Luxembourg – One of the first countries to set its eyes on the possibility of mining asteroids, is officially launching its Space Agency (LSA) next week, which main goal will be boosting exploration and commercial utilization of resources from near Earth objects.

Australia’s Perth Mint has unveiled this week the most expensive collector coin in the country’ history — a diamond-encrusted treasure valued at $2.5 million ($1.8m).

Bulgaria – As many as 54 sheep have died after a brown bear attack in a farm in the Rhodope Mountain in Bulgaria, the authorities said Friday.

Japan – Japan’s fishing quota for Pacific bluefin tuna, popular fish for sushi and sashimi, will remain at the current level next year after an international fisheries commission rejected Friday Tokyo’s proposal for an increase at a recent meeting.

Saudi Arabia wants oil to stay between $70 and $80 a barrel for now as the world’s biggest crude exporter strikes a balance between maximizing revenue and keeping a lid on prices until U.S. congressional elections, OPEC and industry sources said.

Egypt – State-run National Bank of Egypt (NBE) said on Wednesday it had signed a $600 million loan agreement with the China Development Bank.