Saudi Arabia and Syria have signed a series of strategic investment agreements covering aviation, telecommunications, and infrastructure. Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih led a high-level delegation to Damascus to meet with President Ahmad Al-Sharaa. The deals include a major redevelopment of Aleppo International Airport and the creation of a new joint airline with Flynas. STC will lead efforts to modernise Syria's digital infrastructure while ACWA Power explores a large-scale desalination project.
Lagos State has signed a two-year partnership with the Institution of Public-Private Partnerships Hong Kong to advance its infrastructure goals. The deal was formalised during the 19th Asian Financial Forum in Hong Kong this January. The agreement focuses on technical collaboration and knowledge sharing to support the THEMES+ development agenda in Lagos. Special Adviser Mrs Bukola Odoe led the Nigerian delegation to secure improved access to global investment networks and best practices.
A significant $1 billion agreement has been reached to develop the first major residential and commercial precinct in Bradfield City, Australia. The partnership between the NSW Government and Plenary will see the construction of 1,400 homes alongside a new university campus and a luxury hotel. This project represents a foundational move in creating the first new Australian city in 100 years. Stage 1 is set to focus on essential services and public spaces over the next five years.
The Illinois Economic Development Corporation and Ameren Illinois have launched a new pilot scheme called the Ameren Site Acceleration Program. This initiative aims to speed up the preparation of development-ready land across central and southern Illinois. By focusing on three specific sites in Champaign, Decatur, and Ottawa, the partners hope to attract major corporate investments and industrial expansions.
Mawani, the Saudi Ports Authority, has finalised a SAR 29 million contract with Q Saudi for the development and operation of an integrated logistics centre at Yanbu Commercial Port. The new facility, covering 120,490 square metres, is a key component of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, designed to elevate Saudi Arabia's global logistics standing. The project is expected to deliver significant economic returns, including attracting crucial investments from international logistics firms and creating new employment opportunities. Additionally, it will boost cargo handling volumes and enhance the overall operational efficiency of the Yanbu Commercial Port, a long-established gateway on the Red Sea.
The Anambra State Government is moving ahead with its ambitious low-cost housing initiative after resolving last-minute bureaucratic and contractual issues. The scheme aims to construct 10,000 affordable homes for civil servants and low-income households in the Isiagu area of Awka South Local Government. The project, which has been approved by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, will be executed via a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement with real estate developers.