Category: Asia-Pacific

Coverage of geopolitics, international relations, and current affairs from across Asia-Pacific, including China, India, Southeast Asia, and Pacific nations, with a focus on security, trade, and regional diplomacy.

  • North Korea unveils new Hwasong-20 ICBM at major military parade

    North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a large-scale military parade showcasing the country’s latest Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), state media KCNA reported on Saturday (Oct. 11). The event, marking the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party, drew international attention as foreign dignitaries including Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Russia’s former President Dmitry Medvedev, and…

  • New Zealand and Singapore sign strategic partnership to strengthen trade and security

    New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong have signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), pledging closer cooperation to uphold the international rules-based order amid rising global tensions. • The agreement builds on a 2019 partnership covering trade, defence, and supply chains. • Both nations committed to collaborate on digital trade,…

  • Taliban accuses Pakistan of violating Afghan territory after cross-border strikes

    The Taliban government has accused Pakistan of carrying out airstrikes inside Afghanistan, calling it an “unprecedented, violent, and provocative act.” The claim follows reports of two explosions in Kabul late on Thursday (Oct. 9) and a bombing in the southeastern province of Patika, which the Taliban Defence Ministry said struck a civilian market. Pakistan’s military…

  • Japan’s ruling coalition collapses as Komeito withdraws support from LDP

    Japan’s Komeito party has ended its 26-year coalition with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), leaving newly elected LDP leader Sanae Takaichi struggling to secure parliamentary backing to become Japan’s first female prime minister. Komeito leader Tetsuo Saito said the split followed an “inadequate explanation” from the LDP over a political funding scandal that has shaken…

  • India and Taliban expand diplomatic ties amid Kabul explosions

    India and Afghanistan’s Taliban government have announced an expansion of diplomatic engagement — the most significant since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that India will restore its embassy in Kabul, elevating relations but stopping short of formally recognising the Taliban administration. Hours before the meeting between Mr Jaishankar and Amir Khan…

  • Pakistan and Malaysia strengthen cooperation with six new agreements

    Pakistan and Malaysia have signed six accords to enhance cooperation in education, Halal certification, tourism, small businesses, and anti-corruption, during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. – Pakistan and Malaysia strengthen cooperation Key points:• A $200 million Halal meat export deal will see Malaysia import…

  • Australia and Papua New Guinea sign key defence treaty

    Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have signed the Pukpuk Treaty, establishing mutual defence obligations and enhanced military cooperation. The deal allows Australia access to PNG military facilities and troops, while enabling up to 10,000 PNG citizens to serve in the Australian military with potential citizenship options. – Australia and Papua New Guinea sign key…

  • President Prabowo directs military to protect Indonesia’s resources

    President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the Indonesian military to safeguard the country’s natural resources from foreign exploitation. Speaking at the military’s 80th anniversary in Jakarta, Prabowo warned that foreign entities have been “stealing” and “smuggling” Indonesia’s assets. – President Prabowo directs military Key points:• The military will work with law enforcement and government bodies to…

  • Kyrgyz president proposes public vote on restoring death penalty

    President Sadyr Japarov announced that the question of reinstating the death penalty for the rape and murder of women and children will be decided through a nationwide referendum. – Kyrgyz president proposes public vote Speaking to state news agency Kabar, Japarov cited a rise in violent crimes against minors and women both domestically and globally.…

  • Pakistan warns of ‘cataclysmic devastation’ in future conflict with India

    Pakistan’s military has warned that any future confrontation with India could result in “cataclysmic devastation,” following a series of provocative remarks from Indian defence officials. – Pakistan warns The statement came after Indian Army Chief Gen. Upendra Dwivedi warned Islamabad to stop “supporting terrorism,” while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh cautioned that any “misadventure” in the…