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This cycle was dominated by diplomatic and defence developments at the Munich Security Conference, where Marco Rubio’s address and a series of live briefings highlighted efforts to revitalise transatlantic ties and prompted discussion of greater NATO burden‑sharing and closer cooperation between European leaders; panels featuring figures such as Keir Starmer and Ursula von der Leyen generated sustained coverage. Defence collaboration moved forward as Japan agreed with Britain and Italy to accelerate joint development of a next‑generation fighter jet. In Africa, heads of state gathered for the 39th African Union summit in Addis‑Ababa to set continental priorities and deepen cooperation. Economic news saw a milestone in the UK retirement market, with annuity sales reaching record levels and the average pot exceeding £80,000, reflecting shifting saving and tax dynamics. Cultural life continued to draw international interest too: foreign visitors are increasingly attending sumo tournaments and morning stable sessions in Tokyo, underscoring growing global appetite for traditional sport. Together these items paint a picture of active diplomacy, defence partnerships, notable economic shifts in household finance, and vibrant cultural engagement.