Aerospace & Defence Deal: Malaysia’s Weststar Group signed a strategic joint venture with Australia’s Rocket Technologies, aiming for long-term aerospace, defence, satellite and advanced tech cooperation with potential over US$10bn. Digital Economy Push: Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim backed Ant International’s Kuala Lumpur Global Operations Centre, framing it as jobs and shared growth for the AI and fintech push. Regional Finance Governance: Iraq’s Region Trade Bank named a new board packed with former U.S. Treasury, FATF and sanctions-policy figures, signaling tighter governance as the Middle East deepens financial integration. Telecom as a Gateway: Iraq unveiled telecom upgrades and a cross-border transit deal to grow its role as an international data corridor. Jobs & Social Protection: Pakistan approved PKR 1bn for the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection, with ILO support to expand decent work and social safety nets. Flood Response: Ghana’s President Mahama ordered GH¢300m for flood relief and mitigation, including tougher action against structures blocking waterways. Heat Risk: The River Valley region faces an extreme heat warning with dangerous heat indexes through the week. Regional Security Agenda: Mercosur leaders urged a regional security “architecture” against organized crime, with border and illicit-finance controls. Politics & Leadership: South Korea approved Han Seong-sook as prime minister, while Taiwan’s Lai urged new officers to resist Chinese espionage and influence.