According to a study by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, the region is rapidly aging. The declining workforce and the spread of the informal economy risk accentuating existing inequalities. But greater investment in care services could create millions of jobs and new opportunities for inclusive development.

The Hungarian prime minister's electoral defeat deprives China of its main ally in the EU, with repercussions on investments, European cohesion, and relations with Taiwan. However, the new government led by Péter Magyar will have ample room to reposition itself along European lines without abandoning economic ties.

In the South Korea, single-person households now represent 36 per cent of the population. Faced with rising numbers of people hard pressed to cope with loneliness, the city administration is boosting its support services, including moving assistance and emotional support. The programme, already in place for hospital visits with high satisfaction rates, aims to combat loneliness and daily difficulties.

Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho spoke in harsh terms to describe adoptions from South Korea in the 1970s and 1980s that were marked by serious irregularities. The government announced steps to facilitate compensation, stating that it will waive appeals in proceedings initiated by victims, although delays remain.

Last year, Japan expelled 318 foreigners, a 30 per cent increase over the previous year, and is now aiming to speed up repatriation procedures, despite severe labour shortages. NGOs denounce the risk of violating the principle of non-refoulement of refugees and a growing climate of fear, even among those who have lived in the country for years.

Talks between Washington and Tehran will take place in Islamabad on Friday after threats of escalation. China has applied pressure, consolidating its influence in the region. Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir has played a crucial role. Uncertainties remain regarding the actual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the Israeli-Lebanon front. Pakistani Christians tell AsiaNews that they are praying for lasting “peace and prosperity”.