Rare Snowfall Blankets Saudi Arabia Unusual snowfall has surprised several regions of Saudi Arabia, accompanied by cold weather and heavy rains, as reported by Arab News. Snowfall has been recorded in the Tabuk province at Troena, a popular mountain resort on Jebel el Lawz mountain, reaching 2600m in height, impressing tourists with opportunities for skiing and hiking. The National Meteorology Center forecasts further snowfall in northern Riyadh regions, with temperatures dropping below zero in mountainous areas and strong winds expected over the Red Sea and Persian Gulf. Authorities caution against unnecessary travel during unfavorable weather conditions. Snowfall in Saudi Arabia is a rare occurrence, with the last significant snowfall in the Tabuk region disrupting transportation and delaying COVID-19 vaccination campaigns in January 2022.

Creative Team "D Billions" Honored for Contribution to Kyrgyzstan's Creative Industry Members of the creative team "D Billions" were recognized on December 19 for their significant impact on Kyrgyzstan's creative sector. The Minister of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy, Mirbek Mambetaliyev, presented awards to the team in acknowledgment of their achievements. During the ceremony, Minister Mambetaliyev engaged with the team members, commending their innovative work and expressing his best wishes for their future endeavors. "D Billions" is renowned for producing musical and animated content for children, garnering international acclaim. Their videos have garnered millions of views worldwide, playing a vital role in showcasing Kyrgyzstan's creative talents on a global scale.

Tokayev sets plans after visiting Japan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's agenda post-Japan trip was revealed by Akorda, with upcoming engagements in Saint Petersburg. He will attend the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council meeting and a CIS leaders' informal gathering on December 21-22. The meetings aim to discuss current activities of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), establish goals for further integration processes, and advance the Union's single market development. Key outcomes are anticipated, including the signing of a Free Trade Agreement between the EAEU and Indonesia. Meanwhile, during his official visit to Japan, Tokayev took part in the Central Asia-Japan Dialogue Summit and the Central Asia-Japan Business Forum on December 20.

Napoleon's Last Headquarters Museum Robbed in Belgium The museum dedicated to Napoleon's Last Headquarters in the Belgian commune of Genappe was robbed, with unique historical artifacts from the Napoleonic era being stolen. According to local media reports, a gold ring with diamonds that belonged to Napoleon and a collection of gold and silver coins from the Napoleonic period were among the items stolen from the museum. It is reported that the crime was carried out by two suspects who broke into the building by smashing a window, then damaged several display cases and took away valuable items kept inside. Experts estimate that the stolen artifacts hold exceptional historical value and are an important part of European cultural heritage. Currently, an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of the incident and identify possible suspects.

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Open Consulates in Osh and Khujand Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are planning to establish general consulates in Osh and Khujand, as discussed during a meeting between the Director of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Tajik Ambassador. The meeting, held on December 17, focused on reviewing the current status and future prospects of cooperation in consular affairs between the two countries. Both parties emphasized the importance of fulfilling directives from their respective heads of state regarding the establishment of the consulates in Osh and Khujand. The discussions also addressed the need for close collaboration to protect the rights and interests of citizens from both Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Chinese Investors Eye Agricultural Opportunities in Almaty Region A delegation from China recently visited the Almaty region to explore agricultural investment prospects. The Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan revealed that the Chinese representatives were particularly impressed by the scientific potential of the region. They visited the Kazakh Research Institute of Horticulture "Kaynar" to learn about breeding programs and research activities. The delegation's visit showcased that the agricultural sector in the Almaty region is not solely focused on raw production but also emphasizes the development of a scientifically-backed agricultural cluster. Discussions between the Chinese investors and Kazakh officials revolved around potential collaborations in scientific research, seed production, and agricultural product manufacturing and processing, indicating a shared interest in strengthening cooperation in these areas.

Kazakhstan and Qatar Agreement on Migrant Worker Protection Comes into Force The agreement between Kazakhstan and Qatar regarding the employment of Kazakhstani citizens in Qatar has officially taken effect. The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Kazakhstan has confirmed that the agreement, signed in 2024 and ratified in the fall of 2025, guarantees various benefits for workers, including payment for flights, accommodation, medical services, and clear labor conditions. To ensure transparency in employment opportunities, all job vacancies from Qatar will be published on a dedicated online portal. Oversight of the agreement's implementation will be managed by a joint committee comprising representatives from Kazakhstan and Qatar. This cooperative effort aims to safeguard the rights and well-being of migrant workers in Qatar, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in upholding labor rights and standards.

Artificial Intelligence Enhances Early Diagnosis Capabilities in Kazakhstan's Healthcare In Kazakhstan, artificial intelligence technologies are increasingly integrated into the healthcare system to support doctors in making clinical decisions, rather than replacing them. Experts have assessed over 50 MedTech developments, categorized by applications, maturity levels, and clinical significance. Most projects aim to enhance diagnostics, patient rehabilitation, improve medical service accessibility, and streamline medical data processing. Priority AI solutions have been identified for early detection of strokes, lung and breast cancer, and analyzing dental images, gradually being implemented across medical facilities nationwide. Future plans include utilizing AI tools for healthcare service quality analytics and management, pharmaceuticals and medical devices expertise, and early detection of chronic heart failure.

Air India Discovers Long-Lost Plane at Kolkata Airport Indian airline Air India has found its missing Boeing 737-200 passenger plane at Kolkata Airport, ending a mystery that began in 2012. The aircraft had vanished from the carrier's official records, only to be located after airport authorities invoiced the airline for prolonged parking, resulting in a $114,000 penalty. Despite initial denials, an internal investigation confirmed the plane's ownership by Air India, shedding light on its unexpected disappearance.

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Agree on Joint Monitoring Plan for the Syr Darya River Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have endorsed a collaborative plan to monitor water quality in the Syr Darya River basin throughout 2026. This decision follows the eighth meeting of the joint working group in Astana on December 11. The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan announced the approval of this plan. The meeting, attended by officials from both countries, focused on coordinated water quality monitoring, data exchange, and identifying pollution sources in specific water bodies. The discussions also included plans for the Blue Peace project in Central Asia until 2029, emphasizing support for the working group's endeavors and fostering cross-border cooperation. Representatives from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan participated as observers in the meeting.