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Moldova’s PM Alexandru Munteanu resigns, Government automatically dismissed

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Sofia, Moldova — Moldovan Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu announced his resignation on Friday, automatically triggering the dismissal of the country’s government under Moldova’s constitution, according to the official Moldpres news agency.

“Today I end my term as prime minister,” Munteanu wrote in a statement posted on social media. “The moment I understand that I can no longer exercise my mandate in accordance with my principles and beliefs, I choose to walk away.”

He added, “I accepted the proposal to be prime minister with a lot of responsibility and strong conviction that I can contribute to changing things for the better.”

Munteanu, who took office in November 2025, said he had accepted the position with the hope of improving the country’s situation. However, he ultimately concluded that he could no longer fulfill his responsibilities in line with his principles and convictions, prompting his decision to resign.

Following the announcement, Moldovan President Maia Sandu launched consultations with parliamentary factions to designate a new candidate for prime minister in accordance with constitutional procedures.

Under Moldova’s constitution, the resignation of the prime minister takes effect immediately and automatically results in the dismissal of the government. The outgoing cabinet will continue to serve in a caretaker capacity, handling only routine administrative affairs until a new government is formed and sworn into office.

The prime minister-designate must, within 15 days of being nominated, present a governing program and proposed cabinet to parliament and secure a vote of confidence before assuming office.


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Rwanda strengthens investment push in India at vibrant Gujarat conference

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Vadodara, Gujarat | Rwanda used one of India’s most influential investment forums this week to reinforce its position as a strategic gateway to Africa, inviting Indian businesses to explore new opportunities while highlighting the rapidly expanding economic partnership between the two nations.

As the Country Partner at the Fourth Regional Vibrant Gujarat Conference for Central Gujarat, held from June 29–30, Rwanda joined Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and Ukraine in showcasing investment opportunities before policymakers, industrialists, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from Gujarat—one of India’s most dynamic economic hubs.

READ MORE : Rwanda’s High Commission in India to Celebrate Kwibohora32, Honouring 32 Years of Liberation and National Progress

Leading the Rwandan delegation, H.E. Jacqueline Mukangira, High Commissioner of the Republic of Rwanda to India, emphasized that Rwanda-India relations have evolved beyond traditional diplomacy into a robust partnership driven by trade, investment, innovation, and private-sector collaboration.

Addressing the conference’s inaugural session, High Commissioner Mukangira expressed her gratitude to the Government of Gujarat for inviting Rwanda as the Country Partner. She also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on becoming India’s longest-serving elected Prime Minister, praising his leadership for strengthening India’s global standing and significantly deepening bilateral ties with Rwanda.

She noted that India has emerged as Rwanda’s second-largest foreign investor and second-largest trading partner, reflecting the remarkable growth of commercial engagement between the two countries. The High Commissioner encouraged Indian businesses to take advantage of Rwanda’s investor-friendly policies, strategic location, political stability, and expanding access to African markets through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The conference served as an important platform for fostering business-to-business partnerships, promoting investment in sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, information technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, tourism, education, and financial services.

The Rwanda-India partnership has expanded steadily in recent years, extending well beyond trade into healthcare, education, digital transformation, innovation, skills development, and infrastructure. Since President Paul Kagame participated in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2017 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, bilateral cooperation has continued to deepen through sustained institutional engagement and increasing private-sector participation.

With the next Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit scheduled for January 2027, Rwanda’s participation in the regional conference underscored its long-term vision of becoming a trusted destination for Indian investment in Africa. The country’s engagement reflected not only its commitment to strengthening economic ties with India but also its broader strategy of positioning itself as a reliable gateway for Indian companies seeking growth opportunities across the African continent.

The conference reaffirmed the growing importance of India-Rwanda relations and demonstrated how strategic diplomacy, supported by business collaboration and private investment, is creating new avenues for sustainable economic growth and mutually beneficial partnerships.


SOURCE : Rwanda High Commission  |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Bomb explosion at Damascus café leaves six dead, according to authorities

Damascus, Syria — At least six people were killed and 22 others injured after a bomb exploded inside a café in central Damascus on Thursday, Syrian authorities said, marking the deadliest attack in the capital since last year’s suicide bombing at a church.

The explosion occurred near the Palace of Justice, one of the city’s key government buildings, sending panic through the busy district as emergency crews and security forces rushed to the scene. Authorities said the blast was caused by an explosive device planted inside the café. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

An AFP correspondent at the scene reported ambulances racing through traffic with sirens blaring as security forces sealed off the area and launched rescue operations.

Witnesses described scenes of chaos and devastation following the explosion.

Nour Khayyat, who owns a nearby solar battery shop, said he heard a powerful blast around 3:00 p.m. local time that shook surrounding buildings.

“The storefront shook violently. People rushed toward the café and immediately called ambulances,” he said.

Mohammed al-Dahabi, the owner of a neighboring eyewear store, recalled seeing victims lying on the ground amid pools of blood.

“I felt a strong wave of pressure, and the whole place shook. When I ran outside, I saw people lying on the floor covered in blood. It brought back memories of the bombings during the civil war,” he said.

Damascus Governor Maher Eldibi visited the scene shortly after the attack and confirmed that an investigation had been launched.

“Those responsible for this bloodshed will be punished,” Eldibi said, adding that hostile elements were attempting to undermine Syria’s fragile stability.

“Every time the country experiences a period of calm, malicious parties seek to destabilize it,” he said.

The bombing presents another major security challenge for Syria’s Islamist-led government, which has been attempting to restore order and rebuild state institutions following the overthrow of longtime President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.

Since overthrowing the Assad dynasty in a lightning insurgency in December 2024, Syria’s new rulers have intensified operations against militants linked to the extremist Islamic State (IS) group in an effort to prevent attacks in and around the capital.

During the Syrian uprising that erupted in 2011 and evolved into a prolonged civil war, President Ahmed al-Sharaa led Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group formerly affiliated with al-Qaeda. Since assuming power, however, al-Sharaa has pledged to protect Syrians of all religious and ethnic backgrounds while rebuilding state institutions and restoring national unity.

His administration has re-established government authority across most of Syria, reclaiming territory from extremist organizations and Kurdish-led forces. Despite these gains, security threats remain a significant challenge as the government works to stabilize the country after more than a decade of conflict.

Damascus has continued to witness sporadic attacks despite

improved security. The deadliest in recent months occurred in June 2025, when a suicide bombing at a church killed 25 worshippers. Syrian authorities blamed the attack on the so-called Islamic State, although it was later claimed by a Sunni Islamist militant group.

More recently, a Syrian soldier was killed in a car bombing in Damascus’s historic Old City in May, underscoring the persistent threat posed by militant groups despite the end of large-scale fighting.


SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Venezuelan guard found alive 8 days after twin quakes

CATIA LA MAR, Venezuela — In a dramatic rescue hailed as a miracle, emergency responders pulled a 43-year-old security guard alive from the collapsed basement of a shopping center early Thursday, eight days after twin earthquakes devastated northern Venezuela and claimed thousands of lives.

Hernán Alberto Gil Flores had been trapped beneath the rubble of the Galerías Playa Grande shopping center in the coastal state of La Guaira since the powerful earthquakes struck on June 24. The night-shift security guard was inside his small security cabin when the building collapsed. Remarkably, the cabin remained largely intact, shielding him from the crushing debris and creating a life-saving air pocket.

READ MORE : Venezuela Earthquake: Child rescued alive in La Guaira as rescue teams receive widespread praise

Rescuers first established contact with Gil Flores over the weekend after detecting signs of life beneath the wreckage. Over the following days, teams worked around the clock for more than 100 hours, navigating unstable concrete, torrential rain, and repeated aftershocks to carefully reach the survivor. Through a narrow opening, rescuers supplied him with water, liquid nutrients, and food, allowing him to survive well beyond the critical 48- to 72-hour window during which most earthquake survivors are typically found.

The operation involved highly trained urban search-and-rescue teams from Venezuela, Chile, Costa Rica, the United States, Portugal, Mexico, and El Salvador. Using specialized equipment, including telescopic cameras, rescue workers maintained constant communication with Gil Flores, reassuring him throughout the painstaking excavation.

As he was finally brought to the surface on a stretcher wearing an oxygen mask, emotional scenes unfolded outside the disaster site. Rescue workers and volunteers erupted into applause, while emergency personnel from several countries embraced in celebration after completing one of the most remarkable rescues since the disaster.

Costa Rican Red Cross rescuer Minyar Collado said the team remained determined to save the trapped guard despite the enormous risks posed by the unstable structure. According to Collado, Gil Flores had asked rescuers not to tell his wife he was alive until they were certain he would survive, fearing he might not make it out. The rescuers, however, never gave up hope.

His wife, Gusbimar González, said she endured days of uncertainty before learning that rescue teams had established contact with her husband. The couple, who have two young children, described the news as bringing “a ray of light in the darkness.”

The rescue has become a symbol of hope amid one of Venezuela’s deadliest natural disasters in recent history. Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez praised both domestic and international rescue teams, thanking them for their cooperation and dedication in saving lives.

The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck northern Venezuela on June 24, causing widespread devastation across the region. More than 2,200 people were killed, over 11,000 were injured, and tens of thousands of homes and buildings were damaged or destroyed. La Guaira remains among the hardest-hit areas as rescue, relief, and recovery efforts continue.


SOURCE : AP NEWS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Russian attack on Kyiv leaves 20 dead as Ukraine targets Russian oil sector

Kyiv, Ukraine — Russia launched an 11-hour barrage of drones and missiles on Kyiv overnight into Thursday, killing at least 20 civilians and injuring more than 90 others in one of the deadliest attacks on the Ukrainian capital in recent months.

READ MORE : Russia says it destroyed two Ukrainian MiG-29 fighter jets at Voznesensk airfield

Powerful explosions echoed across Kyiv as residents sought shelter in subway stations during prolonged air raid alerts. Emergency crews continued searching through the rubble of collapsed apartment buildings after dawn, with damage reported at around 30 locations, primarily residential areas and civilian infrastructure.

Moscow said the strikes were retaliation for Ukraine’s recent long-range attacks on Russian oil facilities. The Russian Defence Ministry described the bombardment as a response to Ukrainian attacks on civilian infrastructure, while the Kremlin said Chief of the General Staff Gen. Valery Gerasimov briefed President Vladimir Putin on the “massive retaliatory strike.”

Ukraine’s foreign minister calls the attack on Kyiv a “night of horror”

Ukraine has intensified drone attacks on Russian oil refineries in recent weeks, aiming to disrupt Moscow’s fuel supplies and increase pressure on the Kremlin. Ukrainian officials say the campaign is intended to force Russia into meaningful peace negotiations.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed the casualties, while Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the bombardment as a “night of horror.” Authorities said around 20 residential buildings suffered damage, with entire sections of apartment blocks collapsing in several districts.

Despite renewed diplomatic efforts, including initiatives backed by the administration of Donald Trump, no breakthrough has been achieved in ending the war, which continues to escalate through long-range strikes on both sides.


SOURCE : AGENCIES  |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Venezuela Earthquake: Child rescued alive in La Guaira as rescue teams receive widespread praise

La Guaira, Venezuela — Rescue teams, emergency responders, volunteers, medical personnel, and humanitarian organizations have been widely recognized for their extraordinary efforts following the devastating earthquake that struck Venezuela’s La Guaira.

In a remarkable moment of hope amid the disaster, rescuers successfully pulled a child under the age of 10 alive from the rubble during search-and-rescue operations in the Tanaguarena area and nearby communities. The rescue has become a symbol of resilience for families still awaiting news of missing loved ones.

READ MORE : At Least 164 Dead, 971 injured as powerful earthquakes devastate Venezuela

Officials credited the achievement to the coordinated efforts of emergency response teams and the support of Luis Suárez Hernández, whose leadership and humanitarian assistance played a key role in the ongoing rescue mission.

Several individuals were also recognized for their contributions, including Jorge Alí Esaa Terán, Douglas A. Marrón R., Miguel Blanco, and Jesús Martínez, who have supported rescue and relief operations across the affected region.

The Sol de Américas Foundation was also praised for its humanitarian response, delivering ready-to-eat meals, bottled water, juice, canned food, diapers, and other essential supplies to families displaced by the earthquake. Relief efforts have been coordinated by field representatives Natasha Marcano, Carolina Blanco, Henry Marcano, Yakiri Ríos, and Jesús Martínez, alongside a dedicated network of volunteers.

Authorities and humanitarian leaders have appealed to the international community for continued assistance, including specialized rescue equipment, heavy machinery, medical supplies, food, and emergency aid to accelerate search operations and support affected families.

Despite the immense devastation, the successful rescue of the young child has renewed hope in La Guaira, as rescue teams continue working around the clock to locate survivors and provide relief to communities impacted by one of the country’s most severe natural disasters.


SOURCE : DT |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Keiko Fujimori elected Peru’s next President after narrow runoff victory

Lima, Peru — Peru’s National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE) has confirmed conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori as the winner of the country’s presidential runoff, ending weeks of uncertainty after one of the closest elections in the nation’s history.

According to the official results, finalized after 100 percent of ballots were counted, Fujimori secured 50.13 percent of the vote, narrowly defeating Roberto Sánchez, who received 49.86 percent. The final margin was 49,641 votes out of more than 18 million valid ballots.

The result now awaits formal certification by Peru’s National Elections Jury, which will resolve any remaining administrative matters before officially declaring Fujimori president-elect. She is scheduled to be inaugurated on July 28, succeeding interim President José María Balcázar for a five-year term.

The vote count remained exceptionally close for nearly three weeks, with both candidates exchanging the lead as ballots were processed. Fujimori ultimately secured victory with strong support from Peruvians living abroad, particularly in the United States and Europe.

Sánchez rejected the outcome and said he would not recognize a Fujimori administration, alleging irregularities in the overseas vote. However, Peru’s electoral authorities and international election observers have reported no evidence of fraud or irregularities that would have altered the final result.

Fujimori’s victory marks the return of Fujimorism to Peru’s presidential office for the first time in 26 years, following the end of the government led by her father, former President Alberto Fujimori, in 2000. Keiko Fujimori had previously contested and lost the presidential elections in 2011, 2016, and 2021 while remaining one of the country’s most influential political figures through her party, Fuerza Popular.

The election also highlighted Peru’s deep political and regional divisions. Fujimori performed strongly in Lima, much of the coastal region, and among overseas voters, drawing significant backing from urban and business communities. Sánchez dominated the Andean south and several rural regions, where concerns over poverty, inequality, and limited state services remain central political issues.

Peru’s next administration will inherit a country facing persistent political instability, rising security challenges, and widespread public distrust of government institutions following years of presidential impeachments, resignations, and caretaker administrations.

During her campaign, Fujimori pledged to restore political stability, strengthen public security, and promote economic growth while seeking national unity. Her victory is also viewed by political analysts as part of a broader resurgence of conservative political movements across Latin America.

Despite the election’s conclusion, the narrow margin underscores Peru’s deeply polarized political landscape, suggesting that addressing long-standing economic disparities, institutional reforms, and social divisions will remain among the incoming government’s greatest challenges.


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Indian MP Richard Vanlalhmangaiha addresses Global Congress on family values in Moscow

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Moscow, Russia — Indian Member of Parliament Shri Richard Vanlalhmangaiha highlighted the importance of traditional values, strong families, and responsible fatherhood during the International Congress “The World Needs a Father”, held in Moscow on June 26–27, 2026.

The two-day international gathering was organized by the International Union of Fathers with the support of the World Association of Christian Parliamentarians. The congress brought together parliamentarians, religious leaders, public figures, and civil society representatives from Russia, India, the United States, Brazil, Romania, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, the Central African Republic, Germany, Luxembourg, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Ethiopia, and several other countries.

Representing India, Shri Richard Vanlalhmangaiha, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), addressed delegates on the role of traditional values in preserving cultural heritage and shaping sustainable development for future generations.

The central theme of the congress emphasized that strong families, responsible fathers, freedom of religion, and shared spiritual and moral values are fundamental pillars of social stability, intergenerational continuity, and peaceful international cooperation.

Throughout the event, participants exchanged views on legislative initiatives supporting responsible fatherhood, successful family policies, the role of traditional values in raising children, protection of religious freedom, international cooperation in family policy, and the growing spiritual and social challenges facing families worldwide.

The opening day of the congress featured expert discussions at the State Duma of the Russian Federation, where lawmakers and international delegates explored issues including the role of fathers in child development, children’s right to the active involvement of both parents, and the importance of family, faith, cultural heritage, and moral responsibility in building resilient societies.

In his address, Shri Richard Vanlalhmangaiha conveyed greetings from India and the people of Mizoram, describing the northeastern state as “a land known for its strong family bonds, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant community life.”

He stressed that traditional values continue to provide stability and direction as societies navigate rapid technological and social transformation.

“Technology, globalization, and modernization have brought many opportunities. However, they have also challenged the institutions and values that have guided communities for generations. In this changing environment, traditional values remain an essential source of stability and direction,” he said.

The Indian parliamentarian also underscored the role of family as the cornerstone of society, emphasizing that preserving cultural identity and strengthening family institutions are vital for building resilient communities and ensuring sustainable national development.

The congress concluded with a renewed call for greater international cooperation to promote family values, responsible parenting, religious freedom, and policies that strengthen social cohesion across nations.


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Kazakh President hosts Georgian Prime Minister in Astana, formalizes strategic partnership

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Astana, Kazakhstan — Kazakhstan and Georgia elevated their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership on Monday as President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze signed a joint statement following high-level talks in Astana, marking a new chapter in cooperation between the two countries.

During the official visit, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaboration across trade, investment, energy, transport, digital innovation, tourism, and cultural exchanges.

On the sidelines of the talks, Kazakhstan and Georgia signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering cooperation in culture, tourism, and artificial intelligence and digital development, according to Kazakhstan’s presidential press service, Akorda.

The leaders also explored ways to boost bilateral trade and investment while strengthening energy cooperation, including increasing Kazakh oil exports through the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline, a key energy corridor linking the Caspian region to global markets.

A major focus of the discussions was the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), which both sides agreed to further develop by upgrading transport and logistics infrastructure, expanding container traffic, harmonizing tariff policies, and accelerating digitalization of cross-border operations. According to the Kazakh presidency, cargo transit along the Middle Corridor has increased 3.5-fold over the past five years, underscoring its growing strategic importance for Eurasian connectivity.

Kazakhstan also expressed interest in expanding its logistical presence at Georgia’s Black Sea ports beyond Batumi, with increased cooperation envisioned at the ports of Poti and the developing Anaklia Deep Sea Port.

Concluding the visit, President Tokayev awarded Prime Minister Kobakhidze Kazakhstan’s Order of Dostyk (Friendship), First Class, in recognition of his significant contribution to strengthening bilateral ties. Presenting the state honor, Tokayev described the Georgian Prime Minister as a friend of Kazakhstan, a visionary leader, and a dedicated statesman, while commending Georgia’s socio-economic reforms and reaffirming Kazakhstan’s commitment to broadening its strategic partnership with Tbilisi.

The establishment of the strategic partnership reflects both nations’ shared ambition to deepen political dialogue, expand economic cooperation, and strengthen regional connectivity between Central Asia and the South Caucasus.


SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Rwanda’s High Commission in India to Celebrate Kwibohora32, Honouring 32 Years of Liberation and National Progress

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New Delhi, India The High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda in New Delhi will host a grand celebration on 6 July 2026 at Hotel Andaz, Aerocity, to commemorate the 32nd Anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day (Kwibohora32). The event is expected to bring together more than 1,000 distinguished guests, including senior officials from the Government of India, Heads of Mission, diplomats, Defence Attachés representing over 120 countries, business leaders, scholars, media professionals, civil society representatives, members of the Rwandan diaspora, and friends of Rwanda.

Chief Guest, alongside senior government officials and members of the diplomatic community, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between India and Rwanda.

H.E. Jacqueline Mukangira, High Commissioner of the Republic of Rwanda to India, will deliver the welcome address, extending a warm welcome to the Chief Guest, senior officials from the Government of India, Heads of Mission, diplomats, Defence Attachés, business leaders, members of the Rwandan community, and other distinguished guests attending the celebration.

History of Kwibohora 

Observed annually on 4 July, Kwibohora—meaning “Liberation” in Kinyarwanda—marks one of the most significant milestones in Rwanda’s modern history. It commemorates the day in 1994 when the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) ended the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, bringing to a close 100 days of mass atrocities that claimed the lives of more than one million people and reshaped the nation’s future.

For Rwanda, Kwibohora is more than a national holiday. It symbolizes the country’s liberation from violence and division and marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey of national unity, reconciliation, and renewal. It represents the restoration of hope, dignity, and the collective determination of the Rwandan people to build a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous nation.

This year’s theme, “Rwanda’s Journey Continues,” reflects the country’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development, good governance, innovation, and inclusive economic growth. It serves as a reminder that while Rwanda has achieved remarkable progress over the past three decades, the work of nation-building and advancing shared prosperity continues.

Since its liberation on 4 July 1994, Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s fastest-growing and most forward-looking economies. From a GDP of approximately US$752 million in 1994, the country’s economy has expanded to more than US$14.25 billion by 2024, reflecting decades of sustained growth and economic resilience. Between 2017 and 2024, real GDP per capita increased by 37 percent, while employment among people aged 16 and above rose from 44 percent to 54 percent, highlighting continued improvements in livelihoods, productivity, and economic inclusion.

Beyond economic progress, Rwanda has earned international recognition for its advances in healthcare, education, digital transformation, environmental sustainability, gender equality, and public sector governance. The country is widely regarded as a model for post-conflict recovery, demonstrating how visionary leadership, national unity, and citizen-centered development can transform a nation.

The New Delhi celebration is expected to showcase Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage alongside its diplomatic and economic achievements. Through cultural performances, official addresses, and networking opportunities, the event will further strengthen the deepening partnership between India and Rwanda while reaffirming the shared values of peace, resilience, innovation, and international cooperation.

As Rwanda commemorates Kwibohora32, the occasion stands not only as a remembrance of a painful chapter in history but also as a powerful affirmation of the country’s remarkable transformation and its continued journey toward a more prosperous, united, and sustainable future.


SOURCE : Rwanda High Commission  |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube