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Russia will use CIS partners to conclude more FTAs

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CIS

Unprecedented Western sanctions have pushed Russia to seek new bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs). Moscow is moving fast to create a wide network of agreements with emerging…

ASEAN-Australia relations will grow

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ASEAN/AUSTRALIA

Besides a leaders’ plenary and retreat, there were events linked to four thematic tracks: business; climate and clean energy; maritime cooperation; and emerging leaders…

Thailand will pursue a more proactive foreign policy

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THAILAND

Thailand is devoting more attention to foreign policy under Srettha. The fallout from the 2006 and 2014 coups adversely affected its foreign relations, but it retains an important…

China trade deal has pros and cons for Ecuador

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ECUADOR

The deal, which was finalised under former President Guillermo Lasso (2021-23) and approved by the National Assembly in February, promises improved access to expanding Chinese…

Biden will continue to link trade and security in 2024

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US

Biden is primarily concerned about a loss of jobs in states crucial to his re-election, bid but the reference to national security, more usually associated with concerns about…

Ruto will try to broaden Kenya’s trade ties

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KENYA

Nairobi also says it expects a US-Kenya free trade agreement (FTA) to be finalised by April 2024, while the government has promised various tax and other incentives to foreign…

Switzerland will be slow to harden its China position

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SWITZERLAND/CHINA

Among the priorities in the declaration is updating the Swiss-Chinese free trade agreement (FTA) and simplifying travel procedures between the two countries. Switzerland’s…

Pressure for US-Africa policy shift on AGOA will grow

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US/AFRICA

AGOA provides the central mechanism for US-Africa trade, but expires in 2025. This gives the upcoming meeting added weight as pressure is growing for the contours of the future…

Australia’s improved China ties will still need care

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AUSTRALIA

After earlier Australian efforts to restore ties were rebuffed by Beijing, Canberra worked hard to pave the way for Albanese’s trip. The result has been a warm welcome for his…

UK election will determine direction of EU relations

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UNITED KINGDOM/EU

Labour has indicated that, if elected, it would pursue closer regulatory alignment and deals on security and mobility with the EU. The party has denied reports it might consider…