Energy Security: Germany confirmed plans for a strategic gas reserve equal to 10% of storage capacity, to be filled in 2027-2028 via consumer levies—aimed at covering about two weeks of winter use, but raising costs for households and energy-intensive industry. EU Middle East Aid: The EU launched the “Team Gaza Initiative” in Brussels with nearly €900m to kick-start early recovery in Gaza, alongside new Pegase contribution agreements (including Belgium) for the Palestinian authority. Russian LNG Watch: Despite an EU phase-out plan, the bloc bought a record 9.89m tonnes of Russian LNG in H1, with Belgium among the top buyers—highlighting the gap between policy and supply realities. Belgian Industry & Ports: VOC Port signed an MoU with Port of Antwerp-Bruges for green and digital port development, while Belgium ports also backed a broader digital/green infrastructure push. Chocolate Sector: Barry Callebaut reported its first quarterly sales volume growth in two years, with Q3 volumes up 5.7% and an improved full-year outlook. Belgian Tech in Space: ÉireComposites manufactured ESA Altius ozone-satellite stray light baffles in Ireland, underscoring European supply-chain depth for space hardware. Automotive Talent: Belgian designer Pierre Leclercq was granted Russian citizenship, a reminder of how global industrial careers keep crossing geopolitical lines. Defence Drones: Coverage highlights growing European demand for UAS such as MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian, with Belgium named among NATO countries running programmes of record.