Djibouti–Italy Cooperation: Italy’s science diplomacy push deepened in Djibouti as the Italian Universities and Research Minister launched a new framework for cooperation in research, higher education and digital infrastructure under the Mattei Plan, including a visit to Djibouti’s submarine cable landing station. Red Sea Security & Shipping: Saudi Arabia unveiled a multinational defensive maritime coalition to protect Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb and Gulf of Aden shipping, bringing together Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Yemen and African partners including Djibouti, Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea and Somalia—aimed at keeping trade moving amid ongoing attacks and rerouting costs. U.S. Visa Bond Rule (Djibouti Included): The U.S. made its visa bond programme permanent, effective Aug. 3, allowing consular officers to require refundable deposits up to $20,000 for selected B1 business and B2 tourism applicants from 50 countries, including Djibouti; the bond is refunded if visa terms are followed and the traveler leaves on time. Education Project in Djibouti: Qatar Charity began construction of two primary schools in Djibouti with the education ministry, targeting safer, better-equipped classrooms and easing overcrowding.