Fed semiannual report: In 1H 2026, external economic activity growth was weak due to headwinds from the Middle East conflict and US tariffs, partly offset by investment in artificial intelligence.

Responding to recent China-related remarks by NATO secretary-general Rutte, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular briefing that the Arctic involves the interests of the international community. She said China’s activities in the Arctic aim to promote peace, stability and sustainable development and comply with international law, and that nations’ lawful rights and freedoms to operate there should be fully respected. Mao added China firmly opposes recycling the “China threat” narrative or stoking tensions and confrontation in the Arctic.

Audi's 1H 2026 deliveries fell 7.2% YoY to 727,245 vehicles.