This week, Croatia officially joins the European Union while the North Korean nuclear and missile threat is the subject of an ASEAN security forum.

Monday, July 1

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations Regional Forum continues its security forum in Brunei. Japan, the U.S. and South Korea are arranging a meeting of foreign ministers on the sidelines to confirm their unity on the North Korean nuclear and missile threat.

The Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, with 56 participating states, holds its parliamentary assembly in Istanbul.

U.S. embargo on sale of gold and other precious metals to Iran comes into effect.

Lithuania takes over the presidency of the European Union until the end of the year.

Croatia becomes the 28th member of the European Union.

The trial of five men accused of raping a young woman in New Delhi, a crime which prompted nationwide protests, will resume after a month-long summer recess. The trial, which is being held at a fast-track court in South Delhi, is in its last leg.

Wednesday, July 3

Africa Carbon Forum begins in Ivory Coast.

The annual Clean Energy Expo China takes place in Beijing.

Thursday, July 4

The United States of America celebrates Independence Day. U.S. markets will be open for half a day on Wednesday and are closed on Thursday.

The European Central Bank holds its monetary meeting and is not expected to change rates, but President Mario Draghi may discuss just how much longer the ECB will stick with extraordinary policy settings.

Tom Hayes, a former UBS and Citigroup derivatives trader accused of manipulating rates, is to appear in court in London.

Economy Watch