UK and Ukraine Seal a Historic 100-Year Partnership

A Landmark Agreement
On 16 January 2024, the United Kingdom and Ukraine signed a 100-year partnership agreement, set to remain in effect until 2124. This historic pact aims to foster deep and lasting ties across a wide range of areas, including trade, security, defence, science and technology, education, and culture. It marks a new era of bilateral cooperation and mutual trust between the two nations.

Key Details of the Agreement
The groundbreaking deal was signed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

"Today is truly a historic day. The relationship between Ukraine and the United Kingdom is closer than ever. We have reached a new level—this is more than a strategic partnership. We have signed a 100-year partnership agreement," Zelenskyy stated during the signing ceremony.

What the Agreement Entails

Will the Dollar Stay on Top? The Trump Factor and Its Global Impact

After Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential election, the US dollar has shown steady growth, reaching multi-year highs. This is driven by investors' expectations regarding the newly elected president's economic measures aimed at stimulating growth, increasing inflation, and reducing the likelihood of aggressive interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Notably, the dollar index has risen by almost 10% from the lows of late September.

However, Trump's plans to introduce tariffs and significant tax cuts may have an ambiguous impact on the currency market. These measures could lead to higher inflation, which, in turn, might force the Federal Reserve to refrain from further rate cuts or even raise them. This could strengthen the dollar further, complicating global trade, increasing costs for non-US companies, and influencing the monetary policies of other countries. Countries with large trade surpluses with the US, such as China, are likely to be particularly affected.

Moreover, there are contradictions in Trump's policy towards the dollar. On the one hand, he seeks to weaken the dollar to support exports and protect jobs; on the other, he wants to maintain its strength to uphold global financial dominance. These contradictions could lead to instability in currency markets and complicate the administration's economic goals.

Thus, while the dollar remains one of the world's most profitable currencies for now, the future policies of Trump's administration could significantly affect its position. Investors should closely monitor developments and adjust their strategies in line with the new economic realities.

Author Andrew Azarov

WEF in DAVOS 2025: TOP-5 most frequently asked questions.

Davos in Switzerland is the highest town in Europe. Yet ever since the World Economic Forum brought its Annual Meeting to the alpine venue, the name resonates with the flagship event.

The meeting brings together government, business and civil society leaders to set the year's agenda for how leaders can make the world a better place for all.

Its relevance as a global gathering sits within and beyond the official programme. The importance of dialogue — often happening in private conversations — reveals an ever-important mission to convene leaders when 'threats to world stability are multiplying'.

Established more than 50 years ago, the Annual Meeting tries to embody ‘the spirit of Davos’, which is an attitude of openness and cooperation that is core to the mission of the Forum. The 'Davos Manifesto', created in 1973 and renewed in 2020, lays out the principles of stakeholder capitalism — or a system of shared goals for businesses.

Here are seven things to know about Davos, past and present, answering some of your most frequently asked questions.

1. What's in the programme at Davos?

The Year in Review: Key Events and Takeaways from 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, the world reflects on a year defined by extraordinary challenges and transformative moments. From geopolitical tensions to technological breakthroughs and climate milestones, 2024 has left an indelible mark on history. Here’s a look back at the defining events and trends of the year.

Geopolitics: A World Divided

1. Russia-Ukraine War
   The Russia-Ukraine conflict continued to dominate global headlines, reshaping alliances and economic policies worldwide. The war, now in its third year, saw intensified military actions, massive humanitarian crises, and international efforts to mediate peace. However, the UN’s paralysis, due to Russia’s veto power, highlighted the limitations of global institutions in addressing such conflicts.

   Impact:

   • Western nations increased military aid to Ukraine while imposing tighter sanctions on Russia.
   • Energy markets were disrupted as Europe further reduced its reliance on Russian gas, accelerating investments in renewables.
   • Nations like China and India benefited economically by purchasing discounted Russian resources, drawing criticism for enabling the aggressor.

2. Middle East Tensions
   The Iran-Saudi détente, brokered in 2023, faced strains as regional conflicts persisted. Meanwhile, Israel-Palestine tensions reignited, with international mediators struggling to de-escalate violence.

3. U.S.-China Rivalry
   Geopolitical competition between the U.S. and China deepened, marked by disputes over Taiwan, trade policies, and technological supremacy. Both nations expanded their spheres of influence, creating a bipolar world order.

Economy: Inflation, Innovation, and Inequality