Suleiman Khan, 29, has criticized the detention of three of his father’s sisters and other relatives before the planned protest. He said the arrests formed part of a crackdown against Imran Khan’s family and political supporters. Suleiman urged Western governments to respond to what he described as rule by “tyrants.” His befitting accusations of tyranny remain claims made by Khan’s family and political allies. Pakistan’s government has rejected allegations that authorities are mistreating the former prime minister.
India emphasized its intention to promote an open, transparent, and non-discriminatory multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core during the meeting. The government also highlighted the importance of maintaining policy flexibility for developing economies. Goyal intends to hold bilateral meetings with other participating ministers on the sidelines, focusing on opportunities for farmers, fishermen, women entrepreneurs, startups, small businesses, and other enterprises engaged in both domestic and international trade. Focus shifts back to trade agreement negotiations The India-U.S. trade discussions are built on a joint framework announced in February, which aims for an interim agreement on mutually beneficial trade. This framework reaffirmed negotiations toward a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement and outlined commitments on tariffs and market access for industrial and agricultural products. Additional areas of focus include medical devices, information and communications technology, standards, and supply-chain cooperation. Both governments remain committed to finalizing the interim agreement within the context of ongoing bilateral negotiations. Goyal’s U.S. visit extends from September 29 to October 5, including activities beyond the G20 meeting. He plans to meet with business leaders and investors in Milwaukee and Chicago, representing sectors such as manufacturing, consumer goods, agribusiness, retail, and technology. The schedule also features roundtable discussions with startups and other companies. In Chicago, Goyal will meet with professional associations representing the Indian community and participate in scheduled commemorative events during his stay. Supply chains and capacity issues will also be key topics of discussion during the G20 meeting
Health
DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 8,000 confirmed cases across seven provinces. The government officially announced the outbreak on May 15, attributing it to the Bundibugyo virus. It marks the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s 17th Ebola outbreak on record. The Bundibugyo virus is one of the Ebola virus species known to cause severe illness in humans. According to the World Health Organization, there is currently no licensed vaccine or approved treatment specifically targeting Bundibugyo virus disease. While Ituri remains the primary hotspot of the epidemic, infections have been reported in multiple other regions. These include the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, Haut Uele, Bas Uele, and Sud Ubangi. Data from WHO indicated that by September 23, Ituri had reported cases in 28 of its 36 health zones, whereas North Kivu had cases in 16 of its 34 zones. Transmission rates decrease but remain significant in some areas Recent reports from the World Health Organization show a decline in new infections and fatalities. The organization noted a 20.3% drop in incident cases over the last two 14-day periods, with deaths decreasing by 24.2% during the same timeframe. Nonetheless, certain regions of Ituri continue to experience high transmission rates, with local trends worsening in some communities. By September 26, health teams had achieved 2,070 recoveries, as efforts in
Travel
During the event, flydubai emphasizes its expanding Syria network, showcasing an increased schedule of direct flights linking Dubai International Airport with major commercial hubs across Syria to enhance regional connectivity, support cross-border business, and foster economic relations. Representatives from flydubai noted that the airline is increasing Syria network frequencies, providing travelers with flexible departure times and direct access to over 125 international destinations worldwide. The daily flights to Damascus and Aleppo accommodate rising passenger demand, strengthening economic ties between the United Arab Emirates and Syria, while facilitating cross-border movement for business delegations, exporters, trade investors, and international organizations operating across the Middle East and neighboring regions.
Technology
Apple introduced the iPhone Duo on Sept. 9, marking its first foldable iPhone. The device starts at $1,999 in the U.S. and opens to a 7.6-inch inner display. When closed, it uses a 5.4-inch outer screen for standard phone tasks. Apple will open preorders on Oct. 16, with retail availability starting Oct. 23. The launch gives Apple a new iPhone form factor alongside its conventional smartphone lineup.
