Diplomacy: Moldova and Chad have officially established diplomatic relations after signing a joint communiqué at the UN in New York on July 17, with the agreement taking effect from the signature date. Education Reform: With UNESCO’s lifelong learning arm and GPE funding, Chad is rolling out assessments and reforms under PRET to expand literacy and non-formal basic education for young people and adults left out of the formal system, with a focus on women and rural communities. Russia–Chad Ties: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met Chadian officials and highlighted growing cooperation, including a visa-free travel step for holders of diplomatic and service passports and plans to deepen dialogue on trade, the economy, and investment. Regional Mobility: President Mahamat Idriss Deby announced Chad will abolish entry visas for all Africans from Jan. 1, 2027, making Chad the eighth country to join the visa-free push. Water Security: The African Water Forum opened in N’Djamena with leaders calling for urgent action on water governance and infrastructure as hundreds of millions still lack safe drinking water. Rights & Justice: Amnesty International criticized US moves against the ICC, noting the ICC’s deputy prosecutor was in Chad meeting Darfur victims. Environment: A WMO report flags the Bodélé Depression in Chad as a key source of dust storms, with major impacts on air quality and health.