Retail Expansion: Jumbo says it has already picked locations for smaller stores in tourist areas, with first openings expected in 2027–2028; the group runs 89 stores across Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria and Romania and is adding a new hypermarket in Baia Mare in October, while also pushing logistics upgrades including a new ~60,000 sqm distribution center in Romania and a Thessaloniki logistics hub due in 2027. Energy & Shipping: US President Trump rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days, citing US control of passage; the dispute follows indirect talks mediated by Qatar and comes as sanctions and flight restrictions keep disrupting regional transport. South Caucasus Connectivity: Georgian and Armenian leaders used UN meetings to frame the region as a connectivity system, with Georgia positioning the Middle Corridor as a growth engine; the wider debate now turns to “economic time” and whether TRIPP can keep pace with parallel rail and freight investments. Azerbaijan Investment Push: President Aliyev told the UN General Assembly that Azerbaijan has attracted over $350bn in investments in 20 years, with half as FDI, while PASHA Bank highlighted international financial cooperation at AIIF 2026. Georgia Governance & Industry Climate: Salome Zurabishvili warned in France that Georgia faces pressure on civil society and risks of sanctions circumvention via ports, air traffic and crypto growth, urging Europe to respond.