News Updates
IGE news updates provide recent information from the countries where IGE works. We believe it is important to understand the context of our partners and the people we are serving. The updates reflect the most important news item in the country at the time.
Religious Freedom
Azerbaijan ammending religion law: New amendments to the Religion Law in Azerbaijan are being added at top secret levels, and will not be published until after they are approved by the parliament.
Laos
Working to strengthen Laos-Cuba relations: While attending a reception held at the Cuban Friendship Institute in Havana, the Prime Minister of Laos, Bouasone Bouphavanh, said that his government and the people of Laos are in favor of building their relationship with Cuba.
Vietnam
Vietnam orders fleet of Russian subs: While not interpreted as a signal of an arms race, Vietnam’s purchase of six Kilo-class submarines from Russia may indicate a general protest against China’s influence in the country.
Pakistan
Army engages in ‘full-scale’ operations against Swat Taliban: Major General Athar Abbas stated that the Pakistani Army has launched an offensive against the Taliban occupation of the Swat valley, insisting that the security forces will remain in the area until the government’s writ is established.
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan improving relations with Israel: After offering Israeli companies land for agricultural development and establishment of a high-tech industrial park, relations between the two nations have deepened.