2024/25. Egypt has also repaid over $117 billion in external debt over five years, including $33 billion in the last fiscal year, and $7.95 billion in the last three months. The European Union has granted €4 billion in financial aid to support Egypt's economic reforms. The decline in Suez Canal revenues is partly attributed to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict affecting maritime routes, with Egypt becoming a geopolitical focal point amid the war in Ukraine and Red Sea crises.

A British anthropologist, Dr. Warner, has claimed to have located the tomb of Jesus Christ in a sealed chamber beneath the Great Pyramid of Giza. This assertion challenges the traditional belief that Jesus was buried in Jerusalem. Alongside the purported tomb, Dr. Warner also suggests that the Ark of the Covenant is hidden within the same chamber. The discovery has sparked interest and debate among archaeologists and historians. Meanwhile, other recent archaeological findings include the uncovering of a hidden chamber in a cave containing remnants of a lost civilization, a 3,000-year-old lost city, a 2,000-year-old garden beneath a church potentially linked to Jesus's tomb, and a 3,500-year-old Egyptian settlement beneath an ancient Greek city. These discoveries contribute to ongoing research into ancient civilizations and historical mysteries.