Shiite Muslims in Karbala, Iraq are participating in rituals ahead of Ashura, a day of mourning commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, in the 7th century. These rituals include public displays of grief, symbolizing their connection to Hussein's suffering. 

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said that ongoing discussions about creating a new regional currency are 'extremely important', during his speech at the New Development Bank's annual meeting in Rio de Janeiro.

The Brazilian navy conducted military exercises in the bay of Rio de Janeiro and maintained security around the Museum of Modern Art, where the upcoming BRICS 2025 summit will take place.

France on Friday praised China's steps to settle a trade dispute over European brandy imports. The signs of a thaw in the row over the alcohol came as China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi met French President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot in Paris.