UAE Non-Oil Business Activity Surges to Nine-Month High in December

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 The United Arab Emirates' non-oil private sector recorded its fastest expansion in nine months in December 2024, buoyed by strong domestic demand and increased business activity, according to the latest S&P Global Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report. PMI Highlights Robust Growth The seasonally adjusted UAE PMI climbed to 55.4 in December from 54.2 in November, signaling robust growth well above the 50.0 threshold that separates expansion from contraction. This marked the third consecutive monthly increase, underscoring sustained recovery in the non-oil sector. Key drivers of growth included a notable rise in new business activity. The new orders subindex rose sharply to 59.3 in December from 58.0 in the previous month, reflecting strong domestic demand. Challenges Amid the Growth While domestic demand flourished, export growth slowed, with the export orders subindex dropping to a seven-month low. Additionally, businesses faced mounting backlogs due to capacity constraints,...

Iraq and Syria Pledge Joint Efforts to Combat Terrorism and Drugs Trafficking

 

Iraq

The leaders of Iraq and Syria recently emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation to address the pressing challenges of terrorism and drugs trafficking. In an official visit to Damascus, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani met with Syrian President Bashar Al Assad to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

During a joint press conference, President Al Assad highlighted the gravity of the drug epidemic, drawing parallels between drugs and terrorism. He stressed that both threats pose significant dangers to the stability and security of their nations. Al Assad's remarks underscore the shared understanding that combatting terrorism and drugs trafficking requires joint efforts and cooperation between Iraq and Syria.

The leaders acknowledged that drugs trafficking has become a pervasive problem, contributing to social, economic, and security challenges in the region. The illicit drug trade not only fuels addiction but also supports criminal networks, terrorist organizations, and destabilizes communities. Both countries recognize the urgent need to address this issue comprehensively and adopt effective measures to counter drug trafficking.

Prime Minister Al Sudani echoed President Al Assad's sentiments, emphasizing the severity of the drug epidemic and its correlation with terrorism. He expressed Iraq's commitment to combating both threats in collaboration with Syria, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts and information sharing.

The visit by Prime Minister Al Sudani marked a significant milestone, as it was the first official visit by an Iraqi prime minister since the outbreak of Syria's 12-year conflict. This visit symbolizes the willingness of both countries to prioritize cooperation and mutual support in confronting shared challenges.

Iraq and Syria's leaders have recognized the urgent need for joint action to combat terrorism and drugs trafficking. Their commitment to enhancing cooperation marks a positive step towards addressing these pressing issues. By working together, Iraq and Syria can strengthen regional security, promote stability, and mitigate the devastating impact of terrorism and the drug epidemic on their societies.

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