talks

U.S.-China Trade Framework Agreement Reached After Productive Talks In a significant diplomatic milestone, Li Chenggang, China's Vice Minister of Commerce, recently shared with China's state broadcaster, CGTN, that an agreement has been reached on a trade framework. This announcement followed two days of intense discussions held in London. It's a noteworthy development for both nations, signifying a willingness to navigate complex economic waters together. Chenggang described the atmosphere of the meetings,…

Mogadishu (AX) — On Monday, the Somali Salvation Forum, a coalition comprised of influential opposition leaders, conveyed its doubts about the upcoming political meetings slated for June 15 and 22. They expressed concern that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud may be pursuing a unilateral agenda regarding crucial decisions on elections and national security. This skepticism highlights a profound and ongoing tension in Somalia’s political landscape, raising critical questions about the future of democracy in the nation. In a…

Upcoming Talks Between U.S. and China: What’s at Stake In a highly anticipated meeting, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are set to meet with representatives from China in London on Monday. This dialogue represents a crucial step in U.S.-China relations, which have faced significant challenges in recent years. President Donald Trump recently expressed optimism about these discussions in a social media post, stating, "The meeting should…

Somalia: Opposition Sets Conditions for Dialogue with Outgoing President Hassan Sheikh MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a country where silence speaks as loudly as words, the opposition leaders are now ready to step into the dialogue with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The invitation to meet on June 15th comes after a period of resistance. The hints of a warming dialogue signify a crucial opportunity to address the tangled web of issues in the Horn of Africa. This communication, shared by the National Salvation Forum—an alliance…

In recent days, the international spotlight has turned towards Somalia, where significant developments in military collaboration and strategic coordination among global powers are unfolding. Just after a notable meeting on Thursday, high-ranking officials from Italy and Turkey undertook visits that could redefine the security landscape of the country. To set the stage, let's take a closer look at the dynamic interactions between these nations and Somalia as it seeks to reclaim its sovereignty. The backdrop for these visits…

In a significant display of international support, high-ranking military officials from Turkey and Italy recently visited Somalia, emphasizing their commitment to bolstering the Somali National Army (SNA) in the ongoing struggle for national security. The visits unfolded against the backdrop of a crucial meeting that occurred on Thursday, where General Luciano Portolano, Italy’s Chief of Defense, held discussions with General Maadey Nuurey Sheikh, Deputy Commander of the SNA. These conversations delved deep into vital…

Widening Perspectives: Diplomatic Conversations Between Trump and Ramaphosa WASHINGTON — In a world where words carry weight and diplomacy shapes futures, a recent meeting between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and former President Donald Trump shone a spotlight on the complexities of international relations. Yet, an unexpected narrative took center stage—the controversial claim of a "white genocide" in South Africa. Imagine walking into a meeting, expecting to forge alliances, only to find yourself navigating a…

In a significant development for the South African technology landscape, the government is contemplating extending a special exemption to Elon Musk, allowing his ambitious satellite internet service, Starlink, to operate within its borders. This move bypasses the stringent Black ownership requirements that characterize the country’s economic policies, particularly those aimed at promoting Black Economic Empowerment. This proposed exemption emerges amid rising tensions involving not only Musk but also former U.S.…

Trump’s Optimistic Call with Putin: Sparks of Hope for Peace Talks WASHINGTON – On a pivotal Monday, President Donald Trump engaged in a much-anticipated phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Describing the interaction as having gone "very well," Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine are set to begin ceasefire negotiations immediately. This high-stakes call, lasting two hours, left Trump optimistic. He remarked on social media,…

Somalia's Leadership Struggles: A Fragmented Nation Yearning for Unity MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a nation where hope seems perpetually on the horizon, yet just out of reach, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stands at the crossroads, facing the challenge of uniting Somalia's federal leaders. Recently, his efforts to gather all participants of the National Consultative Council (NCC) in Mogadishu have fallen short, highlighting deepening fissures within the fragile country. The initial talks, scheduled for May 2, 2025, and…