Asia

Afghanistan is one of the countries with the highest levels of mine and unexploded ordnance contamination; the International Committee of the Red Cross, who made the statement, in 2024 informed 243.000 people in five regions about these dangers

The State Trading Organization has announced changes in the times and places of distribution of government-donated tuna crates in the Male area for Ramadan

The abrupt US aid suspension to Myanmar threatens millions amid ongoing conflict; amnesty International warns that cutting humanitarian support worsens civilian suffering, limiting access to food, healthcare, and basic needs in war-affected regions

Lejun dela Cruz, a human rights activist and midterm election candidate, was arrested in Pasig for a 1998 murder; once part of the armed struggle, he later shifted to peaceful activism and his arrest raises concerns over political repression

A ceremony was held in Dushanbe to honour successful athletes and their coaches who achieved high results in international competitions in 2024, with 46 athletes being awarded the presidential prize money

Istanbul's security forces recorded a 6,5% reduction in crimes against persons and a 27,6% reduction in crimes against property in January 2025 compared to last year, said Istanbul Governor Davut Gül

A five-day dog border guard training course organised by the OSCE in the Farap district opened with twenty-four dog officers, veterinarians and dog breeders

Dubai said it plans to build a solar plant with storage batteries for uninterrupted energy supply, just a month after Abu Dhabi unveiled a similar $6 billion project

More than 400 greenhouses, factories and social facilities were found in violation of emission regulations in the capital and Tashkent province, reported the press service of the Ministry of the Environment

The Royal Academy of Performing Arts RAPA is transforming into the Royal Institute of Performing Arts RIPA: to preserve Bhutanese culture a new four-year diploma will train artists, foster research, expand global collaborations for cultural sustainability

President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa has launched the “White Gold” National Movement to enhance wool and cashmere industry, aiming to double exports, improve herders’ incomes, create over 8.000 jobs by increasing processing rates and supporting local enterprises

Champasack Province plans to elevate the Million-Year-Old Volcano in Paksong District to a national tourist attraction; development includes upgrading the 17 km road and adding restaurants and accommodations to boost eco-tourism and local economic growth