Argentina's UIF, with BCRA input, urges risk-based approach for Fiscal Innocence Law (Law 27.799). Obligated entities must update LA/FT/FP prevention systems.

Argentina's CNV removes Regional Representative Entities (ERR) from regulation via Resolution 1109. CNV President Roberto Silva stated this aligns with the government's deregulation policy.

Argentina's ARCA Resolution 5824/2026 expands invoicing requirements, including financial and insurance services. New electronic monthly billing for certain entities starts July 1, 2026. Minister Sturzenegger aims for automatic VAT declarations.

Argentina's CNV approves RG N°1108, aligning capital markets and virtual asset providers with the Fiscal Innocence Law. This shifts focus from suspicion to good faith, allowing individuals to invest undeclared funds. President Roberto Silva notes this boosts market growth.

Argentina extends RIGI (large investment incentive) deadline by one year to July 8, 2027. New rules include $600 million minimum for oil/gas projects. 10 projects totaling $25.5 billion already approved.

NSW calls on construction industry for Northern Rivers rebuild. Deadline March 31, 2027. $880 million program needs builders for ~600 homes. Opportunities for raising, retrofitting, rebuilding.

Australia's first new city in 100 years, Bradfield, sees civil works delivered. 4km roads, 8km active transport paths, and in-ground services are complete. This milestone readies 114 hectares for development, with stage two starting late 2025.

$100 million invested in Bankstown TAFE, co-located with Western Sydney University. This upgrade ensures training capacity remains as the former campus makes way for a new $2 billion Bankstown Hospital. The investment supports key industries like healthcare and construction.

$2 billion Bankstown Hospital project advances. Hindmarsh Construction Australia engaged for demolition and site remediation, finishing 2027. New facility to house acute services. Community info sessions in 2026.

NSW Gov launches Supply Chain Initiative March 1, 2026. CCU to vet contractors, track subs, audit compliance. Aims for fairness in building projects. Minister Sophie Cotsis cited worker protection.

Brazil will regulate trade safeguards via decree. Geraldo Alckmin announced the measure, which aims to protect domestic production from sudden import surges. This follows new trade deals with Singapore, EFTA, and the EU.

Geraldo Alckmin opens the 35th National Grape Festival in Caxias do Sul (RS) on Thursday, Feb 19, at 4 PM. He will meet with industry leaders beforehand. The event promotes sustainable agro-industry.

In New Delhi, President Lula called for multilateral AI governance, warning that few controlling algorithms means domination, not innovation. He stressed human-centered decisions and the risk of AI distorting elections and harming democracy.

Stéphane Lauzon to announce Government of Canada funding for two Outaouais businesses on Feb. 20. Funds aim to boost Quebec's defence industry. Media must RSVP by 7 a.m. Feb. 20 to [email protected].

Minister Maninder Sidhu will highlight Canada's first Defence Industrial Strategy in Waterloo, Ontario on Friday, February 20, 2026. Media registration is required via [email protected].

Inmate Shelby Crane, unlawfully at large since Jan. 1, 2026, from Stan Daniels Healing Centre, was recaptured Feb. 19, 2026, by Edmonton Police and Alberta Sheriffs FASST. Investigation ongoing.

Minister Tim Hodgson met Norway’s Minister of Energy Terje Aasland in Paris. They discussed Arctic cooperation, critical minerals, and clean energy. Hodgson highlighted Canada's interest in renewables and CCUS, asking about Norway's interest in Canada's oil and gas.

Minister Tim Hodgson met New Zealand Energy Minister Simon Watts in Paris. They discussed Canada's LNG opportunities as NZ seeks supply by winter 2027. Cooperation on critical minerals and Indigenous participation was also on the agenda.

ECB's Frank Elderson: 108 of 110 banks now manage climate risks. 32 formal decisions issued. A "two-tier system" prioritizes findings. Constructive relationship with banks sought.

ECB's Piero Cipollone discussed the digital euro project. It aims to enhance payments, strengthen Europe's independence amid global uncertainty, and safeguard monetary sovereignty. The Eurosystem is also modernizing wholesale payments with initiatives like Pontes and Appia.

France's Prime Minister is unblocking 390 incomplete water projects for agriculture. €60 million annually will fund projects. Regional prefects will report progress quarterly.

France's Sébastien Lecornu convenes catastrophe natural commission Feb. 24. Aims to speed insurance payouts for storm victims. 1,750 people sheltered, 99% power restored after storms. Support for farmers also planned.

France welcomed 102 million international visitors in 2025, cementing its status as the world's top tourist destination. Tourism revenue hit a record €77.5 billion, up 9% from 2024.

Chancellor Merz met President Macron in Toulon for the 25th Franco-German Council of Ministers. They discussed Ukraine, strengthening European defense, and a new economic agenda to boost competitiveness. Merz stressed unity on freedom, security, and prosperity.

Chancellor Merz attended a peace signing in Egypt for Gaza. He welcomed the release of 20 hostages, including 4 Germans, and affirmed Germany's support for Israel. He also stressed the need to remember the war in Ukraine.

Chancellor Merz to EU Council: Competitiveness, Russian assets for Ukraine, and EU defence are key. He's "extremely worried" about Europe losing competitiveness and expects progress on frozen assets. NATO leads, EU supports defence efforts.

German Bundestag approves 2025 pension package. Chancellor Friedrich Merz calls it a "first step." Safeguard extended, stabilizing pension level at 48%. Mothers' pension expanded from Jan 1, 2027. Reform commission due mid-2026.

German Chancellor at Munich Security Conference states the international order is destroyed. Cites Russia's war in Ukraine and China's global ambitions as key factors. Notes the shift to an era of great power politics.

PM Modi met Netherlands PM Dick Schoof on Feb 19, 2026. They discussed AI cooperation, emerging tech, and deepening ties in WAH, clean energy, defense. They welcomed the India-EU FTA.

PM Modi met Greece's PM Mitsotakis on Feb 19, 2026, at the AI Impact Summit. They discussed strengthening the strategic partnership, connectivity via IMEC, and the India-EU FTA. This follows Mitsotakis's Feb 2024 visit.

India AI Impact Summit 2026 unites global leaders like Mukesh Ambani and Demis Hassabis. Ambani pledges AI for Viksit Bharat 2047. Hassabis predicts AI's impact 10x Industrial Revolution, 10x faster. Focus on responsible, inclusive AI.

PM Modi announces India-France National Centre of Excellence in Aeronautics at Kanpur under PM-SETU. The center will focus on advanced skills in aviation and defense, strengthening India's aerospace ecosystem and its partnership with France.

India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Exercise MILAN in Vizag on Feb 19, 2026. He urged 74 nations to unite against maritime threats, emphasizing cooperation for a rule-based order.

Minister Zulkifli Hasan demands full regional support for Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. The initiative, serving over 60 million so far, targets schoolchildren, toddlers, pregnant, and breastfeeding mothers. Hasan also urged food price stability during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

Indonesia and US finalize reciprocal tariff deal, signing Feb 19. President Prabowo Subianto stated the agreement aims to boost economic ties. The deal includes market access for US goods and tariff exemptions for Indonesian exports like palm oil, cocoa, and coffee.

Indonesia earmarks 1.1 million hectares for food self-reliance, focusing on coffee, nutmeg, and cocoa. This is part of an 8.3 million hectare social forestry program. Minister Raja Juli Antoni stated the goal is to empower people and boost welfare while ensuring forest sustainability.

President Prabowo witnessed $38.4 billion in US-Indonesia deals Wednesday. Agreements span mining, energy, and tech. Key pacts include critical minerals with Freeport-McMoRan, oil recovery with Pertamina and Halliburton, and agribusiness with Cargill.

WHO grants Indonesia $14.8 million for 2026-2027 to bolster health system resilience. Secretary General Kunta Wibawa Dasa Nugraha stated the funds will support health programs, aligning with national plans and WHO's work.

Ireland's Minister O’Donovan will publish the Media Regulation Bill, implementing the European Media Freedom Act. The bill modernizes media merger assessments, transfers power to Coimisiún na Meán, and increases transparency in state advertising.

Minister Browne announces 1916 Commemorative Centre at 14-17 Moore Street will proceed to tender and construction. The National Monument will conserve historic buildings and create a visitor venue. Work expected to start soon.

Ireland submits fourth RRF payment request for €249 million. Minister Jack Chambers cited progress on rail electrification, data centers, e-health, and skills programs. This follows three prior payments, totaling 60% of the €1.15 billion allocation.

Ministers Heydon and Muir launched a €6.5M pilot project for bovine TB cooperation on Feb 19, 2026. The Shared Island Initiative aims to eradicate the disease across Donegal and Northern Ireland.

Ireland raises Local Authority Home Loan limits. Property price ceilings increase to €415,000 in Dublin/Kildare/Wicklow, €375,000 in Cork/Galway/Meath, and €345,000 elsewhere. Single income limits also rise. Changes effective Q2 2026.

February 19, 2026: Parliamentary Vice-Ministers for the Second Takaichi Cabinet appointed. Prime Minister Takaichi met with appointees at the Prime Minister's Office.

Japan's Second Takaichi Cabinet appointed new State Ministers on February 19, 2026. Prime Minister Takaichi attended the attestation ceremony at the Imperial Palace.

Netherlands Budget Day 2025: purchasing power to rise in 2026. Minister Eelco Heinen presented a fully funded budget. Fuel duty cut extended to 2027, costing €1.7 billion. Defense spending to rise €1.2 billion.

Netherlands 2026 Tax Plan: fuel excise duties extended to Jan 1, 2027. Income tax brackets adjusted, VAT on culture/media/sport reversed. Gift/inheritance tax changes target unequal asset splits. Box 3 wealth tax sees adjustments.

Netherlands and Uganda sign Letter of Intent to return migrants via Uganda. David van Weel and Odongo Jeje Abubakhar agreed to a pilot transit hub for failed asylum seekers. Arrangements will comply with human rights.

The Netherlands begins phased European Entry and Exit System (EES) implementation Oct 12, 2025, at Eemshaven and IJmuiden/Amsterdam-Haven. This system replaces passport stamps for non-EU nationals, aiming for better border control. Full rollout across Dutch borders is expected within six months.

Netherlands offers 135,000 Ukrainian refugees a 3-year transition document after March 2027 EU protection ends. Focus is on voluntary return, with support for travel. Document allows work, study, health insurance.

NZ joins 32 nations in IEA Declaration for critical minerals security. Energy Minister Simon Watts and Resources Minister Shane Jones highlight NZ's role in clean energy transition, citing opportunities in antimony, lithium, rare earths, vanadium.

David Seymour announces Te Kura Awhitu, a Tūhoe-sponsored charter school, opening by Term 2 2026. It's the 19th charter school, offering Māori immersion education using Te Urewera as a classroom. “This marks a significant step forward in the Crown-Tūhoe relationship.”

District Court criminal backlog down 22%, or 1,562 cases, in a year. Courts Minister Nicole McKee credits a sector-wide effort. Backlog fell from 7,133 cases in Dec 2024 to 5,571 in Dec 2025. Family Court backlog also down 9%.

New Zealand introduces legislation to create MCERT, merging Environment, Housing, Transport, and Local Government functions. Environment Minister Penny Simmonds states MCERT will tackle housing, infrastructure, and climate. The new ministry launches July 1, 2026.

Health Minister Simeon Brown appointed four to the Nursing Council of New Zealand: Alex Gordon, Amanda Singleton, Helen Nielsen, and Dr Julia Hennessy. The appointments aim to ensure continued leadership and public safety.

President Tinubu congratulates Chief Anyim Pius Anyim on his 65th birthday, Feb. 19. Tinubu praises Anyim's political longevity since 1998, his service as Senate President and SGF, and his contributions to unity and development.

VP Shettima urges Nigerians to unite during Ramadan and Lent. He calls for compassion, spiritual renewal, and nation-building. “Let us not only feed the hungry, but uplift the weary,” he stated, emphasizing service and justice. He also prayed for President Tinubu's wisdom.

President Tinubu signed the amended 2022 Electoral Act into law, aiming to strengthen democracy. He emphasized the manual aspects of voting and result counting, citing broadband limitations. The law seeks to improve election processes.

President Tinubu and German Chancellor Merz agreed to boost Nigeria-Germany ties. Focus areas: security, power transmission (Siemens, Deutsche Bank aid), railways, arts. They discussed the Sahel and used helicopters for reconnaissance.

President Tinubu signs EO for direct remittance of oil/gas revenues. Aims to stop wasteful spending and recover lost funds diverted by the 2021 Petroleum Industry Act. The order targets NNPC Ltd's deductions, including a 30% management fee and 30% Frontier Exploration Fund.

Swedish Parliament Speaker Andreas Norlen met Qatari Ambassador Nadia bint Ahmed Al Shaibi on February 19, 2026, discussing bilateral cooperation.

Qatar UN Rep Sheikha Alya Al-Thani joined Arab Group's Extended Troika meeting with UN Sec-Gen Antonio Guterres. They condemned illegal Israeli decisions on the West Bank, urging a Gaza ceasefire and opposing annexation.

Qatar backs the Palestinian cause, supporting a two-state solution with East Jerusalem as capital. Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani condemned Israeli measures in the West Bank and violations of the ceasefire at the UN. Qatar will join the US-led Peace Council.

Qatar's UN Envoy Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani joined an Arab nations' briefing condemning Israel's "illegal" designation of West Bank "state lands". The group called for international action to stop settlement expansion and ensure Palestinian rights.

Putin spoke by phone with Belarus President Lukashenko on Feb. 19. They discussed preparations for the Supreme State Council of the Union State meeting in Moscow next week.

Putin sent greetings to the Patriarchal International Festival of Combat Sports and Martial Arts, St Nicholas of Japan Cup. The event marks the 190th birth anniversary of St Nicholas of Japan. The festival promotes sports, values, and international cooperation.

Putin met with Madagascar's Michael Randrianirina in Moscow. They discussed bilateral cooperation and international issues. Putin offered condolences for cyclone victims, noting 270,000 affected and 40+ lives lost.

Putin attended the annual meeting of Russian judges. Supreme Court President Igor Krasnov reported on 2025 performance and 2026 goals. Putin noted a 20% case decrease in 2025, citing increased state duties and legal reforms.

DPM Gan Kim Yong spoke at the SCCC-SFCCA Spring Reception on Feb 19, 2026. He highlighted the Chinese community's vital role in Singapore's multi-racial society and its contribution to national development. He also acknowledged the complex global environment, stressing the need for social cohesion and shared values.

South Korea's venture investment hit KRW 13.6 trillion in 2025, second-highest ever. 27 unicorns emerged. Investment rose 14% year-on-year, with a strong second half. Fund formation increased 34.1%.

South Korea's Ministry of SMEs and Startups is seeking 30 startups for open innovation projects. Applications open Feb. 20 - Mar. 19. Selected firms get up to KRW 140 million for challenges with partners like Kakao Mobility, LIG Nex1, and K-Water.

South Korea's Ministry of SMEs and Startups selected six AI startups for its OpenData x AI Challenge. The program transforms public data into practical AI tools for small businesses. 124 startups applied. Winners receive commercialization support.

South Korea's January 2026 auto exports hit $6.1 billion, second-highest ever. Eco-friendly vehicles led, comprising 42% of exports. Production and domestic sales also surged.

Eawag is now the National Reference Centre for Wastewater Monitoring. The Federal Office of Public Health commissioned the institute to collect health data, including pathogenic viruses, from wastewater. A new mandate includes analyzing pharmaceutical and illicit drug use substances.

Swiss researchers develop novel bridge strengthening system. Combining ultra-high-performance concrete with memory steel aims to retrofit aging bridges built before 1980s. Memory steel contracts when heated, prestressing concrete.

Ignazio Cassis addressed the Romansh language day. He highlighted its importance for Swiss identity and cultural diversity. “Romansh is a treasure,” he stated, emphasizing its role in connecting Switzerland to its past and future.

President Parmelin met India's PM Modi in New Delhi. Discussions focused on AI governance. Switzerland will host an AI summit in Geneva in 2027.

IC Forum 2026 in Geneva, Feb 26-27, will gather 1,500+ from 120 countries. Ignazio Cassis, Martin Pfister, Tom Fletcher, and Mirjana Spoljaric to discuss humanitarian aid's future.

UAE's Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed spoke with New Zealand FM Winston Peters. They discussed strengthening bilateral ties, economic partnership, and regional developments. Both leaders affirmed commitment to advancing cooperation for mutual prosperity.

UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed spoke with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper. They discussed strengthening bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and regional peace and security.

UAE's Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed spoke with New Zealand FM Winston Peters. They discussed strengthening bilateral ties and economic partnership. They also reviewed regional and international developments.

UAE's Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed spoke with UK's Yvette Cooper on strengthening bilateral ties. They discussed economic cooperation and regional issues, including Middle East peace and stability.

UAE pledges $1.2 billion for Gaza via the Board of Peace. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced the aid at a meeting chaired by President Trump. This adds to nearly $3 billion already provided since October 7th.

UK Home Office allocates £73.4 million for faith community security in 2026-2027. Funding targets Jewish, Muslim, and other faith sites for security staff and equipment. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated, "Nobody should be forced to live a smaller life... because of their faith."

UK's National Space Operations Centre monitored 50 re-entries and 2,608 collision alerts in January. One fragmentation incident occurred. Space weather activity increased.

MHRA approves zanidatamab (Ziihera) for biliary tract cancer on Feb 19, 2026. The treatment targets adults with HER2-high cancer that progressed after prior therapy. “A new treatment option,” says MHRA.

UK Intellectual Property Office unveils One IPO Roadmap. Urgent fixes before launch include restoring patent publishing and speeding up internal systems. Post-launch priorities: improved correspondence, patent application features, and easier sign-ups.

Dame Antonia Romeo is the UK's first female Cabinet Secretary. She moves from Permanent Secretary at the Home Office to lead the Civil Service, driving government agenda. PM Keir Starmer praised her 25 years of public service.

UN officials warn Sudan's war, nearing 3 years, intensifies. Famine conditions loom in Kadugli, Dilling, Um Baru, Kernoi. 130 aid workers killed. No corner of Sudan is safe.

UN Security Council convenes on Sudan as war nears 3 years. Officials to brief on intensifying conflict, humanitarian crisis. Darfur atrocities, including in El Fasher, carry "hallmarks of genocide," officials warn.

UN rights report: Gaza and West Bank face fears of ethnic cleansing. OHCHR cites increased Israeli attacks, forced transfers, and famine. 25,594 Palestinians killed in Gaza Nov 2024-Oct 2025.

UN investigators found "hallmarks of genocide" in El Fasher, Sudan. The RSF committed mass killings, sexual violence, and ethnic targeting against Zaghawa and Fur communities during their late-October 2025 takeover. The mission cited an 18-month siege and identity-based targeting.

WFP scales up aid in South Sudan amid conflict and hunger. 1.2 million face food insecurity. Restrictions hinder aid in Gaza, with 670,000 reached but rations cut. UN calls for de-escalation.

U.S. sanctions Kovay Gardens, a Mexican timeshare resort, and 5 individuals, 17 companies linked to CJNG fraud. Action targets illicit revenue streams of the cartel, designated an FTO and SDGT.

State Dept. launches AI export concierge for Pax Silica partners. Service uses 270 diplomatic posts to speed up acquisition of U.S.-made AI hardware, software, and infrastructure. Aims to bolster trust and security in AI supply chains.

US sanctions three RSF commanders for genocide and atrocities in Sudan. Elfateh Abdullah Idris Adam filmed executions. He and his family are barred from the US. Actions target ethnic cleansing and humanitarian crisis.

State Dept. launches $200M Edge AI Package for Indo-Pacific. Aims to deploy secure smartphones, boost trusted OS competitiveness. Funds support innovation, entrepreneurship, and a secure digital infrastructure. Proposals due in 90 days.

Deputy Secretary Landau travels Feb 22-Mar 2 to Hawaii, Tonga, Fiji, Samoa. He'll co-host the Pacific Agenda Summit in Honolulu to boost US investment and partnerships. He will then visit South Pacific nations to reaffirm ties.

UNICEF Rep Silvia Danailov praises Viet Nam's 50-year child development progress. Sustained commitment boosted survival, education, and protection, especially for vulnerable groups. Strong foundations aid future goals.

WHO praises Viet Nam's health gains. Resolution 72 centers health in reform. Milestones include Law on Disease Prevention, Population Law, and ban on e-cigarettes. 95% social health insurance coverage achieved. WHO supports SDG progress in 2026.

Dutch Ambassador Kees van Baar praises Viet Nam's economic reforms and $15 billion investment from the Netherlands. He highlights semiconductor growth and calls for regulatory clarity.

Vietnam and the U.S. inked deals. Starlink gets frequency license. Sun Phu Quoc Airways buys 40 Boeing 787-9s. Vietjet Air secures engine/maintenance deals with Pratt & Whitney and financing. Vietnam Airlines orders Boeing 737 MAXs. Tam Anh Hospital buys a proton system.