Tibetans take to the streets against Beijing's 'zero-Covid' policy

Today's headlines: Israel starts extractions from Karish, expected to sign maritime border with Lebanon today; Asean summit on Myanmar opens; with 'honorary citizenship', Vientiane aims at rich foreigners to boost economy; Japan's coast guard uses sophisticated drones to patrol coasts; in Russia, cases of racial and religious hatred in the Armed Forces are on the rise.

TIBET - CHINA

Tibetans took to the streets in the capital Lahsa to protest against the strict 'zero-Covid' policy imposed by the central government, characterised by hard lockdowns (and mass tampons). These are the first demonstrations since the 2008 uprising, which was quelled at the cost of bloodshed and deaths. Videos and footage released by Radio Free Asia show dozens of protesters in the streets, ready to immolate themselves. 

INDONESIA - MYANMAR

The meeting of Asean foreign ministers opened today in Jakarta, Indonesia, to discuss the peace process in Myanmar. However, the meeting was not attended by any representatives of the ruling coup junta in Naypyidaw. There is little hope of concrete initiatives to stop repression and violence, while there are still dozens of victims among civilians and fighters from rebel groups. 

ISRAEL - LEBANON

Israel has begun extracting gas from Karish, off the coast and the subject of the agreement on the definition of borders and the exploitation of resources reached in recent days with Lebanon. The two countries are expected to formalise the pact today. Industry giant Energean confirms gas production "from the Karish Main-02 well". Beirut will have access to the Qana field. 

LAOS

After Thailand and Indonesia, another Southeast Asian nation looks to wealthy foreigners to lift its finances. Laos is offering honorary citizenship to those ready to shell out €1.5 million to acquire it and invest in the country. Critical voices, however, fear the risk of a massive invasion by rich Chinese businessmen, with the associated purchase of land and property. 

JAPAN

The Japanese Coast Guard has deployed sophisticated US-made drones to patrol its territorial waters. These include the SeaGuardians, designed to fly for up to 40 hours in all weather conditions to cover the entire exclusive economic zone. The aircraft are equipped with high-definition cameras and can identify approaching aircraft.

RUSSIA

The war research site Isw points out the various cases of racial and religious hatred within the Russian armed forces. In one video, a Russian officer is seen attacking a Muslim soldier who was trying to pray at the appointed time, beating him savagely. Experts speak of 'numerous similar cases', reporting various testimonies.

KYRGYZSTAN - SOUTH KOREA

A delegation from South Korea arrived in Kyrgyzstan, invited by the Ministry of Economy in Biškek to evaluate the 'K-City Network' project at the level of territory, infrastructure and transport for the realisation of the Issyk-Kul 'Smart City'. The aim of the project is to improve 'the quality of life of the population', and increase 'the tourist attractiveness of the country'.

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