Far from being a passive recipient, the United Arab Emirates plans to make and distribute vaccines as a regional hub, extending its own vaccine diplomacy. Its vaccine push also benefits its economic plans and tourism.

Embracing a circular economy is a multi-trillion-dollar opportunity to design out waste and pollution, keep materials in use and regenerate natural systems. If done correctly, a circular economy can combat forced labour through professionalising a largely informal workforce – a valuable step towards eradicating modern slavery once and for all.

In addition to growing investments in the region, China has proposed a Middle East forum to resolve long-standing issues. But past experience shows Beijing may be more concerned about appearing diplomatic than actually advancing a political agenda.

China must not only embed its bold commitment into its five-year plan and consistently implement it, but also more aggressively green its belt and road investments.

Given Sino-India tensions, if AIIB agrees to finance India’s ambitious health sector overhaul, it would distance it from Beijing’s foreign policy goals. It could also set a precedent for development banks to lead the financing of health care reforms across Asia.

As Covid-19 spurs policy shifts, governments have a rare opportunity to recalibrate policies and better understand the obstacles facing migrant domestic workers. Some apps are trying to prevent harmful working conditions in the first place.