Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan signed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement in Doha, establishing a mutual defense commitment where an attack on one is considered an attack on all.
SCMP highlights key global relations stories from July 2026, including Nato defence projects targeting Russia and China, China's openness to reducing its EU trade surplus, and a US-Saudi nuclear deal tied to Israel recognition.
Japan's defence white paper highlights China's growing military capabilities in the western Pacific, while Tokyo pledges to enhance its own military strengths and monitoring systems, prompting Beijing to accuse Japan of 'neo-militarism'
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) supports the European Commission's proposed revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) for the maritime sector, seeing it as a framework that can accelerate decarbonization, strengthen European industrial competitiveness, and preserve connectivity by reinvesting revenues into infrastructure and alternative fuels.
The European Union called an emergency meeting after approximately 60,000 migrants entered Spain's North African territory of Ceuta over several days, overwhelming local authorities and leading to at least 72 deaths. Spain has returned most migrants to Morocco, while diplomatic tensions rise over border control and migration policy.
Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 36, discusses his acceptance of transitioning away from international cricket, crediting his family's support and his love for the game. He also highlights the IPL's role in developing fast bowlers and the vision of Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri.
West African countries, including Senegal, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, are increasing anti-LGBTQ+ laws, with Ghana passing a similar bill. This trend is driven by local political opportunism, military juntas, and international conservative groups, leading to severe impacts on the LGBTQ+ community and hindering HIV prevention efforts.
The Cronulla Sharks and South Sydney Rabbitohs face off in NRL Round 22, with both teams making game day changes, including prop swaps for the Sharks and a second-row adjustment for the Rabbitohs. Wests Tigers also play the Parramatta Eels, and NRLW Magic Round continues in Wagga Wagga.
A strengthening El Niño is forecast to bring hotter, drier conditions globally from August to October, threatening India's monsoon and increasing drought, floods, and wildfire risks. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warns of "uncharted territory" and calls for urgent action on fossil fuels.
South Korea's Navy participation in the US-led RIMPAC exercise (June 24-July 31) strengthened its capability to lead combined maritime operations, according to Rear Adm. Kim In-ho, who commanded the combined maritime component forces.
Japan plans to establish a new unit under its defense ministry to enhance international coordination with allies, aiming to strengthen its capacity amidst a challenging security environment, particularly concerning "military threats" from North Korea, Russia, and China.
The RBI reported that India's domestic economy successfully navigated a tumultuous global phase, showing robust credit growth and a steady external sector. Despite delayed kharif sowing and rising retail inflation driven by food and fuel, healthy demand and resilient industrial and services sectors underpin a buoyant outlook.
A University of Hong Kong study found that targeted viral surveillance of transit passengers at Hong Kong and UAE aviation hubs could accelerate global detection of new variants by about three days, establishing an early warning system.
President Lee Jae Myung will lead a discussion at Cheong Wa Dae on July 22 to address health care disparities by strengthening medical services in underserved regions and essential disciplines, aiming for reform.
China is rapidly expanding its land-based export routes through Central Asia, including new railway lines, to diversify trade channels and mitigate risks from escalating geopolitical tensions affecting maritime hubs. This strategy has significantly boosted trade with Central Asian nations.
New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, largely unknown in Brussels, prepares for an EU-UK summit. He inherits a "reset agenda" aiming to ease trade barriers, link emissions systems, and establish a youth exchange, while navigating familiar Brexit dilemmas and his stated desire to rejoin the EU in his lifetime.
Andy Burnham, Britain's new prime minister, is largely unknown in Brussels but is set to lead an EU-UK summit this autumn, inheriting Keir Starmer's reset agenda. Key issues include trade barriers, a youth exchange scheme, and defence cooperation, with his Brexit stance creating both hope and caution.
Countries bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are intensifying border screenings, training health workers, and activating emergency plans to prevent the spread of Ebola. This comes as the DRC battles a growing outbreak with over 930 deaths and 2,344 cases, complicated by conflict and insecurity in eastern DRC.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang congratulated Andy Burnham on becoming Britain's new prime minister, expressing a desire to strengthen bilateral ties. Burnham also spoke with US President Donald Trump, affirming the UK's commitment to defense, security, and ensuring safe shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Countries bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo, including Zambia, Uganda, and Rwanda, have intensified Ebola screening and emergency plans as the DRC battles a growing outbreak with over 930 deaths. Regional cooperation through the EAC is strengthening preparedness, while conflict in eastern DRC complicates containment.
Jannik Sinner successfully defended his Wimbledon title, defeating Alexander Zverev 6-7, 7-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a gripping final. The victory marks Sinner's fifth Grand Slam title and his tenth consecutive win over Zverev.
Syria's new transitional parliament convened for its inaugural session in Damascus, with President Ahmed al-Sharaa urging lawmakers to prioritize national interest and foster democracy. The assembly will draft a new constitution following decades of authoritarian rule and civil war.
Labour's bill to reform UK politics returns to Parliament amid scrutiny of Reform party funding. Experts and MPs urge tougher rules on donations, including permanent crypto bans and lower spending limits, to counter the influence of wealthy donors and tech billionaires.
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of strategic resilience and confidence between China and North Korea amidst a complex international landscape. He met with North Korean Prime Minister Pak Thae Song, stressing the need for bilateral relations to align with socialist development and modernization goals.
