France and Saudi Arabia seeking to sign deals worth $12bn
France and Saudi Arabia agreed to press ahead with feasibility studies to build two flagship Areva-designed EPR nuclear reactors as the two allies firm up business ties amid tensions across the region. (gulfbusiness.com)
Nigeria announces new in-country training scheme for all civil servants
The head of civil service of the Federation in Nigeria, Mr. Danladi Kifasi, has said that a Structured Mandatory Assessment-Based Training Programme has been put in place. (Nigeria’s Leadership Newspaper via Global Government Forum)
Bahrain nets $1bn of foreign investment in 2014
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bahrain stood at almost $1bn at the end of 2014, according to a report from the United Nations. (arabianbusiness.com)
Israel must tackle “stubbornly high” budget deficit: International Monetary Fund
Israel’s government needs to immediately address a high budget deficit which leaves the economy vulnerable to shocks including a fall in house prices, the International Monetary Fund said. (Economic Times)
Oman 'needs to phase in any cuts to subsidies'
The Central Bank of Oman has said any cuts to government subsidies should be done on phased basis. (arabianbusiness.com)
UK to support Malawi “not through government financial systems”
Visiting UK Development Minister Grant Shapps said his government will continue support Malawi in its efforts to reduce poverty but said London will not be channelling its funds through government systems. (Nyasa Times via All Africa)
