MORNING NEWS BRIEF [September 23, 2021]

HOT NEWS

1. Macron and Biden held a phone call to discuss opening the in-depth consultation to restore the confidence between the allies, following the AUKUS security pact. Source: France24
2. Russian, Chinese and Pakistani envoys to Afghanistan held talks with the Taliban to discuss the latest developments in Afghanistan in a constructive manner. Source: Anadolu Agency
3. Taliban’s newly appointed envoy to the UN urged for a quick global recognition of the Taliban as the new ruler while the WHO warned of healthcare disaster in the country. Source: TRT World

WORLD

1. British FM convend talks with her Iranian counterpart to discuss bilateral, nuclear, and regional issues as Britain called on Iran to rapidly return to JCPOA negotiations. Source: Reuters
2. Algeria’s Supreme Security Council made a decision to close their airpace with Moroccan civil and military aircrafts after the two countries cut off their diplomatic ties. Source: The National
3. Tunisian President issued a decree extending the freezing of parliamentary power, which will allow him to appoint cabinet members and continue his rule. Source: Deutsche Welle

REGIONS

1. Taiwan has officially applied to join the CPTPP, days after China made the same request to become a member in an attempt to increase the economic influence. Source: SCMP
2. South Korean FM will meet his Japanese counterpart this week to discuss the progress of ending the dispute that has led to tit-for-tat trade restrictions. Source: CNA
3. Malaysia will ease restrictions, allow more inbound travel destinations and inter-state travel once 90% of the adult population are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Source: The Straits Times

CAMBODIA

1. The ADB projected that Cambodia’s economy will experience a rebound of 5.5% in 2022 despite a reduced 1.9% growth in 2021 due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. Source: Khmer Times
2. Phnom Penh City Hall announced the extension of administrative measures for another additional two weeks in an effort to contain and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Source: AKP
3. The CDC has recently authorized three new projects with a total capital of USD 15.1 million which will be located in Sihanoukville, expecting to generate nearly 400 more jobs. Source: AKP