Kuwait–Pakistan Defence Boost: Kuwait and Pakistan signed the “Protocol Agreement-2026” to expand military cooperation, including training, capacity building and border management. Health Regulation Overhaul: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health issued new rules tightening how medicine and medical products are promoted, including approved visits for company reps, limits on patient contact, and stricter approval of promotional materials. Fertility Lab Upgrade: The MoH set up a technical fertility medicine unit laboratory within obstetrics and gynecology departments, covering egg retrieval, IVF/ICSI, embryo and sperm freezing, plus quality-control and staff training. Water Security Deal: VA Tech Wabag won Kuwait’s Doha SWRO desalination plant contract (DBO), with a 36-month build and 5-year O&M, using advanced SWRO and a recarbonation system. Oil Sector Appointments: KOC announced operational and safety management leadership changes aimed at improving decision-making, production stability and asset protection. AI in HR Reality Check: A GCC-wide report says 93% of organisations are exploring AI in HR, but only 1% are ready to scale it across the enterprise. AI Investment Surge: Global AI venture funding hit about $430B in H1 2026, driven by major data centre and chip spending. SCO Summit Venue: Bishkek is preparing for an SCO+ meeting at the newly opened “Yrys-Ordo” congress center, with Kuwait listed among dialogue partners.