The U.S. government has issued updated travel advisories for Belarus (Level 4: Do Not Travel), Nepal, Gabon, and Cameroon (Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution). These advisories highlight risks including political unrest, crime, and health concerns. Travelers are urged to research conditions, monitor updates, and prioritize safety.
Russia and Belarus are solidifying their alliance with a new mutual security treaty, escalating tensions with the West. The agreement formalizes reciprocal security guarantees, integrates nuclear defense considerations, and coordinates military operations, signifying a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape.
Belarus’ President Lukashenko has proposed a coordinated 10% potash production cut with Russian producers, aiming to boost prices and counter economic pressures. This move could significantly impact the global fertilizer market, benefiting major producers like Mosaic and Nutrien.
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has decided to consult with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on partially lifting the ban on Russian and Belarusian players imposed after the Ukraine invasion. The decision, made at FIDE’s General Assembly, was met with mixed reactions, with Ukraine and the US urging against any relaxation of the ban.
Chess world champion Magnus Carlsen has joined the chorus of voices opposing the potential reinstatement of Russia and Belarus to the International Chess Federation (FIDE). Carlsen, speaking at a FIDE gala in Budapest, urged the governing body not to readmit the two countries, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine and echoing the sentiments of fellow chess legend Garry Kasparov. The move comes ahead of a crucial vote this weekend on whether to adopt a controversial proposal to allow Russia and Belarus back into the federation.
Minsk hosted the first Belarusian-Uzbek Tourism Forum on September 13th, aiming to expand tourism collaboration, explore growth opportunities, and enhance cooperation between the two nations. The forum brought together key figures from the tourism industry, including travel agents, trade unions, and government representatives, to discuss strategies for boosting tourism and developing training programs for professionals.
Belarus has seen a surge in European visitors following the expansion of its visa-free travel program. This initiative, launched in April 2022 and expanded in July 2024, allows citizens from numerous European countries to enter Belarus without a visa, boosting tourism and fostering economic growth.
As Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko cracks down on political dissent, Belarusians who have fled the country are facing intimidation and threats in their new lives abroad. The Lukashenko regime is pursuing dissidents with arrest warrants, cyberattacks, and even surveillance, creating a climate of fear for exiles worldwide. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle for human rights and freedom in Belarus.
Over 70 European artists and film directors have signed an open letter pleading with Serbia to not extradite Andrei Hniot, a Belarusian filmmaker and outspoken critic of President Alexander Lukashenko, back to Belarus. They warn that his return could result in imprisonment, torture, or even death due to the Belarusian government’s history of political persecution.
Belavia, Belarus’ national airline, is offering discounted fares on transit flights between Russia and Turkmenistan via Minsk. This promotion, valid for bookings until October 26, 2024, covers routes from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Turkmenbashy and vice versa. The promotion also offers special visa-free transit benefits for Turkmenistan citizens.
