- Centerstage Events

Removal of term limits for Presidents in Chad took centerstage on Monday, 15 September 2025 among all major events across the globe, and remains the highlight of this week's list of center stage events.
Picture Courtesy: Profit loss

Centerstage events of week 3

Chad removes term limits for Presidents...

Chad’s National Assembly approved constitutional reforms extending presidential terms from five to seven years and removing term limits, strengthening President Mahamat Idriss Deby’s rule after seizing power in 2021. The changes passed overwhelmingly, with 171 votes in favor and one abstention, and await Senate approval on October 13. Analysts say the move consolidates power amid shrinking dissent. Opposition leader Succes Masra, once prime minister, resigned and was sentenced to 20 years for inciting violence.

Monday, 15 September, 2025

Mercosur signs FTA with European nations

Mercosur nations Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay sign a free trade deal with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland in Rio de Janeiro, creating a 300-million-people zone with a $4.3 trillion GDP. Brazil’s Foreign Minister stresses commitment to rules-based trade amid global protectionism, indirectly criticizing U.S. tariffs. The move follows President Trump’s 50% tariff on Brazil after ex-President Bolsonaro is convicted of attempting a coup and sentenced to 27 years.

Tuesday, 16 September, 2025

Australia and Papua New Guinea sign a defense treaty...

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Papua New Guinea’s James Marape sign a communiqué in Port Moresby confirming a mutual defence treaty after earlier delays. The European Union announces sanctions targeting Israeli settlers, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, urging member states to freeze assets and restrict travel. Meanwhile, in Riyadh, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sign a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement, strengthening bilateral security ties.

Wednesday, 17 September, 2025

Toyota and Hyundai recall 1.1 million vehicles...

Toyota and Hyundai are recalling over 1.1 million vehicles in the U.S. due to safety risks, regulators announced Thursday. Toyota’s recall of 591,377 vehicles involves faulty instrument panel displays that may fail to show vital information like speed or brake warnings. Hyundai is recalling 568,580 Palisade SUVs for defective seat belt buckles that may not latch properly. Both automakers will provide free repairs or replacements, with customers advised to contact service centers for assistance.

Thursday, 18 September, 2025

H-1B visa applications to cost $100,000 fee...

U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, citing abuse of the program.Initially described as an annual payment, the White House later clarified it is a one-time fee applying only to new applicants in the February 2026 lottery, not current holders. Trump also introduced a “gold card” fast-track visa option costing at least £1 million. The move has sparked concern from tech firms and India’s trade body Nasscom, warning of global uncertainty.

Friday, 19 September, 2025

Half of all flights cancelled in EU...

Brussels Airport has asked airlines to cancel half of all departing flights on Sunday, September 21, after a cyberattack disrupted check-in and boarding systems across major European hubs, including Berlin, London, and Dublin. The airport confirmed on Saturday evening that operations will remain heavily impacted, with the measure aimed at reducing long queues and last-minute cancellations. The incident highlights the vulnerability of critical aviation infrastructure to cyber threats.

Saturday, 20 September, 2025

Palestinian state gets recognition by UK, Canada and Australia...

The UK, Canada, and Australia have formally recognized a Palestinian state, with more nations expected to follow during the UN General Assembly. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said recognition was vital to revive hopes for peace and a two-state solution, while stressing it was not a reward for Hamas. Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the move as a “reward for terrorism.” The decision has divided UK politics and drawn mixed reactions from Palestinians and families of hostages in Gaza.

Sunday, 21 September, 2025