Oman’s tourism sector has lost an estimated half billion Rials ($1.3 billion) as of September this year, following the spread of the coronavirus, said a …
Lebanon’s banks impose additional fees on dollar depositors
Now, Lebanese are reporting additional arbitrary fees on dollar deposits on top of haphazard capital controls applied over the last year. Local banks, strapped for cash, have imposed additional …
Fake news in Lebanon causes anxiety, panic for those bombarded with misinformation
Rumors that ping from phone to phone can create panic and fear, and in Lebanon, social media users face such rumors on a daily basis. The constant of barrage of unverified content can stress social …
The Kolbaev Connection
A private resort village on the shores of Kyrgyzstan’s Lake Issyk-Kul is among the clues that connect former Kyrgyz customs boss Raimbek Matraimov and notorious criminal leader Kamchy Kolbaev.
The ‘Beautiful’ Life Of A Kyrgyz Customs Official
Raimbek Matraimov is a powerful Kyrgyz political operator known for his massive wealth. This investigation into his wife’s social-media accounts reveals the opulent lifestyle his family enjoyed, even …
The Kolbayev Connection
A private resort village on the shores of Kyrgyzstan’s Lake Issyk Kul is among the clues that connect former Kyrgyz customs boss Raimbek Matraimov and notorious criminal leader Kamchy Kolbayev.
Cambodia’s COVID-19 Vaccine Boondoggle
The tycoon-funded vaccine drive demonstrates the durability of the patronage state that Hun Sen has built since the 1980s. They also reveal its weaknesses.
How the Expo 2017 Astana got a new life in Kazakhstan
A few years ago, Kazakhstan hosted the International specialized exhibition EXPO-2017 Astana, the facilities of which subsequently became part of the Central Business District of Nur-Sultan …
Shell, Eni Settle Dispute With Kazakhstan in $1.3 Billion Deal
Royal Dutch Shell Plc, Eni SpA and their partners in the Karachaganak oil and gas venture paid $1.3 billion to settle a long-running dispute with Kazakhstan over revenue sharing. The deal unlocks …
Pandemic Woes Bring U.S.-Style Gig Economy to South Korea
As the Covid-19 pandemic hit Seoul with full force last winter, mime and circus artist Kim Chan-su started his “two-job” life — as a courier and a circus clown. When not juggling on stage, he …