UN report: Africa, still too reliant on commodities exports, needs to diversify

Nearly 60% of African countries remain dependent on exports of commodities despite decades-long efforts to diversify. Therefore, a shift especially to technology and financial services, among other sectors, could help them withstand economic shocks, a study recently published by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) argues. UNCTAD’s Economic Development in Africa Report […]

Israel closes gate to Swedish FM over criticism

Israel announced Wednesday it will not receive Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom in view of her harsh comments on Israel’s disproportionate and extra-judicial killing of Palestinians during the recent spate of violence between Palestinians and Israelis. Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely Wednesday indicated that Swedish officials are not welcome in Israel. “Israel is closing […]

Egypt tones down criticism of Turkey as divisions are being addressed

Egypt has instructed its media to water down criticism of Turkey at a time the two countries are engaged in secret talks to iron out conflicting files including the Libyan one. A source in Egyptian state TV who asked not to be named told New Khaleej that authorities gave the new instructions as Cairo and […]