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China commissioned its third aircraft carrier, Fujian, in Hainan, marking its first domestically designed carrier with advanced electromagnetic catapult systems. The vessel aims to project power in disputed regional waters and deepen China's naval capabilities, signaling a significant step in its military expansion and strategic ambitions.
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UK political leaders are divided over North Sea oil and gas. The Conservatives pledge to maximize extraction and scrap net-zero policies, while critics warn this risks environmental damage and increased reliance on imports amid declining reserves. The debate is heating up ahead of upcoming elections.
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Recent studies reveal that individuals with multiple psychiatric disorders face up to a 90% increased risk of developing dementia. Data from European and Asian populations show a strong link between mental health conditions and later cognitive decline, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention.
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China held a major military parade in Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of WWII's end, unveiling new weapons and demonstrating its growing military capabilities. Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un attended, signaling regional influence and strategic intent amid international tensions.
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A series of typhoons, including Bualoi, have caused widespread damage and fatalities in the Philippines, Vietnam, and Laos. Over 70 deaths have been reported, with thousands displaced and extensive property damage. The storms highlight increasing severity linked to climate change.
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A woman in Taiwan forged documents and pressed a deceased man's fingerprint to claim NT$8.5 million, leading to her arrest and a suspended prison sentence. The incident highlights unusual criminal behavior within a funeral setting, linked to debt disputes and financial desperation.
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Taiwan is set to receive a record volume of military shipments in 2025, including US arms and domestically produced weapons, to bolster its defenses against Beijing. Delays persist in some high-profile systems, but overall deliveries are progressing, with a focus on modernizing Taiwan’s military capabilities.
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China's military claims its forces followed and warned US, UK, Canadian, and Australian warships sailing through the Taiwan Strait, describing their actions as 'trouble-making and provocation.' The Chinese Eastern Theater Command states these moves threaten regional stability amid ongoing tensions.
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A new report highlights the US military's lag in counter-drone tech amid China's rapid drone development. China is mass-producing attack drones, while the US struggles with limited systems. The Pentagon's shifting focus to homeland defense raises concerns for Taiwan and regional stability.
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Global markets gained as investors anticipate the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates this month. Asian stocks hit new highs, while Wall Street remains near record levels amid signs of slowing inflation and expectations of monetary easing. Economic data continues to influence investor sentiment today, Thursday, 18 September 2025.
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China announced plans to establish a 3,500-hectare nature reserve at Scarborough Shoal, a disputed territory claimed by the Philippines. The move has prompted diplomatic protests from Manila, increased regional tensions, and criticism from the US and allies. Clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels have intensified amid ongoing sovereignty disputes.
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China's military activities in the Taiwan Strait have increased, including the passage of its new Fujian aircraft carrier and heightened patrols. Beijing asserts Taiwan as part of China and opposes external interference, while Taiwan and the US emphasize peaceful resolution and regional stability. The situation reflects rising regional tensions.
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Recent weeks have seen increased tensions in the South China Sea, with China asserting sovereignty through plans to establish a nature reserve at Scarborough Shoal, while regional and US-led military exercises aim to counter Chinese assertiveness. China warns the Philippines to stop provocations amid ongoing disputes.
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Multiple countries face aging populations and declining fertility, with projections varying widely. China's population may decline sharply, but Chinese researchers suggest a more moderate decrease. Japan's population remains highly aged, while Taiwan introduces policies to boost birth rates amid low fertility. These trends will reshape societies and economies over the coming decades.
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Taiwan has issued a civil defense handbook as China escalates military pressure, including daily flights and naval patrols near the island. The government emphasizes civilian preparedness for potential invasion or natural disasters, reflecting heightened regional tensions and strategic shifts in Taiwan's defense posture.
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Chinese visitors to Japan surged in 2025, driven by a weaker yen making high-end shopping and cultural experiences more affordable. Over 6.7 million visited in the first eight months, with wealthier travelers spending more on luxury goods, wellness, and cultural stays, especially in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hokkaido.
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Super Typhoon Ragasa, with winds up to 215 km/h, is nearing the Philippines' Babuyan Islands, prompting evacuations and warnings of life-threatening storm surges. The storm is forecast to move westward, impacting China and Taiwan, with authorities activating flood control measures and evacuations today, Thu, 25 Sep 2025.
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China is intensifying efforts to develop self-sufficient AI chips amid US restrictions. Huawei announced a breakthrough in domestic AI hardware, while Beijing is pushing to reduce reliance on US technology by building a comprehensive local supply chain. Meanwhile, US-China relations show signs of pragmatic cooperation despite ongoing strategic competition.
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China's PLA Navy has successfully conducted electromagnetic catapult launches of its new Fujian aircraft carrier, including stealth fighters J-15T and J-35, and the KJ-600 early warning aircraft. These tests mark a significant step in China's naval aviation capabilities, positioning it as a major competitor to the US in the Indo-Pacific.
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China announced the creation of a marine reserve at Scarborough Shoal, a disputed territory with the Philippines, citing ecological protection. The move has heightened regional tensions, with the Philippines protesting and the US supporting Manila amid recent confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels.
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Severe Tropical Storm Bualoi continues to impact the Philippines, causing evacuations, fatalities, and flooding. The storm is forecast to strengthen into a typhoon and head toward Vietnam. The Philippines also faces political fallout over flood control project corruption amid ongoing disaster response efforts.
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As of late September 2025, Super Typhoon Ragasa caused severe flooding and destruction across Taiwan, southern China, and the Philippines. At least 14 people died in Taiwan after a barrier lake burst in Hualien County, flooding Guangfu township. Millions were evacuated in southern China, with widespread damage reported in Guangdong and Hong Kong. The storm has weakened but remains a rain threat to Southeast Asia.
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Super Typhoon Ragasa struck southern China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, causing fatalities, injuries, and widespread damage. It weakened as it moved inland, with ongoing threats from new storms in the Pacific and Atlantic. Authorities continue recovery efforts amid evacuations and disruptions.
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The US is exploring ways to reduce reliance on Taiwan for semiconductor manufacturing, aiming to bring more supply chain capacity home. Discussions involve Taiwan's investment and security guarantees, amid concerns over China's threats and global chip shortages. South Africa and Africa are also in talks for trade agreements.
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Typhoon Bualoi made landfall in northern Vietnam, causing at least 20 deaths, widespread flooding, and power outages. The storm brought heavy rain, high winds, and storm surges, with evacuations and flight cancellations. It follows a week of severe weather across Asia, linked to climate change.
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China has requested the US to formally oppose Taiwan independence, escalating tensions. Xi Jinping emphasized multilateralism and sovereignty in a speech, while Beijing seeks stronger US commitments. The US continues to arm Taiwan, amid increased Chinese military activity and diplomatic pressure.
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China has warned the UK of retaliation if ministers target its security agencies under foreign influence rules. The warning follows UK considerations of measures that could impact China’s security operations, amid ongoing tensions over trade and diplomatic relations. The story highlights escalating diplomatic friction as both nations navigate complex strategic interests.
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The 2025 Right Livelihood Awards honor efforts in collective action, resilience, and democracy. Winners include Sudanese mutual aid networks, climate justice advocates, Myanmar transparency fighters, and Taiwanese digital reformers. The awards emphasize hope amid rising authoritarianism and division, with ceremonies in Stockholm on December 2.
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A US report warns that structural flaws in intelligence sharing, coalition planning, and arms sales hinder effective multinational cooperation against China. The findings highlight risks of miscoordination, which could enable China to dominate East Asia and threaten regional stability, especially amid rising tensions and military pressures on Taiwan.
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John Noh, Biden administration's nominee for Indo-Pacific security, confirmed a review of AUKUS, focusing on its alignment with Trump-era policies and submarine industrial capacity. He emphasized the need for allies to increase defense spending, especially Taiwan, amid ongoing concerns about China and regional stability. The review could lead to modifications in the alliance.
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Taiwan's President Lai announced plans to establish a multi-layered air defense system called T-Dome, aiming to counter Chinese military pressure. The government will increase defense spending to over 3% of GDP, reaching 5% by 2030, and focus on high-level detection and interception, mirroring US and Israeli systems.
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China's public security bureau in Xiamen announced a bounty for 18 Taiwanese military personnel accused of psychological warfare activities, including disinformation and propaganda. The move follows Taiwan's increased defense spending and President Lai Ching-te's pledge to bolster military defenses amid rising cross-strait tensions. The accusations are denied by Taiwan, which dismisses them as Beijing's attempts at cognitive warfare.
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On October 10-13, 2025, China imposed broad export controls on rare earth minerals, prompting US President Trump to threaten doubling tariffs on Chinese imports to 100% and impose export controls on critical software. China condemned US measures as hostile and damaging to trade talks. Both sides risk derailing a fragile trade truce ahead of a planned summit between Trump and Xi Jinping.
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Russia's oil exports in October have fallen to their lowest levels since early 2022, with daily exports dropping to 1.88 million barrels. Strikes, refinery damage, and seasonal maintenance have contributed to the decline, while the government has banned gasoline exports to address domestic shortages. The IEA forecasts a slow recovery into mid-2026.
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China has expelled nine senior military officials, including Vice-Chairman He Weidong, amid a broad anti-corruption campaign. The purge targets China’s top military leadership, accusing them of serious misconduct involving large sums of money. The move aligns with Xi Jinping’s efforts to consolidate power and strengthen military discipline.
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On October 25, 2025, China officially designated Taiwan Restoration Day to commemorate Taiwan's return to Chinese sovereignty 80 years ago after Japanese occupation. Beijing reaffirmed its commitment to reunification under the one-China principle, while Taiwan's opposition KMT elected Cheng Li-wun as chairperson, pledging to promote peace and cross-strait dialogue amid rising tensions.
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President Trump signals readiness for high-level talks with China, including a visit early next year, while emphasizing the importance of trade, Taiwan, and strategic minerals. Meanwhile, US and Australian leaders focus on critical mineral supply chains and regional security, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Hokkaido culls 459,000 hens amid avian flu outbreak; Taiwan reports first African swine fever case, culling 195 pigs and imposing a island-wide ban. Both regions ramp up biosecurity measures as authorities respond to outbreaks threatening livestock health and trade.
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Senator Rubio stated that the US is not considering a trade deal that would trade favorable trade treatment for walking away from Taiwan. This comes amid rising tensions between China and the US over Taiwan's independence, with Rubio emphasizing the US's support for Taiwan's self-governance.
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Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi, supported by high approval ratings, faces hurdles from coalition partners and political scandals. Meanwhile, Taiwan's KMT elects Cheng Li-wun as chair, signaling a shift toward pro-China policies amid international tensions. Both stories highlight leadership transitions amid complex political landscapes.
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Alex Honnold, renowned for his free solo climb of El Capitan, is now focusing on environmental conservation. He hosts the 'Planet Visionaries' podcast, supports solar projects worldwide, and is training for a rope-less skyscraper climb in Taiwan. His efforts highlight the intersection of adventure and activism.
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Recent surveys reveal a notable shift in US and Chinese public attitudes. Americans are increasingly favoring cooperation with China, while Chinese confidence in withstanding US economic pressure has grown despite ongoing tensions. These changes reflect evolving perceptions amid political and economic developments.
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US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun held their first face-to-face meeting since Trump’s return, agreeing to establish military channels to deconflict and deescalate tensions amid ongoing disputes over Taiwan and the South China Sea. The talks follow Xi-Trump summit aiming to stabilize relations.
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During his recent meeting with Xi Jinping in South Korea, Trump stated that Taiwan was not discussed and expressed confidence that China would not take military action on Taiwan while he is president. The meeting focused mainly on US-China trade tensions, with no mention of Taiwan's contentious status.