International Relations

Samarkand, Uzbekistan – September 23, 2026 -- Timur Turlov, a candidate for FIDE President, has proposed that Ukraine nominate its own candidate for FIDE Vice President should his ticket win the September 26 election in Samarkand.

Turlov calls for a dedicated Ukrainian voice in FIDE leadership

Turlov, running alongside five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand, made the proposal in a post on X, describing Ukraine as "one of the world's great chess nations" with generations of players and coaches. He argued that FIDE "cannot operate in isolation from what is happening in the world" and that Ukraine "should have its own voice in the room when decisions are discussed and made."

Belfast – September 20, 2026 -- Ulster University's Senate and Council have conferred an honorary Doctor of the University degree on Susan Ann Davis, citing her role in building a $196 million (£144M/€170M) U.S.-Ireland R&D partnership and her sustained diplomatic engagement supporting the Good Friday Agreement.

Ulster University Vice-Chancellor Confers Honorary Degree on Transatlantic Business Leader

Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, presented the honor to Davis in recognition of her contributions to business, women's leadership, entrepreneurship, and her long-standing commitment to peace and economic development in Northern Ireland.

Shenyang – September 15, 2026 -- Shenyang's municipal government staged the fourth edition of its "Hello, Shenyang" international friendship football tournament on September 5 at Shenyang University, drawing four teams including a BMW elite squad in a city-led push to court foreign talent and residents.

BMW Elite Squad Faces Three Student and School Teams On The Pitch

Four teams competed in the tournament: an elite team fielded by BMW, international student sides from Shenyang University and Shenyang Medical University, and a youth team from Shenyang Huimin Senior High School. Organizers described the matches as competitive, with strong teamwork among players of different nationalities.

Shenyang – September 15, 2026 -- The fourth "Hello, Shenyang" International Football Friendly Match kicked off on September 5 at Shenyang University, drawing international residents from business, academic and diplomatic circles for a day of sport and cultural exchange.

Four teams competed under municipal government sponsorship

The event was organized by the Shenyang Municipal People's Government, in cooperation with the Municipal Foreign Affairs Office, the Municipal Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the Municipal Sports Bureau and Shenyang University, with China Today Shenyang Salon as a partner unit. Vice Mayor Zhao Wei addressed consular officials and international residents at the opening ceremony.

Four teams took the field: a BMW corporate team, international student squads from Shenyang University and Shenyang Medical College, and players from Shenyang Huimin Senior High School.