Simon Cullen

I won't be using Twitter/X much anymore. Instead, I'm over at BlueSky. Follow there if you wish: bsky.app/profile/simonc…

A "solar shield" is protecting Pakistan from some of the price shock of the Gulf War energy crisis. 3 years ago, consumers embarked on a solar panel binge...and now 25% of Pakistan's electricity comes from solar power. Reporting w/ @SophiaSaifi & PJ Javed Iqbal #Pakistan #Iran

Since the 1960s, we have worked with Lao PDR to support the country’s development. This partnership is rooted in a common vision for building a foundation for inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth.

Israeli strikes in south Lebanon just this morning have killed seven paramedics and wounded seven more. Three journalists covering the attacks have also been killed.

New: Pentagon briefers acknowledged to congressional staff in a briefing Sunday that Iran was not planning to strike US forces or bases in the Middle East unless Israel attacked Iran first, multiple sources to @NatashaBertrand, @jmhansler & me. Why this matters: It undercuts Trump admin’s argument on Saturday that Iran was planning to potentially strike the US preemptively & posed an imminent threat: #cmm8g18pb00003b6s68xqscio" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">cnn.com/world/live-new…

Vanuatu is getting a second submarine data cable connection to the rest of the world. The Tamtam cable will improve phone and internet connection, but will also double as an early warning system for tsunamis and earthquakes. ADB is funding a portion of the project through its Wayfinder Program, which helps Pacific Island businesses that traditional lenders overlook.

I’m a former Foreign Office Minister in the UK. I cannot tell you how much all with ministerial responsibility need fair and honest reporting from exceptionally brave correspondents who often put their life on the line to bring a free public the truth. Lose them at your peril.

As those of us who actually live in London know, it’s a safe city. The homicide rate is now the lowest ever on record. How do we compare? 🇬🇧 London: 1.1 murder per 100k 🇫🇷 Paris: 1.6 🇺🇸 NYC: 2.8 🇧🇪 Brussels: 2.9 🇩🇪 Berlin: 3.2 🇺🇸 LA: 5.6 🇺🇸 Houston: 10.5 🇺🇸 Philadelphia: 12.3

#ADBNews: In the Lao PDR, many vocational education and training graduates face unemployment due to a mismatch between skills and labour market needs. ADB’s new financing package aims to close this gap, enhancing skills, boosting local employment, and supporting a more resilient economy: ow.ly/9a3n50XvIY9

ADB and Türkiye are deepening their collaboration through a new interim partnership strategy. Our operations will focus on earthquake recovery, infrastructure, regional connectivity, and boosting private sector investments. Watch this video to learn more.

Billions of migratory birds embark on an epic journey every year, stopping at wetlands along the way to refuel and recharge. The East Asian–Australasian Flyway is one of the world’s most significant route, but it’s also one of the most at risk. youtu.be/A4V4b0wFAqY?si…

The Queen Salote Wharf in the Tongan capital of Nuku’alofa is officially open! Through the Asian Development Fund, ADB partnered with the governments of Australia and Tonga to fund the project. Tonga is now better connected to its Pacific Island neighbors and the world, helping to grow its export industry, tourism sector, and receive vital supplies.

This is a wind map of the Philippines right now (Sunday, 7:45pm local time) Manila is approx where the little green circle is. This is the second major typhoon in less than a week. #typhoonfungwong

Last time we checked the Democrats controlled the House, Senate, and White House. If there is a government shutdown it's because of Democrats.

Super Typhoon Ragasa has crossed the coast of northern Philippines. Strong wind gusts here in Manila, but a long way away from the worst of it.

“Biden’s and Zelensky’s war.” Definitely not Putin’s.

Pacific Islands Forum sees Australia-China trade gifts as push for regional influence gets 'comical', writes @stephendziedzic abc.net.au/news/2025-09-0…

Famine has been confirmed in Gaza City for the first time, a UN-backed body responsible for monitoring food security says. #post" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">bbc.com/news/live/ckgj…

ADB invests to build safer roads, schools, and water infrastructure across the Pacific region—but we’re not doing it alone. Learn why partnering with the private sector is key to delivering the essential services that communities need most. #PIC2025 #PacificInfrastructureConference

There are billions of dollars in untapped infrastructure opportunities across the Pacific. Live from Brisbane at the Pacific Infrastructure Conference, ADB Vice-President Bruce Gosper explains why a huge opportunity exists for businesses seeking infrastructure contracts in the region. #PIC2025 #PacificInfrastructureConference