What Is The Govt Saying

Daniel Scioli stated Bariloche now has 25 daily flights due to the open skies policy. He also noted Neuquén's tourism boom, with a 70% occupancy this summer.

Argentina honors Jorge Luis Borges 40 years after his death. Alberto Favero and Leonor Benedetto launched a music/poetry series at the Museo Casa de Yrurtia. The event featured readings of Borges' works, including "El Aleph."

Misiones, Argentina: Gendarmería seized 4,166 kg of marijuana in Dos de Mayo. Two people arrested. The operation, on February 15, 2026, also recovered a vehicle and electronics.

Francisco Cerúndolo wins the Argentina Open 2026, defeating Luciano Darderi. This is his fourth ATP title and he becomes the seventh Argentine to win the tournament at home. “It’s a dream come true,” Cerúndolo stated.

NSW adds a public holiday on Monday, April 28, 2025, and Monday, April 26, 2027, when Anzac Day falls on a weekend. Premier Chris Minns states this reinforces its importance. NSW has fewer holidays than other states.

NSW Government funds Green Timber Tech with $480 million for 50+ jobs and green housing. Homes are airtight, cut carbon by 60%, and built faster. Partnership creates 32 social homes.

NSW plans to replace its Emergency Services Levy, currently on insurance, with a property-based levy. This aims to ease insurance costs, up 48% since 2017. A parliamentary inquiry will review five options to ensure fairness and sustainability.

President Lula inaugurated the new 24-hour emergency center at Hospital Cardoso Fontes in Rio de Janeiro. The R$100 million federal investment revitalizes the public hospital, aiming for dignified treatment for all Brazilians. The project is a partnership with the city.

President Lula inaugurates Cardoso Fontes Hospital's new 24-hour Emergency Center in Rio. R$100 million federal investment revitalizes the unit, adding 40 beds, reactivating the pediatric ICU, and increasing staff by 57%.

Minister Anand travels to Italy and the Holy See on Feb. 16, 2026. Meetings with Antonio Tajani and Cardinal Pietro Parolin to discuss cooperation, Ukraine, and the Middle East. Italy trade: $16.8 billion in 2024.

Minister Anand met India’s EAM Jaishankar in Munich. Fifth meeting since Sept. 2025. Discussed deepening cooperation in energy, technology, trade. Affirmed shared tech benefits, partnership opportunities. Committed to implementing joint road map priorities.

Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy briefing set for today. Officials will detail new initiatives to strengthen the nation's defence sector. Focus on innovation and economic growth.

Minister McGuinty met NATO allies in Europe, reaffirming Canada's commitment to defense spending and Ukraine support. Signed pacts with Netherlands and France. Joined NATO Future Surveillance initiative. Hosted Northern Defence Dialogue.

Ministers McKnight and McGuinty mark 30 years since Operation LANCE (UNAMIR) ended. 700 Canadians served in Rwanda, honoring their courage amid the genocide. Veterans can call 1-800-268-7708.

China will grant visa-free entry to citizens of Canada and the United Kingdom starting February 17. This policy aims to boost tourism and business ties.

Xi Jinping's article on China's economic priorities will be published. It details key tasks for the nation's current economic work.

China calls for global governance reform. FM Wang Yi stated reform is needed to address challenges. He emphasized the importance of multilateralism and inclusive development.

China's FM urges Germany to be a driving force for China-Europe cooperation. He emphasized mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, calling for a stable global supply chain.

MSDE at India AI Impact Summit 2026 positions skilling at the core of India's AI vision. Minister Jayant Chaudhary highlights equipping youth with AI-ready skills. Pavilion showcases "skilling in, with, and for AI."

Amit Shah launched CBDC-based PDS in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This system aims for secure, transparent food grain distribution, eliminating corruption. It aligns with PM Modi's Digital India vision and 'Minimum Government, Maximum Governance' principle.

India's Defence Minister and French counterpart to co-chair 6th Annual Defence Dialogue in Bengaluru. Discussions will focus on defense cooperation.

India's MeitY launches Feb 16-17, 2026 digital campaign for ethical AI. Aims for Guinness World Record for most AI responsibility pledges in 24 hours. Visit aipledge.indiaai.gov.in.

Union Budget 2026-27 targets champion MSMEs with a three-pronged approach: equity, liquidity, and professional support. Courier export value cap removed. MSMEs are 35.4% of manufacturing, 48.58% of exports, and 31.1% of GDP.

New Zealand will host its first State of Origin match in 2027 at Eden Park. The event is expected to attract 10,000+ visitors, generate 50,000+ visitor nights, and inject an estimated $17.4 million into the economy. Tourism Minister Louise Upston called it a "milestone moment."

New Zealand eases Eden Park planning rules. Up to 12 large concerts and 20 medium concerts yearly allowed as permitted activities. Night games permitted daily. Changes expected April 2026. Boosts economy, tourism.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu recognized by OAFLAD partners for contributions to girl child education and maternal health. Recognition received in Addis Ababa by VP's wife, Nana Shettima.

VP Shettima leads FG delegation to Kano after Singer Market fire. Delegation will offer condolences, financial aid to victims. President Tinubu ordered investigation into recurrent fires.

President Tinubu sympathizes with Kano traders after a devastating Singer Market fire. He ordered a comprehensive investigation into the blaze, which occurred over the weekend, causing significant damage. This follows a similar incident less than two weeks prior.

President Tinubu visits Yola, Adamawa State on Monday. He will inaugurate eight-lane Galadima Aminu Road, a model school, and other projects. He will also meet with leaders.

Nigeria endorses AU reforms at 39th Summit in Addis Ababa. VP Shettima presented Nigeria's stance, backing peace/security initiatives and the Gulf of Guinea Maritime Task Force. Nigeria will host its HQ.

Putin sent greetings for the 37th anniversary of Soviet troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. He praised soldiers' honor, courage, and support for veterans and the "special military operation."

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander visits Australia, Singapore, New Zealand to boost trade and defense ties. He'll meet ministers, business leaders, and attend the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Focus on naval shipbuilding and advanced manufacturing. Alexander: "banging the drum for Scottish business."

Secretary Rubio met G7 foreign ministers in Munich. They discussed conflicts in Africa, Europe, Middle East, and Indo-Pacific/Western Hemisphere security. Rubio stressed US commitment to Venezuela stability and ending Russia-Ukraine war.

Secretary Rubio met Japan's Foreign Minister Motegi in Munich. They discussed economic cooperation, deterrence, and security. Reaffirmed U.S.-Japan Alliance importance. Addressed China's economic actions. Reinforced U.S.-Japan-ROK trilateral cooperation.

The U.S. congratulates Serbia on Statehood Day. The U.S. values Serbia's partnership in promoting Western Balkans stability and seeks to expand trade, investment, and economic prosperity.