Calls For Advancing Women’s Rights Dominate International Women’s Day In Afghanistan former President Hamid Karzai

On International Women’s Day, prominent Afghan figures, including former President Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah, advocate for the improvement of women’s situations in Afghanistan, urging the caretaker government to reopen schools and universities for girls. In a statement, former President Karzai emphasized the crucial role of education and job opportunities for women in achieving progress […]

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Australia Offers Support to Malaysia for Renewed MH370 Search on 10th Anniversary

On the 10-year anniversary of the mysterious disappearance of Malaysian Airlines flight MH370, Australia has extended its support to the Malaysian government for a renewed search effort to locate the wreckage. Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, and Transport Minister, Catherine King, expressed their “sincere sympathies” in a joint statement released on Friday. The ministers acknowledged […]

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North Korea Escalates Calls for Strengthened War Preparedness Amid Ongoing US-South Korea Drills

In a recent development, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has urged his military to enhance war fighting capabilities against the United States and South Korea, according to state media reports. The call comes in response to the ongoing joint military exercises between South Korea and the US, which North Korea views as an invasion […]

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“Singleism” Trend Challenges China’s Traditional Marriage Norms

In a cultural shift challenging traditional marriage norms, a growing number of Chinese women are choosing a life of singledom, citing concerns about sacrifice, career development, and a desire for autonomy. This trend, often referred to as “singleism,” presents a unique challenge for the Chinese government as it grapples with declining birth rates and seeks […]

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The China Race: Global Competition for Alternative World Orders

By Mercy A. Kuo The Diplomat author Mercy Kuo regularly engages subject-matter experts, policy practitioners, and strategic thinkers across the globe for their diverse insights into U.S. Asia policy. This conversation with Dr. Fe-Ling Wang – professor at the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs, Georgia Institute of Technology, and author of “The China Trilogy”: “The China Order: Centralia, World […]

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China’s Panda Diplomacy Returns to U.S. as Symbol of Thawing Relations and Economic Strategy

The recent deal signed between San Diego Zoo and China’s Wildlife Conservation Association, allowing Chinese giant pandas to return to the United States, marks more than just a zoo collaboration. The move, reminiscent of China’s historical panda diplomacy, suggests a potential warming of relations between the U.S. and China after years of tension. Panda diplomacy, […]

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China Adopts Cautious Tone on Taiwan Amid Rising Tensions: Focus Shifts to Deterrence and Economic Integration

In the wake of a recent maritime clash near Taiwan-ruled Kinmen islands, China’s top leaders maintain a measured stance on Taiwan during the annual parliamentary meetings in Beijing. Premier Li Qiang and Communist Party of China’s (CPC) fourth-ranked official, Mr Wang Huning, delivered reports emphasizing Beijing’s opposition to separatist activities but refrained from escalating rhetoric. […]

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Gaza Ceasefire Talks Hit Stalemate as Ramadan Nears

Ceasefire talks between Hamas and mediators concluded in Cairo on Tuesday without a breakthrough, casting uncertainty over the possibility of a 40-day truce ahead of Ramadan. The talks, seen as a crucial step towards a prolonged ceasefire, aimed to secure the release of hostages and provide essential aid to Gaza. Hamas presented its ceasefire proposal […]

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UN Investigation Alleges Sexual Violence During Hamas Attack on Israel

A United Nations team, led by special envoy for sexual violence in conflict Pramila Patten, released a report on Monday claiming “reasonable grounds to believe” that sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, occurred during the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas militants. The team visited Israel between January 29 and February 14 to […]

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Martin Raiser World Bank Tokyo Seminar “Green Growth: Energy Efficiency in South Asia” Tokyo, Japan

Ladies and Gentlemen, good afternoon! It’s a pleasure to be speaking at this event today. Let me start by thanking JICA and the World Bank Tokyo Development Learning Center for organizing this seminar. Today I will be speaking on how South Asia can achieve greener and more resilient growth in the face of climate change. […]

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