Weakened Super Typhoon Ragasa heads towards Vietnam after battering China and Hong Kong

A recent investigation by 101 East raises serious concerns about China's tactics in influencing Paraguay, Taiwan's only ally in South America. The report suggests that China may be leveraging alleged criminal activities to sway Paraguay away from its longstanding support for Taiwan. This situation is significant as it highlights the geopolitical tensions in the region and the lengths to which nations might go to secure alliances, potentially altering the balance of power in international relations.

In a significant ruling, four former officials of Taiwan's ruling political party have been convicted of spying for China, with sentences reaching up to 10 years. This case highlights ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, as it raises concerns about national security and the influence of foreign powers within Taiwan's political landscape. The longest sentence was given to Huang Chu-jung, a former aide to President Lai Ching-te, underscoring the serious implications of espionage in the region.

China's recent shift away from fossil fuels is a significant development, especially in light of the recent evacuation of a million people due to a typhoon. This move not only highlights China's commitment to addressing climate change but also sends a strong signal to the global community about the importance of sustainable energy practices. As extreme weather events become more frequent, China's actions could inspire other nations to follow suit, making a positive impact on the environment.

Taiwan has revised the death toll from Typhoon Ragasa down to 14, while China begins its cleanup efforts. The storm, now weakened, continues to pose a rain threat to Vietnam and other regions in Southeast Asia. This update is significant as it reflects the ongoing impact of natural disasters in the area and the collaborative efforts needed for recovery.

Xi Jinping's recent visit to Xinjiang, following a similar trip to Tibet, highlights his ongoing efforts to promote a unified Chinese identity among ethnic minorities. This visit comes amid ongoing international scrutiny regarding human rights abuses in the region, making it a significant moment for both domestic policy and international relations.

The AFL grand final is set to go global this September, with fans from cities like NYC to Hong Kong gathering for watch parties. This event highlights the growing international interest in Australian football, showcasing how the sport is expanding beyond its traditional borders. It's a celebration of community and passion for the game, bringing together fans who may be thousands of miles apart but share a love for AFL.

The recent protests in Ladakh have turned deadly, marking one of the bloodiest days in the region's history, with four lives lost. Initially peaceful, the demonstrations have escalated as Gen-Z activists demand statehood and special protections for their area, which borders China. This situation is significant as it highlights the growing unrest among younger generations in India, who are increasingly vocal about their rights and regional issues.

China's recent pledge to cut emissions by 7-10 percent has been met with disappointment from experts who believe it falls short of what is needed to combat climate change effectively. While the rollout of renewable energy sources offers a glimmer of hope, many argue that more aggressive targets are essential for meaningful progress. This situation is crucial as China's actions significantly impact global climate efforts, and the world is watching closely to see if they will step up their commitments.

Chinese regulators are urging companies to avoid aggressive price-cutting strategies as they expand into the U.S. market. This call for restraint comes amid concerns over excessive competition and extreme discounting practices that could harm the market's stability. By promoting a more balanced approach, regulators aim to foster sustainable growth and protect both consumers and businesses in the long run.

Wealthy investors from the US, China, and Hong Kong are flocking to New Zealand's 'golden visa' scheme, following recent changes that have made it easier to apply. Since the new rules for the Active Investor Plus visa were introduced in April, applications have nearly tripled. This surge is significant as it reflects a growing interest in New Zealand as a destination for investment, which could help stimulate the economy and create jobs. The relaxed requirements, including lower investment thresholds and the removal of English-language mandates, are designed to attract more foreign capital, making this a pivotal moment for the country's economic recovery.

China's approach to setting targets differs significantly from Western methods, and this unique perspective could be beneficial for the global economy. By focusing on long-term goals and sustainable development, China is positioning itself as a leader in addressing global challenges. This could inspire other nations to rethink their strategies and collaborate more effectively, ultimately fostering a more balanced and inclusive world.

In a recent address, China's President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of transitioning to low-carbon energy, describing it as 'the trend of our time.' This statement not only highlights China's commitment to addressing climate change but also serves as a subtle critique of former President Trump's policies. As global leaders increasingly focus on sustainable practices, Xi's announcement could influence international climate discussions and encourage other nations to adopt similar initiatives.

STV has announced plans to cut 60 jobs and discontinue its north news programme after reporting a pre-tax loss of £0.2 million in the first half of the year. This decision highlights the challenges faced by media companies in maintaining profitability while delivering local news, which is crucial for community engagement and information.

The recent discussions around One Piece's pirate flag highlight its emergence as a powerful symbol of resistance for Gen Z. This resonates particularly in a time when young people are increasingly vocal about their beliefs and challenges they face, making it a cultural touchstone. The article also touches on significant political events, like Trump's visa policy changes and Moldova's upcoming elections, which are influenced by external pressures, showcasing the interconnectedness of global issues.

YouTube has announced plans to restore accounts that were banned for posts related to Covid and the Biden election, acknowledging the censorship pressures it faced during the former president's administration. This move is significant as it reflects a shift towards greater freedom of expression on the platform, allowing users to share their views without fear of being silenced. It highlights the ongoing debate about content moderation and the balance between preventing misinformation and upholding free speech.

Denmark's Defense Minister has labeled recent drone flights over military bases and airports as a 'hybrid attack,' although he clarified that there is no current evidence connecting these activities to Russia. This situation is significant as it highlights the growing concerns over aerial surveillance and potential threats to national security, while also emphasizing that the drones do not currently pose a military risk to Denmark.

Andy Burnham has expressed his unwavering commitment to his role as the Mayor of Greater Manchester, stating his love for the job and his dedication to supporting the Labour Party. Despite recent disappointing news regarding the shelving of the Northern Powerhouse Rail project, Burnham remains optimistic about the future of the region. His passion for local issues highlights the ongoing challenges faced by northern cities in securing infrastructure investments, making his commitment to the role even more significant.

The Co-op has reported a significant £80 million loss in profits due to a malicious cyber-attack, highlighting vulnerabilities in its food business that resulted in empty shelves across its stores. This incident not only impacts the retailer's financial health but also raises concerns about cybersecurity in the retail sector, emphasizing the need for stronger defenses against such threats.