All Asia Pacific
Pandas on a mission: China sends furry envoys to boost US ties – and aid conservationThe return of pandas to the United States is sparking a new wave of “panda-monium,” highlighting the bears’ enduring power to shape China’s foreign relations and global wildlife conservation.
First LookTokyo’s female governor keeps winning: What it means for Japan’s male-dominated politicsThe first woman governor of Tokyo, Yuriko Koike, has won a third term – against another woman candidate. The race between multiple women signifies a push for greater female representation in Japanese politics, which is still overwhelmingly dominated by men.
China’s new world order: What Xi’s vision would mean for human rights, securityChina’s road map for a new, multipolar world order raises questions of fairness, cooperation, and good governance.
How North Korea is capitalizing on Russia’s war woesVladimir Putin’s brief Asia tour marks his latest bid to rally old allies of the Soviet Union, with major ramifications for international security.
First LookTrash talk? Border tensions soar as North Korea deploys more garbage balloons.North Korea has resumed its launch of balloons filled with trash toward South Korea. Citizens have been advised not to touch the balloons and to report sightings to authorities.
First LookRussia and North Korea ink historic deal. What are the ramifications?Russia and North Korea have signed a pact mandating mutual aid in the event either country is attacked. It’s the “strongest deal” between the two nations since the Cold War.
First LookPhilippines, China on collision course in disputed South China Sea territoryThe collision of a Chinese vessel and a Philippine supply ship near the disputed Spratly Islands on June 17 is yet another incident among increasingly frequent and direct confrontations between China and its neighbors surrounding the South China Sea.
First LookA historic moment for Thailand: Senate approves same-sex marriage billThailand’s Senate majority voted to approve a bill legalizing same-sex marriages. It just needs the king’s endorsement. Thailand would become the first country in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage.
First LookOn the 35th anniversary of Tiananmen Square, commemorations live on overseasAs China quashes large-scale commemorations of the 35th anniversary of Beijing’s June 4 Tiananmen Square crackdown within its borders, overseas commemorative events have grown increasingly crucial to foster hope and counteract aggressive censorship efforts.
First LookKorean peace deal pops as trash-filled balloons sour border relationsIn response to North Korea’s launch of trash-carrying balloons, South Korea says it will suspend a rapprochement deal between the two states – and blast foreign news and K-pop songs across the border.
First LookPro-democracy advocates in Hong Kong press on as Beijing seeks to make example of them in courtFor decades, Hong Kong’s activists have been fighting for democracy. The Hong Kong court on May 30 convicted 14 pro-democracy activists in the city’s biggest national security case under a law imposed by Beijing that has all but wiped out public dissent.
First LookAs rescuers reach Papua New Guinea landslide, death toll estimate climbsThe International Organization for Migration has increased its estimate of the death toll from a massive landslide in Papua New Guinea to more than 670. Local officials had initially put the death toll on Friday at 100 or more.
Taiwan protesters meet China’s intimidation with defianceChina launched aggressive military exercises after Taiwan elections chose a pro-independence president. Massive protests are also a show of force.
First LookChina practices military exercises off coast of Taiwan as ‘punishment’ for electionsAs a new president takes office in Taiwan, China’s two-day military drills surrounding the island have put the country on high alert, scrambling jets and warning missile, naval, and land units.
First LookWhere is New Caledonia and why are people protesting against France there?In New Caledonia, a French territory in the South Pacific, the indigenous Kanak are rising up to protect their voice. Lawmakers in Paris want to allow recent arrivals to vote in provincial elections.
First LookMacron visits French territory of New Caledonia amid state of emergency over riotsFrench President Emmanuel Macron is making an impromptu trip to the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia. Riots there have raised questions about France’s handling of its colonial-era territories.
Taiwan’s new president urges China to ‘face reality’ and work toward peaceThe inauguration of Taiwan’s new president marks a fresh chapter in cross-strait relations. Can President Lai Ching-te maintain peace?
First LookElon Musk launches Starlink internet satellites in IndonesiaElon Musk launched Starlink satellite internet service in Indonesia, the world's largest archipelago nation. Indonesia has been for years trying to secure deals with Tesla on battery investment and SpaceX’s fast internet for the country's remote regions.
What China’s renewable energy boom means for the worldChina’s booming renewable energy industry may be stirring trade tensions, but it could also accelerate a green transition – in China and elsewhere.
How China’s tech-forward EVs are dominating the industryChina’s booming electric vehicle industry is sparking concern among foreign automakers. Could it benefit consumers?
