Trumpian treatment of China’s athletes hardly in keeping with Olympic spirit

The vilification of Chinese athletes at this year’s Olympics is a reflection of how their country has been treated by the West.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3273523/trumpian-treatment-chinas-athletes-hardly-keeping-olympic-spirit?utm_source=rss_feed


Anti-racism protesters sweep Britain after days of far-right riots

On Wednesday, anti-racism protesters turned out in their thousands in towns and cities across the UK to counter far-right demonstrations that failed to materialise.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3273643/anti-racism-protesters-sweep-britain-after-days-far-right-riots?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong’s Shatin Inn Restaurant to close in September, calling curtain on 60-year history

Crowds flock to famous open-air diner used in 1989 Chow Yun-fat drama and many other local films, after word spread of its imminent closure.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3273600/hong-kongs-shatin-inn-restaurant-close-september-calling-curtain-60-year-history?utm_source=rss_feed


Will Asian nations’ UK travel warnings over anti-immigrant riots deter tourists?

The impact of travel advisories will depend on how the UK government contains violence and prevents riots, which have so far occurred in places less popular with tourists.

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https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/people/article/3273580/will-asian-nations-uk-travel-warnings-over-anti-immigrant-riots-deter-tourists?utm_source=rss_feed


Goldfinger’s maker says Hong Kong should ‘reflect’ why scams keep plaguing city

Felix Chong, director of the box-office hit The Goldfinger, shares his views about the Carrian fraud case from the 1980s and new types of scams pervading the city.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3273620/goldfingers-maker-says-hong-kong-should-reflect-why-scams-keep-plaguing-city?utm_source=rss_feed


Why Xi Jinping’s crusade against corruption in the military is far from over

Analysts say there’s more to come given that graft has long been rampant, the rapid build-up of the PLA, and its ‘insular’ culture.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3273531/why-xi-jinpings-crusade-against-corruption-military-far-over?utm_source=rss_feed


Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna cancelled over Islamist attack plot

Two suspects, both thought to have radicalised themselves online, have been arrested, and chemical substances have been seized.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3273635/taylor-swift-concerts-vienna-cancelled-over-islamist-attack-plot?utm_source=rss_feed


China warns citizens to leave eastern DR Congo after series of deaths and kidnappings

The area has long been plagued by violence, and Chinese citizens have also fallen foul of recent crackdown on illegal gold mining.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3273493/china-warns-citizens-leave-eastern-dr-congo-after-series-deaths-and-kidnappings?utm_source=rss_feed


How Tim Walz rose to prominence, partly by calling Trump, Republicans ‘weird’

Before he was Kamala Harris’ running mate, Tim Walz was using the Democrats’ best dis phrase of the 2024 campaign. It spread like wildfire across social media with the help of young Americans.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3273525/how-tim-walz-rose-prominence-partly-calling-trump-republicans-weird?utm_source=rss_feed


UK’s Starmer pledges to keep communities safe as police prepare for more violent protests

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said sufficient police would be on the streets to handle anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant riots in the coming days as he sought to reassure communities braced for more unrest.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3273507/uks-starmer-pledges-keep-communities-safe-police-prepare-more-violent-protests?utm_source=rss_feed


Indonesia’s cigarette rules a drag on business, snuff out culture, pro-tobacco activists say

Pro-tobacco activists oppose a ban on selling individual cigarettes, claiming the move will impact businesses and goes against Indonesia’s smoking culture.

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https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3273459/indonesias-cigarette-rules-drag-business-snuff-out-culture-pro-tobacco-activists-say?utm_source=rss_feed


2 Hong Kong drivers injured, dog dead after 2-car collision on Yuen Long road

Dog dies after being hit by a white Mercedes-Benz on Long Tin Road, Dashcam footage shows.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3273498/2-hong-kong-drivers-injured-dog-dead-after-2-car-collision-yuen-long-road?utm_source=rss_feed


Singapore executes man for trafficking heroin, its second hanging in days

Trafficking more than 15 grams of heroin merits the death penalty under Singapore’s tough drug laws.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3273497/singapore-executes-man-trafficking-heroin-its-2nd-hanging-days?utm_source=rss_feed


South Korea EV explosion sparks charging warning, safety fears

More than 200 families evacuated after an unplugged Mercedes-Benz sedan caught fire in a car park in Incheon and caused power outages.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3273488/south-korea-ev-explosion-sparks-charging-warning-safety-fears?utm_source=rss_feed


‘Pro-democracy activist’ convicted in US of acting as covert Chinese agent

Wang Shujun helped found a pro-democracy group and used it to gather information on dissidents, prosecutors said. He faces 25 years in prison.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/article/3273484/pro-democracy-activist-convicted-us-acting-covert-chinese-agent?utm_source=rss_feed


Ukraine war: Russia says fighting off border attack from Kyiv

Moscow’s defence ministry said it had rushed troops and aviation units to the southwestern region after Ukrainian units tried to attack Russian positions.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/russia-central-asia/article/3273465/ukraine-war-russia-says-fighting-border-attack-kyiv?utm_source=rss_feed


China industrial parks whip up new formula for success as foreign firms balk at old recipe

Gone are the days when foreign firms could be lured to industrial zones with financial incentives alone, as ‘cutthroat competition’ and overcapacity are seen creating a no-win scenario.

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https://www.scmp.com/economy/economic-indicators/article/3273363/china-industrial-parks-whip-new-formula-success-foreign-firms-balk-old-recipe?utm_source=rss_feed


UN fires 9 staff who ‘may have been involved’ in October 7 attack on Israel

The United Nations launched its investigation after Israel charged that 19 UNRWA staff took part in the Hamas-led attacks.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3273361/un-fires-9-staff-who-may-have-been-involved-october-7-attack-israel?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong Airlines customers told to expect 2-hour wait online for free fares to 13 cities

Carrier giving away about 7,500 round-trip tickets for select economy class seats between Tuesday and next Monday under promotion drive.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3273345/hong-kong-airlines-customers-told-expect-2-hours-wait-online-free-fares-13-cities?utm_source=rss_feed


China’s future tech race with US set for a boost with new Fudan brain chip centre

Fudan University’s US$56 million facility in Shanghai comes as China continues to push disruptive technology among ‘new quality productive forces’.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3273285/chinas-future-tech-race-us-set-boost-new-fudan-brain-chip-centre?utm_source=rss_feed


Like the US before World War I, China is staying above the fray

China is geared towards creating more opportunities for its own peaceful development, rather than obsessing over global hegemony.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3272985/us-world-war-i-china-staying-above-fray?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong’s ‘patriots-only’ Legco free of fiery past. But have lawmakers become ‘yes men’?

Analysts say line ‘unclear’ for lawmakers trying to keep government in check, while also cooperating in overhauled legislature.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3273314/hong-kongs-patriots-only-legco-free-fiery-past-have-lawmakers-become-yes-men?utm_source=rss_feed


AXA launches Hong Kong’s first heatwave insurance to protect outdoor workers

The payout from the insurance comes into force when the temperature stays above 36 degrees for three consecutive days from August to October.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3273279/axa-launches-hong-kongs-first-heatwave-insurance-protect-outdoor-workers?utm_source=rss_feed


How Hong Kong Olympians can inspire city still trying to find its way

The tenacity and grace under pressure shown by the city’s medal-winners can show the way as Hong Kong faces its own challenges.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3272972/how-hong-kong-olympians-can-inspire-city-still-trying-find-its-way?utm_source=rss_feed


Exco convenor Regina Ip takes up sword for Hong Kong Olympic fencing queen Vivian Kong

Ip mounts defence of Kong after fencer attacked over 2021 thesis defending ‘one country, two systems’ governing principle and ‘patriots only’ rule.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3273163/exco-convenor-regina-ip-takes-sword-hong-kong-olympic-fencing-queen-vivian-kong?utm_source=rss_feed


Foreign nationals told to leave Lebanon as war fears surge

Urgent calls for foreign nationals to leave Lebanon grew on Sunday with France warning of “a highly volatile” situation in the region.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3273161/foreign-nationals-told-leave-lebanon-war-fears-surge?utm_source=rss_feed


Xi Jinping’s letter to Hong Kong entrepreneurs ‘is wider call to support China’s development’

Analysts say Xi’s message to Hong Kong’s Ningbo bang is signal for residents and overseas Chinese to support nation to boost investor confidence.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3273156/xi-jinpings-letter-hong-kong-entrepreneurs-wider-call-support-chinas-development?utm_source=rss_feed


Ukraine intensifies long-range attacks, sinks Russian submarine and strikes an airfield

The uptick in attacks since July come as Ukraine pressures its allies to allow it to use long-range missiles to strike targets in Russia.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/russia-central-asia/article/3273158/ukraine-intensifies-long-range-attacks-sinks-russian-submarine-and-strikes-airfield?utm_source=rss_feed


Taiwan says PLA drones circled for hours, after Japan-Philippine naval drills nearby

Rare report from island on PLA drone activity comes day after first Japan-Philippines drills in contested South China Sea.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3273142/taiwan-says-pla-drones-circled-hours-after-japan-philippine-naval-drills-nearby?utm_source=rss_feed


Is China’s Monkey King set for global game glory, despite cultural differences?

Black Myth: Wukong’s release this month will take Chinese-developed games to an international level, and a new height of scrutiny.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3272954/chinas-monkey-king-set-global-game-glory-despite-cultural-differences?utm_source=rss_feed


China’s EV, battery firms bolt into emerging markets as trade remains caustic

Although China’s electric vehicles are proving a sore spot for the US and EU, firms making the cars and their batteries are setting up facilities in emerging markets to meet a groundswell of demand.

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https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3272983/chinas-ev-battery-firms-bolt-emerging-markets-trade-remains-caustic?utm_source=rss_feed


US to continue to classify Vietnam as non-market economy country

The decision will disappoint Hanoi, which the US has been wooing in its efforts to push back again China.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3273030/us-continue-classify-vietnam-non-market-economy-country?utm_source=rss_feed


Chinese Mexico-border crossers, Asian-American election fears: 7 US-China relations reads

Trump’s ‘Chinese’ attempted assassin, China’s US migrants, election anxiety: highlights from the SCMP’s overseas correspondents in July 2024.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3272916/chinese-mexico-border-crossers-asian-american-election-fears-7-us-china-relations-reads?utm_source=rss_feed


South China Sea: Japan, Philippines hold first joint naval exercise

The deepening of Philippine-Japanese security ties comes as China’s sabre-rattling towards Taiwan and over the South China Sea fuels fears of a potential conflict that could drag in the United States.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3272991/south-china-sea-japan-philippines-hold-first-joint-naval-exercise?utm_source=rss_feed


China court punishes chefs who put drug in ‘rather unhygienic’ food to prevent diarrhoea

Two chefs who injected drugs into the “rather unhygienic” restaurant meals to prevent diarrhoea have been punished by a court in China.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/article/3272860/china-court-punishes-chefs-who-put-drug-rather-unhygienic-food-prevent-diarrhoea?utm_source=rss_feed


Bringing tech workers to Hong Kong not an option, Vietnamese IT outsourcing firm says

NTQ Apac rules out import of its Vietnamese staff, backbone of its IT operation, given high living costs and language barrier.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3272930/bringing-tech-workers-hong-kong-not-option-vietnamese-it-outsourcing-firm-says?utm_source=rss_feed


Singapore wants more babies but fathers underuse paternity leave – ‘work never stops’

Singapore has doubled parental leave to four weeks for fathers amid its falling low birth rate

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https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/lifestyle-culture/article/3272948/singapore-wants-more-babies-fathers-underuse-paternity-leave-work-never-stops?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong police use surveillance camera footage to identify, arrest woman, 57, for theft

Suspect accused of luring man, 63, into building stairwell with the promise of sex services before snatching wallet with HK$3,200 from him.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3272947/hong-kong-police-use-surveillance-camera-footage-identify-arrest-woman-57-theft?utm_source=rss_feed


Venezuela opposition leader Machado says she is in ‘hiding, fearing for my life’

In Wall Street Journal, Machado wrote: ‘I could be captured as I write these words.’ President Maduro has said she ‘should be behind bars’.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/americas/article/3272862/venezuela-opposition-leader-machado-says-she-hiding-fearing-my-life?utm_source=rss_feed


Indonesia court jails ex-Garuda chief over new corruption case

Emirsyah Satar, who ran Garuda from 2005 to 2014, had procured Bombardier’s CRJ and ATR 72 jets without proper procedures and board approval.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3272720/indonesia-court-jails-ex-garuda-chief-over-new-corruption-case?utm_source=rss_feed


Alliances like Nato out of touch with world in need of human security

In an era where climate change, food and energy security and poverty top the agenda, military-focused alliances are not fit for purpose.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3272502/alliances-nato-out-touch-world-need-human-security?utm_source=rss_feed


Amid Russia prisoner-swap rumours, ex-US marine Paul Whelan’s whereabouts unknown

Whelan was jailed for 16 years in 2020 on espionage charges. 7 other prisoners are reported to have been recently moved from Russian jails.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/russia-central-asia/article/3272699/amid-russia-prisoner-swap-rumours-ex-us-marine-paul-whelans-whereabouts-unknown?utm_source=rss_feed


China sanctions US lawmaker Jim McGovern, critic of Beijing’s treatment of ethnic Tibetans

McGovern is a co-sponsor of a bill calling for stronger US support for Tibet.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3272691/china-sanctions-us-lawmaker-jim-mcgovern-critic-beijings-treatment-ethnic-tibetans?utm_source=rss_feed


Killing of Hamas’ political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, exposes Israel’s reach in Iran: analysts

Analysts see the strike on Hamas’ top leader Ismail Haniyeh as a major intelligence failure, and a deeply disturbing development for the Iranian leadership.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3272685/killing-hamas-political-leader-ismail-haniyeh-exposes-israels-reach-iran-analysts?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong police arrest 2 over swindling elderly out of HK$330,000 in ‘guess who I am’ scam

Pair aged 16 and 18 were paid as little as a few hundred dollars to be ‘expendable foot soldiers’ for scam syndicate, police say.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3272669/hong-kong-police-arrest-2-over-swindling-elderly-out-hk330000-guess-who-i-am-scam?utm_source=rss_feed


‘Long overdue’: India ramps up border connectivity in bid to counter China’s expansion

Third phase of strategic border project aims to plug vulnerabilities in Ladakh region in event of Chinese military action, analysts say.

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https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3272667/long-overdue-india-ramps-border-connectivity-bid-counter-chinas-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed


University of Hong Kong creates app to detect heart valve diseases by checking chest sounds

Clinical study involving more than 350 patients finds accuracy levels for artificial intelligence-based software are as high as 81 per cent.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3272654/university-hong-kong-creates-app-detect-heart-valve-diseases-checking-chest-sounds?utm_source=rss_feed


Trump says Kamala Harris, who’s married to a Jewish man, ‘doesn’t like Jewish people’

The former president also seemed to agree with a radio host who called second gentleman Doug Emhoff “a crappy Jew.”

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3272649/trump-says-kamala-harris-whos-married-jewish-man-doesnt-jewish-people?utm_source=rss_feed


South China Sea: Philippines’ hitch-free mission a sign of better days in disputed waters?

Some observers warn that China may still manipulate the narrative around the Second Thomas Shoal flashpoint for its own gain.

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South Korea arrests official for alleged leak of overseas spies list

Seoul calls back overseas agents for safety as investigation team rules out possibility of hacking attack.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3272579/south-korea-arrests-official-alleged-leak-overseas-spies-list?utm_source=rss_feed


In Thailand, many youths are combining modern ‘pop’ rituals with traditional Buddhist beliefs

In Thailand, many young people mix traditional Buddhist beliefs with modern pop culture by incorporating new symbols and rituals into their faith.

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https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/lifestyle-culture/article/3272536/thailand-many-youths-are-combining-modern-pop-rituals-traditional-buddhist-beliefs?utm_source=rss_feed


Shimao gets 2nd reprieve in liquidation, winning time until August 12 to work out its debt

Distressed Chinese developer Shimao Group was awarded a xx-week reprieve after a Hong Kong court adjourned a winding-up hearing to August 12

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https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3272575/shimao-gets-2nd-reprieve-liquidation-winning-time-until-august-12-work-out-its-debt?utm_source=rss_feed


Iran says Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh killed in Tehran

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in a statement that Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh and one of his body guards were assassinated in Tehran.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3272573/iran-says-hamas-chief-ismail-haniyeh-killed-tehran?utm_source=rss_feed


China singing star Jackson Wang lauded for protecting baby at chaotic Malaysia event

Hong Kong-born China signing sensation Jackson Wang has buttressed his reputation for gentlemanly behaviour by stepping in to make sure a baby was not harnmed during a chaotic public event in Malaysia

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Hong Kong issues amber rainstorm warning, says heavy showers expected in coming days

‘A broad trough of low pressure is bringing showers and thunderstorms to the coast of Guangdong and the northern part of the South China Sea,’ forecaster says

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Spurned China lover stages car crash hurting ex and her father in bid to save relationship

A cheating car dealer from southern China, whose long-suffering girlfriend left him, devised a dangerous plan to win her back and not repay the US$140,000 he owed her.

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Brazil’s vice-president on 50 years of China ties and boosting trade amid fairness rows

Geraldo Alckmin also discusses the decision to impose tariffs on Chinese steel and Beijing’s help after his country’s worst climate disaster.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3272191/brazils-vice-president-50-years-china-ties-and-boosting-trade-amid-fairness-rows?utm_source=rss_feed


Kudos to China for helping open the door to Palestinian unity

The Beijing Declaration reflects China’s aim to project itself as a credible power and peace enabler in West Asia.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/asia-opinion/article/3271962/kudos-china-helping-open-door-palestinian-unity?utm_source=rss_feed


Hezbollah evacuates positions in Lebanon ahead of expected Israel raids

A source close to the group said Hezbollah had ‘evacuated positions in the south and in the Bekaa valley that it thinks could be a target for Israel’.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3272228/hezbollah-evacuates-positions-lebanon-ahead-expected-israel-raids?utm_source=rss_feed


Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is driving South Korea arms industry boom

The deteriorating security landscape has countries from Europe to Southeast Asia looking to South Korea for quality, affordable arms exports.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/asia-opinion/article/3271663/russias-invasion-ukraine-driving-south-korea-arms-industry-boom?utm_source=rss_feed


Paris Olympics: US gymnast Simone Biles shakes off leg injury to dominate qualifying

The question now: Will Biles’ leg be an ongoing issue? The team final is Tuesday, and the women’s all-around final is Thursday.

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Japan to deploy ‘ship killer’ missiles a year early, cites China among security threats

Japan faces ‘severe’ security environment, defence chief says in white paper, lists China’s military and naval moves as primary challenge.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3272201/japan-deploy-ship-killer-missiles-year-early-cites-china-among-security-threats?utm_source=rss_feed


The world will look back on US foreign policy under Biden with nostalgia

Whether Trump or Harris wins, Biden’s departure will mark the end of an era of distinctly multilateral American leadership

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3271907/world-will-look-back-us-foreign-policy-under-biden-nostalgia?utm_source=rss_feed


Doraemon on board: Hong Kong’s high-speed rail gets manga makeover

Themed carriages featuring beloved Japanese cartoon character set for service on cross-border rail, with MTR Corp hoping for tourism boost.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3272056/doraemon-board-hong-kongs-high-speed-rail-gets-manga-makeover?utm_source=rss_feed


US China Initiative a ‘significant push factor’ for Chinese scientists’ exodus

The number of ethnic Chinese scientists leaving the US rose rapidly after the launch of the China Initiative, study finds.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3271797/us-china-initiative-significant-push-factor-chinese-scientists-exodus?utm_source=rss_feed


Israeli army recovers bodies of 5 hostages from Gaza

Among them is a 56-year-old woman who lived in an Israeli kibbutz. The remaining four bodies are soldiers who were also killed during the October 7 attack.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3271843/israeli-army-recovers-bodies-5-hostages-gaza?utm_source=rss_feed


Turkey to regulate stray dog population, raising fears about mass killings: ‘this spells death’

Turkey’s ruling party presented a bill to parliament that aims to round up millions of stray dogs, which animal rights advocates fear could result in the widespread killing of the animals.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3271749/turkey-regulate-stray-dog-population-raising-fears-about-mass-killings-spells-death?utm_source=rss_feed


In China for China: German firms buck trend, bring best tech and products to compete

With fewer options amid geopolitical strife and supply-chain disruptions, capitalising on China’s massive market requires a more inward-facing plan for foreign firms.

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https://www.scmp.com/economy/global-economy/article/3271559/china-china-german-firms-buck-trend-bring-best-tech-and-products-compete?utm_source=rss_feed


Vietnam’s Communist Party grapples with succession dilemma after Nguyen Phu Trong’s death

Nguyen Phu Trong’s death leaves the ruling Communist Party searching for a new leader to guide it amid economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

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Hong Kong’s MTR Corp to deploy free buses and 1,000 staff for July 28 works at 4 stations

Trains will not service Prince Edward, Mong Kok, Yau Ma Tei and Ho Man Tin stations on Kwun Tong line as firm carries out unprecedented upgrades.

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Hong Kong police arrest 5 over selling fake Sammi Cheng concert tickets

‘The fake tickets replicated various security features, including the paper quality, fonts, watermark, QR codes and holographic anti-counterfeiting labels,’ police say.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3271515/hong-kong-police-arrest-5-over-selling-fake-sammi-cheng-concert-tickets?utm_source=rss_feed


Hunter Biden drops lawsuit against Fox News over explicit images in streaming series

Lawsuit involves nude images shown in The Trial of Hunter Biden, which features ‘mock trial’ of president’s son on charges he has not faced.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3271482/hunter-biden-drops-lawsuit-against-fox-news-over-explicit-images-streaming-series?utm_source=rss_feed


Kamala Harris now the focus of unprecedented shake-up in US election campaign

The US vice-president, tapped by Joe Biden to replace him as Democratic nominee, must secure support of rivals while taking control of party apparatus.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3271473/kamala-harris-now-focus-unprecedented-shake-us-election-campaign?utm_source=rss_feed


Hongkongers warned that cybercriminals seizing on IT outage to launch phishing attacks

Scams span from phishing attacks to impersonating CrowdStrike customer staff to steal information, Hong Kong computer security agency says.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3271449/hongkongers-warned-cybercriminals-seizing-it-outage-launch-phishing-attacks?utm_source=rss_feed


How Nato’s China focus obscures greater threats coming from within

Discussions of China dominated the recent Nato summit, but what about the dangers of a sapping war in Ukraine and Trump ‘s potential return?

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3271129/how-natos-china-focus-obscures-greater-threats-coming-within?utm_source=rss_feed


Joe Biden hails ‘best of allies’ in first talks with UK’s Keir Starmer

Making his Nato debut in Washington, the new British prime minister says the ‘special relationship’ with the US is ‘stronger than ever’.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3269994/joe-biden-hails-best-allies-first-talks-uks-keir-starmer?utm_source=rss_feed


Israel army urges ‘everyone in Gaza City’ to leave amid new offensive on eve of truce talks

Israel’s military dropped thousands of leaflets on Gaza City, urging all residents to leave immediately, amid an intensified military offensive on the Palestinian enclave’s main city.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3269956/israel-army-urges-everyone-gaza-city-leave-amid-new-offensive-eve-truce-talks?utm_source=rss_feed


Will cut in number of elected members on Hong Kong’s social workers’ board damage autonomy?

Critics react to social work board changes after claims it has failed to get tough on professionals convicted of national security offences.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3269080/will-cut-number-elected-members-hong-kongs-social-workers-board-damage-autonomy?utm_source=rss_feed


Gaza war: US to sanction Israeli group, Tsav 9, that attacked aid convoys

The sanctions target Tsav 9, a group with ties to Israeli army reservists and Jewish settlers in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, over activities including blocking, harassing and damaging aid shipments.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3266698/gaza-war-us-sanction-israeli-group-tsav-9-attacked-aid-convoys?utm_source=rss_feed


China’s ethnic policy chief slams ‘ignorance of history’ in Xinjiang assimilation claims

China’s top ethnic policy official has dismissed claims that Xinjiang is being “assimilated” into Chinese culture as “ignorance of history”. Pan Yue, director of the National Ethnic Affairs Commission, made the remarks during a keynote speech on Wednesday at an international forum in Kashgar, a city in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region that was once part of the ancient Silk Road. His comments come as Beijing continues to promote its new ethnic integration policies and defend measures taken in the vast western region home to the mainly Muslim Uygur minority. “There is an inaccurate narrative in the international community that separates Xinjiang culture from Chinese culture and even sets them against each other. But a large amount of archaeological evidence tells us that Xinjiang has been an important part of the Chinese cultural sphere since ancient times,” Pan said. “There is also an international narrative that contradicts the facts and portrays Xinjiang’s relationship with Chinese culture as ‘assimilation’. This is ignorance of Chinese history.” The people of ancient western regions far from central China – some small states ruled by nomadic peoples rather than the Han Chinese who later became the majority of the Chinese population – “have also been co-creators of Chinese culture,” Pan said. These regions include what is now the Xinjiang region, as well as the Tibet autonomous region to its south and parts of central Asia. After thousands of years of “migration, settlement, trade and marriages”, “Xinjiang and central China [now] eventually belong to a single political community”, Pan said, adding that Islamic culture represented only one part of Xinjiang’s “diverse religious culture”. Xinjiang has a population of about 26 million, close to two-thirds of which is made up of ethnic minorities, including Uygurs and Kazakhs. Ethnic tensions, particularly in Xinjiang and Tibet, have been a challenge for the government. Controversial governance measures in place in Xinjiang since 2016, in response to once…

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3266357/chinas-ethnic-policy-chief-slams-ignorance-history-xinjiang-assimilation-claims?utm_source=rss_feed


Beijing lashes out at UK judge who stepped down from Hong Kong’s top court

Jonathan Sumption is ‘disgrace to the legal profession’, commentary published on WeChat account of Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office says.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3266376/beijing-lashes-out-uk-judge-who-stepped-down-hong-kongs-top-court?utm_source=rss_feed


Fire at Thailand’s Chatuchak Weekend Market, kills hundreds of puppies, rabbits, other animals

The Chatuchak Weekend Market is a major tourist draw, bringing in shoppers from all over the world to browse its hundreds of shops and stalls.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3266161/fire-thailands-chatuchak-weekend-market-kills-hundreds-puppies-rabbits-other-animals?utm_source=rss_feed


Israel keeps pounding central Gaza as Palestinian death toll in hostage rescue raid rises to 274

Hamas says 3 hostages including a US citizen were killed in Israeli rescue raid; Israel rejected previous Hamas report of hostage killed as ‘blatant lie’.

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Mexico is ground zero as China takes Global South battle to US backyard

Since its free trade agreement with the US, Mexico has seen more crime and obesity, but little economic growth. Now, it is seeing a surge in Chinese investment.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3265494/mexico-ground-zero-china-takes-global-south-battle-us-backyard?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong to consider more high-speed sleeper trains to Beijing, Shanghai: transport chief

Transport minister Lam Sai-hung says city will discuss increasing frequency of trains with mainland railway operator if there is demand.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3265899/hong-kong-consider-more-high-speed-sleeper-trains-beijing-shanghai-transport-chief?utm_source=rss_feed


Shimao is latest developer to see sales rise since China’s property rescue package

Shimao has become the latest Chinese home builder to report higher property sales aided by Beijing’s stimulus package aimed at reviving its crisis-hit real estate sector.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3265849/shimao-latest-developer-see-sales-rise-chinas-property-rescue-package?utm_source=rss_feed


South Africa’s ANC seeks a national unity government

For the first time, South Africa’s African National Congress needs partners to govern after its worst ever election showing.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/africa/article/3265750/south-africas-anc-seeks-national-unity-government?utm_source=rss_feed


Netflix faces US$170 million Baby Reindeer defamation lawsuit

Scottish lawyer Fiona Harvey, who has claimed to be inspiration behind character Martha, said Netflix went too far by suggesting she was a convicted stalker. Harvey filed complaint in Los Angeles federal court.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3265700/netflix-faces-us170-million-baby-reindeer-defamation-lawsuit?utm_source=rss_feed


Poly Property’s sales slump as Beijing’s market rescue package produces mixed results

The Chinese state-backed developer saw sales fall by almost a fifth in May, adding to a mixed picture of the impact of Beijing’s historic measures to rescue its crisis-hit real estate segment.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3265676/poly-propertys-sales-slump-beijings-market-rescue-package-produces-mixed-results?utm_source=rss_feed


Why Australia shouldn’t pin its housing crisis on immigration

Australia’s migration-fuelled population growth has been a driving force behind increasing demand in the property sector. However, while immigration is being blamed for the housing crisis, the problem is linked more to limited supply, planning laws and the tax system

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3265141/why-australia-shouldnt-pin-its-housing-crisis-immigration?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong police arrest eighth suspect in first sedition case under Article 23 national security law

Source confirms man, 62, apprehended in Sha Tin on suspicion of committing offences related to first arrest last week, is uncle of activist Chow Hang-tung.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3265152/hong-kong-police-arrest-eighth-suspect-first-sedition-case-under-new-domestic-security-law?utm_source=rss_feed


Japan’s Kishida meets senior Chinese diplomat, pledges to ‘fully utilise’ all available dialogue platforms with China

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tells Beijing’s international liaison head Liu Jianchao of Japan’s willingness to ‘enhance high-level communications’, as senior Chinese diplomat notes that ‘challenges remain’.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3264583/japans-kishida-meets-senior-chinese-diplomat-pledges-fully-utilise-all-available-dialogue-platforms?utm_source=rss_feed


India election resumes as Modi ‘ramps up anti-Muslim rhetoric’ over opposition gains

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the opposition Congress party of pandering to minority Muslims for votes.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/south-asia/article/3264094/india-election-resumes-modi-ramps-anti-muslim-rhetoric-over-opposition-gains?utm_source=rss_feed


Hang Seng Index to eject Country Garden Services, add handset maker BYD Electronic

BYD Electronic, which makes electronic devices such as smartphones for brands including Huawei, will add HK$76.15 billion (US$9.8 billion) in market capitalisation to the benchmark.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/markets/article/3263138/hang-seng-index-eject-country-garden-services-add-handset-maker-byd-electronic?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong civil servants in line for pay rises of up to 5.47% if survey findings endorsed, despite calls for salary cuts as deficit balloons

Findings of pay trend survey suggest increments of 4.01% for high-ranking civil servants, 4.32% for middle-level ones and 5.47 per cent for junior staff.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3262897/hong-kong-civil-servants-line-pay-rises-547-if-survey-findings-endorsed-despite-calls-salary-cuts?utm_source=rss_feed


Hongkongers applying DEET-based repellents to keep mosquitoes at bay warned of potential side effects

Consumer Council says high concentrations of DEET may cause rashes, blisters, skin and mucous membrane irritation, warning children more susceptible.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3262894/hongkongers-applying-deet-based-repellents-keep-mosquitoes-bay-warned-potential-side-effects?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong judge says prosecution must not make unfounded allegations against Jimmy Lai’s legal team

Prosecution suggests Lai’s lawyers refrained from asking Apple Daily publisher earlier about evidence of ‘lunchbox meetings’, but judge warns allegation lacked ‘proper foundation’

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3262450/hong-kong-judge-says-prosecution-must-not-make-unfounded-allegations-against-jimmy-lais-legal-team?utm_source=rss_feed


Contain China? Washington, that ship has sailed

Unlike the Soviet Union in the 1980s, China has a highly diversified economy and capable defences making it unlikely to collapse or be contained. Despite what some pundits in Washington may believe, much of the world would not readily join the US in a war or containment strategy against China

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3261827/contain-china-washington-ship-has-sailed?utm_source=rss_feed


Vladimir Putin reappoints Mikhail Mishustin as Russia’s prime minister

Mikhail Mishustin, a low-key technocrat, was appointed prime minister in January 2020, replacing Dmitry Medvedev.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/russia-central-asia/article/3262164/vladimir-putin-reappoints-mikhail-mishustin-russias-prime-minister?utm_source=rss_feed


India’s Modi risks losing key state election over alleged sex scandal involving ex-PM’s grandson

Prajwal Revanna is accused of sexually assaulting hundreds of women after the release of videos showing his alleged crimes.

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https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3261093/indias-modi-risks-losing-key-state-election-over-alleged-sex-scandal-involving-ex-pms-grandson?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong SMEs’ second-quarter business confidence shaky as consumer spending remains a concern

Hong Kong SMEs’ confidence in the second-quarter business outlook has improved slightly, but it remains well below the year-earlier level when confidence soared on the back of border reopening, survey shows.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3260943/hong-kong-smes-second-quarter-business-confidence-shaky-consumer-spending-remains-concern?utm_source=rss_feed


Holiday in Afghanistan? The Taliban are working to woo tourists

In 2021, there were 691 foreign tourists. In 2022, that figure rose to 2,300. Last year, there were 7,000. The numbers aren’t huge – but there’s a buzz around Afghan tourism.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/russia-central-asia/article/3260885/holiday-afghanistan-taliban-are-working-woo-tourists?utm_source=rss_feed


China’s most powerful space engine configuration is ‘ready for flight’

Four YF-100K engines pass ignition test to ‘fully verify’ their compatibility and individual reliability, chief designer said.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3260874/chinas-most-powerful-space-engine-configuration-ready-flight?utm_source=rss_feed


Israel’s allies warn ICC action would hurt Gaza ceasefire chances

The US and its allies are concerned that the International Criminal Court may issue arrest warrants for Israeli officials just as the country is getting closer to a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, potentially jeopardising a deal.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3260879/israels-allies-warn-icc-action-would-hurt-gaza-ceasefire-chances?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong’s Executive Council approves new mechanism that blocks cuts to minimum wage

Source says Executive Council has agreed to annual review of minimum wage as well as introduction of formula which will not allow future pay cuts.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3260877/hong-kongs-executive-council-approves-new-mechanism-blocks-cuts-minimum-wage?utm_source=rss_feed


HSBC first-quarter profit beats estimates thanks to sale of Canadian business

The lender’s net profit slipped 1 per cent from a year ago to US$10.2 billion, or US$0.54 per share, in the three months to March, surpassing the US$9.24 billion profit expected by analysts polled by Bloomberg.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3260875/hsbc-first-quarter-profit-beats-estimates-thanks-sale-canadian-business?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong police arrest former project manager on suspicion of manslaughter over fatal crane collapse at construction site in 2022

Police source says man was project manager at Aggressive Construction Company, which operated site and was banned from bidding for public works.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3260871/hong-kong-police-arrest-former-project-manager-suspicion-manslaughter-over-fatal-crane-collapse?utm_source=rss_feed


Kristi Noem’s story about shooting her dog jolts the US presidential election

Rugged ranch fate, or cruel judgment? South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, a potential Donald Trump 2024 running mate, has shocked Americans by revealing she once shot her family dog.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3260870/kristi-noems-story-about-shooting-her-dog-jolts-us-presidential-election?utm_source=rss_feed


Killer robot arms race: AI faces its ‘Oppenheimer moment’

Regulators who want to get a grip on an emerging generation of artificially intelligent killing machines may not have much time left to do so, governments have been warned.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/article/3260862/killer-robot-arms-race-ai-faces-its-oppenheimer-moment?utm_source=rss_feed


China’s private pension push marred by weak financial literacy, as ‘people still have no idea’

After a stretch of trials in select Chinese cities, there is rising urgency to rapidly expand use of the underperforming retirement accounts as demographic challenges mount.

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https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3260813/chinas-private-pension-push-marred-weak-financial-literacy-people-still-have-no-idea?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong’s arts financing body reports cyberattack on its systems, but says no data leak detected

Hong Kong Arts Development Council is latest target, following ransomware attacks on Union Hospital earlier this month and tech hub Cyberport last year.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3260861/hong-kongs-arts-financing-body-reports-cyberattack-its-systems-says-no-data-leak-detected?utm_source=rss_feed


Samsung reports chip profits after a year of losses, as AI boom drives fourfold surge in overall income

The world’s largest memory chip maker posted better-than-expected net income that is more than four times the company’s earnings a year earlier.

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https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3260860/samsung-reports-chip-profits-after-year-losses-ai-boom-drives-fourfold-surge-overall-income?utm_source=rss_feed


Trump and DeSantis meet to make peace and discuss fundraising for ex-president’s campaign

On Monday, Trump wrote on his social media site: ‘I greatly appreciate Ron’s support in taking back our Country from the Worst President in the History of the United States.’

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3260848/trump-and-desantis-meet-make-peace-and-discuss-fundraising-ex-presidents-campaign?utm_source=rss_feed


Israel-Gaza war protesters arrested at University of Texas, Columbia University activists defy order to disband

In New York, Columbia began suspending students after activists defied 2pm deadline to respond to ultimatum, according to a school spokesman.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3260847/israel-gaza-war-protesters-arrested-university-texas-columbia-university-demands-activists-leave?utm_source=rss_feed


At least 25 dead in Peru after bus plunges into ravine

A local official on Monday said the incident happened on a dirt road in the Andean region of Cajamarca and the bus carrying more than 50 passengers ‘fell into an abyss’.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/americas/article/3260846/least-25-dead-peru-after-bus-plunges-ravine?utm_source=rss_feed


Duchess Sophie visits Ukraine in first trip by a British royal since start of war

The Duchess of Edinburgh, wife of Prince Edward, made the visit as part of her work to champion survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, Buckingham Palace said.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3260841/duchess-sophie-visits-ukraine-first-trip-british-royal-start-war?utm_source=rss_feed


Peru seeks to avoid arbitration over Chinese-built megaport

In March, Peru’s port authority said ‘administrative error’ had given Cosco Shipping exclusivity at Chancay megaport and asked a judge to annul the decision.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/americas/article/3260840/peru-seeks-avoid-arbitration-over-chinese-built-megaport?utm_source=rss_feed


French actor Gerard Depardieu questioned by Paris police over alleged sexual assaults

Two women accuse Depardieu of assault while working on film sets, one in 2015, the other in 2022. Depardieu already faces a rape charge and claims of assault from more than a dozen women.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3260839/french-actor-gerard-depardieu-questioned-paris-police-over-alleged-sexual-assaults?utm_source=rss_feed


Gaza aid pier to cost United States at least US$320 million: Pentagon

‘That’s about our rough estimate right now, approximately US$320 million,’ said a Pentagon spokeswoman on Monday, adding: ‘That’s an initial cost for the temporary pier.’

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EU chief Ursula von der Leyen invited to Xi Jinping-Emmanuel Macron summit in Paris next week

One of Europe’s most hawkish leaders towards Beijing is confirmed to meet Chinese leader making first trip to continent in five years.

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China should bail on US bonds even faster, scholar says, as bilateral tensions and anxieties mount

A highly placed scholar is encouraging China to offload more of its holdings in Treasuries as overseas assets become a riskier proposition thanks to erratic geopolitical shifts.

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https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3260814/china-should-bail-us-bonds-even-faster-scholar-says-bilateral-tensions-and-anxieties-mount?utm_source=rss_feed


Israel-Gaza war: 40-day ceasefire offered to Hamas, says UK foreign secretary, David Cameron

UK foreign minister David Cameron said Hamas has been offered a 40-day ceasefire and the release of “potentially thousands” of Palestinian prisoners in return for freeing Israeli hostages.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3260833/israel-gaza-war-40-day-ceasefire-offered-hamas-says-uk-foreign-secretary-david-cameron?utm_source=rss_feed


How 5G, AI and a cotton revolution helped China beat US Xinjiang sanctions

Chinese researchers detail how technology has transformed the region’s textile industry and led to record surge in exports.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3260766/how-5g-ai-and-cotton-revolution-helped-china-beat-us-xinjiang-sanctions?utm_source=rss_feed


China unveils Sora challenger able to produce videos from text similar to OpenAI tool, though much shorter

Vidu, launched by Beijing-based start-up Shengshu Technology and Tsinghua University, can generate 1080p videos as long as 16 seconds.

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Hong Kong to update heat stress at work warnings only after monitoring index for 1 hour

Labour Department plans to launch updated heat stress warning system, guidelines to prevent heatstroke at work in May.

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Hong Kong appeal court blocks Jimmy Lai from challenging foreign counsel ban

Court of Appeal finds judiciary does not have authority to review decision by national security committee to bar King’s Counsel Timothy Owen from defending Lai.

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China launches first of 8 advanced stealth submarines for Pakistan Navy

Contract for Hangor-class vessels was signed in 2015 during a visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

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Team members of thwarted bomb plot in Hong Kong trained with retired Taiwanese soldier, court hears

Ringleader Wong Chun-keung tells court how he and accomplice Ng Chi-hung created ‘Dragon Slayer Brigade’ targeting police after series of successful attacks against officers.

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3 ways Hong Kong can easily and quickly up its tourism game

Hong Kong has all the ingredients it needs, from its East-meets-West cultural history, free port tax-free status and vast natural attractions.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3260580/3-ways-hong-kong-can-easily-and-quickly-its-tourism-game?utm_source=rss_feed


Confused over where to eat takeaway fish balls, siu mai when out and about? The Post explains store policies under Hong Kong’s plastics ban

Post learns of conflicting measures at convenience stores over on-site snack bar food such as siu mai and fish balls.

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Customs finds US$330,000 stashed in pillow, cake bags of 2 men trying to cross into Hong Kong from mainland China

Mainland’s General Administration of Customs says two men, who were departing in a group, stopped at Luohu border checkpoint after abnormalities detected in luggage.

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China’s consumers seek security in ‘the only safe asset’ as gold purchases remain strong

Gold purchases in China rose by 5.9 per cent in the first quarter compared with the same period in 2023, as consumers seek security in ‘the only safe asset’, analysts said.

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https://www.scmp.com/economy/economic-indicators/article/3260798/chinas-consumers-seek-security-only-safe-asset-gold-purchases-remain-strong?utm_source=rss_feed


China confirms Xi Jinping’s European tour will include visits to France, Serbia and Hungary

Visit comes amid growing trade tensions with EU following the launch of a series of probes into alleged subsidies

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Spain’s Pedro Sanchez to continue as prime minister after stopping to ‘reflect’ on his future

Last week, the 52-year-old said he was thinking about resigning after a judge opened a case alleging influence-peddling against his wife Begona Gomez.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3260811/spains-pedro-sanchez-continue-prime-minister-after-stopping-reflect-his-future?utm_source=rss_feed


India election: will lower voter turnout make Modi ‘jittery’ and dent BJP’s chances of winning a majority?

Phase two of voting saw a 65 per cent turnout, with heat and complacency of BJP supporters among possible reasons for the lower figure.

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Hong Kong’s luxury retail gets a boost as Louis Vuitton returns to Times Square in Causeway Bay after 3-year gap

Louis Vuitton is returning to Times Square, three years after the French luxury brand shut its store, a sign of a brighter outlook for Hong Kong’s luxury retail market.

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Hong Kong customs arrests 2 suspected drug traffickers, seizes HK$12 million in liquid cocaine at 4-star hotel

Officers confiscate 12kg of liquid cocaine disguised as white wine after they lay in wait outside room in Tsim Sha Tsui East hotel.

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Why has the Japanese yen dipped to a three-decade low? There are several factors

The yen has been steadily sliding for more than three years and has lost more than one-third of its value since the start of 2021.

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Chinese man, 86, marries first love in touching, lively ceremony decades after they dated at Peking University

A Chinese couple in their 80s who were once university sweethearts, but parted decades ago, have fallen in love all over again and celebrated a joyful wedding ceremony.

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Key prosecution witness in Jimmy Lai trial admits he aided jailed activist’s failed attempt to flee Hong Kong

Paralegal Wayland Chan says SWHK advocacy group member Andy Li sought his help following his arrest four years ago.

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ByteDance details dozens of internal misconduct cases from bribery and data leaks to using company funds for personal expenses

The owner of TikTok and its Chinese sibling Douyin has internally disclosed 61 misconduct cases involving employees who were fired or charged by authorities.

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More drugs found on Hong Kong airport arrivals in first 4 months of year than during all of 2023

Customs officers discovered 370kg of narcotics on air passengers in January to April period, 32 per cent more than what was seized during all of last year.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3260797/more-drugs-found-hong-kong-airport-arrivals-first-quarter-during-all-2023?utm_source=rss_feed


Kenya dam bursts, killing 45, death toll expected to rise: ‘don’t know how many under the mud’

The latest deaths bring the toll from heavy rains and flooding since last month to more than 100.

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‘Silent pandemic’: emotional call by Philippines’ Marcos Jnr against child pornography sparks nationwide soul-searching

Scrutiny cast on internet service providers, lax enforcement and a disturbing culture compounded by poverty.

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Hong Kong’s No 2 official calls for soft approach to instil patriotism among youths

Chief Secretary Eric Chan says authorities and schools can use films, cultural events, visits to aerospace facilities, among others, for national education.

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Southeast Asia heatwave shuts Philippine schools, boosts power demand in Thailand, as Myanmar bakes in 48 degree weather

The Philippines announced it will halt in-person classes at public schools, while Thai power demand rose to a record, as a heatwave grips southern Asia.

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Falling yen is great for 2 sectors in Japan

The big story in global foreign exchange markets right now is the continued slide in the yen, to a fresh 34-year low. As tourists in Japan buy luxury goods at a significant discount, retail rents and hotel rates are also up.

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Thai rights lawyer Arnon Nampa jailed for 2 more years over royal insult, fined US$4 for using loudspeaker

It is the latest charge levelled against prominent human rights lawyer Arnon Nampa, who now faces more than 10 years in prison.

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Hong Kong transgender activist Henry Edward Tse says it’s time to ‘live like a normal person’, collects new ID card after ‘judicial marathon’

Transgender man Henry Edward Tse won a landmark legal battle in 2023, but official policy only changed earlier this month.

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Deforestation in Indonesia spiked last year – but data analysis suggests better overall trend

Indonesia had a 27 per cent uptick in primary forest loss in 2023 from the previous year, according to World Resources Institute analysis. But the loss is still seen as historically low compared to the 2010s, it said

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3260765/deforestation-indonesia-spiked-last-year-analysis-suggests-better-overall-trend?utm_source=rss_feed


China and Bolivia should safeguard Global South interests, says Wang Yi as South American nation appeals for Brics entry

Bolivian Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda visits Beijing after trip to Russia, says La Paz is eager to cooperate with Beijing.

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Hong Kong minimum wage to rise by HK$1.80 to HK$41.80 per hour this year

According to a source close to the city’s Minimum Wage Commission, the existing HK$40 hourly rate is set to increase by HK$1.80.

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Penalties cut for Hong Kong professionals under proposed changes to child abuse reporting bill

Government has proposed three amendments to the Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Bill.

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India banned single-use plastics almost 2 years ago. Did it work?

For the ban to work, analysts suggest a sustained implementation strategy and better availability of economically feasible non-plastic substitutes.

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Dubai plans to move international airport to US$35 billion new facility within 10 years

Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates to handle up to 260 million passengers a year.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/3260741/dubai-plans-move-international-airport-us35-billion-new-facility-within-10-years?utm_source=rss_feed


Southeast Asia’s scam hubs, songwriter for BTS, Cantonese cuisine: 5 weekend reads you may have missed

From Southeast Asia’s scam hubs to a Hong Kong umbrella maker, here are five stories you may have missed over the weekend.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/article/3260725/southeast-asias-scam-hubs-songwriter-bts-cantonese-cuisine-5-weekend-reads-you-may-have-missed?utm_source=rss_feed


World’s largest electric container ship starts service between China’s major coastal cities

Chinese-built Cosco vessel to help cut emissions as the battery-powered ship begins weekly service.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3260352/worlds-largest-electric-container-ship-starts-service-between-chinas-major-coastal-cities?utm_source=rss_feed


Pro-Palestinian protests at US universities show no sign of slowing after hundreds arrested

The White House insisted that pro-Palestinian protests that have rocked US universities in recent weeks must remain peaceful.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3260735/pro-palestinian-protests-us-universities-show-no-sign-slowing-after-hundreds-arrested?utm_source=rss_feed


Japan aims to put a man on the moon ahead of China as it partners with US in ‘Apollo programme on steroids’

Japan’s ambition to send its first astronaut to the moon by 2028 is seen as a move to prevent China from scoring a propaganda coup, analysts say.

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https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3260599/japan-aims-put-man-moon-ahead-china-it-partners-us-apollo-programme-steroids?utm_source=rss_feed


Japan’s ruling party loses special election in blow to PM Kishida

The Liberal Democratic Party’s loss is considered a voter punishment for its links to a years-long corruption saga that erupted last year and has undermined Fumio Kishida’s leadership.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3260731/japans-ruling-party-loses-special-election-blow-pm-kishida?utm_source=rss_feed


Let’s keep our expectations of Hongkong Post realistic

Can the postal service be both a public service and a business? That’s the question the government needs to answer. It might be too much to expect Hongkong Post to have the business acumen to tackle revenue challenges.

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https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3260499/lets-keep-our-expectations-hongkong-post-realistic?utm_source=rss_feed


AIA new business value soars 27%, Hong Kong-based insurer adds US$2 billion to buy-back plan

Stripping out the effect of exchange-rate fluctuations, new business value surged 31 per cent while annualised new premiums rose 26 per cent.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/companies/article/3260730/aia-new-business-value-soars-27-hong-kong-based-insurer-adds-2-billion-buy-back-plan?utm_source=rss_feed


Man behind China’s first approved Covid-19 shot expelled from national legislature

Yang Xiaoming has lost his post as NPC deputy over alleged ‘serious violations of discipline and law’, NPC Standing Committee says, as China cracks down on corruption in the healthcare sector.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3260709/man-behind-chinas-first-approved-covid-19-shot-expelled-national-legislature?utm_source=rss_feed


Human sweat-infused rice balls fashioned in the armpits of cute Japanese girls become unlikely culinary hit, at a price

A strange new twist on a classic Japanese snack, which involves the underarm sweat of the women who prepare it, is being proudly promoted in some high-end establishments.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/trending-china/article/3259281/human-sweat-infused-rice-balls-fashioned-armpits-cute-japanese-girls-become-unlikely-culinary-hit?utm_source=rss_feed


Bad weather and weaker yuan cast cloud over Hong Kong ‘golden week’ hopes and could cut trade in restaurants by 30%

Predictions restaurant trade will suffer from golden week double whammy despite an estimated 800,000 tourist arrivals from across the border.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3260701/bad-weather-and-weaker-yuan-cast-cloud-over-hong-kong-golden-week-hopes-and-could-cut-trade?utm_source=rss_feed


Singapore sees fewer new Chinese family offices after money-laundering crackdown

The growth of Chinese family offices has been slowing in the city state amid tighter checks on new applicants. Elevated property prices and higher stamp duty aren’t helping either.

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https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/economics/article/3260533/singapore-sees-fewer-new-chinese-family-offices-after-money-laundering-crackdown?utm_source=rss_feed


20,000 Georgians ‘March for Europe’, protest against ‘foreign influence’ bill

Protesters called on the government to scrap the controversial bill which the European Union has warned would undermine Tbilisi’s European aspirations.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3260727/20000-georgians-march-europe-protest-against-foreign-influence-bill?utm_source=rss_feed


As Hong Kong property launches hit 7-year high, analysts say pent-up demand may moderate

Buoyed by the brisk sales of flats following the removal of Hong Kong’s property cooling measures, the city’s developers have this year launched 4,800 new units as of last week, a seven-year high.

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https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3260687/hong-kong-property-launches-hit-7-year-high-analysts-say-pent-demand-may-moderate?utm_source=rss_feed


Hong Kong Communications Authority urged to explain approval of TVB channel lease to satellite TV operator to ‘clear doubts’

TVB has leased a channel to a satellite television firm, allowing it to broadcast content without the need to go through the complicated process of applying for a free-to-air licence.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3260717/hong-kong-communications-authority-urged-explain-approval-tvb-channel-lease-satellite-tv-operator?utm_source=rss_feed


Germany’s ‘Reichsbuerger’ coup suspects go on trial

The suspects, members of Reichsbuerger (Citizens of the Reich), allegedly aimed to impose martial law on Germany and install an aristocrat as leader in a plot foiled by police in 2022.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3260726/germanys-reichsbuerger-coup-suspects-go-trial?utm_source=rss_feed


Tornadoes strike Oklahoma, leaving trail of destruction and 4 dead

Town of Sulphur, in south-central Oklahoma, was particularly hard hit, with scores of buildings ripped apart.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3260724/tornadoes-kill-4-oklahoma-leaving-trail-destruction-and-thousands-without-power?utm_source=rss_feed


China used water cannon as ‘deterrence’ against Philippine ships, PLA senior colonel Zhou Bo says

Senior Colonel Zhou Bo shares his insights on global and regional challenges, based on long experience in military diplomacy.

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https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3260690/china-used-water-cannon-deterrence-against-philippine-ships-pla-senior-colonel-says?utm_source=rss_feed