October 10, 2022

*) Explosions rock central Kiev in apparent missile strikes Multiple explosions rocked Kiev following months of relative calm in the Ukrainian capital. Kiev’s mayor reported apparent Russian missile strikes in Shevchenko district, a large area in the centre of Kiev which includes the historical old town and government offices. President Zelenskyy said that people had been killed and injured following multiple strikes on cities across Ukraine, including the bombardment of the capital. *) Palestinians close to reaching deal with Egypt on Gaza’s gas field The Palestine Investment Fund is close to reaching a technical deal with the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company to extract gas from the Marine gas field off the shore of Gaza. A Palestinian source said that both sides will sign the deal at the end of 2022 under which they will agree on the distribution of shares and mechanism to sell the gas. The source didn't give any details about Israel's position on the deal but said operating the field will be in agreement with all relevant actors. *) Algeria, France seek to deepen ties after tensions ease The French and Algerian prime ministers have declared a wish to "deepen" their ties as Paris seeks to repair relations with the former colony and major gas exporter. The Algerian Prime Minister personally welcomed the French Premier’s delegation before a top-level meeting mainly addressing economic cooperation. French and Algerian ministers present signed around a dozen texts including "declarations of intent" on employment, industrial cooperation and tourism. *) Heavy rains continue to flood Thailand Heavy seasonal rains have once again pounded much of Thailand, causing widespread flooding, particularly in the northeast and central regions. Rains hit a northeastern province, where almost 20,000 people have been moved into 85 temporary shelters as floodwaters overwhelm more than 1,000 villages. More than 200,000 households across 54 provinces have been affected by floods over 10 days until Saturday. And