Indo-Pacific

Deutsche Welle

February 09, 2026

EU Aims for Defense Independence Amid US-China Dominance

Europe pushes for self-reliance in defense as US-China lead market.

#EU #defense #self-reliance

Read Full Article

France 24

February 09, 2026

Historic Victory: Japan's First Female PM Faces Economic, Foreign Policy Challenges

Japan's new PM Sanae Takaichi wins by a landslide, focusing on economy and foreign policy with US-Chinese relations at stake.

#Japan politics #female leadership #economic policy

Read Full Article

BBC

February 09, 2026

Thailand's Progressive Path: Post-Election Challenges Ahead

Thailand faces a pivotal election after years of unrest, with progressives eyeing change amidst enduring political hurdles.

#Thailand #elections #politics

Read Full Article

The Guardian

February 09, 2026

Why India Hosts 100 Literature Festivals Despite Low Readership

India's numerous literature festivals thrive amidst low book sales, driven by cultural, celebrity, and intellectual engagement rather than just reading.

#India #literature #culture

Read Full Article

BBC

February 09, 2026

Thailand's Progressive Movement Faces Post-Election Challenges

After three years of turbulence, Thailand votes again, testing the resilience of progressive forces in a politically fragmented landscape.

#Thailand #elections #progressive politics

Read Full Article

The New York Times

February 09, 2026

Myanmar's Fragile Urban Calm: Post-Coup Economic Despair

Urban life in Myanmar post-coup struggles with deep economic despair despite cities being spared from civil war violence.

#Myanmar #economic crisis #urban despair

Read Full Article

BBC

February 09, 2026

US Strategic Plan to Challenge China's Mineral Supremacy

The US unveils a comprehensive strategy to counter China's critical minerals control, involving 50 nations and promising broad economic implications.

#US strategy #China #critical minerals

Read Full Article

The New York Times

February 09, 2026

Historic Victory for Japan's First Female Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi

Sanae Takaichi is set to make history as Japan's first female PM with a sweeping electoral win, marking a pivotal shift in Japan's political landscape.

#Japan politics #Sanae Takaichi #gender equality

Read Full Article

Al Jazeera

February 08, 2026

India and Malaysia Forge Stronger Ties in Trade and Defence

India and Malaysia deepen bilateral ties, enhancing cooperation across sectors such as semiconductors, defence, healthcare, and food security.

#India #Malaysia #trade

Read Full Article

BBC

February 08, 2026

Pakistan Revives Its Ancient Kite Festival Amid Safety Concerns

Pakistan resumes its historic kite festival after a 19-year ban, addressing past safety concerns while celebrating cultural heritage.

#Pakistan #Culture #Festival

Read Full Article

France 24

February 08, 2026

Japan's Ruling Party Wins Majority: Implications for Future Policies

Japan's LDP regains lower house control. PM Takaichi's popularity soars among youth, signaling possible policy shifts.

#Japan #Liberal Democratic Party #elections

Read Full Article

The New York Times

February 08, 2026

Deadly Mosque Bombing Challenges Pakistan's Security Initiatives

A recent mosque bombing highlights the precarious state of security in Pakistan, undermining its efforts against militants like the Islamic State.

#Pakistan #terrorism #Islamic State

Read Full Article