Category: WORLD

Beijing/Taipei, December 30:
China on Monday launched large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, marking one of the most extensive displays of military strength in recent months amid escalating cross-strait tensions. The drills reportedly involve naval fleets, air force squadrons, and missile units, including live-fire exercises and amphibious assault simulations, aimed at testing combat readiness and strategic coordination. Chinese officials said the exercises are routine defensive measures designed to safeguard sovereignty and respond to perceived provocations in the region.

Taiwan’s government condemned the drills, describing them as a serious threat to regional peace and stability. Taipei has deployed its own air and naval assets to monitor the activities and ensure preparedness, while calling on the international community to urge restraint and prevent miscalculations. Analysts suggest that such exercises not only demonstrate China’s military capabilities but also serve as a strategic signal to both domestic and international audiences, highlighting Beijing’s determination to assert influence over Taiwan amid ongoing diplomatic and security challenges.

New York, December 27:
United Nations Secretary-General on Saturday strongly condemned a terrorist attack on a mosque in Syria, describing assaults on civilians and places of worship as “utterly unacceptable” and a violation of international humanitarian norms.

In a statement, the UN Chief urged all parties to respect human life, religious sites, and civilian safety, stressing that attacks on places of worship are not only crimes against humanity but also undermine peace and stability in conflict zones. He called for a thorough investigation and swift accountability for the perpetrators.

The statement comes amid escalating tensions in Syria, where attacks on religious and civilian targets have repeatedly drawn international condemnation. UN officials highlighted the need for enhanced protective measures for vulnerable communities and reinforced dialogue among local authorities, humanitarian agencies, and international partners.

Human rights experts echoed the Secretary-General’s remarks, emphasising that ensuring security for places of worship is critical for promoting coexistence and preventing further radicalisation. The UN continues to monitor the situation closely while coordinating relief and protective measures in the affected region.

Kuala Lumpur, December 27:
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was on Friday sentenced to an additional 15 years in prison after a Malaysian court found him guilty in a major corruption case linked to the multi-billion-dollar 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal. The verdict marks a significant development in one of the world’s largest financial fraud cases, which had shaken Malaysia’s political and financial systems and triggered global investigations.

The court held Najib guilty of multiple charges, including abuse of power, criminal breach of trust and money laundering, related to the misappropriation of funds from 1MDB. With this fresh sentence, Najib’s total jail term has substantially increased, reinforcing Malaysia’s efforts to hold powerful political figures accountable. Najib, who has consistently denied wrongdoing, is expected to pursue further legal remedies, while the case continues to be seen as a landmark moment in Malaysia’s anti-corruption drive.

Tokyo, December 27: A man was arrested in Japan after allegedly stabbing 15 employees at a Yokohama Rubber manufacturing facility, triggering panic and a swift response from emergency services. According to local authorities, the incident occurred during working hours, leaving several workers injured, some of whom were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Police said the condition of the victims is being closely monitored, while security at the factory premises was immediately tightened.

Officials confirmed that the suspect was taken into custody at the scene and an investigation is underway to determine the motive behind the attack. Law enforcement agencies are questioning the accused and examining CCTV footage as part of the probe. The Yokohama Rubber Company stated that it is cooperating fully with authorities and providing support to affected employees and their families, while ensuring safety measures are reinforced across its facilities.

Wellington, December 27:
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Friday welcomed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, calling it a landmark step that will significantly strengthen economic ties between the two nations. He said the agreement places the bilateral partnership on an accelerated growth trajectory.

Luxon highlighted that the FTA would enhance market access, reduce trade barriers, and create new opportunities across sectors such as agriculture, technology, education, and services. He emphasised that India’s growing economy presents vast potential for New Zealand exporters and investors.

The Prime Minister added that the agreement reflects shared democratic values and mutual commitment to open, rules-based trade. Experts said the FTA could act as a catalyst for deeper strategic and commercial engagement between India and New Zealand in the coming years.

Bangkok, December 27:
Thailand and Cambodia on Friday declared a ceasefire, bringing an end to weeks of heightened tensions and sporadic fighting along disputed border areas. Officials from both sides confirmed that the agreement was reached following diplomatic engagements aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.

The ceasefire comes after several incidents of armed confrontation that raised concerns over regional security and displaced civilians living near the border. Authorities said military commanders on both sides have been instructed to halt hostilities immediately and maintain restraint to prevent further escalation.

Government sources indicated that diplomatic channels remain active, with plans for bilateral talks to address longstanding border disputes and confidence-building measures. Both nations reiterated their commitment to resolving differences through dialogue and peaceful means, in line with international norms.

Regional observers welcomed the ceasefire, calling it a positive step toward de-escalation and long-term stability in Southeast Asia. They stressed the importance of sustained communication and cooperation to ensure the ceasefire holds and prevents future clashes.

Los Angeles, December 23:
Vince Zampella, renowned video game developer and co-creator of the Call of Duty franchise, died on Tuesday in a car crash, the gaming community confirmed. Zampella was widely respected for his pioneering role in shaping modern first-person shooter games and co-founding major studios responsible for some of the most successful titles in gaming history.

Zampella’s career spanned decades, during which he helped launch Call of Duty into a global phenomenon that set industry benchmarks for storytelling, gameplay and competitive multiplayer experiences. He also co-founded Respawn Entertainment, contributing to influential titles that expanded his legacy beyond a single franchise.

Industry peers paid tribute to Zampella, describing him as a visionary whose creativity and leadership inspired generations of game developers and entertained millions of players worldwide. Tributes poured in across social media and gaming platforms, with fans remembering his impact on interactive entertainment.

Representatives from Respawn and other studios said they are deeply saddened by the loss and extended condolences to Zampella’s family, colleagues and fans. The circumstances of the crash are under investigation by local authorities.

New Delhi, December 23:
The year 2026 is expected to bring cheer to travellers and working professionals alike, with several long weekends and extended holiday breaks lined up across the calendar in India. A favourable alignment of national holidays, festivals and weekends is likely to provide multiple opportunities for short vacations and rest periods throughout the year.

According to the holiday calendar, key festivals such as Republic Day, Holi, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Diwali and Christmas are expected to fall close to weekends, allowing people to plan extended breaks by taking minimal leave. Several regional and religious holidays may further add to the list, depending on state-specific observances.

Experts say long weekends not only boost domestic tourism but also help improve work-life balance. Travel and hospitality sectors are expected to benefit significantly, with increased bookings for short trips, heritage destinations and leisure resorts. Employers are also witnessing a growing trend of employees planning productivity around such extended breaks.

With advance planning, individuals and families can make the most of these long weekends by aligning leave days strategically. The 2026 holiday calendar is being viewed as one of the more favourable ones in recent years, offering a balanced mix of work and leisure opportunities across the country.

New Delhi, December 22:
The Union government has begun work on the development of a greenfield international airport at the southernmost tip of India on Great Nicobar Island, marking a major step towards strengthening strategic infrastructure and connectivity in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The project is part of a broader plan to transform Great Nicobar into a key hub for economic activity, logistics and national security.

Officials said the airport will significantly enhance civilian and military connectivity, reduce travel time to the remote island, and improve access for tourism, trade and emergency services. Given Great Nicobar’s strategic location close to important international shipping lanes, the airport is also expected to play a crucial role in boosting India’s maritime security presence in the Indian Ocean Region.

The government has emphasised that the project will be developed with a focus on sustainability and environmental safeguards. Measures are being planned to minimise ecological impact while ensuring long-term development benefits for local communities. Once completed, the airport is expected to act as a catalyst for overall infrastructure growth in the region, reinforcing India’s strategic and economic footprint at its southernmost frontier.

Dhaka, December 22:
Another political leader in Bangladesh was shot at on Monday, days after the killing of Osman Hadi, raising fresh concerns about political violence in the country. The incident took place in a local area where the leader was participating in a community event, officials said.

Police said the injured leader was rushed to a nearby hospital and is undergoing treatment, with his condition described as stable. A search for the assailants has been launched, and investigations are underway to determine the motive behind the attack. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses as part of the probe.

The latest incident follows the high-profile killing of Osman Hadi, which had sparked widespread outrage and prompted calls for stronger action against political violence. Political parties and civil society groups have condemned the attack on the leader, urging authorities to ensure safety and uphold the rule of law.

Officials said heightened security measures have been deployed in affected areas to prevent further violence. Analysts noted that such incidents underline the ongoing challenges Bangladesh faces in maintaining political stability and public safety amid contentious political dynamics.