Qatar-Russia Tax Cooperation: Qatar and Russia signed an MoU to boost technical cooperation in tax administration, covering digital transformation, taxpayer-centred models, compliance, and training, with both sides also set to exchange expertise on tax incentives and future policy. Digital Inclusion Push: MCIT launched a nationwide public engagement campaign to shape Qatar’s Digital Inclusion Index 2026, asking residents to complete a bilingual survey and help identify gaps in access and user experience. Education Planning: MoEHE is expanding the public school network for 2026-27, opening five new schools and adding two Qatar Schools for Science and Technology-linked campuses, citing population growth and overcrowding needs. Cyber Safety Alert: NCSA issued an urgent warning against phishing and impersonation scams via fake texts and emails, urging people to verify senders and avoid suspicious links and attachments. Fintech & Financial Infrastructure: Qatar continues building fintech foundations with a focus on banking, payments, and data infrastructure, aiming to leapfrog fragmented systems through regulator-led collaboration. GCC Economic Coordination: Qatar took part in GCC economic integration meetings via videoconference, reviewing recommendations and shared economic visions. Regional Security Context: US President Trump told Axios he faces a “big decision” on whether to resume large-scale attacks on Iran ahead of a UNGA meeting with six Gulf leaders that could shape the next phase. Energy Shock Watch: Reuters reports LNG prices have surged amid Hormuz bottleneck risks, with Europe scrambling as Qatari supply remains constrained. Sports Diplomacy & Qatar in Action: Qatar’s chess team begins its World Chess Olympiad campaign in Uzbekistan, and Qatar retains its core World Cup squad for the Gulf Cup.