|
TWTW Regional Roundups
News from around the world
Padmashree Anandhan, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, Rohini Reenum, Femy Francis, Anu Maria Joseph, R Preetha, Brighty Ann Sarah, Ananya Dinesh, Gauri Gupta, Yamini Jagadish, Merin Treesa Alex, Lekshmi M.K, Kejia Reddy, Santhiya. M, and Rizwana S Banu
CHINA THIS WEEK
China: Looks to install first commercial small modular nuclear reactor for reducing carbon emissions
On 30 May, Interesting Engineering reported that China’s first commercial small modular nuclear reactor, Linglong-1, is in the final installation phase. It is the world's first land-based small modular reactor. It is expected to play a key role in reducing China’s carbon emissions. Also known as ACP100, this is a third-generation small pressurized water reactor. In 2016, it became the first Small Modular Reactor to pass a safety review by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Each Lianglong-1 reactor can produce 125,00o kilowatts of electricity, which is enough to power 526,000 homes. It is expected to power the Hainan Free Trade Port and help China become carbon-neutral before 2060.
China: To host Second Belt and Road Conference on S&T for promoting technological opening and cooperation
On 03 June, Global Times reported that the Second Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology exchange will take place from 10-12 June in China’s Sichuan Province, Chengdu. Participants from over 100 countries and international organisations are set to attend. China’s Ministry of Science and Technology Vice Minister Chen Jiachang stated that the conference aims to promote technological opening up and cooperation, guided by the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind. He added that the conference will advance the implementation of the International Science and Technology Cooperation Initiative and provide an international platform for tech exchanges in areas such as youth scientist communications, policy dialogue, cutting-edge area exchanges, and industrial technology synergy. It aims to strengthen consensus, enhance cooperation, and promote cross-sectoral and cross-regional collaboration among Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) participating countries.
China: EU bans Chinese manufacturers from accessing its public procurement tenders
On 02 June, the European Union agreed on restricting Chinese medical device manufacturers from accessing its public procurement tenders worth over USD 5.2 million for the next five years. This marks the first use of the EU’s International Procurement Instrument (IPI), which aims to counteract unfair trade practices by ensuring reciprocity in market access. European Commission investigation reveals that 87 per cent of Chinese public tenders for medical devices contain explicit or implicit restrictions against imported products, effectively favoring domestic suppliers. The EU highlights Beijing’s “Buy China” policies, especially in high-end medical devices, which are targeted in China’s “Made in China 2025” plan. This policy sets ambitious goals for domestically produced devices to make up 50 per cent of county hospital usage by 2020, rising to 70 per cent by 2025, and 90 per cent by 2030. Such measures create significant barriers for EU firms trying to enter the Chinese market, while Chinese manufacturers face comparatively fewer restrictions in Europe.
China: Rolls out “ASEAN visa” for 10 member states
On 03 June, China introduced a new “ASEAN visa” that offers five-year, multiple-entry permits to citizens of the 10 ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. This initiative aims to facilitate business travel and strengthen regional ties. The visa allows a maximum stay of 180 days and extends to the applicants' spouses and children. This move aligns with China's broader strategy to enhance connectivity and cooperation within the region. In addition to the ASEAN visa, China has expanded its visa-free policy to include citizens from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay, effective 01 June. This brings the total number of countries with visa-free access to China to 43. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported a significant increase in international engagement. In the first quarter, over 9 million foreign visits were recorded, marking 40 per cent year-on-year. Furthermore, more than 18,000 foreign-invested enterprises were established in China during the first four months, reflecting a 12.1 per cent increase compared to the previous year.
China: “The world will never forget the Tiananmen Square massacre,” says US secretary of State
On 04 June, the US Secretary of State stated that the world will never forget the Tiananmen Square massacre. US Secretary of StateMarco Rubio said in a statement: “Today we commemorate the bravery of the Chinese people who were killed as they tried to exercise their fundamental freedoms, as well as those who continue to suffer persecution as they seek accountability and justice for the events of June 4, 1989.” In response, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian said: “Erroneous statements by the US side maliciously distort historical facts, deliberately attack China’s political system and developmental path, and seriously interfere in China’s internal affairs.” Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te praised the bravery of the protestors and said: “Authoritarian governments often choose to silence and forget history, while democratic societies choose to preserve the truth and refuse to forget those who gave their lives – and their dreams – to the idea of human rights.” The People’s Liberation Army opened fire on the unarmed peaceful protestors at the pro-democracy demonstrations held in Tiananmen Square. It resulted in the massacre of numerous protestors and bystanders in Beijing. The government arrested thousands of protestors and executed many.
SOUTHEAST AND SOUTH ASIA
Singapore: PM Wong aims to deepen collaborations on energy, healthcare, and sustainability with Philippines
On 05 June, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong met Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila. Both leaders, in a joint conference at the Malacanang Palace, have signed agreements that will deepen their collaboration in various sectors, including renewable energy, healthcare, civil services, and sustainability. Wong expressed his gratitude for the invitation to Manila and said that the bilateral relationship between them has never been better.
Bangladesh: Interim government releases BDT 7.9 trillion budget for FY26
On 2 June, The Daily Star reported that, Bangladesh interim government led by Muhammad Yunus approved national budget of BDT 7.9 trillion for the financial year 2026. This also includes the tax reliefs up to BDT 5.25 lakhs for people who were involved in the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina government in July 2024.
Bangladesh: International Crimes Tribunal initiates crime against humanity charges on Sheikh Hasina
On 2 June , The Daily Star reported that, the International crime Tribunal pressed charges against the deposed prime minster, Sheikh Hasina and two of her top aides, accusing of crime against humanity. The tribunal set next hearing on 16 June and ordered the trio to be produced before it.
Bangladesh: New bank notes drop Sheikh Mujibur Rahman portrait
On 2 June, The Daily Star reported that the interim government circulated new notes in the banks. New currencies do not include Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait but instead have pictures of historic temples, mosques and landmarks.
Pakistan: PTI sends names for the parliamentary committee which will appoint the next Chief Election Commissioner
On 5 June, PTI submitted the names of national assembly and senate members who would be a part of the parliamentary committee which would be appointing the chief of Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and the other two members of ECP. PTI has urged the federal government to start the process of formulating the parliamentary committee for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). PTI nominated Asad Qaiser, Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Sardar Latif Khosa and Barrister Gohar Ali Khan who are members of the national assembly. From the Senate, PTI nominated Shibli Faraz and Raja Nasir. The nomination of names by the PTI came after PM Sharif reached out to the opposition for convening a meeting on appointing the next CEC. The current CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja and the other two members of ECP completed his five-year tenure on 26 January 2025. For appointing the CEC, PM Sharif and PTI’s Omar Ayub would submit three names for the President to choose from. However, if the two are unable to reach consensus regarding the three names, they would have to send their preferred names to the parliamentary committee. The committee would then submit one name to the President for his assent.
Pakistan: PM Sharif begins his “two-day visit” to Saudi Arabia; to discuss bilateral trade and investments
On 5 June, PM Sharif would begin his “two-day visit” to Saudi Arabia. As per The Express Tribune, PM Sharif would thank the leaders of Saudi Arabia for playing a crucial part in diffusing tensions between India and Pakistan. As per the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PM Sharif would be meeting Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman for a discussion. The two sides are expected to deliberate upon bilateral “trade and investment” and furthering the “welfare of Muslim Ummah.” Previously, PM Sharif visited four countries- Iran, Turkiye, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan, following the military confrontation with India.
Pakistan: Labels militants based in Balochistan as “Fitna-al-Hindustan” to highlight India’s alleged support to the groups
On 31 May, the federal government announced that all militant organizations based in Balochistan would be labelled as “Fitna-al-Hindustan.” As per the Ministry of Interior, militant groups are engaging in violent attacks on the directions from India. The Ministry sees the same as damaging to “Islamic faith” and “sovereignty” of the country.
On the same day, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Asim Munir attended a “grand jirga” in Quetta. The objective of the gathering was to have a discussion with the tribal elders of Balochistan regarding the alleged support from India to the militants in the province. The COAS claimed to possess “concrete evidence” that would substantiate India’s role in aiding the “terrorist networks” in the province. He asserted that peace in the province is “non-negotiable” and that the future of the country is connected with stability in Balochistan. PM Sharif also attended the “grand jirga” in Quetta. In his address, he warned that “terrorists in Balochistan must not be tolerated by the public, government or armed forces.” He called for steps to bring the militants on the right path, claiming they were “misled.” He claimed that “economic and social injustices” would not take place in the province under his party’s reign. He also informed the province would get PKR 250 billion as “development funds.”
AFRICA THIS WEEK
Africa: African Union raises worries over new travel ban by the US
On 05 June, Africanews reported on the concerns raised by the African Union (AU) about the new travel ban imposed by US President Donald Trump. As per Africanews, the new travel ban could impact the diplomatic relationship between Africa and the US. The travel ban would affect seven countries in Africa, include Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia and Sudan. The three countries which face travel restrictions include Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Burundi: Goes into elections amid political tensions and economic challenges.
On 06 June, the BBC reported that people of Burundi were gearing up to vote amid inflation, fuel shortages, and political suppression. Elections would be held for the seats in the national assembly and local councils. The President, Évariste Ndayishimiye, would continue his term until 2027, as he is serving a seven-year term. As per the BBC, the elections will test the popularity of the ruling party, CNDD-FDD, which has been in power for the past 20 years and was also once a rebel group. There have also been accusations of harassment and intimidation about the party's youth league, the Imbonerakure, by opposition parties.
DRC: Government bans reporting on former President Kabila and his party members
On 04 June 2025, BBC reported that the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government had banned reporting on the activities and interviews of former President Joseph Kabila and party members. This followed his return to the country, after which he experienced tensions with the government. There are accusations of treason and an alleged connection to the M23 rebels, because of which authorities are pushing for the prosecution of Kabila. The country’s media regulator stated that the media house would be suspended in the event of a breach of the ban. The M23 spokesperson has announced that the ban is not effective for media houses operating in the part of the country under M23 control. There was no response from Kabila, but the secretary of this party has posted on social media that the ban is “arbitrary.”
Egypt: Leaders of the UN, Iran and Egypt address Iran’s nuclear program
On 02 June, leaders from Iran, Egypt and the UN met in Cairo to discuss Iran’s nuclear program. As per the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) r Iran is increasing the storage of enriched uranium to near weapons-grade levels This follows the negotiations between the Trump Administration and Iran over a potential nuclear deal.
South Africa: The US welcomes the arrival of the second group of Afrikaners
On 02 June, a second group of Afrikaners, a relatively small group, arrived in the US. The first batch came to the US in May, as they claimed to be prosecuted in South Africa. Around 8000 Afrikaners will relocate to the US over the next few months. In February, US President Trump halted all aid to South Africa, followed by Ramaphosa’s land expropriation law. Trump claimed that they all were the victims of genocide, however, South Africa has repeatedly rejected Trump’s claims.
Sudan: More than four million fled Sudan amid the Sudan conflict, says UN refugee agency
On 03 June Reuters reported that since April 2023, ‘the beginning of the Sudanese civil war, more than four million people fled Sudan, and many were facing inadequate shelter and food due to the aid cut. It is in the third year, and Sudan is now facing the worst humanitarian and displacement crisis,’ said the UN refugee agency. More than 800,000 refugees went to Chad but faced the same problems. Most of the refugees underwent violent attacks and humiliation during their escape.
Chad: Chad halts the issuance of visas amid the US travel ban
On 05 June, Chad suspended all visas for US citizens. This follows the travel ban announced by the US President Donald Trump on 12 countries, of which seven were from Africa, including Chad. President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno said that he just acted under the principle of reciprocity and added that “Chad has no planes to offer, no billions of dollars to give, but Chad has pride and dignity.”
EUROPE THIS WEEK
Poland: Prime Minister Donald Tusk to seek confidence vote
On 02 June, the Conservative candidate Karol Nawrocki won Poland's presidential runoff with 50.89 per cent of the total votes defeating liberal, pro-EU candidate Rafał Trzaskowski, an ally of Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Following the election, Prime Minister Tusk announced he would request a parliamentary vote of confidence in his coalition government to reaffirm his mandate. The election result politically weakened Tusk. The results raised questions about the durability of his multi-party coalition, which is scheduled to govern until late 2027. In a speech, Tusk expressed willingness to cooperate with the newly elected President where necessary and possible.
Germany: Chancellor Merz meets President Trump to mend transatlantic ties amid global tensions
On 04 June, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met US President Donald Trump in Washington. Merz addressed concerns such as Germany’s military spending plans and tightened immigration. The discussions would centered on Ukraine, Middle East policy, and trade. The discussions also included disputes over defense spending, Ukraine, and trade tariffs. The meeting's outcome could influence relations ahead of the upcoming G7 and NATO summits.
The EU: EU and US hold crucial trade talks amid rising tariff tensions
On 04 June, the European Union Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Paris. The meeting was scheduled amid the rising tension between US and the EU after the former announced increased tariffs on EU steel and aluminum. The EU expressed its intentions to impose countermeasures in case of the failure of dialogue. The EU is considering retaliatory tariff on US products like agricultural goods and consumer items.
The UN: German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock elected as President of UNGA amidst opposition from Russia
On 02 June, Germany's Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, was elected as the President of the United Nations General Assembly. Russia had requested a secret ballot to oppose her candidacy, however, Baerbock surpassed the majority by securing 167 votes in the secret ballot. In her acceptance speech, under the theme "Better Together," Baerbock emphasized unity and cooperation amidst the armed conflicts, climate crisis, poverty, and institutional inadequacies. Baerbock prepared to assume her role during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2025. Russia expressed its criticisms for her anti-Russia bias and questioned her ability to act impartially as a President of the General Assembly.
|
