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From Damascus to Aleppo, Syria courts visitors in the midst of its rebuild
Syria's ancient capital Damascus beckons intrepid travellers despite years of civil war, offering glimpses of enduring beauty amid the watchful gaze of an authoritarian state.
Do cultural boycotts work?
In the midst of occupation, is it effective to ban a nation's ballet, artistic output from an institution's syllabi or musicians from playing? As Russia's war continues, we consider the efficacy of cultural boycotts.
The Agenda
The stories you should be paying attention to – and the ones you might have missed.
Diplomacy
Canada’s ambassador to Belarus talks keeping the peace, Bulgaria and Russia fight it out and a new embassy location is found in Jerusalem.
Defence
New Zealand invests in domestic helicopter pilot training while Iran unveils its latest fighter jet amid questions over indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
Persian plenitude
Despite heavy sanctions, a small faction of Iranians retains big purchasing power. Investors are watching this untapped market, looking to cash in on Tehran’s burgeoning retail scene.
No magic carpet
Iran’s economic troubles are well documented. In Tehran there is renewed hope that newly elected president Hassan Rouhani can ease Western sanctions and spark a turnaround in the failing economy.
Hanging by a thread
Iranian carpets are works of great craftsmanship. But with souring US relations and fewer Iranians prepared for the hard toil and low pay, the historic industry is in danger of decline.
