Biden to Join First G7 Meeting

US President Joe Biden will hold his first "Group of Seven" virtual meeting on Friday to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and world economy. Biden will also address plans to tackle economic challenges such as those posed by China. The meeting is the first by top leaders from the "Group of Seven" since April.

Tough Year for Dubai Airport

Chief executive of Dubai International Airport, Paul Griffiths, warned of another tough year for Middle East’s busiest hub after passenger numbers dropped 70% in 2020. Griffiths cautioned it will take years for the industry to recover but said he was optimistic that travel demand would increase with vaccine rollouts.

Syrian Air Defences Intercept Missiles

Syrian air defences intercepted Israeli missiles over Damascus, the army said. Israel has been carrying out raids in the country over the last two months, hitting Iranian targets. Israeli officials have acknowledged the attacks inside Syria aimed at ending Iran's military presence in the country.

Myanmar Protests Continue

Myanmar Protests continue as people demand an end to military rule and the release of detained leader Suu Kyi. Crowds were smaller due to the junta's deployment of armored vehicles and soldiers on the streets. The coup sparked the biggest protests in the country since 2007.