Vietnam records its lowest birth rate at 1.91 in 2024 Hanoi (Vietnam News/ANN) – Vietnam has recorded a historic low birth rate in 2024, with the total fertility rate (TFR) dropping to just 1.91 children per woman, marking the third consecutive year below replacement level. ... More >>>

- Telegram and WeChat first to initiate licensing to operate in Malaysia
PETALING JAYA (The Star/ANN) -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced that Telegram and Tencent’s WeChat have initiated the process of obtaining the necessary licence to operate their platforms in Malaysia... More >>>
- South Korea now officially ‘super-aged’ society
SEOUL (The Korea Herald/ANN) -- South Korea has officially become a “super-aged” society, with the total ratio of its population aged 65 and above surpassing 20 percent, according to the Ministry of Interior and Safety on December 24.... More >>>
- More than 20 countries show interest in BRICS — Kremlin aide
MOSCOW (TASS) -- More than 20 states, in addition to the selected partner countries, are showing interest in a systemic dialogue with the BRICS group, Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov has told the media.... More >>>

- Winter is hitting Gaza and many Palestinians have little protection from the cold
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) -- Winter is hitting the Gaza Strip and many of the nearly 2 million Palestinians displaced by the devastating 14-month war with Israel are struggling to protect themselves from the wind, cold and rain.... More >>>
- Chang’e-6 samples reveal new views on lunar magnetic field
(Global Times) -- Rock samples collected from the moon’s far side by China’s Chang’e-6 lunar probe indicate an unexpected resurgence in the moon’s magnetic field strength 2.8 billion years ago, which challenges the previous findings from the US Apollo mission, which suggested that the moon’s magnetic field declined about 3.1 billion years ago and has remained in a low-energy state since then.... More >>>
- Defence cooperation – key pillar in Vietnam-Laos ties: PM
HANOI (VNA) -- Defence collaboration is an important pillar in the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stressed on Wednesday.... More >>>
- China ready to play constructive role to help Syria restore peace, stability: envoy
(Global Times) -- China hopes Syria will achieve peace and restore stability as soon as possible, and is ready to play a constructive role to that end, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday.... More >>>
- 15-year-old girl fatally shoots teacher and teenager at a Christian school in Wisconsin
MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- A 15-year-old student opened fire inside a study hall at a small Christian school in Wisconsin, killing a teacher and teenager and prompting a swarm of police officers responding to a second grader’s 911 call.... More >>>
- China, France vow to uphold cooperation
(China Daily/ANN) -- China-France relations have seen positive momentum under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, which has emerged as a progressive force driving China-European Union ties while contributing to global peace and stability, according to officials.... More >>>
- Assembly ejects Yoon from power after 12-day political turmoil
(The Korea Herald/ANN) -- The opposition-led National Assembly on Saturday approved a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of insurrection tied to his botched declaration of martial law on Dec. 3, making him the third South Korean leader to be suspended from his duties by the parliament.... More >>>
- Yoon refuses to resign, blames martial law on ‘monstrous’ opposition
(The Korea Herald/ANN) -- President Yoon Suk Yeol on Thursday rejected calls for his resignation, asserting that his declaration of martial law on Dec. 3 was both an inevitable and legitimate decision made by the head of state, marking another unexpected development that clearly dismissed the ruling party’s “orderly resignation” scenario.... More >>>
- China to remain ‘biggest engine’ of world economic growth: Xi
(Global Times) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Tuesday China has full confidence in achieving this year’s economic growth target and will continue to play its role as the biggest engine of world economic growth, according to the Xinhua News Agency. ... More >>>
- Trudeau says Americans are realising Trump’s tariffs on Canada would make life a lot more expensive
TORONTO (AP) -- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that Americans “are beginning to wake up to the real reality that tariffs on everything from Canada would make life a lot more expensive” and said he will retaliate if Donald Trump goes ahead with them.... More >>>
- Yoon banned from leaving country
(The Korea Herald/ANN) -- The Justice Ministry said Monday that it had issued a travel ban on South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, shortly after he was booked over his short-lived martial law declaration on Dec. 3, a rare move against a sitting president.... More >>>
- Diplomats strengthen Lao-Thai relations during Lao National Day celebration
BANGKOK, Thailand:  Nearly 600 attendees, including Lao embassy officials, participated in various activities celebrating the 49th anniversary of the establishment of the Lao PDR on December 6 in Bangkok, Thailand.... More >>>
- Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment vote looms large
(The Korea Herald/ANN) -- An impeachment motion that could remove President Yoon Suk Yeol will be put to vote on Saturday, the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea announced Thursday, as the opposition-majority National Assembly holds Yoon accountable for what they are calling his insurrection in the wake of his short-lived martial law declaration earlier this week.... More >>>
- Opposition parties submit motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol
(The Korea Herald/ANN) -- South Korea’s six opposition parties on Wednesday submitted a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over the martial law declaration the previous day.... More >>>
- China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline fully operational with key equipment made domestically
(Global Times) -- China’s largest single-pipe natural gas transmission project, the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline, officially went into full operation on Monday. From construction to operation, the pipeline’s critical equipment and core control systems have been entirely domestically produced, China Media Group (CMG) reported. ... More >>>
- Fifth China-Central Asia FMs’ meeting agrees to deepen cooperation, reaffirm commitment to multilateralism
(Global Times) -- The Fifth China-Central Asia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, chaired by Foreign Minister Wang Yi, was held on Sunday in Chengdu, Southwest China’s Sichuan province. Together with the foreign ministers of the five Central Asian countries, he reviewed the implementation of the outcomes of the inaugural China-Central Asia Summit and conducted in-depth discussions on preparations for the second summit, scheduled to take place in Kazakhstan next year. The meeting enhanced mutual trust and friendship and clarified the direction for future work.... More >>>
- CSTO Summit: What’s on the table?
(Sputnik) -- Participants of the CSTO Summit 2024 in Kazakhstan are expected to exchange opinions on the military-political situation in the regions of collective security, and discuss the results of cooperation within CSTO framework.... More >>>

- Lebanon cease-fire within reach: Official
(China Daily/ANN) -- The United Nations Security Council and senior officials have doubled down on their calls for a cease-fire amid reports that a deal could be within reach in Lebanon.... More >>>

- Gaza medical worker deaths exceed 1,000
(China Daily/ANN) -- More than 1,000 medical workers in Gaza have been killed in Israeli strikes since October last year, local authorities have said, as Tel Aviv is accused of waging a “campaign of extermination” in north Gaza.... More >>>
- Landslide and flash floods hit Indonesia’s Sumatra island, leaving 16 dead and 6 missing
KARO, Indonesia (AP) -- Rescuers in Indonesia recovered 16 bodies under tons of mud and rocks or that were swept away in flash floods that hit mountainside villages on Sumatra Island, officials said Monday. Six people are still missing, officials said.... More >>>

- EU foreign affairs chief says member states are obliged to implement ICC decision
NICOSIA (Xinhua) -- European Union member states are obliged to implement an arrest warrant against Israeli and Hamas leaders issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said here on Saturday.... More >>>
- KPF Journalism Conference 2024: Embracing AI for transformative journalism
Seoul, South Korea – The 2024 Korea Press Foundation (KPF) Journalism Conference, held here last week, convened media professionals and tech experts to explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism. ... More >>>
- A new Vietnam-Laos International Border Gate opens
SON LA (VNS/ANN) -- The Long Sap (Vietnam) – Pa Hang (Laos) international border gate pair was officially launched with a ceremony held in Vietnam’s Sơn La province on Tuesday.... More >>>
- Xi calls for a fair, equitable global governance system, warns against protectionism at G20 summit
(Global Times) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday called for building a fair and equitable global governance system, while warning against politicising economic issues, fragmenting the global market and taking protectionist moves, in remarks delivered at the Session II of the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. ... More >>>
- New Delhi closes schools and bans construction as air pollution shoots up to worst level this season
NEW DELHI (AP) -- Authorities in India’s capital shut schools, halted construction and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city on Monday after air pollution shot up to its worst level this season.... More >>>
- Anthony Albanese unlikely to detail new emissions target before next federal election
(ABC) -- Anthony Albanese looks increasingly unlikely to detail his government’s new emissions target ahead of the next federal election, resisting calls to follow other world leaders in setting a 2035 target.
The prime minister has just completed his final day in Lima, Peru, where he has been meeting with the leaders of Pacific-rim nations for the APEC summit.... More >>>
- One million migrants in the US rely on temporary protections that Trump could target
NEW YORK (AP) -- Maribel Hidalgo fled her native Venezuela a year ago with a 1-year-old son, trudging for days through Panama’s Darien Gap, then riding the rails across Mexico to the United States.... More >>>
- China snuffs out memorials to victims of deadly car rampage
ZHUHAI (The Straits Times/ANN) -– Officials in southern China ramped up security on Nov 13 at the site of one of the country’s deadliest mass-casualty events in years, snuffing out makeshift memorials to the 35 people killed when a man drove a car into a crowd at a sports complex.... More >>>

- China’s commercial rocket firm provides launch service for international client for the first time
(Global Times) -- CAS Space, Chinese commercial aerospace company, successfully sent 15 satellites into orbit with its solid rocket Kinetica-1, also known as Lijian-1, on Monday. The flight also deployed an intelligent remote sensing satellite for Omani client, marking the Chinese private rocket firm’s first collaboration with international client.... More >>>

- China touts success of its first home-grown nuclear reactor
FUJIAN (The Straits Times/ANN) -- In a coastal province known for fishery and trade, a grey, dome-topped, reinforced concrete building is the repository of China’s growing ambitions to export nuclear power.... More >>>

- Xi holds talks with Indonesian president in Beijing, calling for building a community with a shared future with regional and global influence
(Global Times) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Beijing on Saturday, expressing the readiness to work with the new Indonesian government to continue promoting self-improvement, solidarity and win-win cooperation among major developing countries.... More >>>

- Labor backs 16 as the minimum age to use social media ahead of national cabinet meeting
(ABC) -- Children and teenagers under the age of 16 could soon be banned from using social media after Labor announced it would back the higher cut-off limit.... More >>>
- Race for the White House produces a night of drama 
Washington D.C., USA: Voters turned out in droves on Tuesday to cast ballots at polling stations across the US capital, in one of the most hotly contested races for the White House as two dynamic party leaders fought for the country’s most prestigious position.... More >>>

- Indonesia to evacuate 16,000 people after Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki eruption
JAKARTA (The Straits Times/ANN) -- The Indonesian government aims to evacuate at least 16,000 residents from villages around the active Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano, which erupted and killed nine people and damaged thousands of houses, an official said on November 5.... More >>>
- Shenzhou-18 taikonauts safely return to Earth after completing six-month space station mission
(Global Times) -- The Shenzhou-18 crew consisting of three taikonauts returned to Earth safely in the early morning on Monday, after completing a six-month space station mission. The three taikonauts, after staying in orbit for 192 days, were all in good health and the Shenzhou-18 manned mission was a success, the CMSA said.... More >>>|
- Thousands of troops to be sent to Valencia after deadly Spanish floods as death toll rises to 211
(AP) -- Spain is sending 5,000 more soldiers and 5,000 more police to the eastern region of Valencia after deadly floods this week that killed more than 200 people, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced. ... More >>> - ASEAN journalists explore US-ASEAN economic relations 
Seattle, Washington State, USA: Journalists from ASEAN member states are taking part in the 2024 US-ASEAN Reporters Tour to Seattle in Washington State and Washington D.C. to explore US-ASEAN economic relations.... More >>>
- China successfully launches Shenzhou-19 manned spaceflight mission, ferrying three taikonauts to China Space Station (Global Times) -- Carrying three taikonauts, the Long March-2F Y19 carrier rocket lifted off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Northwest China early Wednesday morning, embarking on its journey to the China Space Station. ... More >>>
- China introduces its first female spaceflight engineer as it unveils launch time, crew for Shenzhou-19 manned mission
(Global Times) -- China announced Tuesday it will launch the Shenzhou-19 manned spaceflight mission at 4:27 am on Wednesday, unveiling the crew lineup. Leading the mission will be Commander Cai Xuzhe, a veteran taikonaut who previously flew on the Shenzhou-14 mission in 2022. Joining him are two astronauts making their first journey into space - Song Lingdong and female astronaut Wang Haoze.... More >>>
- The leaders of India and Spain launch India’s first private military aircraft plant
VADODARA, India (AP) -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez inaugurated India’s first private military aircraft plant on Monday, boosting New Delhi’s ambitions of growing local manufacturing in its defense and aerospace industries.... More >>>
- At least 126 dead and missing in massive flooding and landslides in Philippines
TALISAY, Philippines (AP) -- The number of dead and missing in massive flooding and landslides wrought by Tropical Storm Trami in the Philippines has reached nearly 130 and the president said Saturday that many areas remained isolated with people in need of rescue.... More >>>
- Putin holds Outreach/BRICS Plus meeting, gives news conference
KAZAN (TASS) -- An Outreach/BRICS Plus meeting held on the final day of the BRICS Summit in Kazan. Russian President Vladimir Putin also gave a news conference to sum up the results of the three-day summit and answered questions from journalists.... More >>>
- Xi arrives in Kazan for BRICS Summit, meets Putin
(Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said China and Russia have found the right way for neighbouring major countries to get along with each other which features non-alliance, non-confrontation and not targeting any third party, during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazan, Russia on Tuesday.... More >>>
- BRICS to draw blueprint for development of its mechanism
(Global Times) -- The 16th BRICS Summit, scheduled to be held in Kazan, Russia, from October 22 to 24, has drawn global attention as it marks the first summit since the group’s expansion.... More >>>
- Singapore launches grant call for natural gas power plants to study carbon capture and storage
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Singapore is taking steps to study how planet-warming carbon dioxide (CO2) from natural gas power plants can be captured and locked away, as the Republic is likely to continue relying on fossil fuel over the next few decades.... More >>>
- BRICS to become alternative to global financial institutes — Cuba’s envoy to UN
UN (TASS) -- BRICS may become an alternative to international financial institutes, the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ernesto Soberon Guzman told TASS.... More >>>
- Gas tanker explosion kills more than 140 people and injures dozens more in Nigeria
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) -- More than 140 people, including children, were killed in Nigeria when an overturned gasoline tanker truck exploded in flames while they tried to scoop up fuel, emergency services said Wednesday. Dozens more were injured.... More >>>
- Ishiba drops Asian NATO plans for now Japanese
(China Daily/ANN) -- Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba seems to have shelved his idea of an Asian version of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation amid widespread criticism and lack of support.... More >>>
- UN peacekeepers to stay in positions in Lebanon: peacekeeping chief
UNITED NATIONS (Xinhua) -- UN peacekeepers will stay in all their positions in Lebanon in spite of the calls made by Israeli authorities to vacate the positions that are in the vicinity of the Blue Line between Lebanon and Israel, the UN peacekeeping chief said on Monday.... More >>>
- Israeli strike on hospital tent camp kills 4 and ignites a fire that burns dozens
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) -- An Israeli airstrike on a hospital courtyard in the Gaza Strip early Monday killed at least four people and sent flames sweeping through a packed tent camp for people displaced by the war, leaving more than two dozen with severe burns, according to Palestinian medics.... More >>>
- UK’s new govt scrutinised after first 100 days
(China Daily/ANN) -- The United Kingdom’s Labour Party government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, reaches its first 100 days in office on Saturday, a period marked by a flurry of domestic and international activities but overshadowed by mounting challenges and a growing sense of unease.... More >>>
- Vietnamese, Singaporean PMs hold talks for first time
VIENTIANE (Vietnam News/ANN) -- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chính and his Singaporean counterpart Lawrence Wong on Wednesday held talks for the first time within the framework of the annual meeting of the two government leaders on the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Laos.... More >>>
- Social media ban for children to be introduced this year, but age limit undetermined
(ABC) -- Children aged up to 16 could be banned from social media, as the federal government promises legislation to impose a minimum age to use platforms like Facebook and Instagram by the end of this year.... More >>>
- UN biodiversity summit in Colombia aims to turn words into action
PARIS ( The Straits Times/ANN) -- Two years after a landmark UN-brokered deal to protect nature from a massive wave of destruction, delegates will gather at a new UN conference, called COP16, in Colombia in late October to assess their progress..... More >>>
-PM defends his Diet dissolution plan in 1st debate with opposition
(Kyodo News) -- Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Monday defended his plan to dissolve the lower house later this week for a snap election to seek a fresh mandate, as opposition parties ramp up their offensive against his ruling party over its handling of scandal-hit lawmakers.
... More >>>
- Teens already on social media could be exempt from a ban under an option canvassed by Anthony Albanese
(ABC) -- Teenagers who are already on social media could be allowed to keep their accounts under the ban promised by the federal government.... More >>>

- Asia-Pacific countries evacuating nationals as Middle East conflict intensifies
MANILA (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Asia-Pacific nations are rushing to evacuate thousands of their citizens and other residents amid the rapidly escalating tensions in the Middle East.... More >>>

- Chinese celebrate 75th birthday of people’s republic with pride, hope
BEIJING (CHINA DAILY) -- Ready to welcome myriad domestic and foreign tourists over the coming days, Tian’anmen Square, the political heart of China and no stranger to pomp and ceremony, has been given a festive makeover featuring an 18-meter-high flower basket centerpiece.... More >>>
- LDP Ishiba elected Japan’s new PM amid economic, security fears
TOKYO (kyodonews) -- Shigeru Ishiba, leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, was elected Japan’s new prime minister by parliament on Tuesday to replace Fumio Kishida, at a time of low public confidence in politics, a shaky economy and mounting security threats.... More >>>
- Nepal closes schools as deaths from flooding and landslides reach at least 193
(ABC) -- The number of people killed by flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall in Nepal over the weekend has reached 193, officials say.... More >>>
- S. Korea kicks off International Journalists Invitation Programme
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea has invited journalists from around the world to attend the International Journalists Invitation Programme 2024.... More >>>
- 75 years on, China, a staunch force for peace and progress, defies the discourse of ‘a strong nation must be hegemonic’
(Global Times) -- The upcoming October 1 marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and it beckons with anticipation. The city of Beijing has been geared up as a vibrant giant flower basket gracefully rose in Tian’anmen Square and workers wove a colorful tapestry of flowers decorations along Chang’an Avenue to welcome guests from across China and the world. Children laughed with their joyous giggles weaving through the air, and adults captured cherished moments with cameras in hand, sending heartfelt blessings to the homeland. .. More >>>
- China firmly supports Lebanon in safeguarding its security and national dignity: Chinese FM
(China Daily/ANN) -- China firmly supports Lebanon in safeguarding its sovereignty, security and national dignity, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib in New York on Monday. According to media reports, Israeli strikes Monday on Lebanon killed at least 558 people as of press time, in what is considered the deadliest barrage since the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war.
... More >>>
- China’s first orbital rocket’s high-altitude recovery flight test ‘mostly successful,’ signaling a ‘milestone’ step forward: rocket developer
(Global Times) -- The first high-altitude vertical recovery flight test of China’s privately run carrier rocket Nebula-1 has smoothly nailed more than 90 percent of its verification tasks, despite the anomaly at the last stage that led to the crashing of the vehicle. The test signaled a “milestone” step forward as it represented the country’s first ever high-altitude recovery flight by an orbital rocket rather than an experimental one, Executive President Zhao Ya of Deep Blue Aerospace, developer of Nebula-1, told the Global Times in an exclusive interview on Monday.... More >>>
- UN adopts a new pact to transform global governance
World leaders have adopted a historic United Nations pact aimed at transforming global governance to address current and future challenges.
... More >>>
- Chinese, Russian coast guards to conduct joint patrols
(Global Times) -- A formation of China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels will join Russian coast guard vessels on Saturday to form a task force and head to the high seas of the North Pacific Ocean to conduct joint patrols, following the joint drills between the two countries’ coast guards that concluded on Friday, according to the CCG. ... More >>>
- UN General Assembly votes to demand Israel end Palestinian occupation, Australia abstains
(ABC) -- The United Nations General Assembly has overwhelmingly voted in favour of a Palestinian resolution demanding Israel end its “unlawful presence” in Gaza and the occupied West Bank within a year.... More >>>
- Cities in central Europe reinforce riverbanks ahead of more flooding
WARSAW, Poland (AP) -- Soldiers and firefighters used sandbags to reinforce river embankments and delivered food and drinking water to cut-off communities as the worst flooding in years moved Tuesday across a broad swath of Central Europe, taking lives and destroying homes.... More >>>
- East China fully on guard as Typhoon Bebinca hits Shanghai
(Global Times) -- Several districts in Shanghai, China’s financial centre, have suspended classes, work and public transportation in the face of Typhoon Bebinca, which could become one of the strongest typhoons to hit the city since 1949. The typhoon landed in Shanghai on Monday.... More >>>
- Trump was the subject of an apparent assassination attempt at his Florida golf club, the FBI says
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- Donald Trump was the target of what the FBI said “appears to be an attempted assassination” at his golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday, just nine weeks after the Republican presidential nominee survived another attempt on his life. The former president said he was safe and well, and authorities held a man in custody.... More >>>
- BRICS media leaders pledge for greater role in multipolar world in Moscow summit
MOSCOW (Xinhua) -- Over 60 BRICS media leaders from more than 40 countries joined the BRICS Media Summit opened here on Saturday, discussing the role of BRICS media in promoting a multipolar world.... More >>>
- Warm oceans strengthened Hurricane Francine and could power more Fall storms
(AP) -- Warm water in the Gulf of Mexico helped quickly strengthen Hurricane Francine, creating danger for Louisiana residents rushing to buy supplies and secure their homes ahead of the storm’s landfall Wednesday.... More >>>
- BRI Summit kicks off in Hong Kong, explores opportunities in emerging markets
Hong Kong: The 9th Belt and Road (BRI) Summit kicked off here on Wednesday with discussions focusing on capturing opportunities in emerging markets in ASEAN, the Middle East and adjacent regions as Hong Kong seeks to expand its business success in these areas.
... More >>>
- Pepe Escobar: Russia, China, ASEAN Weave Their Eastern Magic
(Sputnik) -- Something quite extraordinary happened at the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok last week – very much in tune with the forum’s main theme: “Far Eastern 2030. Combining Strengths to Create New Potential.”... More >>>
- China, US to jointly host summit on non-CO2 greenhouse gases at COP29
BEIJING (China Daily/ANN) -- China and the United States will co-host a summit focusing on non-carbon dioxide greenhouse gases at this year’s United Nations climate change conference, with the shared goal of ensuring the success of the UN gathering involving nearly 200 countries.... More >>>
- Russia notes improvement in technical cooperation with IAEA
MOSCOW (Sputnik) -- Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom notes an improvement in technical cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rosatom head Alexey Likhachev said on Friday, commenting on the 23rd IAEA mission to the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant.... More >>>
- Belt and Road media forum launches initiative to uphold ‘Silk Road spirit’
hengdu, Sichuan: The Chengdu Initiative’s launch at the 2024 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road seeks to encourage the media in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries to tell stories about the global infrastructure project as it enters a new stage.... More >>>
- President Xi vows to bolster solidarity with Africa
BEIJING (China Daily/ANN) -- China, Zimbabwe sign agreements to deepen cooperation, cement ties. ... More >>>
- Relations between Russia, Mongolia developing in all directions - Putin
ULAANBAATAR (Sputnik) -- Relations between Russia and Mongolia are developing in all directions, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday... More >>>
- AI-powered system assists Hebei nature reserve in protecting birds
SHIJAZHUANG (China Daily/ANN) --  As a bird flew over a nature reserve in North China’s Hebei province on Friday, its beautiful song was immediately recorded and its species identified using a special system.... More >>>
- Top Biden official meets President Xi in China visit to manage ties ahead of US election
BEIJING (China Daily/ANN) -- Both the United States and China have signalled that they are looking for stability, as the US nears a period of leadership... More >>>
- 2024 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road held in Chengdu
CHINA (People’s Daily) -- The 2024 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road was held in Chengdu, Southwest China’s Sichuan Province on Wednesday.
... More >>>
- WHO says droplets a ‘minor’ route of mpox transmission
GENEVA (The Straits Times/ANN) -- The WHO on Aug 27 said droplets were a minor route of transmission for mpox compared to physical contact, adding that more research was needed to understand how the outbreak is spreading.... More >>>
- Australia to limit foreign student enrolment in migration crackdown
SYDNEY (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Australia said on Aug 27 it would limit the enrolment number of new international students to 270,000 for 2025 as the government looks to rein in record migration that has contributed to a spike in home rental prices.... More >>>
- Gunmen kill at least 31 people in 2 separate attacks in restive southwestern Pakistan
QUETTA, Pakistan (AP) -- Gunmen in southwestern Pakistan killed at least 31 people in two separate attacks on Monday, with reports of other shootings and unrest across the same province, police and officials said.
... More >>>
- German police scour a western city for a knife attacker who killed 3 at a community festival
SOLINGEN, Germany (AP) -- Special police units on Saturday joined the search for an unknown knifeman who cut the throats of revelers at a crowded festival in the western German city of Solingen, killing three people and wounding at least eight others, four of them seriously.
... More >>>
- China, Russia eye stronger all-round practical cooperation
(Global Times) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday co-chaired the 29th regular meeting between Chinese and Russian heads of government with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in Moscow and said China is ready to work with Russia to strengthen all-round practical cooperation between the two countries, and push the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era to a new level.... More >>>
- Fitch Ratings airs stability concerns after Thai PM Paetongtarn appointment
BANGKOK (The Nation/ANN) -- Thailand’s Parliament swiftly approved Paetongtarn as the new prime minister on Sunday, highlighting the nation’s ongoing political volatility. Paetongtarn, who received royal endorsement on August 18, is set to take the helm after a series of dramatic political developments.... More >>>
- Vietnam a priority in China’s policy of neighbourhood diplomacy: Premier
BEIJING (Vietnam News/ANN) --  China consistently considers its relationship with Vietnam a priority in its policy of neighbourhood diplomacy, said Chinese Premier Li Qiang at a meeting with visiting Vietnamese Party General Secretary and President To Lam in Beijing on Monday.... More >>>
- Malaysia on high alert over mpox; Indonesia advises sick visitors not to continue trip in the country
PETALING JAYA (The Star/ANN) -- Although no new mpox cases have been reported in Malaysia in 2024, the Health Ministry said it is ramping up surveillance and advocacy activities after the World Health Organisation (WHO) issued its highest alert.... More >>>
- Paetongtarn Shinawatra: very much her father’s daughter
(The Nation/ANN) -- Thaksin Shinawatra, who served as prime minister from 2001 to 2006 before being ousted in a bloodless coup, is leaving no doubt about his daughter’s Paetongtarn capacity to be Prime Minister, noting that she has inherited both his and her mother’s DNA.
... More >>>
- Wang starts visit to Myanmar, Thailand to ‘promote cooperation’
(Global Times) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi kicked off his four-day trip to Southeast Asian countries on Wednesday, with a visit to Myanmar and then traveling to Thailand to co-chair the ninth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, where he is also set to attend the Informal Discussion Between the Foreign Ministers of China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand.... More >>>
- PM Srettha shown the door as Constitutional Court rules against him
(The Nation/ANN) -- The Constitutional Court on Wednesday unseated Srettha Thavisin from the post of prime minister, stating in its verdict that he lacked integrity to hold the top government post because of his decision to appoint an unqualified person as one of his Cabinet members.... More >>>
- Putin to hold talks with Palestinian president in Moscow
MOSCOW (TASS) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold talks with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas who is paying an official visit to Moscow, having arrived on the previous day.... More >>>
- China supports Iran in defending sovereignty, security, national dignity: Wang Yi tells Iranian acting FM
(Global Times) -- China supports Iran in defending its sovereignty, security and national dignity in accordance with the law, and supports the Iranian side in its efforts to maintain regional peace and stability, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday during a call with Iranian Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani, adding that China is ready to maintain close communication with the Iranian side.... More >>>
- At least 100 Palestinians killed in Israeli attack in Gaza City
GAZA/JERUSALEM (Xinhua) -- More than 100 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others injured in an Israeli bombing of a school in the Gaza City in the early hours of Saturday, the Hamas-run Gaza government media office said.... More >>>
- Bangladesh awaits installation of interim government after weeks of strife
DHAKA (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Bangladesh is set to get a new, interim government headed by Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist Muhammad Yunus on Aug 8, after weeks of tumultuous student protests forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee the South Asian country. ... More >>>
- Russia, US intensify moves as tensions mount in Middle East
(Global Times) -- While Russia and the US intensify maneuver in the Middle East as tensions between Iran and Israel ramp up due to the assassinations of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu visited Iran and the US increased its military presence. ... More >>>
- What 30 years of satellite data shows about the growth of more than 1,550 cities around the world
(ABC) -- Scientists have used a new technology to map more than 1,000 cities around the world and determine how they have changed over the past 30 years.... More >>>
- ASIO lifts terror threat level to ‘probable’ amid heightened tensions over war in Gaza
(ABC) -- Australia’s official terror alert level has been raised to “probable” amid heightened community tensions over the war in Gaza.... More >>>
- To Lam elected as Vietnam’s party general secretary
HANOI (Xinhua) -- Vietnamese President To Lam has been elected as general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, according to a press conference here on Saturday.... More >>>
- Indonesia president-elect Prabowo says his government seeks stronger ties with ‘great friend’ Russia
JAKARTA (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Indonesia’s President-elect Prabowo Subianto said his upcoming administration would maintain ties with “great friend” Russia, after he met President Vladimir Putin on July 31 during a trip to Moscow.... More >>>
- Blaming Russia, Iran and China is Washington’s tactic to divert attention during election: expert
(Global Times) -- Blaming Russia, Iran and China for “shaping” US elections serves as Washington’s tactic to divert attention from the chaos of its presidential election to outside imaginary enemies, said Chinese experts, after US officials accused the three countries of recruiting Americans to spread propaganda to advance their interests ahead of the US presidential election.... More >>>
- China, Italy should view bilateral ties from a strategic height: Xi
(Global Times) -- Amid accelerating global changes unseen in a century, countries will either progress together through connectivity and unity, or retreat separately through closure and division. China and Italy should uphold and promote the Silk Road spirit, view and develop bilateral relations from a historical dimension, strategic height and long-term perspective, and push their relations to go steady and far, Chinese President Xi Jinping said when meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Beijing on Monday.... More >>>
- Italian Prime Minister kicks off China visit, with economic cooperation in focus
(Global Times) -- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni kicked off her five-day visit to China on Saturday, with multiple business participants as well as observers of the two countries expressing their high expectations for the visit, highlighting the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation, especially in areas such as new energy products, new energy vehicles and other green technologies.... More >>>
- California’s largest wildfire explodes in size as fires rage across US West
(AP) -- California’s largest active fire exploded in size on Friday evening, growing rapidly amid bone-dry fuel and threatening thousands of homes as firefighters scrambled to meet the danger.... More >>>
- Chinese, Ukrainian foreign ministers hold talks, ‘highlighting China’s significant role in promoting peace’
(Global Times) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba on Wednesday in Guangzhou, South China’s Guangdong province, with Kuleba saying Ukraine is willing and prepared to conduct dialogue and negotiations with Russia.... More >>>
- Lavrov to discuss Putin’s Eurasian security plan in Laos
MOSCOW (TASS) --  While attending events within the framework of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Laos, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will discuss President Putin’s initiative on creating Eurasian security architecture, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko has told TASS in an interview.... More >>>
- Ukrainian FM to visit China, ‘recognising nation’s constructive role’
(Global Times) -- Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is scheduled to visit China from Tuesday to Friday, with analysts saying that this shows Ukraine is increasingly realising that China plays not only a constructive but also a significant role in helping conflicting parties in the Ukraine crisis seek a chance for political settlement. More importantly, this proves that the so-called accusation of being a “decisive enabler” in the Russia-Ukraine conflict made by the US against China has not even been accepted by Kiev.   ... More >>>
- Democrats promise ‘orderly process’ to replace Biden, Harris vows to ‘earn and win’ party nomination
(AP) -- President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 race for the White House on Sunday, ending his bid for reelection following a disastrous debate with Donald Trump that raised doubts about his fitness for office just four months before the election.... More >>>
- Xi urges all-out rescue, relief efforts after bridge collapses in Northwest China
(Global Times) -- Seven vehicles that fell into the river have been found with 12 fatalities confirmed after the partial collapse happened to a bridge of the Danning Expressway due to heavy rainstorms and flash flooding in Zhashui county of Northwest China’s Shaanxi province. Another 18 vehicles are still missing with 31 passengers unaccounted for. Rescue efforts remain underway, media reported on Saturday.... More >>>
- Nearly two-thirds of Democrats want Biden to withdraw, new AP-NORC poll finds
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Nearly two-thirds of Democrats say President Joe Biden should withdraw from the presidential race and let his party nominate a different candidate, according to a new poll, sharply undercutting his post-debate claim that “average Democrats” are still with him even if some “big names” are turning on him.... More >>>
- Timeline of a murder: Police investigate killing of six hotel guests
BANGKOK (The Nation/ANN) -- Thai police are investigating the deaths of six foreign nationals whose bodies were found in a room at an upmarket hotel in Bangkok on Tuesday.... More >>>
- 144-hour visa-free transit policy triggers ‘China Travel’ boom
(Global Times) -- “The 144-hour visa-free transit policy is incredibly convenient. I really want to come to China again!” A South Korean visitor told the Global Times after his recent visit to China. ... More >>>
- In prime-time address, Biden asks Americans to reject political violence and ‘cool it down’
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Joe Biden on Sunday urged Americans to reject political violence and recommit themselves to resolving their differences peacefully, saying the upcoming presidential election will be a “time of testing” in the aftermath of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.... More >>>
- Xi meets PMs of Solomon Islands, Vanuatu; visits deepen bilateral ties
(Global Times) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands Jeremiah Manele and Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Charlot Salwai in Beijing on Friday.... More >>>
- China, Bangladesh elevate ties, broaden cooperation
(Global Times)  -- China and Bangladesh on Wednesday elevated their relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced this while meeting in Beijing.... More >>>
- Busy ‘summer diplomacy’ season in China highlights openness, cooperation
(Global Times) -- This week, China is experiencing a busy “summer diplomacy” season, with seven foreign dignitaries from Africa, Europe, Pacific Island countries, and Asia visiting China one after another. This reflects China’s stance on opening up to the world and the tangible benefits that practical cooperation brings to the Global South countries. Under the US pressure, some developing countries continue to choose to strengthen ties with China, demonstrating their commitment to independence and resistance to hegemony, some experts said. ... More >>>
- Putin and Modi to hold official talks in Moscow
MOSCOW (TASS) -- The main part of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow is scheduled for today.
The official Russian-Indian negotiations will be held both in a narrow and in an expanded format. The parties will discuss not only bilateral cooperation, but also the international situation. ... More >>>
- Iran to continue to ‘Look East’ under new presidency: expert
(Global Times) -- Iran will continue its “Look East” policy and consolidate its collaboration with both China and Russia, even though the newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian may put more effort into repairing ties with the West, said a Chinese expert after Iran’s “reformist candidate” won the election on Saturday.... More >>>
- Political unrest worldwide is fuelled by high prices and huge debts
PARIS (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Like a globe-spanning tornado that touches down with little predictability, deep economic anxieties are leaving a trail of political turmoil and violence across poor and rich countries alike.... More >>>
- Biden at 81: Often sharp and focused but sometimes confused and forgetful
WASHINGTON (AP) -– President Joe Biden’s conduct behind closed doors, in the Oval Office, on Air Force One and in meetings around the world is described in the same dual way by those who regularly see him in action.... More >>>

- China, Kazakhstan to build on lasting friendship, unique partnership
ASTANA, (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday hailed a unique permanent comprehensive strategic partnership established between China and Kazakhstan and their time-tested friendship in his ongoing state visit to the Central Asian country.... More >>>
- Car makers could use New Vehicle Efficiency Standard loophole to rush higher-polluting cars into Australia, undermining EV push
(ABC) -- Car makers could use a loophole to rush their highest-polluting vehicles into the country and dodge climate laws for the first three years of the government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).... More >>>
- Visa fees for international students double, sparking outrage
(ABC) -- The Australian government has more than doubled the cost of student visa fees for international students, prompting outrage from student representatives who say that the price hike will drive potential students to competitors.... More >>>
- Despair in the air: For many voters, the Biden-Trump debate means a tough choice just got tougher
WASHINGTON (AP) – The sound you might have heard after the presidential debate this past week was of voters falling between a rock and a hard place.
... More >>>
- Xi meets Vietnam PM, calls for maintaining
(Global Times) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Prime Minister of Vietnam Pham Minh Chinh in Beijing on Wednesday, saying that the rapid economic development and long-term social stability of the two countries demonstrate the strengths of the socialist system.
Xi asked Chinh to convey his cordial greetings to Nguyen Phu Trong, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, and to Vietnamese President To Lam.... More >>>
- More countries seek to apply for BRICS
(China Daily/ANN) -- Malaysia and Thailand’s interest in joining BRICS is expected to expand trade opportunities and allow the two economies to have a bigger role in an increasingly multipolar world, analysts said.... More >>>
- Unesco wants to add Stonehenge to list of endangered heritage sites
PARIS (The Straits Times/ANN) -- The UN’s cultural organisation said June 24 it recommended adding Stonehenge, the renowned prehistoric site in England, to its world heritage in danger list, in what would be seen as an embarrassment for London. ... More >>>
- Huangshan in E.China in full efforts on disaster relief, relocating 10,900 residents
(Global Times) -- Huangshan, a popular tourism city in East China’s Anhui province, has activated its emergency Level II response for flood control, as the city has been hit by heavy rain since Tuesday, with more than 10,900 people being relocated urgently, according to Anhui emergency management authorities on Friday.... More >>>
- President Tô Lâm chairs grand welcome ceremony for President Putin
Hanoi (VNA) — Vietnamese President Tô Lâm on Thursday noon presided over the welcome ceremony for Russian President Vladimir Putin, held solemnly at the Presidential Palace in Hanoi with the highest protocol reserved for heads of state,... More >>>
- Putin to hold talks with Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang
PYONGYANG (TASS) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is in Pyongyang on a state visit, will meet today with his Korean counterpart, President of the State Affairs of Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un.... More >>>
- Russia, DPRK to counter sanctions together — Putin
MOSCOW (TASS) -- Russia, North Korea will together build the security architecture in Eurasia, counter Western sanctions and establish independent transaction systems, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in his article for North Korea’s Rodong Sinmun, published on the Kremlin website.... More >>>
- China-Australia cooperation can cross Pacific, transcend differences: Premier Li
(Global Times) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday visited Adelaide Zoo, which has been home to two China-born giant pandas, where he announced that China will continue panda research cooperation with Australia. The premier’s visit to Adelaide Zoo hosting giant pandas on the second day of his visit to Australia demonstrated that Beijing values ties with Canberra, said experts. ... More >>>
- ‘Overcapacity’ hype reflects G7’s anxiety, lack of confidence
(Global Times) -- Group of Seven (G7) leaders held a final day of talks at their annual summit on Friday in the southern Italian region of Puglia, with discussion of China’s “overcapacity” reportedly topping the agenda. Chinese experts said this reflected G7 countries’ anxiety and fear over their weakness in the international competition across new industries, and they are attempting to label China’s advantageous industries as having “overcapacity” to curb the country’s development.... More >>>
- Beijing vows all ‘necessary measures’ after EU’s EV tariff move
(Global Times) -- Multiple Chinese government departments and organisations voiced on Wednesday strong opposition to the European Commission (EC)’s decision to impose provisional tariffs on Chinese battery electric vehicles (EVs) imports and vowed all necessary countermeasures, urging the EU to immediately correct its wrongdoings.... More >>>
- China calls for ‘comprehensive, effective implementation’ of UNSC resolutions for Gaza cease-fire
(Global Times) -- The UN Security Council (UNSC) on Monday local time adopted a resolution aimed at reaching a comprehensive cease-fire deal drafted by the US in three phases to end the war in Gaza, with China, which voted in favor, calling for all UNSC resolutions to be implemented in a comprehensive and effective manner while expressing concern that the US-drafted text is still ambiguous in a number of aspects.... More >>>
- Fire at Thailand’s famous Chatuchak Weekend Market kills hundreds of caged animals
BANGKOK (AP) -- Hundreds of caged animals died Tuesday after a fire struck Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the most famous markets in Thailand’s capital.... More >>>
- Malaysia cuts diesel subsidies, with hopes that handouts will cushion inflation impact
KUALA LUMPUR (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Malaysia will cut diesel subsidies and float retail prices to the market rate of RM3.35 per litre, an increase of about 55 per cent from RM2.15, starting from June 10.... More >>>
- One case of extremely rare blood type discovered in E.China’s Wenzhou
(Global Times) -- In a recent discovery in Wenzhou, East China’s Zhejiang Province, a cancer patient with a blood type known as para-Bombay phenotype was found. This blood type, rarer than the “Panda Blood” (Rh-negative blood), is often referred to as “Dinosaur Blood.”... More >>>
- EU postpones decision on Chinese EVs, showing internal division
(Global Times)  -- The European Commission has apparently postponed the announcement of findings of and potential measures resulting from its so-called anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), which were reportedly due to be announced on Wednesday, offering a brief breathing room for rapidly escalating trade tensions between two of the world’s biggest traders.... More >>>
- Hard right is set to surge in this week’s European Union elections. Center set to tilt to right, too
BRUSSELS (AP) — It seemed like a throwaway line by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, yet it encapsulated what is at stake for many in this week’s European Union parliamentary elections — What to do with the hard right? And should it be trusted?... More >>>
- Carrying first samples collected from far side of moon, Chang’E-6 takes from lunar surface
(Global Times) -- Carrying valuable rocks and dust collected from the far side of moon, the ascender of China’s Chang’E-6 lunar probe lifted off from the lunar surface and entered lunar orbit with success on Tuesday morning, marking an unprecedented accomplishment in the history of human lunar exploration.... More >>>
- Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as its first woman president
MEXICO CITY (AP) --Mexico’s projected presidential winner Claudia Sheinbaum will become the first woman president in the country’s 200-year history.... More >>>
- Indonesia ready to send peacekeeping, medical forces to support ceasefire in Gaza: Prabowo
(The Straits Times/ANN) -– Indonesia is prepared to send peacekeeping troops and medical forces to support a prospective ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, where Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas have been warring, said Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto on June 1.
... More >>>
- UAE becomes 1st Arab country to sign free trade pact with S. Korea
(The Korea Herald/ANN) -- South Korea and the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday officially signed a comprehensive economic partnership agreement aimed at enhancing trade openness, expanding market access and fostering investment during the first state visit of the UAE president to South Korea.... More >>>
- Thai former PM Thaksin Shinawatra set to face trial over alleged royal insult
(ABC) -- Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to be indicted for allegedly insulting the monarchy, according to the country’s attorney-general.... More >>>
- Fears rise of a second landslide and disease outbreak at site of Papua New Guinea disaster
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Authorities fear a second landslide and a disease outbreak are looming at the scene of Papua New Guinea’s mass-casualty disaster because of water streams and bodies trapped beneath the tons of debris that swept over a village, a United Nations official said Tuesday.... More >>>
- Strides made in China’s tobacco control efforts with 254 cities enacting new non-smoking regulations
(Global Times) -- China is ramping up its efforts to control smoking with 44 cities newly introducing or revising regulations in 2023, bringing the total number of cities with relevant regulations to 254 nationwide, according to national health authorities.... More >>>
- Situation in Papua New Guinea ‘catastrophic’ following landslide, with 4,000 in need of aid
(ABC) -- Humanitarian organisations say urgent supplies of food, water and shelter are needed following a huge landslide in Papua New Guinea’s highlands on Friday morning.... More >>>
- Three European nations to recognise Palestinian state; ‘two-State solution only way out of conflict’
(Global Times)  -- In a historic move expected to quell the flames of war in the Middle East, Ireland, Norway and Spain announced the recognition of a Palestinian state on Wednesday.... More >>>
- To Lam elected President, pledging to work towards centennial goal of being a developed nation
HANOI (Vietnam News/ANN) - Vietnam’s National Assembly on Wednesday morning elected To Lam, 67, to become the President of Vietnam for the 2021-26 term, during its ongoing 7th plenary session of the 15th-tenure. ... More >>>
- Australia sending evacuation flights to pick up those stranded in New Caledonia
(ABC)-- The federal government is sending two flights to riot-stricken New Caledonia to pick up stranded Australian tourists as the French Pacific territory continues to grapple with unrest.... More >>>
- President, Foreign Minister of Iran die in helicopter crash - Red Crescent
DUBAI (TASS)  -- All passengers and the crew of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s helicopter died in the crash, head of the Iranian Red Crescent Society Pir Hossein Kolivand announced. ... More >>>
- Political solution in Ukraine stressed
(China Daily/ANN)  -- President Xi Jinping has reiterated that the fundamental solution to the Ukraine crisis lies in promoting a new type of balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture, highlighting China’s readiness to play a positive role in advancing a political settlement of the protracted Russia-Ukraine conflict.
... More >>>
- Putin says China clearly understands roots of Ukraine crisis
(Global Times) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said before his trip to China that Russia is open to a dialogue on Ukraine, but such negotiations must take into account the interests of all countries involved in the conflict, including Russia’s, and he expressed positive views on China’s position on the Ukraine crisis.... More >>>
- Putin to pay state visit to China, ‘bilateral strategic ties to be further improved’
(Global Times) -- At the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to China from May 16 to 17, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday, with analysts from the two countries saying that the visit will have strategic significance for not only the two major powers, but also the world amid turbulence and profound changes. ... More >>>
- Chinese scientists propose AI-based model to address streamflow, flood forecasting
(Global Times)  – Chinese scientists have recently proposed a novel artificial intelligence (AI)-based model to address streamflow and flood forecasting at a global scale for both gauged... More >>>
- Xi’s Europe visit ‘increases mutual trust, charts a course for future development’
(GlobalTimes) -- In summarsing the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to three European countries, the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Saturday that the visit, taking place in Europe with a global vision, successfully strengthened China-France relations, further solidified China-Serbia relations, enhanced China-Hungary relations, and injected momentum to China-EU cooperation. ... More >>>
- Flash floods kill more than 300 people in northern Afghanistan after heavy rains, UN says
ISLAMABAD (AP) -- Flash floods from unusually heavy seasonal rains in Afghanistan have killed more than 300 people and destroyed over 1,000 houses, the U.N. food agency said Saturday.... More >>>
- Xi, Vucic hold talks, hail evergrowing ironclad friendship
(Global Times) --Chinese President Xi Jinping and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Wednesday signed a joint statement on building a community with shared future in the new era in Belgrade, making Serbia the first European country to build such a community with China.... More >>>
- China signs 18 deals with France to expand economic cooperation, opening up wider for France, Europe
(Global Times) – China and France have signed 18 cooperation agreements between government agencies, covering areas such as aviation, agriculture, people-to-people exchanges, green development and SME cooperation during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to France. ... More >>>
- Xi, Macron hold talks, calling for upholding independence
(Global Times) -- China and France should uphold mutual benefits, jointly oppose acts of “decoupling” and disrupting industrial and supply chains, and say no together to building barriers, President Xi Jinping made the remarks on Monday when holding talks with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron in Paris.... More >>>
- Xi aims to open brighter future of China-France ties via visit
PARIS (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said here on Sunday that he hopes China and France will light up their way forward with the torch of history, open a brighter future of China-France relations and make new contributions to world peace, stability and development. ... More >>>
- Indonesia to relocate 10,000 people after Ruang volcano eruptions left residents ‘running for their lives’
(ABC) – Indonesia will permanently relocate almost 10,000 residents after a series of explosive eruptions of the Ruang volcano raised concerns about the dangers of residing on the island in future, according to a government minister.... More >>>
- Government defends strict eligibility requirements for escaping violence payment
(ABC) -- The federal government says it has no plans to allow more people escaping domestic violence to access an emergency payment of US$5,000 despite calls from the sector to do so.... More >>>
- Home insurance costs spike, with parts of Australia at risk of becoming uninsurable
(ABC) –  In California and Florida, getting home insurance is becoming an almost impossible task. It’s either unaffordable or in some cases not being offered at all, with insurance companies pulling out in droves. ... More >>>
- Seoul to provide housing subsidy to married couples with newborns
(The Korea Herald/ANN) -- The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced Sunday that it will provide housing subsidies to couples who don’t own houses and who have newborns from 2025, to mitigate the trend of couples forgoing parenthood due to the city’s high housing costs and enable more married couples with newborns to continue living in Seoul.... More >>>
- BRICS pushing for common currency, in bid to reduce reliance on US dollar: South African envoy.
(Global Times) -- The BRICS are advancing the progress of its common currency, while actively promoting the use of local currencies from member states to reduce the risks of solely relying on the US dollar, South African Ambassador to China Siyabonga Cyprian Cwele told the Global Times on Friday.... More >>>
- Mass stranding of pilot whales at Toby Inlet near Dunsborough in WA sparks rescue effort
(ABC) -- More than 20 whales have died and 140 more remain in distress during a mass stranding event in WA’s south-west.... More >>>
- China’s Kuaizhou commercial rockets aim 8-10 launches to deploy 30 satellites into orbits in 2024: developer
(Global Times) -- China’s commercial Kuaizhou rockets aim to carry out eight to 10 orbital launches in 2024, to deploy more than 30 satellites into their designated orbits, Global Times has learned from Hubei Sanjiang Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the country’s space contractor China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC) and developers of the rockets, on Tuesday. ... More >>>
- Singapore core inflation cools more than expected to 3.1 percent in March
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Singapore’s core inflation eased more than expected in March as prices of food and services rose at a slower place, with overall inflation dropping to a two-and-a-half-year low.... More >>>
- China releases world’s first high-precision geological map of moon
(Global Times) -- China released the world’s first set of high-precision geological maps of the moon drawn by China’s scientific research team on Sunday, mainly based on scientific exploration data from the Chang’e Project. ... More >>>
- The weapon everyone has access to: Sydney’s horror week of stabbings puts spotlight on knife crime
(ABC) -- Four days, five unrelated stabbing attacks across Sydney. Seven people dead.
Six of those died at the hands of Joel Cauchi, the 40-year-old Queenslander who stormed a busy shopping centre in Bondi Junction on a Saturday afternoon and began indiscriminately stabbing shoppers, mostly women, before he was shot dead by a police officer.... More >>>
- Singapore is 5th smartest city in the world, top in Asia: Global index
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Singapore is the world’s fifth-smartest city, moving up two levels from its ranking in 2023, according to the 2024 Smart City Index.... More >>>
- Chinese health authority, experts emphasise importance of vaccination amid global rise of pertussis cases
(Global Times) -- China’s health authority issued a guidance on preventing pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough or 100-day cough, on Tuesday, while the disease has reportedly been surging in many countries and regions across the world. ... More >>>
- Russian FM’s visit to China ‘further strengthens strategic partnership’
(Global Times) -- As Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived in China on Monday for an official visit, many observers said the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership will be further strengthened despite US pressure.... More >>>
- US should not politicise trade issues, Premier Li tells Yellen
(Global Times) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday met with US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in Beijing, where he urged the US to work with China to adhere to the basic norms of the market economy of fair competition and open cooperation, and refrain from politicising or overstretching the concept of national security regarding economic and trade issues. ... More >>>
- China, US discuss key economic issues as Yellen visit continues
(Global Times) -- Visiting US Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen has reportedly arrived in Beijing on Saturday to continue meetings with senior Chinese officials, after having “candid, pragmatic and constructive” communication in the southern city of Guangzhou with Vice Premier He Lifeng, who is also China’s lead person for China-US economic and trade affairs. ... More >>>
- Taiwan earthquake injuries climb above 1,000, missing hotel workers found
HUALIEN, Taiwan (The Strait Times/ANN) -- The number of people injured in a 7.4-magnitude earthquake in eastern Taiwan climbed past 1,000 on April 4 though the death toll remained steady at nine, with dozens of workers on their way to a hotel in a national park mostly now found safe.... More >>>
- North Korea test-fires new intermediated ballistic missile carrying hypersonic warhead
TOKYO (TASS/) -- North Korea test-fired on April 2 a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) Hwasongpho-16B equipped with ‘hypersonic gliding warhead,’ the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Wednesday. ... More >>>
- Xi meets Prabowo; visit to deepen strategic cooperation
(Global Times) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with President-elect of the Republic of Indonesia and Great Indonesia Movement Party General Chairman Prabowo Subianto in Beijing on Monday.... More >>>
- Australian of the Year Richard Scolyer ‘blown away’ by success of radical new brain cancer treatment
(ABC News) -- World-first clinical trials of a groundbreaking treatment for aggressive brain tumours are likely to begin soon following “fantastic” results in the high-profile case of Australian of the Year, Professor Richard Scolyer. ... More >>>
- President Joe Biden is lapping Donald Trump when it comes to campaign cash - and he’ll need it
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign is raising gobs of cash. And it has an election-year strategy that, in a nutshell, aims to spend more - and spend faster.... More >>>
- Boao Forum gathering seeks answers in face of global challenges
(Global Times) -- The Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) has touched off a wave of diplomatic frenzy that brings together leaders from across Asia and beyond to discuss both economic and geopolitical issues and seek answers facing the region. ... More >>>
- Five Chinese, one Pakistani killed during terrorist attack in Pakistan
(Global Times) -- Five Chinese nationals and their Pakistani driver were killed in a suicide terror attack on Tuesday at the China-invested Dasu hydropower project, the Chinese Embassy to Pakistan said in a statement. The embassy has demanded Pakistan to conduct a thorough investigation and punish the culprits severely. ... More >>>
- S’pore may be hotter in 2024 than 2023 due to lingering effects of El Nino: MSS report
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN) -- If droplets of sweat bead your forehead the moment you step outdoors and run down your back despite an umbrella overhead, brace yourself.... More >>>
- Swift parrots still in peril, despite revised numbers of surviving birds due to new counting method
(ABC News) -- While a new method of counting has resulted in the estimates of an endangered bird species being revised upwards, researchers say it in no way means the threat of extinction has lessened for the swift parrot. ... More >>>
- Putin calls Moscow terrorist attack bloody, barbaric, vows retribution
MOSCOW (China Daily/Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday called a terrorist attack here bloody and barbaric, vowing retribution for the perpetrators, organisers and financiers.... More >>>
- Vietnam president resigns, deepening political uncertainty
BANGKOK (Straits Times/ANN) -- Vietnam’s Communist Party on March 20 accepted President Vo Van Thuong’s resignation, deepening the political uncertainty in a country where top officials have been ensnared in corruption crackdowns.... More >>>
- Van Thịnh Phat chairwoman faces death penalty for region’s largest financial crimes
HCM CITY (Vietnam News) – Truong My Lan, chairwoman of real estate developer Vạn Thịnh Phat, is facing death penalty for bribery, violating bank regulations and embezzlement, which is considered the largest financial scandal in Southeast Asia. ... More >>>
- EU, Egypt agree US$8.1b deal to stem migration flow
CAIRO (China Daily/Xinhua) --  The European Union announced a 7.4 billion euro (US$8.1 billion) funding package and an upgraded relationship with Egypt on Sunday as part of a push to stem migrant flows to Europe that has been criticised by rights groups.... More >>>
- Set to win presidential election, Putin vows to achieve national goals
MOSCOW (Xinhua) -- Russia’s incumbent President and presidential candidate Vladimir Putin, who is set to win reelection, said he would do his utmost to achieve national development goals on Monday morning. ... More >>>
- China-Laos Railway clocks up 30m passengers
(China Daily) -- The China-Laos Railway had registered more than 30 million passenger trips and over 34 million metric tons of cargo by Tuesday, facilitating people and cargo movements from both countries and showcasing the railway’s role in injecting vitality into economic and social development along the line.... More >>>
- Time magazine spotlights ‘Salesman’ Srettha with wide-ranging interview
(The Nation/ANN) -- Time magazine has placed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on the cover of its March 25 edition, calling him “The Salesman”.... More >>>
- Russia hails China’s initiative on non-use of nuclear weapons first - senior diplomat
MOSCOW (TASS) -- Russia hails China’s initiative calling on nuclear powers to sign a treaty on the non-use of nuclear weapons first, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said. ... More >>>
- Casino raids in Preah Sihanouk lead to arrest of over 200 foreigners
PHNOM PENH (The Star/The Phnom Penh Post/ANN) -- Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior’s cyber scam suppression working group made hundreds of arrests at two illegal gambling sites in Preah Sihanouk province on March 9 and 10.... More >>>
- Death toll from West Sumatra floods, landslides rises to 26
(The Jakarta Post/ANN) -- The death toll from flash flooding and landslides in West Sumatra of Indonesia has risen to 26, an official said Monday, with at least 11 people still missing.  ... More >>>
- ‘China remains a key ally’
MELBOURNE (The Star/ANN) -- As a “fiercely independent” nation, Malaysia will not be dictated to by anyone over its relations with China or any of its important neighbours, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.... More >>>
- Amid great power rivalry, closer Asean-Australia ties will preserve peace and stability in S-E Asia
MELBOURNE (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Australia is well positioned to support Asean’s efforts to maintain regional peace and stability as the great power rivalry between the United States and China plays out in South-east Asia, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on March 6.... More >>>
- Thailand criticised for captive breeding of elephants for tourism
BANGKOK (The Nation) -- Thailand is among the countries that that have been blamed for the captive breeding of wild animals, especially the breeding of elephants for their role in the tourism industry. ... More >>>
- China’s national legislature opens annual session
BEIJING (Xinhua) -- The 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s national legislature, opened its second session Tuesday morning at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. ... More >>>
- Key Northern California highway closed as snow continues to fall in the blizzard-hit Sierra Nevada
TRUCKEE, Calif. (AP) -- A major highway was closed and ski resorts were shut down Sunday as the effects of a powerful blizzard continued to cause problems across the Sierra Nevada, and forecasters warned that more heavy snow was on the way for Northern California.... More >>>
- Cambodia’s pioneering Phnom Penh Post newspaper will stop print publication
PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA (AP) -- The Phnom Penh Post, a newspaper founded in 1992 as Cambodia sought to re-establish stability and democracy after decades of war and unrest, said Friday that it will stop publishing in print this month, the latest blow to the country’s dwindling independent media. ... More >>>
- UK announces new funding to clear mines in 8 countries
The UK Government on February 20 announced new funding to assist the British organisations the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) and The HALO Trust (HALO) to help clear mines and educate communities about the associated risks in the countries of Angola, ... More >>>
- Laos proposes to sell 4,150 MW of wind power to Vietnam
HANOI (Vietnam News) -- Vietnam Electricity (EVN) has received proposals from seven wind farm investors in Laos that want to sell electricity to Vietnam, with a total capacity of nearly 4,150 MW, the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) has said. ... More >>>
- UN chief warns ‘nuclear shadow’ has returned to haunt humanity
GENEVA (TASS) -- The shadow of nuclear apocalypse, which loomed over humanity last century, has made a comeback, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said.... More >>>
- US and British strikes on Houthi sites in Yemen answer militants’ surge in Red Sea attacks on ships
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The US and Britain struck 18 Houthi targets in Yemen, answering a recent surge in attacks by the Iran-backed militia group on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, including a missile strike this past week that set fire to a cargo vessel. ... More >>>
- UN chief calls for end to Ukraine crisis
UNITED NATIONS (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday called for an end to the Ukraine crisis.
He made the appeal at a Security Council meeting scheduled to coincide with the second anniversary of Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine. ... More >>>
- China, France eye more direct flights, high-level exchanges
(China Daily) -- At the latest talk between high-level officials, Beijing and Paris have agreed to increase the frequency of direct flights between the two countries to further facilitate people-to-people exchanges.... More >>>
- Asean tourism reaps Spring Festival gains
(China Daily) -- Southeast Asia has become one of the most popular destinations for Chinese travelers during the recent Chinese New Year holiday, offering further proof that the country’s outbound tourism is recovering strongly. ... More >>>
- Vietnam to send 125,000 labourers abroad in 2024
Hanoi (Vietnam News) -- Vietnam aims to send 125,000 labourers abroad to work under contracts in 2024, focusing on key traditional markets such as Japan, Taiwan (China) and the Republic of Korea (RoK), according to the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA).... More >>>
- MSC participants call for enhanced int’l cooperation
MUNICH, Germany (Xinhua) -- Participants and experts present at the just-concluded Munich Security Conference (MSC) have called for enhanced international cooperation in addressing global challenges. ... More >>>
- Indonesia’s election commission websites face ‘extraordinary’ cyberattacks on voting day
JAKARTA (The Jakarta Post/ANN) -- The General Elections Commission (KPU) reported that its websites faced hundreds of millions of denial-of-service (DoS) cyberattacks during election day on Wednesday.... More >>>
- Int’l pressure mounts on Israel to agree to Gaza truce
JERUSALEM (Xinhua) -- Israel is facing mounting calls to agree to a truce in the Gaza Strip as its deadly conflict with Hamas has lasted for more than four months and claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza as of Wednesday.... More >>>
- Victorian power outages improve, as clean-up from deadly storms and fires continue
(ABC) -- Thousands of Victorians are still without power, a day after deadly storms tore down transmission towers and closed roads across the state. ... More >>>
- 4 killed, 5 injured in confrontations on Lebanese-Israeli borders
 BEIRUT (Xinhua) -- Two Hezbollah fighters and two members of Al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) movement, were killed on Monday, and five were wounded in confrontations on the Lebanese-Israeli borders, Lebanese security sources told Xinhua. ... More >>>
- Landslide victims’ kin brace for worst
MACO, Davao de Oro, Philippines (Daily Inquirer/ANN) -- The number of fatalities in the Feb. 6 landslide at Barangay Masara here climbed further on Sunday, as 19 more bodies were retrieved from the site.... More >>>

- Dozens of Palestinians killed in Rafah as Israeli ground offensive looms
GAZA (Xinhua) -- Dozens of Palestinians were killed by the Israeli army in the southernmost Gazan city of Rafah in the past 24 hours, as Israel threatened to launch a military operation in the city currently holding more than half of the strip’s population, Palestinian medical and security sources said on Saturday.... More >>>
- Blinken voices hope for ceasefire deal between Israel, Hamas
JERUSALEM (Xinhua) -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in Israel on Wednesday that further efforts are needed on a hostage-for-ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas but expressed optimism such a deal can be achieved.... More >>>
- 6 reported dead, 31 injured in Davao de Oro landslide
MANILA, Philippines (Daily Inquirer/ANN) -- Six miners were reported dead and 31 others injured after a landslide in Maco, Davao de Oro, the municipal government said on Wednesday. ... More >>>
- Hundreds of people are missing as the death toll from Chile’s wildfires reaches 123
SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) -- Volunteers in central Chile tried to remove charred metal, broken glass and other debris Monday from neighborhoods devastated by wildfires over the past several days, as officials raised the death toll to 123. Hundreds of people remain missing.... More >>>
- Forest fires rage on in central Chile, killing at least 112 people over 3 days
SANTIAGO, Chile (AP)  -- Firefighters wrestled Sunday with massive forest fires that broke out in central Chile two days earlier, as officials extended curfews in cities most heavily affected by the blazes and said at least 112 people had been killed. ... More >>>
- H5N1 bird flu detected in Laos
VIENTIANE (Xinhua) -- The bird flu virus H5N1 has been detected at a market in Xaythany district in the Lao capital Vientiane, according to a report from the Department of Livestock and Fisheries under the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.... More >>>
- Asean ministers to discuss AI threats, scams over two-day meeting in S’pore
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Members of Asean must work closely together to fend off and respond to cyber threats, which are on the rise due to scams and fake news fuelled by artificial intelligence (AI), said Singapore’s Communications and Information Minister Josephine Teo on February 1.... More >>>
- UN chief calls for urgent steps to de-escalate situation in Gaza, surrounding areas
UNITED NATIONS (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday urgently appealed for measures to reduce tensions in Gaza and its neighboring regions.... More >>>
- Red Sea crisis mounts pressure on Asia trade
(China Daily/ANN) -- The ongoing Red Sea crisis is putting pressure on Asian exporters, especially those that primarily ship to Europe, analysts said, ... More >>>
- Global anti-graft watchdog places Singapore as 5th least corrupt country in world index
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN) -- Global anti-graft watchdog Transparency International has ranked Singapore as the fifth least corrupt country in the world, with a score that also places the Republic as the least corrupt country in Asia. ... More >>>
- China-Laos Railway train adds 50 seats
(China Daily/ANN) -- More seats for international passengers are being offered on the bullet train operating on the China-Laos Railway to meet the strong demand for travel between the two nations as the Spring Festival approaches next month, the line’s operator, China Railway Kunming Group, said on Saturday.... More >>>
- Xi, Macron eye stronger ties
BEIJING (China Daily/ANN) -- At a high-end reception marking the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic ties in downtown Beijing on Thursday, both President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron delivered video speeches and voiced hopes on taking the relations to a greater height.... More >>>
- Full emergency at Delhi airport after bomb threat for Darbhanga-Delhi flight
NEW DELHI (The Statesman/ANN) -- A full emergency was declared at Delhi airport after a Spicejet flight from Darbhanga to Delhi recieved a bomb threat. However, the plane landed safely and authorities searched the aircraft thoroughly but nothing suspicious was found.... More >>>
- S. Korea’s cold wave halts airplanes, freezes water metres
SEOUL (The Korea Herald The Korea Herald) -- With a heavy snow advisory in effect centreed on the Chungcheong and Jeolla provinces, frozen water meters, canceled flights and restricted ship operations have been reported across the country. ... More >>>
- 3rd South Summit calls for ending Israel-Palestine conflict
KAMPALA (Xinhua) -- The Third South Summit ended on Monday in the Ugandan capital Kampala with participating leaders calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the protection of civilians.... More >>>
- Israeli PM rejects ceasefire plan as army continues strike in Gaza
JERUSALEM (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. ... More >>>
- WEF calls for rebuilding trust amid uncertainty
DAVOS, Switzerland (Xinhua) -- The World Economic Forum (WEF) concluded its 2024 annual meeting here on Friday, calling to rebuild trust in the face of global uncertainty.... More >>>
- A cholera outbreak in Zambia has caused more than 400 deaths and infected 10,000
LUSAKA, Zambia (AP) — Zambia is reeling from a major cholera outbreak that has killed more than 400 people and infected more than 10,000,... More >>>
- UN voices concern over Iran’s attacks in Syria, Iraq
UNITED NATIONS (Xinhua) -- The United Nations is concerned about Iran’s missile attacks against what Tehran called the bases of terrorists and Israel’s intelligence service Mossad in Syria and Iraq, said a UN spokesman on Tuesday. ... More >>>
- UN chief calls for humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza 100 days into conflict
UNITED NATIONS (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday again called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza as the conflict turns 100 days. ... More >>>
- Israeli PM vows to continue fighting against Hamas as Gaza conflict hits 100 days
JERUSALEM (Xinhua) -- The bloody Israel-Hamas conflict entered its 100th day on Sunday, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledging to continue the military campaign in the Gaza Strip until “total victory” is achieved.... More >>>
- World witnesses spillover effects from Gaza conflict
(China Daily/ANN) -- The Palestine-Israel conflict that has been ongoing for nearly 100 days may set off a chain reaction and exacerbate instability in the Middle East, experts warned.... More >>>
- Violent riots in PNG leave 16 people dead, as MP calls for PM James Marape to step down
(ABC) -- Sixteen people have died in violent riots in Papua New Guinea after some residents took advantage of police being on strike on Wednesday to set shops and businesses alight in the capital.... More >>>
- WHO says humanitarian, medical situation “dramatically bad” in Gaza
GENEVA (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organisation (WHO) warned of a humanitarian and health catastrophe in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday as humanitarian space and access to medical services continue to shrink. ... More >>>
- Central Japan quake death toll tops 200, over 100 unaccounted for
(Kyodo News) -- The death toll from a powerful New Year’s Day earthquake that struck Ishikawa Prefecture and surrounding areas in central Japan has surpassed 200 with over 100 still missing, as a large-scale search operation started at a severely hit area, local authorities said Tuesday.... More >>>
- Boeing jetliner that suffered inflight blowout was restricted because of concern over warning light
PORTLAND, Ore (AP) -- The Boeing jetliner that suffered an inflight blowout over Oregon was not being used for flights to Hawaii after a warning light that could have indicated a pressurisation problem lit up on three different flights, a federal official said Sunday. ... More >>>
- Woman rescued 5 days after Japan quake, as death toll tops 120
(Kyodo News) -- A woman was rescued from a collapsed house in Suzu, Ishikawa Prefecture on Saturday, five days after a powerful earthquake struck the prefecture on the Sea of Japan coast, as the death toll from the quake topped 120 with over 200 still unaccounted for, according to authorities.... More >>>
- Air traffic controller ‘unaware’ JCG plane entered runway; JAL Crew, passengers also being questioned by authorities
(The Yomiuri Shimbun) -- An air traffic controller told transport ministry investigators that he was not aware a Japan Coast Guard plane had entered a runway at Haneda Airport before it collided with a Japan Airlines jet, it has been learned.... More >>>
- Death toll rises to 64 in Noto Peninsula Earthquake
(The Yomiuri Shimbun) -- The death toll in the powerful earthquakes that hit the Noto Peninsula and other areas of Ishikawa Prefecture had reached 64 people as of 11 a.m. Wednesday. ... More >>>
- 30 confirmed dead in Noto quake as more damage reports come in
(Kyodo News) -- At least 30 people have been confirmed dead in the powerful earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula and surrounding areas in central Japan on New Year’s Day as more reports of damage came in and rescuers raced to find survivors on Tuesday.... More >>>
- Two years on, RCEP boosts trade amid protectionism, set to bring greater opportunities
(Global Times) -- Chinese experts hail the significant role of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in promoting regional trade and investment cooperation despite rising protectionism, as the agreement celebrates its second anniversary on January 1, 2024. ... More >>>
- Life sentences upheld for three high-ranking officials in “repatriation flight” bribery case
Hanoi (Vietnam News/ANN) -- The High-level People’s Court in Hanoi rejected the appeal and upheld the sentence of life imprisonment handed down at the first-instance trial for three defendants in the “repatriation flights” case on Wednesday during an appeal trial that began this week.... More >>>
- Myanmar and China sign follow-up contract related to Kyaukpyu SEZ Deep Sea Port Project
(Eleven/ANN) -- The signing ceremony of the additional contract (Addendum) related to the Kyaukpyu Special Economic Zone deep sea port project was held on the evening of December 26 at the Horizon Lake View Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw. ... More >>>
- New COVID variant JN.1 makes nearly half latest infections in US
LOS ANGELES (Xinhua) -- A new coronavirus subvariant JN.1 is spreading fast in the United States, and is now accounting for nearly half of the latest COVID-19 cases in the country, according to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).... More >>>
- At least 70 killed in Israeli airstrike on refugee camp in central Gaza
GAZA (Xinhua) -- At least 70 Palestinians were killed on Sunday in an Israeli airstrike on the al-Maghazi refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, reported the state-run Palestine TV. ... More >>>
- Global dengue surge sparks concern as cases top 5 million this year
GENEVA (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organisation (WHO) sounded the alarm on the threat of dengue Friday as the mosquito-borne disease has spread to previously untouched countries, infecting over 5 million and killing more than 5,000 this year.... More >>>
- China, Russia hail bilateral ties as strategic choice, stabiliser of intl relations amid Russian PM’s China visit
(The Global Times) -- Maintaining and developing China-Russia relations is a strategic choice made by both sides based on the fundamental interests of the two peoples, ... More >>>
- If US can clear way for ‘cease-fire in Gaza’, Red Sea problem would be solved
(The Global Times) -- The US-led joint patrol in the Red Sea following Houthi militia attacks against ships heading toward Israel shows that the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in Gaza is not only affecting the whole region, but also the international community. Chinese analysts pointed out that the root cause of the trade route problem is the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and only a sustainable cease-fire and allowing humanitarian aid to enter Gaza via land and ... More >>>
- Kishida says Japan is ready to lead Asia in achieving decarbonisation and energy security
TOKYO (AP) -- Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida pledged to lead efforts to simultaneously achieve decarbonisation, economic growth and energy security in Asia, an ambitious goal he set Monday at a regional climate summit attended by Southeast Asian leaders.... More >>>
- Far North Queensland township evacuation delayed by weather, rain easing in Cairns and Cooktown
(ABC News) -- Authorities have called off today’s planned aerial evacuation of the town of Wujal Wujal as record rainfall and dangerous flooding continues to impact Far North Queensland. ... More >>>
- WHO chief reiterates call for ceasefire in Gaza
GENEVA (Xinhua) -- Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organisation (WHO), reiterated his call on Friday for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.... More >>>
- COP28 delivers “historic” consensus to accelerate global climate action: president
DUBAI (Xinhua) -- COP28 President Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber announced on Wednesday that parties to the UN climate summit have reached a final consensus on a “historic” climate deal.... More >>>
- Biden hosts Zelensky at White House, reiterates need for Congress to approve Ukraine aid
WASHINGTON (Xinhua) -- US President Joe Biden on Tuesday hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House, where he reiterated the need for Congress to approve his administration’s request for more money to help Ukraine defeat Russia. ... More >>>
- UN chief urges developed countries to fully honor climate commitments
DUBAI (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged developed countries to fully meet their commitments on addressing climate change.... More >>>
- WHO calls for urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza
GENEVA (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organisation (WHO) Executive Board adopted a resolution on Sunday, urging for prompt and unobstructed humanitarian aid access to the Gaza Strip. .. More >>>
- Putin seeks another presidential term in 2024
(China Daily/ANN) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he would run for president again in the 2024 presidential election, a move that could keep him in power until 2030.... More >>>
- Following Pakistan’s Official Application, Laos intends to join BRICS
(Sputnik) -- Laos has demonstrated interest in BRICS and more than 40 nations have also indicated their interest to join the bloc.... More >>>
- Putin to visit UAE, Saudi Arabia for talks
MOSCOW (TASS) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit two Middle Eastern countries - the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia - for bilateral talks on Wednesday.... More >>>
- More bodies found after surprise eruption of Indonesia’s Mount Marapi, raising apparent toll to 23
BATU PALANO, Indonesia (AP) -- Rescuers searching the hazardous slopes of Indonesia’s Mount Marapi volcano found more bodies among the climbers caught by a surprise eruption two days ago, raising the number of confirmed and presumed dead to 23. ... More >>>
- Israel expands ground operation to southern Gaza Strip
JERUSALEM (Xinhua) -- Israel's military chief Herzi Halevi said on Sunday that the military has expanded the ground operation against Hamas to the southern Gaza Strip, an area previously considered as a "safe zone." ... More >>>
- Wang Yi urges full cease-fire as truce between Israel-Hamas set to expire
(China Daily/ANN) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday emphasised the need for a comprehensive cease-fire in Palestine, called for renewed commitment to the two-state solution and urged the United Nations Security Council to take responsible and meaningful actions.... More >>>
- UN General Assembly adopts resolution on Golan Heights — results of vote
UNITED NATIONS (TASS) -- The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution calling upon Israel to withdraw from the occupied Golan Heights, a TASS correspondent reported. ... More >>>
- Israel, Hamas agree to extend truce, more int’l mediation in place
DOHA/GAZA (Xinhua) -- With the four-day truce expiring on Tuesday, Israel and Hamas have agreed to extend the pause by two days, said a Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson on Monday.... More >>>
- Hamas releases 3rd batch of hostages, truce extension under discussion
GAZA (Xinhua) -- The Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, released on Sunday the third batch of hostages from the Gaza Strip under a temporary ceasefire agreement with Israel.... More >>>
- Asean lobby for green mining
(The Phnom Penh Post/ANN) -- Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rattanak has called for robust cooperation among Asean members in the mining industry. He also urged open dialogue and responsile investment in the sector.... More >>>
- Hamas reveals details of first cease-fire, swap deal since Gaza conflict 
GAZA (Xinhua) -- Israel and the Gaza-ruling Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) confirmed Wednesday a cease-fire agreement in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip for four days,... More >>>
- Israel, Hamas confirm deal on releasing hostages, ceasefire
JERUSALEM/GAZA/DOHA (Xinhua) -- Israel and Hamas on Wednesday confirmed their agreement on a Qatar-mediated proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza. ... More >>>
- The bugs in our beds: insecticide purchases soar in Asia
(The Nation/ANN) -- Bed bugs have been making headlines over the past few months, starting with reports from Europe and spreading to the US. Now they have infiltrated Asia.... More >>>
- Businesses laud new hours, push for similar extension on Thai side
(The Nation/ANN) -- In a bid to streamline trade operations and reduce logistical expenses, the Thai-Laos border checkpoint in Nong Khai has now started opening at midnight. ... More >>>
- Xi, Biden hold historic summit, charting course for improving bilateral ties
SAN FRANCISCO (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden on Wednesday held a positive, comprehensive and constructive summit, charting the course for improving and developing bilateral ties.... More >>>
- Summit meeting between Xi, Biden sees candid talks
(China Daily/ANN) -- President Xi Jinping and United States President Joe Biden agreed on Wednesday to resume the high-level military-to-military communication between the two countries on the basis of equality and respect, as part of the consensus they reached during their meeting in San Francisco.... More >>>
- Xi arrives in San Francisco for talks with Biden, APEC meeting
SAN FRANCISCO (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday arrived in San Francisco for a summit with US President Joe Biden, and to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting. ... More >>>
- Former UK PM David Cameron makes shock comeback as Sunak reshuffles cabinet
LONDON (Xinhua) -- Former British Prime Minister David Cameron made a shock return to government on Monday as he was appointed foreign secretary in Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s cabinet reshuffle. ... More >>>
- Collapse of healthcare system adds to Gaza’s suffering
GAZA (Xinhua) -- Dozens of Palestinians were killed in the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza in the past 24 hours, amidst a collapse of the healthcare system in the enclave.... More >>>
- Improved a little more, but Delhi air remains ‘poor’
(The Statesman/ANN) -- Delhi’ites woke up to a relatively pleasant weather on Saturday with a little more improvement in the quality of air as a result of yesterday’s rain. However, after the drop in air pollution levels, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) level remained at 220, which falls under the ‘poor’ category.... More >>>
- G7 ministers back up humanitarian pauses in Gaza and two-state solution
(China Daily/ANN) -- Foreign ministers of the Group of Seven called for urgent actions to respond to the... More >>>
- One month into conflict, Israeli troops reach “heart of Gaza City”
JERUSALEM (Xinhua) -- Israeli troops were fighting on Tuesday “in the heart of Gaza City,” a senior Israeli commander said, on the 32nd day of the Israel-Hamas conflict that has claimed the lives of 10,328 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.... More >>>
- China, Australia embark on right path of improving ties: Xi
BEIJING (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Beijing on Monday, saying China and Australia have embarked on the right path of improving relations.... More >>>
- US, Arab states at odds on truce
GAZA/JERUSALEM (Xinhua) -- The United States and Arab countries disagreed on the need for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip as Israeli military strikes killed civilians at a United Nations shelter and hospitals. ... More >>>
- Xi-Scholz talk highlights pragmatic cooperation
(Global Times) – Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday held a video meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, during which he noted that China and Germany, both responsible major countries, should not only develop bilateral relations and serve as examples of win-win cooperation, but also defend the international order and multilateralism, and work together to address global challenges.... More >>>
- Chinese authorities discover hundreds of illegal foreign-related meteorological detection sites
(Global Times) -- Chinese authorities discovered hundreds of illegal foreign-related meteorological detection sites which are widely distributed across more than 20 provinces nationwide,... More >>>
- Israel sends more troops ‘deep in Gaza’, conducts deadly airstrikes on refugee camp
JERUSALEM/GAZA (Xinhua) -- Israel intensified its ground offensive in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, sending troops deep into the Palestinian territory and clashing with Hamas militants in fierce battles. ... More >>>
- Concerns mount for elderly as fewer Japanese donate blood
(The Japan Times/ANN) -- The number of people under the age of 40 who have donated blood in Japan in the last decade has declined 33 percent, according to data from the Japanese Red Cross Society, posing a concern as the country’s population rapidly ages.... More >>>
- Survey shows 60 percent of Japanese wrongly believe antibiotics can treat a cold
(The Japan Times/ANN) -- Nearly 60 percent of people erroneously believe that antibiotics are effective in treating a cold, according to a recent survey in Japan, with medical experts warning their misuse and overuse can increase antimicrobial resistance. ... More >>>
- China vows to provide more benefits to neighbours through modernisation
Beijing, China: China will continue to promote the development of principles in the new era, hoping that the Chinese style of modernisation will deliver more benefits to its neighbours and contribute to Asia’s modernisation, Chinese President Xi Jinping has said.... More >>>
- Extreme heatwave warnings grip Australia’s north as the south-east prepares for a cold front
(ABC) -- Extreme and severe weather warnings are gripping Australia this week, all the way from the north-west to the south-east.... More >>>
- UN warns of clear violations of international law in Gaza
United Nations (Prensa Latina) -- United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday warned of clear violations of international humanitarian law in the Israel-Palestine conflict. ... More >>>
- Accelerating switch to renewables could put fossil fuel peak in sight this decade: IEA
(ABC) -- Almost half of the world’s electricity could come from emissions-free sources such as wind, solar and nuclear by the end of the decade according to a report from the International Energy Agency (IEA). ... More >>>
- A large demonstration in Brussels calls for ceasefire in Gaza
BRUSSELS (Xinhua) -- A large demonstration rallied on Sunday afternoon in Brussels, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaze Strip. ... More >>>