Sandro Rosell, former president of FC Barcelona, is accused by Spanish authorities of accepting €30 million in bribes from Qatar to influence African FIFA members to vote for Qatar to host the 2022 World Cup. The investigation, led by Spain's Economic and Fiscal Crime Unit and the National Police Corps, also involves money laundering allegations. Rosell and his wife were arrested, and significant assets were frozen. The Swiss and US authorities are also investigating the case, with the latter interested due to American cities losing the bid to Qatar. Rosell's associates claim his dealings with Qatar were legal.

Sandro Rosell, former president of FC Barcelona, is accused by Spanish authorities of accepting €30 million in bribes from Qatar to influence African FIFA members to vote for Qatar as the 2022 World Cup host. The investigation, led by Spain's Economic and Fiscal Crime Unit and the National Police Corps, revealed that Rosell and his associates laundered €15 million through fictitious companies. Authorities have frozen €10 million in bank deposits and barred the sale of over 50 properties. The US is also investigating Rosell due to potential illegal commissions and bribes related to football rights. Rosell's associates claim his dealings with Qatar were legal and declared.

The Car Wash corruption investigation in Brazil is exacerbating the country's severe economic recession, with GDP shrinking by 3.6% in 2016. The probe has impacted major sectors like agriculture, industry, and services, and has led to record unemployment and increased reliance on welfare programs like Bolsa Familia. Experts argue that while the investigation has had negative short-term effects, it is essential for long-term economic health. Criticism is directed at President Michel Temer's administration for failing to implement effective economic policies and attract foreign investment. The article highlights the need for political and social consensus to address the economic crisis.

Entering the USA has become increasingly difficult for foreigners, with stringent visa processes and invasive inspections at entry points. Recent policies have led to the questioning of travelers' political and religious beliefs, and the confiscation of electronic devices. Notable incidents include the detention of a Canadian Muslim woman, an American scientist, a former Norwegian Prime Minister, an Australian author, and a French historian. These actions have led to cancellations of trips to the USA, potentially harming the tourism sector and tech companies reliant on foreign talent. The article criticizes President Trump's immigration policies and proposed budget cuts to international aid and the State Department, arguing for the need for effective diplomacy.

The resignation of Brazilian Foreign Minister Jose Serra may have been influenced by the ongoing Car Wash corruption investigation, which implicated him in receiving illegal campaign funds from Odebrecht. Serra cited health issues as the reason for his resignation, needing time to recuperate from spine surgery. His departure surprised President Michel Temer, who must now find a replacement. Serra's resignation marks the seventh ministerial loss for Temer, many due to corruption allegations. Serra's tenure saw a shift in Brazil's foreign policy, distancing from leftist regimes and suspending Venezuela from Mercosul.

Specialty coffee is gaining popularity in Jeddah, with only four shops like Warm and Frosty Café, founded by Mohammad Al-Kaf and Khaled Ismail, offering a unique coffee experience. These shops focus on the preparation process, bean origin, and brewing techniques. Warm and Frosty Café, which had a soft opening in March, plans a grand opening in January 2017. The café sells various coffee-making machines and offers five types of coffee beans, emphasizing direct trade to ensure fair compensation for producers. The founders, who met at King Fahd University, aim to expand their business and visit the farms where their beans are sourced.

The MiSK Global Forum in Riyadh showcased inspiring achievements by individuals and technological advancements. Highlights included Omar Samra's mountaineering feats, Alvy Ray Smith's contributions to animation technology and Pixar's success, and Sebastian Thrun's innovations in artificial intelligence and online education through Udacity. The forum emphasized the positive impact of technological innovation and the importance of engaging youth in development, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's strategy of balancing relations between major powers like the US and China is risky but has yielded some benefits, such as China's agreement to allow Filipino fishermen in disputed waters and a pledge of $9 billion in loans. However, Duterte's approach, which includes offensive remarks towards the US and leveraging nationalist sentiment, could jeopardize the long-standing and strategic US-Philippines relationship. The article highlights the historical context of US-Philippines relations and the potential consequences of Duterte's actions.

Saudi Arabia has faced significant negative press over the past months, particularly regarding its use of the death penalty and treatment of foreign workers. The article argues that international human rights groups and media have unfairly targeted the Kingdom while ignoring similar or worse actions by other countries like Iran. The recent controversy involving stranded Indian construction workers in Saudi Arabia is highlighted, with the Saudi government taking steps to assist the workers and mitigate the damage to its reputation. The author calls for the establishment of rapid-response information teams to defend Saudi Arabia's image in the international media.

The Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia showcased a stark contrast to the Republican National Convention, emphasizing unity, compassion, and inclusion. Key speakers, including Hillary Clinton, John Allen, and Khizr Khan, highlighted the dangers of Donald Trump's divisive rhetoric and lack of political experience. Clinton stressed the importance of working together to build a better future, while Trump was criticized for his isolationist and xenophobic views. The article advocates for Clinton's election, portraying her as the more experienced and capable candidate.

The article discusses the shocking murder of a mother by her twin sons in Riyadh, influenced by the terrorist group Daesh. It emphasizes the need for Saudi society to promote a more tolerant version of Islam, engage youth in productive activities, and invest in quality summer programs to prevent radicalization. The author calls for a public relations campaign to highlight positive societal values and stresses the importance of providing educational and fun options for youth during vacations to counteract the influence of extremist groups.

Saudi Arabia is often unfairly blamed for global issues, including terrorism, due to misrepresentations in Western media. The article emphasizes the importance of Saudi Arabia promoting its own narrative and interests. Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to the US is highlighted as crucial for advancing the Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Plan, which aim to diversify the economy away from oil dependency. The article advocates for a focus on technology and services, requiring a well-educated and motivated workforce. It also underscores the need for cultural and entertainment opportunities to ensure a well-rounded population. The US is seen as a key partner in helping Saudi Arabia transition to a post-oil future.

The Great Arab Uprising against the Ottoman Empire began a hundred years ago with the British shelling of Jeddah. The uprising, within the context of WWI, was instrumental in the fall of the Ottoman Empire and was influenced by British and French interests, leading to the Sykes-Picot Agreement which divided the Middle East. T. E. Lawrence played a key role in leading Arab attacks. The British used deceit to gain control of Arab territories, and the Ottoman's strategic use of the Hejaz Railway was ultimately undermined by consistent attacks. The article suggests the importance of understanding the role of the British in the formation of modern Arab states and the history of the region.

The article explores the historical and strategic relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States, emphasizing the importance of oil in shaping this alliance. It highlights key events such as the discovery of oil, the 1973 oil embargo, and the impact of the 9/11 attacks. Despite recent challenges, including legislative actions in the US that could allow 9/11 victims' families to sue the Saudi government, the author believes that the long-standing relationship will endure. The article also addresses misconceptions about Saudi Arabia's involvement in terrorism, noting the Kingdom's own struggles against terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda and Daesh.

Saudi Arabia is seeking to diversify its economy beyond oil, which constitutes 70% of its annual revenue. The government plans to introduce a consumption tax and has already increased prices for gasoline, electricity, and water, leading to public criticism. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has unveiled Vision 2030, aiming to reduce oil dependency, increase non-oil revenue, and boost employment, particularly for women. The plan includes partial privatization of Saudi-Aramco and significant investments in renewable energy and local arms production. While some critics doubt the feasibility of these goals, MBS's approach has garnered attention and support, especially among the youth.