Global Briefing: Nations Tackle Crime, Economy, and Climate
U.S. hails Grenada on 52nd Independence Day. EU Parliament backs €90B for Ukraine. Argentina Treasury raises $9T. UK launches knife crime plan. France eyes 2030 Food Strategy. Germany urges EU to cut red tape. India charts Net Zero path. Nigeria VP pushes tech skills. Putin eyes North Ossetia growth.
Argentina's Treasury raises $9T. CNV proposes Single Fact Sheet for funds. ARCA boosts tax compliance, exempts dollar deposit interest. Military chiefs meet in D.C.
Argentina's Treasury raises $9T. CNV proposes Single Fact Sheet for funds. ARCA boosts tax compliance, exempts dollar deposit interest. Military chiefs meet in D.C.
Sources (5)
- Resultado de la licitación de instrumentos del tesoro nacional denominados en pesos y dólares estadounidenses ↗
Argentina's Treasury received $11.51 trillion in bids and awarded $9.02 trillion in peso and dollar instruments on February 11, 2026. Key issuances include LETRA S17A6, S31L6, S30N6, and T15E7.
- Mayor transparencia en Fondos Comunes de Inversión Abiertos con la implementación de la Ficha Única ↗
Argentina's CNV proposes a Single Fact Sheet for open investment funds. This aims to boost transparency and comparability for investors, aligning with international standards like the EU's KID. CNV President Roberto E. Silva highlighted the measure's focus on clear, concise information.
- Nueva metodología para impulsar el cumplimiento voluntario de obligaciones tributarias ↗
Argentina's ARCA launches new voluntary tax compliance method. Resolution General 5823/2026 allows taxpayers to correct inconsistencies via Nuestra Parte web service before audits. Aims for self-correction, avoiding penalties.
- Ley de inocencia fiscal: los intereses de depósitos en dólares estarán exentos de retención ↗
Argentina's ARCA clarifies Fiscal Innocence Law: interest on dollar deposits is exempt from income tax withholding. Resolution 5822/2026 aims to encourage formal economy integration.
- El jefe del Estado Mayor Conjunto de las Fuerzas Armadas de Argentina participó de la Conferencia de Jefes de Defensa del Hemisferio Occidental ↗
Argentina's Joint Chiefs Head Vice Adm. Marcelo Dalle Nogare attended the Western Hemisphere Chiefs of Defense Conference in Washington, D.C. on Feb. 10-11. The meeting, organized by the U.S. Joint Chiefs, focused on shared security priorities. Dalle Nogare stressed Argentina's commitment to regional stability and military strengthening.
NSW Boosts Biosecurity, Education, and Parks
NSW launches new biosecurity unit to protect $25B primary industries from pests like fire ants. $13M scholarships aid social housing students. Greater Sydney Parklands gets new protection legislation. GPs can now diagnose ADHD from March.
Sources (5)
- New compliance unit strengthens NSW biosecurity systems ↗
Minister for Agriculture; Minister for Regional NSW
NSW launches new Biosecurity Compliance and Investigation Unit with six staff to protect its $25 billion primary industries. The unit targets threats like red imported fire ant and cattle tick, bolstering enforcement and surveillance. Minister Tara Moriarty stated, "We are strengthening our compliance and enforcement."
- Over $13 million invested to ease education costs for social housing students ↗
Minister for Homelessness; Minister for Housing; Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education
$13 million Youth Development Scholarships fund 1,500 grants for social housing students. Grants cover study costs like laptops, textbooks. Applications close Feb 13, 2026 (high school) and Mar 6, 2026 (tertiary).
- Pest and biosecurity roadshow to better equip south east NSW landholders ↗
Minister for Agriculture; Minister for Regional NSW
NSW launches pest and biosecurity roadshow in Queanbeyan-Palerang region, Feb-May. Landholders get advice on feral pig control, livestock health. Subsidised grain available. Minister Tara Moriarty highlights support.
- Legislation introduced to create greener futures for iconic parklands ↗
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces
Australia introduces legislation to protect Greater Sydney Parklands. The Trust Amendment Bill 2026 aims to improve facilities, ensure financial sustainability, and allow for activations like cafes, while preventing parkland sales.
- Reforms to enable GPs to diagnose ADHD from March ↗
Minister for Health; Minister for Mental Health
Australia to allow GPs to diagnose ADHD from March. Nearly 600 GPs interested in training. Reforms aim to improve access, especially in rural areas. Over 800 GPs trained for repeat prescriptions, benefiting over 5000 patients.
Brazil Boosts Airports, Women's Safety
Brazil invests R$9.2 billion in 11 airports, aiming to raise passenger capacity by 11 million. President Lula also signed a decree integrating Ligue 180 into the National Pact Against Femicide, strengthening women's protection.
Sources (3)
- Investimento histórico na aviação amplia conectividade e moderniza 11 aeroportos no país ↗
Brazil launches historic aviation investment plan, boosting 11 airports with R$ 9.2 billion. President Lula and Minister Silvio Costa Filho highlighted the initiative, aiming to increase capacity from 29 million to over 40 million passengers annually.
- Plano prevê investimentos para ampliação e modernização de 11 aeroportos no Brasil ↗
Brazil plans R$9.2 billion in airport upgrades for 11 airports, backed by R$4.64 billion from BNDES. Project aims to boost passenger capacity from 29 million to over 40 million annually, creating 3,000 jobs. Congonhas Airport receives R$2.6 billion for expansion.
- Decreto inclui o Ligue 180 no Pacto Nacional Brasil contra o Feminicídio e amplia rede de proteção às mulheres ↗
Brazil integrates Ligue 180 into the National Pact Against Femicide. Signed by President Lula and Minister Márcia Lopes, the decree enhances the national protection network for women. The 180 hotline, operating 24/7, now formally joins the Pact's secondary prevention efforts.
Canada Appoints Rita Virk to CMHC Board
Rita Virk joins the CMHC Board, bringing finance and governance expertise. The appointment supports the government's housing response. Meanwhile, the Samuel De Champlain Bridge will be lit purple for the Tumbler Ridge tragedy victims. Women and Gender Equality Canada will announce support for women entrepreneurs with disabilities in Winnipeg on Feb. 13. CBSA intel led to the prosecution of Peter Eliot Granovetter for identity fraud, resulting in a 1-year jail sentence.
Sources (5)
- Backgrounder: Government of Canada announces appointment to CMHC Board of Directors ↗
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
Canada appoints Rita Virk to CMHC Board. Virk, a CPA, CA, has extensive finance, risk, and governance experience. She previously led internal audit at Seaspan and Atlas Corp. and served on boards including Prospera Credit Union and Fraser Health.
- Government of Canada announces appointment to CMHC Board of Directors ↗
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
Minister Gregor Robertson appointed Rita Virk to the CMHC Board of Directors. Virk, a CPA, brings finance, risk, and governance expertise. This move supports the government's housing crisis response.
- Samuel De Champlain Bridge: Special Illumination in memory of the victims of the Tumbler Ridge tragedy ↗
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
Samuel De Champlain Bridge to be lit purple tonight, February 11, 2026, from sunset to 1:00 a.m. in memory of the Tumbler Ridge tragedy victims.
- Federal government to announce support for women entrepreneurs with disabilities ↗
Women and Gender Equality Canada
Women and Gender Equality Canada to announce support for women entrepreneurs with disabilities on Feb. 13 in Winnipeg. Parliamentary Secretary Marie-Gabrielle Ménard will attend. Media must register by 9:30 AM CT.
- CBSA intel leads to identity fraud prosecution by Cornwall RCMP ↗
Canada Border Services Agency
CBSA intel led to Cornwall RCMP prosecuting Peter Eliot Granovetter, 70. He assumed a Canadian identity in 2012, obtained fraudulent documents, and was arrested attempting re-entry. Convicted Dec 17, sentenced to 1 year jail and 3 years ban from Canada.
China Boosts Cross-Regional Power for Stability
China will enhance cross-regional power allocation. The goal is to ensure stable electricity supply and optimize resource use. Details on specific mechanisms or timelines were not provided.
Sources (1)
- China to improve cross-regional power allocation ↗
China will enhance cross-regional power allocation. The goal is to ensure stable electricity supply and optimize resource use. Details on specific mechanisms or timelines were not provided.
EU Boosts Ukraine Aid, Eyes Russia Threat
EU Parliament backs €90B loan for Ukraine defense and aid. Sees Russia as threat, Ukraine a partner. Also approves €7.5M for Belgian workers after Audi factory closure.
Sources (4)
- “Expanded and enhanced” – opening a new chapter for EU Defence Partnerships ↗
EU Parliament: Russia is main threat. Ukraine a strategic partner. Calls for stronger EU defence pillar, complementary to NATO. Reassess China economic ties. Formalize strategic partnership with Ukraine.
- Parliament approves €90 billion Ukraine support loan package ↗
EU Parliament approves €90 billion loan for Ukraine. Funds target defense (€60B) and macro-financial aid (€30B). Ukraine must commit to reforms and anti-corruption. Loan repaid via Russian reparations.
- MEPs back €7.5 million in EU support for workers in Belgium ↗
MEPs approve €7.5 million from the EU Globalisation Adjustment Fund for 3,414 Belgian workers laid off after Audi closed its Brussels factory. Funds will aid career guidance, training, and business startups. The decision passed 593-55.
- EP TODAY ↗
MEPs vote today on a €90 billion EU loan to Ukraine. Debates include EU competitiveness, rule of law in Slovakia, and poverty strategy. Other votes cover EU defence partnerships.
France's 2030 Food Strategy: Health, Climate, Independence
France unveils National Strategy for Food, Nutrition, and Climate (SNANC) by 2030. Aims for healthier eating, reduced environmental impact, and agricultural independence. Focuses on prevention, sustainable farming, and fighting food insecurity.
Sources (1)
- Alimentation : une stratégie nationale à horizon 2030 ↗
Annie Genevard
France unveils National Strategy for Food, Nutrition, and Climate (SNANC) by 2030. Aims for healthier eating, reduced environmental impact, and agricultural independence. Focuses on prevention, sustainable farming, and fighting food insecurity.
Merz to EU: Cut Red Tape, Boost Growth
Chancellor Merz urges EU to cut red tape, boost competitiveness at Antwerp summit. Cites 1% EU growth vs. 2% US, 8% China. Pushes for tacit approval for projects, stronger Single Market, and new trade deals.
Sources (1)
- Federal Chancellor Merz at the European Industry Summit 2026 ↗
Chancellor Merz urges EU to cut red tape, boost competitiveness at Antwerp summit. Cites 1% EU growth vs. 2% US, 8% China. Pushes for tacit approval for projects, stronger Single Market, and new trade deals.
India Charts Future: Net Zero, Inclusion, Rare Earths.
NITI Aayog released 11 reports on Viksit Bharat and Net Zero, stressing resource efficiency and 100% waste collection by 2047. Secretary M. Nagaraju met on Financial Inclusion 2.0, aiming for insurance/pension for all by 2047. Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted nuclear reforms for rare earth development, targeting 5,000 tonnes magnet production by 2030. The Disaster Management Act, 2025, empowers states with UDMAs and a National Disaster Database. India also launched the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in cooperatives to cut losses.
Sources (5)
- NITI Aayog Releases Study Reports on Scenarios Towards Viksit Bharat and Net Zero ↗
NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog released 11 reports on Viksit Bharat and Net Zero. Key findings: 86% of floor space is yet to be built; focus on resource efficiency in agriculture; 100% waste collection by 2047. Reports released by Dr. Ramesh Chand, Sh. B.V.R. Subrahmanyam.
- Secretary, DFS Chairs Meeting to Prepare Roadmap for Financial Inclusion 2.0 ↗
Ministry of Finance
Secretary M. Nagaraju chaired a meeting in New Delhi to draft Financial Inclusion 2.0. Focus: universal banking, digital payments, insurance/pension for all by 2047, credit access, and financial literacy.
- Lok Sabha Question Hour: Dr. Jitendra Singh Says Nuclear Sector Reforms and Shanti Act Measures Will Accelerate Rare Earth Development ↗
Ministry of Earth Sciences
Dr. Jitendra Singh says nuclear reforms, Shanti Act measures to boost rare earth development. Target: 5,000 tonnes magnet production by 2030. Exploration ongoing in Bihar, other states. Private sector now allowed in mining.
- DISASTER MANAGEMENT (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2025 ↗
Ministry of Home Affairs
India's Disaster Management Act, 2025, empowers states to form Urban Disaster Management Authorities (UDMAs). A National Disaster Database is mandated. Rs 4576.7 crore approved from NDRF for floods, cyclones. Rs 2444.42 crore for Urban Risk Management.
- World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector ↗
Ministry of Cooperation
India launches World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in cooperatives. Pilot project in Balaghat, MP, completed Feb 24, 2024. Plan uses convergence of schemes like AIF, AMI. Aims to reduce post-harvest loss, boost farmer income.
Meloni sends condolences for Tumbler Ridge massacre
Italy's PM Meloni offers condolences for the Tumbler Ridge massacre in British Columbia. She conveys the Italian government's solidarity to PM Mark Carney and the Canadian people following the terrible tragedy.
Sources (1)
- President Meloni’s condolence message following the massacre in Tumbler Ridge ↗
Italy's PM Meloni offers condolences for the Tumbler Ridge massacre in British Columbia. She conveys the Italian government's solidarity to PM Mark Carney and the Canadian people following the terrible tragedy.
Tinubu Appoints NAHCON Chair, VP Pushes Tech Skills
President Tinubu nominated Amb. Ismail Abba Yusuf as NAHCON Chairman. VP Shettima launched a tech hackathon and Ericsson skills program, aiming to position Nigeria as a global AI, 5G supplier.
Sources (2)
- PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS AMB. ISMAIL ABBA YUSUF CHAIRMAN OF NAHCON ↗
President Tinubu nominates Amb. Ismail Abba Yusuf as NAHCON Chairman/CEO. The appointment requires Senate approval. Yusuf, former envoy to Türkiye, replaces Prof. Abdullahi Usman.
- VP SHETTIMA: CONNECT NEXTGEN HACKATHON WILL POSITION NIGERIA AS GLOBAL SUPPLIER OF AI, 5G SOLUTIONS, LAUNCHES NIGERIA-ERICSSON SKILL ACQUISITION PROGRAMME ↗
VP Shettima launches Connect NextGen Innovation Hackathon in Abuja. Aims to make Nigeria a global supplier of AI, 5G solutions. Partnership with Ericsson to upskill youth. Aligns with President Tinubu's job creation agenda.
Putin eyes North Ossetia growth, logistics hub, Beslan museum
Putin met with Sergei Menyailo, Head of North Ossetia. Discussed 355 billion ruble regional growth, a logistics hub, basalt plant, and Beslan museum. Addressed labor shortages and support for military operation participants. Putin noted water loss issues.
Sources (1)
- Meeting with Head of the Republic of North Ossetia – Alania Sergei Menyailo ↗
Putin met with Sergei Menyailo, Head of North Ossetia. Discussed 355 billion ruble regional growth, a logistics hub, basalt plant, and Beslan museum. Addressed labor shortages and support for military operation participants. Putin noted water loss issues.
UK knife crime plan, new AAIB chief
England & Wales launch mandatory child knife support, £320m for youth justice. Robert Balls leads AAIB. MHRA restricts Chikungunya vaccine due to serious reactions. MAIB blames both ships for Polesie/Verity sinking.
Sources (5)
- Every child caught with a knife to get tailored support ↗
Ministry of Justice
England & Wales: Children caught with knives face mandatory support plans. £320 million invested in Youth Justice Services. Aims to halve knife crime in a decade. Deputy PM David Lammy states plans address root causes.
- AAIB appoints Robert Balls as Chief Inspector of Air Accidents ↗
Air Accidents Investigation Branch
Robert Balls is the new Chief Inspector of Air Accidents at the AAIB, effective immediately. He replaces Crispin Orr. Balls joined the AAIB in 2020 after a career in the Royal Air Force.
- MHRA introduces additional restrictions for use of the Chikungunya vaccine (IXCHIQ) ↗
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency
MHRA restricts Chikungunya vaccine (IXCHIQ) use. Adults 18-59 without certain conditions only. 28 serious adverse reactions, 3 fatal, cited. Vaccine given 30 days before travel.
- Strengthening cross-government working for animals in science ↗
Animals in Science Committee
UK's Animals in Science Committee updates Ways of Working. DSIT can now directly commission advice, supporting the strategy to replace animal testing. Lord Hanson states this strengthens expertise for phasing out animal research.
- Polesie/Verity report published ↗
Marine Accident Investigation Branch
MAIB report on Polesie/Verity collision blames both ships for avoidable sinking of Verity, 5 fatalities, Oct 24, 2023. “Neither vessel applied the regulations diligently,” says Chief Inspector Moll.
U.S. hails Grenada on 52nd Independence Day
The U.S. congratulates Grenada on its 52nd anniversary of independence, February 7, 2026. The U.S. values the partnership, citing shared priorities in regional security and economic growth, and commends Grenada's efforts against transnational threats.
Sources (1)
- Grenada National Day ↗
Bureau Of Western Hemisphere Affairs
The U.S. congratulates Grenada on its 52nd anniversary of independence, February 7, 2026. The U.S. values the partnership, citing shared priorities in regional security and economic growth, and commends Grenada's efforts against transnational threats.