What Is The Govt Saying

This week saw Argentina's Treasury actively managing finances, seeking bids for peso and dollar instruments and raising $9 trillion. Reforms continue with the CNV proposing a Single Fact Sheet for funds and easing rules for negotiable securities. The Finance Secretariat offered a dollar-linked bond exchange. Security forces were busy: Gendarmerie seized contraband, and police busted drug trafficking and digital extortion rings. A man linked to the Antonini Wilson scandal was arrested.

Argentina also bolstered its international presence. 224 peacekeepers deployed to Cyprus, and military cooperation with Italy was strengthened, with chiefs meeting in D.C. Agricultural exports are strong, with record 2025 output and a new SENASA unit to speed Patagonian fruit exports to the U.S. The Hidrovía tender nears its close.

Domestically, the Army is eyeing modernization under Gen. Zarich. The Atenea microsatellite is set for a lunar mission with NASA Artemis II. Tax compliance is a focus, with ARCA mandating monthly electronic billing and exempting dollar deposit interest. A complex heart surgery saved a child at Hospital Posadas.

Key Developments:

• Economic Activity: Treasury bids, bond exchanges, and tax compliance measures.
• Security Operations: Drug busts, smuggling seizures, and digital crime arrests.
• International Relations: Peacekeeper deployment and military cooperation.
• Technological Advancement: Microsatellite mission and Army modernization.

New South Wales saw a busy week. Panorama Net Zero Homes launch Feb 14, promising $1,700 annual savings. Farming hit $25.5B, with cropping up 33%. Police gain powers to crush illegal e-bikes. Biosecurity gets a boost to protect $25B industries. Health worker housing and new schools are planned. A record $350M goes to Aboriginal families. Fire services receive $34.5M. Tourism initiatives revive Bondi. New public holidays are set.

President Lula's week was marked by significant investments across multiple sectors. He announced over R$1.4 billion for vaccine production at Instituto Butantan and R$44.8 million for a new Federal Institute in Mauá. Further, R$4.64 billion was allocated for modernizing 11 airports, creating over 2,000 jobs. A decree integrated the women's safety hotline Ligue 180 into the National Pact Against Femicide. International trade discussions in India and South Korea were also on the agenda, alongside inaugurating a R$114.4 million hospital expansion and touring a pharmaceutical plant. Brazil also ratified the International Solar Alliance.

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Key Developments and Investments:

• Infrastructure: R$4.64 billion for 11 airport upgrades, aiming for increased passenger capacity.
• Health: Boosted vaccine production with R$1.4 billion for Instituto Butantan. New emergency center opened at Hospital Cardoso Fontes in Rio.
• Education: R$44.8 million for a new Federal Institute in Mauá, serving 1,400 students.
• Social Programs: Launched Gás do Povo, offering free 13kg cooking gas refills to 15 million families.
• Women's Safety: Strengthened protection by integrating Ligue 180 into the National Pact Against Femicide.
• International Relations: President Lula visited India and South Korea to enhance economic ties. Brazil ratified the International Solar Alliance.
• Sports: President Lula celebrated Lucas Pinheiro Braathen's Olympic gold medal.

This week saw Ottawa push forward on multiple fronts. Auto sector and EV funding initiatives were highlighted, alongside significant investments in defence SMEs in Atlantic Canada. Minister Anand engaged in international diplomacy, meeting with leaders in Italy, the Holy See, and reaffirming support for Ukraine. New sanctions were imposed on Iran.

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Key Developments:

• Economic Boosts: $9.3M for Kumi Canada, $997K for Vimy Forge, and $97M for EV chargers.
• International Engagement: Trade missions to Mexico, defence discussions in Brussels, and pacts signed with Denmark and Germany.
• Social Support: GST Credit top-up for 12 million low-income Canadians and recognition of Métis Self-Government Treaty.
• Defence Spending: Treasury Board seeks $5.4 billion for critical services.

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Notable Appointments and Events:

• Rita Virk appointed to the CMHC Board.
• Samuel De Champlain Bridge lit purple for the Tumbler Ridge tragedy.
• G7 adds Poland to its threat response group.

This week saw China announce stricter nature reserve rules and plans to bolster cross-regional power allocation for stability. Domestically, a new rural revitalization fund was launched. Internationally, China expanded global ties, with Xi Jinping highlighting Africa cooperation and urging EU collaboration. Visa-free entry for Canada and the UK begins February 17th, signaling a push for global engagement alongside domestic economic priorities and calls for global governance reform.

The EU Parliament saw a busy week. Key decisions included backing a substantial €90 billion loan for Ukraine, reinforcing support amidst ongoing conflict. Lawmakers also advanced new asylum rules, designating countries like Bangladesh, India, and Morocco as safe.

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Parliament Pushes for Digital Euro, Fair Farmer Pay

Discussions around the digital euro continued, with Parliament emphasizing ECB independence and the preservation of cash. Farmers are set to benefit from new rules aimed at ensuring fair pay. Additionally, MEPs addressed global issues, condemning rights abuses in Iran, Türkiye, and Uganda.

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War Crimes, Cancer, and Child Poverty on Agenda

Concerns over war crimes in Syria were raised, alongside renewed calls for increased cancer research funding. A significant push was made to eradicate poverty by 2035, with a specific focus on tackling child poverty through a proposed €20 billion investment.

France is making bold moves. The 2030 Food Strategy targets healthier diets and agricultural independence. The PPE 3 energy plan aims for 60% clean energy by 2030, heavily relying on nuclear power. In space, Sophie Adenot embarks on her ISS mission, a historic second for French women. Simultaneously, singer Laurēm champions mental health awareness, specifically for bipolar disorder, “Sharing this voice helps others recognize themselves.”

Chancellor Merz pushed the EU for action at an Antwerp summit. He highlighted sluggish 1% EU growth compared to the US and China. Merz called for reduced red tape, a stronger Single Market, and new trade agreements.

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Germany's Ukraine Aid Tops €94 Billion

Germany has committed a substantial €94 billion to Ukraine since February 2022. This includes €39 billion in civilian aid and €55 billion for military support. The package covers energy, defense, and training for 24,000 soldiers.

India charted a week of significant advancements. Key developments include a push for AI literacy and cybersecurity, with the CBI recovering ₹8,189 crore from fraud. Defense spending surged to ₹3.60 lakh crore, targeting jets and aircraft. NITI Aayog released reports on Net Zero goals and Financial Inclusion 2.0, aiming for universal insurance and pensions by 2047. India also launched the World's Largest Grain Storage Plan. The nation's economic prowess was highlighted, with PM Modi declaring India the 3rd largest economy and driving 16% of global growth. Infrastructure saw a boost with new facilities in Assam. The week concluded with a focus on MSME growth, digital currency integration in PDS, and an attempt at a Guinness World Record for ethical AI.

Prime Minister Meloni marked the Day of Remembrance for the Foibe massacres. She also extended condolences to Canada for the Tumbler Ridge massacre. Domestically, Rome cracked down on pollution in the ‘Terra dei Fuochi’, fining businesses and seizing assets.

Meloni then focused on international relations, attending the Italia-Africa Summit in Addis Ababa to advance the Mattei Plan. She addressed the African Union Assembly, stressing concrete action and effectiveness. The PM also co-launched an EU competitiveness working group.

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Key Stories:

• Remembrance and Condolences: Honoring Foibe victims, offering sympathy for Canadian tragedy.
• Domestic Action: Environmental crackdown in ‘Terra dei Fuochi’.
• International Engagement: Africa Summit, AU address, EU competitiveness.

What Changed:

• Increased focus on the Mattei Plan's practical implementation.
• Stronger stance on EU economic competitiveness.
• Continued engagement on environmental protection.

Prime Minister Kishida marked National Foundation Day this week, reflecting on Japan's rich history and cultural heritage. He pledged to forge a stronger, more prosperous nation, drawing lessons from the Showa era. The focus is on securing a hopeful future for future generations.

Minister Dr Shane Reti heads to India's AI Impact Summit, seeking to position New Zealand as a global AI player. The goal: a potential $76 billion economic boost by 2038, supported by a $70 million national AI investment.

Meanwhile, New Zealand secures a major coup, hosting its first State of Origin rugby league match in 2027. This event is expected to draw over 10,000 visitors, injecting an estimated $17.4 million into the economy. Eden Park's concert capacity is also expanding, promising further tourism revenue.

President Tinubu vowed to end terrorism and banditry, meeting with AFRICOM to bolster security. Economic reforms were highlighted, with the Bank of Industry disbursing N636 billion in 2025, creating 1.6 million jobs. VP Shettima pushed for African health sovereignty at the AU Summit and secured Nigeria a seat on the African Central Bank Board. The President also inaugurated projects in Kebbi and Yola, celebrating the Argungu Festival as a sign of stability.

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Key Developments:

• Security: Tinubu pledged to defeat terrorism and banditry, engaging with US Africa Command.
• Economy: Bank of Industry's significant 2025 disbursement and job creation validated reform efforts.
• Africa: Nigeria championed health sovereignty and secured a permanent seat on the African Central Bank Board at the AU Summit.
• Appointments: New leadership was named for NEMSA and SHESTCO, with a NAHCON Chairman nominated.
• Technology: VP Shettima launched initiatives to position Nigeria as a global tech supplier.

President Putin's week was packed. He reviewed Moscow's 28% GRP growth since 2019 and discussed boosting civil aviation by 2030. Healthcare reforms, worth 4.8 trillion rubles, were also on the agenda, alongside diplomatic talks with South Africa. Regional development in North Ossetia, including a logistics hub, and support for participants in the "special military operation" were highlighted. State property revenue reached 638 billion rubles in 2025. Putin also met with the Circle of Kindness Foundation, crediting it with saving tens of thousands of lives. Greetings were sent to the Ski Track of Russia event and participants of the 37th Soviet Afghan War anniversary.

President Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address highlighted a R1 trillion infrastructure investment, aiming to boost the economy. He reported four quarters of GDP growth and inflation at a 20-year low. The government also announced 2.5 million jobs created and an 88% matric pass rate. However, 56 municipalities face charges for water service failures.

• Hong Kong Visas Expanded: UK offers expanded BN(O) visas for Hong Kong citizens, condemning Jimmy Lai's sentence.
• Defense Focus: RAF Coningsby receives a £28M upgrade. The UK Carrier Strike Group deploys to the North Atlantic to deter Russia, with HMS Prince of Wales leading. Scotland's Secretary visits Indo-Pacific nations to boost trade and defense.
• Economic & Justice News: Treasury hosts U.S. on digital assets. Knife crime plans include mandatory child support and £320M for youth justice. Cabinet Secretary Sir Chris Wormald exits after 35 years. Anti-dumping duties on Chinese ironing boards extended.
• Appointments & Funding: New AAIB chief appointed. MHRA restricts a vaccine. Forestry Commission launches apprenticeships. Youth Justice Board secures multi-year funding.

The U.S. condemned Hong Kong's sentence for Jimmy Lai. Saudi Arabia hosted the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, welcoming Syria. Sanctions targeted corruption, terror finance, and illicit oil trade, including Palau's Senate President. The U.S. congratulated Grenada on its independence and Barbados on reelection, pledging cooperation on security and economic growth.

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Deputy Secretary Landau supported Balkan stability and a gas pipeline, while Secretary Rubio attended the Munich Security Conference. Rubio met with Syrian and Chinese FMs, discussing stability and U.S.-China relations ahead of President Trump's visit. He also met G7 ministers and Japan's FM, reaffirming alliances.

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The U.S. sent medical aid to Venezuela and eased oil sanctions, allowing U.S. firms to engage in oil marketing and investment. The State Department also congratulated Serbia on its Statehood Day, reinforcing support for Western Balkans stability.