middle east
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Every picture tells a story
Correspondents in Syria as tourists to gauge the nation's mood and document attempts at revival amid ongoing uncertainty.
The art of mediation
Turkey's resort town of Antalya hosts global diplomats as the country emerges as an unexpected mediator in the Ukraine conflict, signalling its return to prominence.
Do we need royal families?
While dozens of monarchies endure globally, recent decades have seen more republics emerge than kingdoms restored. Do crowned heads provide stabilising tradition or obstruct progress?
Return to hope
Libya's first major construction expo since 2014 signals tentative recovery, as the war-torn nation confronts a $100 billion reconstruction bill and crumbling infrastructure.
Affairs: Global
Pop great Amr Diab’s value for Egypt’s soft power and the benefits of boring politicians.
Diplomacy Briefing
China’s wolf-warrior diplomats, crisis management in Helsinki and a spat in the Middle East.
Open invitation
After years of conflict and instability, Iraq is opening up to tourism. Thanks to a new visa scheme, citizens of almost 40 countries can gain access quickly and easily – but will they come?
Under the influence
Isolationism has taken the shine off the perception of the US. But its foreign policy remains tightly interwoven with much of the world. As a new president takes office, what do its allies want?
Defence
The US plan to sell F-35s to the UAE throws up problems, while Taiwan opens a new MRO centre and Japan sees sales of radars go to the Philippines.
After the explosion
Our Beirut correspondent relives August’s fateful port blast and its harrowing aftermath – and hails the fellowship of the Lebanese.
