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Broadening the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Engagement In South and Central Asia - United States Department of State
On April 6, the United States signed a bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Republic of Tajikistan under the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy (AFGHS). This breakthrough MOU marks the first bilateral health cooperation signed in the South and Central Asia region and aims to protect Americans from infectious disease threats while strengthening U.S.-Tajikistan relations. Through the MOU worth $78 million and working with Congress, the […]
Asia Minute: U.S. regional partners pursue new paths in the politics of energy
President Trump has made it clear he's not happy with several U.S. partners in the Asia Pacific, naming South Korea, Australia and Japan. But when it comes to the politics of energy, regional partners are making their own plans. HPR's Bill Dorman has more in today's Asia Minute.
Look: Alaska Airlines unveils new business class for long-haul flights
Alaska Airlines will debut lie-flat suites on its Europe and Asia flights this spring. Here's what passengers can expect.
GRATON RESORT & CASINO ANNOUNCES APRIL PROMOTIONS, ENTERTAINMENT, AND MAY 4 EXPANSION OPENING
This spring marks the start of a new era at Graton Resort & Casino. On May 4, the resort will unveil the next phase of its expansion, introducing new dining, entertainment, and gaming experiences. At the heart of the expansion is a new 144,000-square-foot, fully smoke-free gaming floor, creating a more spacious and comfortable environment for guests while expanding Graton’s…
Apple's foldable iPhone encounters engineering snags, faces potential shipment delays, Nikkei Asia reports
Apple has been encountering setbacks in the engineering test phase of its first foldable iPhone, which could lead to delays in its mass production and product shipment schedule, Nikkei Asia reported on Monday, citing sources.
Badminton Asia C'ship, Billie Jean Cup ties begin; medal chances at boxing, wrestling Asian C'ship; Candidates continues: Indian Sports LIVE, April 7
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 7, 2026.
Charting a New Phase of Trump Administration's America First Global Health Strategy in Asia, Beginning with Cambodia - United States Department of State
On April 2, the United States signed a bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Royal Government of Cambodia through the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy (AFGHS). This landmark five-year MOU is the first to be signed through the Trump Administration’s AFGHS in Asia, and advances shared global health goals, such […]
WHO calls for science-led action and stronger One Health approach to address evolving health risks
The World Health Organization today called for urgent scale-up of research, innovation, and collaboration to accelerate momentum towards ending tuberculosis in the WHO South-East Asia Region, which continues to bear nearly half of the global TB burden, accounting for the highest share of cases and deaths worldwide. To build momentum, experts, national TB programme managers, researchers, along with partners and members of civil society, began a three-day virtual workshop organized by WHO for ‘Advancing research and Innovation to accelerate momentum towards ending TB in the WHO South-East Asia Region.’
World Health Day 2026
World Health Day 2026 promotes One Health and scientific collaboration. Join #TogetherForScience to advance global health research and science partnerships.
World Health Day 2026
World Health Day 2026 promotes One Health and scientific collaboration. Join #TogetherForScience to advance global health research and science partnerships.
What Canada’s Euthanasia Surge Reveals About Single-Payer Health Care
For patients facing severe illness and suffering, the option is framed as an act of compassion. But its rapid expansion raises uncomfortable questions.
Nikhat, Lovlina in Asian Boxing Championships semifinals; Asian Wrestling Championships begin; IFL continues: Indian Sports LIVE, April 6
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 6, 2026.
Nikhat, Lovlina in Asian Boxing Championships semifinals; Asian Wrestling Championships begin; IFL continues: Indian Sports LIVE, April 6
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 6, 2026.
Asian shares mostly gain while oil prices keep rising
Asian markets that are open for trading are mostly rising as investors continue to closely watch the war in Iran, soaring oil prices and what President Donald Trump might say next
Asian shares mostly gain while oil prices keep rising
Asian markets that are open for trading are mostly rising as investors continue to closely watch the war in Iran, soaring oil prices and what President Donald Trump might say next.
Previously Unknown Human Lineage Discovered In Northern East Asia Survived And Adapted After The Ice Age Ended
The results suggest these hunter-gatherers persisted and adapted to a warming world, rather than being quickly replaced by farmers.
The war’s economic impact could get worse for Americans
Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz is disrupting economic activity across Asia and Europe. The U.S. may escape the worst effects, but it will not emerge unscathed.
International News: Bids In For Brisbane Entertainment Precinct; War Roils Touring & More
AUSTRALASIA
Punjab face Mohammedan in ISL; Indians at Asian Boxing Championships: Indian Sports LIVE, April 3
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on April 3, 2026.
Unveiling a New Era of Home Entertainment in Southeast Asia and Oceania
By CU Kim, President & CEO, Samsung Electronics Southeast Asia & Oceania
For the First Time, This U.S. Airline Will Offer Business Class on International Flights
Now travelers can fly to Europe and Asia in added comfort.
Santa Clara businesses sue over shopping center displacement
A once-busy Santa Clara shopping center home to Asian-owned businesses is now nearly empty — and multiple tenants are taking their former landlord to court as the property moves toward redevelopment.
Saving biodiversity: Can innovation stop extinction?
Nearly a third of all species are at risk. New tools—from biodiversity credits to AI like BirdNET and measures against the Asian tiger mosquito—aim to protect ecosystems and human health.
Barça secure Shane Kluivert's future until 2028
FC Barcelona have officially announced the contract renewal of Shane Kluivert, one of La Masia’s brightest gems.The young Dutch forward has signed a new deal that will keep him at the club for the n...
Member of burglary ring targeting Asian business owners in Oregon pleads guilty
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon said conspirators ransacked homes in cities including Gresham and Salem.
MUFG Chases Global Peers for Cash in $1.3 Trillion Bank Business
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. is trying to boost its transaction banking business by hiring more people and expanding domestic money transfer services in Asia, as it plays catch-up with global peers, according to a senior executive.
Eurovision Song Contest is expanding with an Asian edition later this year
i e israel-hamas-war music entertainment eurovision-song-contest world-news general-news | Newsradio 1140 WRVA
Eurovision Song Contest is expanding with an Asian edition later this year
i e israel-hamas-war music entertainment eurovision-song-contest world-news general-news | Newsradio 1140 WRVA
Eurovision Song Contest is expanding with an Asian edition later this year
i e israel-hamas-war music entertainment eurovision-song-contest world-news general-news | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM
Eurovision, the glitzy contest where music meets politics, is adding an Asian edition
The Eurovision Song Contest Asia will be held in Bangkok on Nov. 14, with 10 countries competing so far.
Brent Crude rises after Trump says he wants to ‘take the oil’ in Iran; Starmer to gather business leaders to discuss emergency measures
Asian stocks fall and Brent rises to over $115 a barrel; Trump says US could seize Iran’s export hub on Kharg Island
Asian Shares Decline as Oil Prices Soar Amid the War in Iran, Echoing Last Week's Wall Street Drop
TOKYO (AP) — Asian shares mostly dipped in Monday morning trading as worries continued about soaring oil prices and the potential for further escalation in the U.S. war with Iran. The drops in Asia follow the deep declines on Wall Street last Friday that finished off a fifth straight losing week,
SM Entertainment, Unicef partner to empower Indonesian girls, improve school facilities
K-pop powerhouse expanded its social contribution program across Southeast Asia by signing a new partnership with Unicef to support children in Indonesia, the company said on Monday.
Scientists Solve Decades-Long Mystery About Why Saturn Appears To Change Its Spin
Researchers at Northumbria University have used the most powerful space telescope ever built to answer one of the longest-standing puzzles in planetary science – why does Saturn appear to spin at a...
Private equity is eying Asia’s healthcare funding gap as countries get wealthier and older
“Asia has more diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular patients than anywhere else in the world,” Abrar Mir, co-founder of Quadria Capital, says.
Stablecoin payments go 'invisible' in Southeast Asia as crypto card business surges
StraitsX, a Singapore-based company, has seen rapid growth in its stablecoin card program, with a 40x surge in transaction volume and an 83x increase in card issuance between 2024 and 2025.
Things to do in Pensacola: ZZ Top; Santana; Fantasia; White Tie Rock
It's a week for legends in Pensacola with performances by ZZ Top and Santana! You can also catch Fantasia and Anthony Hamilton.
Bayern honour Asian Cup champion Tanikawa
Newly crowned Asian Cup winner Momoko Tanikawa was honoured for her achievement by FC Bayern Women director Bianca Rech ahead of the team’s Bundesliga game at home to Nürnberg on Saturday. The Baye...
Constraint and uncertainty ahead for Japanese politics
Japan’s path forward requires reconciling its divided political landscape with urgent reform needs to sustain its domestic stability and regional leadership capacity.
/C O R R E C T I O N -- Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE)/
The Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), the world's leading anti‑piracy coalition, has successfully shut down AnimePlay, one of the largest illicit anime streaming applications operating in the Asia-Pacific region. The application was run out of Riau, Indonesia.
Breathing easy: prioritising respiratory health for older adults in Asia Pacific
Highlights the growing burden of respiratory disease in ageing societies and calls for greater attention, outlining actions for earlier prevention, diagnosis and care in Asia Pacific.
Eurozone, Asian Business Activity Slows as Iran War Ramps Up Uncertainty
The war has driven up energy prices and uncertainty, while a cooling of new orders points to longer-lasting harm if the conflict continues or escalates.
Grab Strikes $600 Million Deal for Foodpanda Taiwan Business
Grab Holdings Ltd. agreed to buy Delivery Hero SE’s Foodpanda operations in Taiwan for $600 million, a deal that marks its first foray outside of its Southeast Asian home market.
Samsung Brings AirDrop Support to Quick Share with Galaxy S26 Series
Samsung is introducing AirDrop support to the Galaxy S26 series, making it easier for users to share content between devices using Quick Share. The feature will begin rolling out from March 231, starting in Korea and expanding to more regions including Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan. AirDrop support […]
LIVE: Japan vs Australia – Women’s Asian Cup 2026 final
Follow our live build-up, with team news, ahead of our text commentary stream of the Women's Asian Cup final.
InSo brings fine dining, nightlife entertainment to Las Colinas
InSo is an upscale Southeast Asian fusion restaurant that turns into a lively nightspot.
War is only the starkest way that politics is disrupting tourism
Geopolitics disrupts global tourism as wars, visa restrictions and political tensions reshape travel patterns, affecting destinations from the Caribbean to Asia.
Forum on harnessing Artificial Intelligence for health equity
Register to this forumOver the past decade, artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly evolved in complexity, performance, and utility. Its integration across a wide range of industrial sectors has accelerated, with healthcare emerging as one of the most transformative sectors. In this sector, AI has enabled high-impact applications – from enhancing the speed and accuracy of disease diagnosis and supporting clinical decision-making, to strengthening public health initiatives such as disease surveillance and workforce optimization. Moreover, AI holds immense potential to empower individuals, enabling them to take greater control of their personal health and well-being. Yet the central question remains: Who benefits, who is at risk, and do these innovations close or widen health inequities? While the potential of AI-enabled applications is substantial, many countries have approached their adoption with caution. This hesitancy stems from concerns about risks and benefits, including model bias, data breaches, privacy violations, and the erosion of professional skills due to over-reliance on AI. Additional barriers include inadequate data infrastructure and a lack of robust evidence on the most effective forms and interfaces of AI to enhance service delivery and system performance. Moreover, the rapid rise of Generative AI has introduced a heightened urgency for the development of comprehensive governance and ethical frameworks. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Health Practice Team and Digital Sector, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Western Pacific, are convening the Forum on Harnessing AI for Health Equity on 25–26 March at ADB Headquarters. Senior health officials from 16 developing member countries (DMCs), alongside leading researchers, innovators, and policymakers from across Asia and the Pacific, will engage in discussions on how AI can be governed, financed, and scaled to deliver healthier lives for all. The forum is funded through the High-Level Technology Fund with support from the Government of Japan. Objectives The two-day forum aims to:Identify high-impact, evidence-based health AI use cases suitable for resource-constrained settings and map out a pipeline for potential supportIntroduce and validate the WHO's policy guidance on minimum necessary ecosystem for countries and institutions to self-assess readiness for AI adoptionObtain initial commitment from participating stakeholders to join a pilot regional initiative focused on data/model sharing for a priority health challengeEndorse a prioritized set of actionable policy recommendations focusing on governance, regulation, and sustainable financing necessary to scale high-impact health AI use cases in resource-constrained settings Target participants The forum will convene participants from 16 ADB DMCs including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam. In addition, health system leaders and practitioners, private sector technologists, academic experts, representatives from civil society organizations, development partners, and philanthropic institutions engaged in AI for Health from Australia, the People’s Republic of China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea will also be invited. SessionsDay 1 (25 March)Session 1: AI Use Cases for the Care Continuum: Improving Access and QualitySession 2: Adopting a risk-based approach for AI use case prioritizationSession 3: Establishing the Minimum Ecosystem for Implementation Risk ManagementSession 4: Future-Ready Health Workforce: Building Competency for Human-AI CollaborationDay 2 (26 March)Session 5: The Political Economy of AI in Health: Understanding Stakeholder Interests and their Impact on EquitySession 6: AI and Health Financing: Supporting Fair Coverage and ProtectionSession 7: AI Regulation and Oversight: Pathways for Different RealitiesSession 8: The Way Forward – Building Alliances and Regional Partnership How to registerThe forum will be held in a hybrid format. In-person attendance is by invitation only, while livestreaming of the forum will be available to the public. To register, please complete this form on or before 24 March 2026.Event organizers / partnersAsian Development Bank (ADB)WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific High-Level Technology Fund (HLTF)ContactAkihito WatabeHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDawatabe@adb.org Jae Kyoun KimHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDjkkim@adb.org
Here's Where Apple is Hosting More 50th Anniversary Events Following New York
After hosting a surprise Alicia Keys concert at its Grand Central store in New York last week, Apple is turning to Asia for more 50th-anniversary celebrations. So far, it has been discovered that there will be events held in China and South Korea. Apple's retail store at Taikoo Li in Chengdu, China is temporarily closed this Wednesday, March 18, according to the store's page.
Southeast Asian Fuel Prices Destabilize Politics
Indonesia, for one, has a bloody history of fuel-related riots.
APAC Buy-Side Firms Embrace AI, Automation To Optimize Business Processes | Insights
In this new survey of 50 buy-side firms across Asia-Pacific, Bloomberg and WatersTechnology reveal an industry that has moved decisively past experimentation and into live, production-grade adoption of AI and automation.
Apple Acquires Final Cut Pro Plugin Company MotionVFX
Apple today acquired the major Final Cut Pro plugin company MotionVFX. MotionVFX is a Polish company founded by Szymon Masiak in 2009. It creates high-quality plugins, transitions, templates, and visual effects (VFX) for video editors. The company specializes in tools for Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Apple Motion, such as mFilmLook, mO2, and the Design Studio extension.
2 of US' 3 mine-hunting ships for Middle East just seen in Asia
The Independence-class littoral combat ships were seen docked at Penang amid worries that Iran may mine the Strait of Hormuz.
Things ‘I do not like’ led me to quit US for Hong Kong, top mathematician says
The academic also says he is motivated by his vision to make Asia an intellectual powerhouse for science and learning.
Strengthening One Health Field Epidemiology Capacity in the WHO South-East Asia Region
Recent public health emergencies—including the COVID-19 pandemic, recurrent zoonotic disease outbreaks, and the high level of antimicrobial resistance—have underscored the urgent need for strong, multisectoral field epidemiology capacities. This reinforces the importance of a workforce equipped with One Health field epidemiology competencies. To address this need, WHO works with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), as part of Quadripartite Alliance for One Health, to strengthen field epidemiology training programmes using a One Health approach.These efforts are aligned with WHO SEARO’s Strategic Framework for Action for Strengthening Surveillance, Risk Assessment and Field Epidemiology and the Regional Roadmap to Advance Field Epidemiology Capacities 2025–2029 emphasize workforce development, multisectoral collaboration, and enhanced preparedness for health emergencies. With funding from the Pandemic Fund, The Competency for One Health Field Epidemiology (COHFE) integration within Field Epidemiology Training Programmes (FETPs) or similar initiatives has been initiated in Bangladesh and India and is planned in Sri Lanka.BangladeshIn Bangladesh, COHFE is being adapted to strengthen the Field Epidemiology Training Programme, Bangladesh (FETP-B) Advanced programme. Initiated in July 2025 and led by the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), the process brought together stakeholders from human, animal, and environmental health sectors, academia, and laboratories.A Multisectoral Working Group (MWG) was established to guide implementation, conduct readiness assessments, and identify opportunities to institutionalize One Health collaboration. Through national multisectoral consultations and a competency prioritization workshop held in Dhaka in November 2025, stakeholders identified priority technical competencies for surveillance, outbreak investigation, data analysis, and risk assessment, alongside functional competencies related to leadership, coordination, and the laboratory–epidemiology interface. The process also surfaced systemic barriers—such as challenges in data sharing and limited joint investigations—enabling targeted recommendations. These outcomes are guiding curriculum revision, the introduction of One Health simulations and joint field exercises, and the development of a national multisectoral mentorship pool, with updated training materials expected to be implemented in the upcoming cohort.Figure 1. Competency prioritization involving multisectoral stakeholders“COHFE represents a significant step forward in operationalizing the One Health approach. The collaboration between national institutions and the Quadripartite partners is critical for building resilient systems to address complex health challenges in the region.”, Prof. (Dr) Tahmina Sirin, Director, Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Bangladesh.Aligning India’s One Health Training with COHFEIn India, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has strengthened One Health workforce development through its SectorConnect initiative. WHO supported a comprehensive competency mapping and curriculum review to align the Field Epidemiology Programme in One Health (FEP-OH) with all 14 COHFE domains. The review identified strong foundations while generating actionable recommendations to strengthen One Health learning outcomes, expand joint field-based learning, and enhance competency-based assessment. These improvements are informing programme refinement and phased scale-up across additional states.Figure 2. Strengthening learning outcomes for the SectorConnect FEP OH CurriculumThrough these efforts, WHO SEARO will continue to support countries to move from separate sector-based training toward an integrated, impact-driven One Health field epidemiology workforce capable of addressing complex health threats at human-animal-environment interface.ReferencesFood and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, World Health Organization, & World Organisation for Animal Health. (2024). Competencies for One Health field epidemiology (COHFE) framework. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240080058World Health Organization. (2023). Strategic framework for action for strengthening surveillance, risk assessment and field epidemiology for health security threats in the WHO South-East Asia Region. WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290210030World Health Organization. (2024). Regional roadmap to advance field epidemiology capacities in the WHO South-East Asia Region 2025–2029. WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290229544
Asia-Pacific allies ink $57 billion in deals with US companies, Burgum says
Asia-Pacific allies agreed to $57 billion in 22 deals with American companies during this weekend's Indo-Pacific Energy Security Forum in Tokyo, U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said on Sunday.
The 7430U CPU scandal could spread: Another manufacturer under suspicion, ODM comes into the spotlight
While we recently found Chuwi guilty of CPU fraud twice, there are now indications that another Asia-based brand, Ninkear, could be affected. We also have a sample of this laptop at our disposal and are investigating immediately. Spoiler: The result exonerates the manufacturer, but raises questions about the original design manufacturer (ODM).
A large fossil leg bone hints at T. rex’s origins, but scientists disagree
A new analysis of a large fossil shinbone suggests T. rex ancestors came from North America instead of Asia. Not everyone agrees.
Iran cannot participate in the FIFA World Cup, sports minister says
Iran says 'under no circumstances' will it participate following the US-Israeli attacks that killed its supreme leader.
Haleon Bets on Asia
Get briefed ahead of your morning calls with the latest UK business headlines, key data and market reaction
Oil prices retreat, Asian shares rise after report of planned IEA oil reserve release
International Energy Agency reportedly proposed argest release of oil reserves in its history to bring down crude prices
Science Shorts: Rice for weight control, functional dairy tech and more
Rice for weight control, functional dairy tech and more feature in this edition of Science Shorts
Northwestern alumni turn passion into full-time antique jewelry business
When Kasia Bogdanowicz (Weinberg ’89) retired from her career as a corporate lawyer, she turned to her passion for antique jewelry by founding Blu Dog World, a business specializing in vintage fine jewelry. Now, her company, which sells jewelry at booths and online and competes in international antique and trunk shows, is opening an independent...
Politics meets football as China, Taiwan face off at Asian Cup
China and Taiwan will clash this week in a politically tinged Women's Asian Cup quarter-final while Australia hope that a bumper home crowd can help drag them through against a dangerous North Korea.
India face Chinese Taipei in women's Asian Cup: Indian Sports LIVE, March 10
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on March 10, 2026.
Variety and Gold House to Spotlight Asian Pacific Creatives in Entertainment With Third Annual 8 Up Next List
Variety will publish its third 8 Asian Pacifics Up Next in Entertainment list on May 6. Once again, Variety will work with a team at Gold House to select the eight Asian Pacifics making an impact acro...
Reubin O’D. Askew Lecture Series returns with discussion on East Asia, the United States, and the Future of Democracy - University of West Florida Newsroom
The University of West Florida Askew Lecture Series returns to the Museum of Commerce in downtown Pensacola on Thursday, April 9, with a timely discussion on “East Asia, the United States, and the Future of Democracy.” This year’s event features Dr. Erik Mobrand, professor at the Graduate School of International Studies at Seoul National University […]
Stocks Tank in Asia as Oil Price Surges
Asian markets tumbled on Monday as Middle East tensions and spiking oil prices sparked a mass exit from the region’s previously booming stocks.
War with Iran spreading economic damage far beyond oil and gas markets
The war is hitting the economies of Europe and Asia harder and faster than it is striking the United States.
Dallas business tycoon Anurag Jain weighs in on the World Cup (No, not that one).
There's a push, along with other several notable South Asian immigrant business leaders, to grow cricket’s U.S. presence and transform Texas into the sport’s...
Iran war spreading economic damage far beyond oil and gas markets
The conflict has hit Europe and Asia harder than the United States, with rising shipping costs and energy prices.
Gen Z nurse gets most of her healthcare abroad, "way cheaper"
Jordynn Ison, 27, is a nurse in Ohio. She says medical tourism in Asia saves her money.
Taiwan beats Vietnam 1-0 in Women's Asian Cup match
Taiwan defeated Vietnam 1-0 on Saturday to move into second place in Group C at the Women’s Asian Cup with one match remaining. Su Yu-hsuan scored the decisive goal in the 26th minute after Saki Matsunaga’s shot hit the crossbar, leaving Su to nod the rebound into an empty net for the team which won the last of its three Asian Cup titles in 1981. It was a deserved victory for Taiwan, 2-0 losers to Japan on Wednesday, which created several chances to extend its lead.
Iranian women’s soccer team forced to sing national anthem ahead of Asian Cup match, sources tell CNN
The Iran women’s national soccer team was forced to salute and sing its anthem on Thursday ahead of its Women’s Asian Cup group stage match against host Australia, sources close to the team tell CNN Sports, just days after the squad refused to do so in its tournament opener.
What the Extraordinary Market Volatility in Asia Says About Energy and A.I.
Stocks in South Korea and Taiwan, the center of global chip making, plunged on fears about energy prices. Their recovery shows the bullishness over artificial intelligence.
Iran’s place in World Cup 2026 in doubt amid conflict, Trump’s dismissal
With Donald Trump saying he doesn't care if Iran participates, the country may be left with no choice but to pull out.
Markets in Asia Plummet as Energy Fears Offset A.I. Optimism
Stocks in Asia sank on Wednesday, led by sharp declines in South Korea, as the war in Iran raised concerns about spiraling energy costs.
'Blood moon' total lunar eclipse dazzles millions around the world (photos)
Here are the first images of the March 3 'blood moon' total lunar eclipse visible over North America, Australia, and eastern Asia.
NovaBridge to Host Business Update Call to Review Phase 2a Data for VIS-101 in Wet AMD on Monday, March 9, 2026
VIS-101, purpose-designed to be a best-in-class dual VEGF-A/ANG-2 inhibitor, has the potential to provide more effective and durable treatment than the current standard of care for patients with wet AMD, DME and RVO Visara, a NovaBridge Majority-Owned Subsidiary, Holds Global Rights to VIS-101 Outside of Greater China and Certain Asian Territories ROCKVILLE, Md., March 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NovaBridge Biosciences (Nasdaq: NBP) (NovaBridge or the Company) a global biotechnology platform co
BHP Chair Sees Limited Business Impact From Iran Crisis for Now
BHP Group Ltd. Chairman Ross McEwan said the global mining giant sees little immediate impact from the US-Iran conflict because almost all the company’s output goes into Asia.
How South Asians are growing political power in Central Texas
As of 2021, the U.S. Census estimated more than 450,000 Indian Americans in Texas — almost double from 2010.
Bangladesh tackle gender barriers to reach Women's Asian Cup
Bangladesh's national football team face daunting odds at their first-ever Women's Asian Cup, but have already scored a major victory by qualifying."We didn't even have a national women's team before 2008," said Mahfuza Akter Kiron, 59, head of the BFF women's wing.
Steam Deck Returns to Valve's Store in the US, But Act Fast If You Want One
No price hikes for the US, but effective March 6, shoppers in Asia face increases up to $100.
Popular brain supplement linked to shorter lifespan in men
A massive study of more than 270,000 people has uncovered a surprising link between a common amino acid and how long men live. Researchers found that higher levels of tyrosine—an amino acid found in protein-rich foods and often marketed as a focus-boosting supplement—were associated with shorter life expectancy in men, potentially trimming nearly a year off lifespan.
New Galaxy S25 update expands worldwide following S26 debut
The Galaxy S25 February 2026 update debuted in Korea and is now rolling out widely in multiple regions, including Asia and Europe.
Her trips across Asia and Europe helped her redefine success
Macie Strum felt relief the second time she got laid off. She subletted her apartment and planned what she thought would be an 8-month trip abroad.
Indonesia Raises $4.5 Billion to Rebuff Credit Outlook Concerns
Indonesia pulled off its biggest global bond sale since at least 2017, overcoming the threat of a credit rating and signaling easing investor concerns about fiscal woes in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
Enerflex Ltd. Announces Fourth Quarter 2025 Financial and Operational Results, Agreement to Divest Non-Core Business and Provides Preliminary Outlook for 2026
ADJUSTED EBITDA OF $123 MILLION AND RECORD FREE CASH FLOW OF $141 MILLIONREDUCED NET DEBT TO $501 MILLION OR APPROXIMATELY 1.0x TTM ADJUSTED EBITDA AT THE END OF Q4/25STRONG OPERATIONAL VISIBILITY WITH ES AND EI BACKLOG OF $1.1 BILLION AND $1.3 BILLION, RESPECTIVELYSIGNED AN AGREEMENT TO DIVEST OPERATIONS IN ASIA PACIFIC REGION, CONTINUING EFFORTS TO OPTIMIZE AND SIMPLIFY ENERFLEX’S BUSINESSCAPITAL EXPENDITURES FOR 2026 TARGETED AT $175 TO $195 MILLION, INCLUDING $90 TO $100 MILLION FOR GROWTH O
Trump's tariffs: Asia braces for another year of Trump tariff turmoil
The US Supreme Court's decision to block a pillar of US trade policy has caused yet more uncertainty.
Little Rock's Star of India named Arkansas Asian Business of the Year for 2026
Some journeys begin with a recipe and a dream, restaurant Star of India said after they were named the 2026 Arkansas Asian Business of the Year.
PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
IN THE SPOTLIGHT PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of KoreaThe Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) is making significant progress in strengthening pandemic preparedness, with dedicated support from the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC).Aligned with the WHO Global Influenza Strategy and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Partnership Contribution High‑Level Implementation Plan III (2024–2030), the country is strengthening its capacity to prepare for and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats. In early 2025, a core team from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) participated in a two‑day virtual workshop, which included a mini‑simulation exercise. The workshop was organized by WHO SEARO in collaboration with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Secretariat at WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office for the DPRK. Read more A REGIONAL CONSULTATION GUIDES WHO SEARO IN DEVELOPING A ROADMAP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PREPPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE FOR EMERGING THREATS (PRET) INITIATIVE BASED RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESSInfluenza and other respiratory pathogens with pandemic potential continue to pose major public health risks globally. To strengthen regional preparedness and response, Member States of the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR) convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to review and provide input on the draft Roadmap and Action Framework for Broad Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Planning (2026–2031). Supported through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) funds, the proposed roadmap aims to advance robust, integrated preparedness and response capacities for influenza and other respiratory threats across SEAR. This work is aligned with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the SEAR Strategic Roadmap on Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies Read moreSRI LANKA’S USE OF ANTIVIRALS TO REDUCE THE SEASONAL INFLUENZA BURDEN Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by placing greater emphasis on rapid testing, timely treatment, and integration with maternal health services. With support from WHO, the country is building a stronger evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination, advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and enhance pandemic preparedness. To reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza, Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to expand access to rapid diagnostic testing and ensure prompt initiation of treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for individuals at high risk of complications, helping prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, contributing to a reliable supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.Read moreBHUTAN BOOSTS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA READINESS WITH PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS FRAMEWORK PARTNERSHIP CONTRIBUTION SUPPORTED TRAINING AND SIMULATIONSOriginally developed in 2012, the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) has long served as Bhutan’s central framework for managing influenza threats. In 2024, the plan underwent a comprehensive update to reflect evolving global and regional guidance, lessons learned from the COVID‑19 pandemic, and new capacities developed under the PIP Framework. The revised NIPPRP is now more clearly aligned with Bhutan’s broader emergency and disaster risk management structures, ensuring a coordinated, whole‑of‑government approach to pandemic response. As part of efforts to strengthen national pandemic preparedness, Bhutan conducted three national‑level training sessions followed by simulation exercises on influenza pandemic preparedness and response at five sentinel hospitals between April and May 2025, with support from the PIP Partnership Contribution (PC). These activities brought together more than 140 health professionals and key partners from across the country, with a focus on operationalizing the updated NIPPRP and enhancing readiness at key frontline facilities. Read moreSTRENGTHENING INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE: WHO BRINGS TOGETHER INFLUENZA EXPERTS FROM SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONSThe World Health Organization (WHO) convened the 18th Bi‑regional Meeting of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and Influenza Surveillance for the WHO South‑East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9–11 September 2025. Hosted by the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), the meeting brought together representatives from Member States, Territories, and Areas across both regions, alongside experts from the WHO Collaborating Centres for Reference and Research on Influenza in Australia and Japan, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals in the United States, quadripartite partners (WOAH and FAO), and other technical counterparts. The consultation provided a platform to review progress, share experiences, and outline priorities for strengthening influenza and respiratory pathogen surveillance across the two WHO regions.Read moreNETWORKS AND TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIPSSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC READINES: SOUTH-EAST ASIA ADVANCES UNITY STUDIES UNDER THE PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS INITIATIVEThe WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies initiative, also known as Unity Studies, provides a standardized, globally coordinated framework to support these efforts. Originally developed for influenza and adapted during COVID-19, Unity Studies enable countries to conduct rapid, nationally led investigations and studies to assess transmissibility, severity, susceptibility, and intervention effectiveness. To better prepare for future influenza pandemics, WHO has recently launched a network of sites which will be ready to conduct these investigations and studies rapidly in the event of a pandemic, or epidemic of an emerging or re-emerging respiratory pathogen. The WHO South-East Asia Region now hosts six sites of WHO GISRS Unity Studies across the five countries including Sri Lanka, strengthening regional capacity for early pandemic investigations. From 13–16 July 2025 in Colombo, the Global Public Health Summit offered an opportunity to advance this agenda. Read moreSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS THROUGH UNITY STUDIES: REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS FROM INDIA IN WHO’S SOUTH-EAST ASIA REGION As countries continue to strengthen their pandemic preparedness through investments in resilient health systems during the interpandemic period, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies Global Initiative, Global Initiative, commonly known as Unity Studies, remains a vital framework for respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness. These standardized epidemiological protocols enable countries to rapidly generate high‑quality data on transmissibility, infection severity, population immunity, and the effectiveness of public health interventions. To highlight how Unity Studies protocols are being adapted and applied in national settings, WHO Headquarters, together with WHO Regional Offices, including the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), hosted a global webinar. The session showcased case studies from India and the United Kingdom (UK), demonstrating innovative approaches to respiratory virus surveillance and pandemic readiness. Read moreSTRENGTHENING REGIONAL INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE AND PREPAREDNESS: WHO SEARO HOSTS HIGH-LEVEL WEBINAR AMID RISING H5 THREATS In response to the increasing detection of avian influenza A(H5) cases in humans globally and within the WHO South‑East Asia Region, the WHO Regional Office for South‑East Asia (SEARO) convened a regional webinar on 25 July 2025 to review preparedness mechanisms, strengthen surveillance pathways, and promote timely reporting of unusual respiratory events. The virtual session brought together more than 50 participants from Ministries of Health, National Influenza Centres (NICs), National IHR Focal Points (NFPs), WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices across the Region, and WHO Collaborating Centres (CCs) for influenza. The webinar provided an opportunity to share situational updates, discuss surveillance gaps, and reinforce coordination mechanisms critical for early detection and rapid response to avian influenza threats. Read moreOther Key PIP Updates (July-December 2025)MEMBER STATES:Bangladesh drafted and conducted a series of Core Group Meetings in 2025 to review and update the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Pathogens. In addition, the country carried out Rapid Response Team (RRT) trainings on seasonal and avian influenza and other re‑emerging infectious diseases. Bangladesh also updated its epidemiological data‑training programme for physicians at sentinel surveillance sites, using a revised epidemiological data‑collection tool.Bhutan revised and updated its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) in 2025 and developed a national Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for influenza outbreak management. DPR Korea conducted a nationwide simulation exercise in July 2025 to support the update of its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan (2019). This followed a PRET‑based virtual orientation and mini‑simulation exercise held in May 2025 by SEARO and the WHO PRET Secretariat. The comprehensive exercise, conducted across central and provincial levels, assessed strengths and gaps in pandemic influenza preparedness and response. The feedback gathered has been incorporated into the revised draft plan to address identified weaknesses and strengthen overall readiness.India conducted a targeted nationwide online re‑orientation training on review and updates to the influenza portal for all State Surveillance Officers (SSOs) and relevant officials using the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The training emphasized correct marking and reporting of influenza samples as “unsubtypable” or “not subtyped” where applicable, to ensure accurate national surveillance.Maldives conducted simulation exercises in three atolls based on its existing National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP). The country plans to conduct similar exercises in three additional atolls after updating the NPPRP in 2026. In addition, Maldives conducted training on FluID and FluMart as part of a broader data‑management training package for Ministry of Health and Health Protection Agency officials, aimed at improving routine reporting to WHO platforms and the DHIS2 system.In Myanmar, technical support was provided to the National Influenza Centre (NIC) through dedicated human‑resource support (January–December 2025) to sustain data management and laboratory detection capacity for influenza and other emerging and re‑emerging respiratory viruses. This support also included strengthening genomic sequencing capacity.Nepal conducted a consultative workshop on the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP) in July 2025. The workshop engaged key stakeholders from multiple sectors to review lessons from past pandemic responses, assess current mechanisms, and gather critical inputs for strengthening national preparedness. Key recommendations included revising the 2019 NPPRP and developing an updated Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan aligned with emerging risks, national priorities, and relevant international frameworks. Nepal also held a two day workshop dedicated to advancing the National Action Plan for Genomic Surveillance, aimed at reinforcing the country’s capacities for early detection and monitoring of emerging respiratory pathogens.Sri Lanka received the final report from WHO on the feasibility assessment for conducting an Influenza Burden of Disease (BoD) study in the country. The assessment, conducted from 28 April to 9 May 2025, included a desk review of existing data sources, document review, visits to sentinel surveillance sites, and key informant interviews. The study identified critical data sources required for a future BoD assessment, as well as their availability and quality. Officials from the Epidemiology Unit, the National Influenza Centre (NIC), and SARI/ILI sentinel hospitals across the country participated in the assessment.Timor Leste conducted on‑the‑job training and monitoring activities at two sentinel surveillance sites to strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity for the detection of SARI, ILI, ARI, and other respiratory infections. REGIONAL OFFICE:SEARO conducted a Member States Consultation on the first draft of the Regional Roadmap and Strategic Action Framework for implementing WHO’s PRET‑based broad respiratory pathogen pandemic planning for 2026–2031. The consultation took place on 29–30 October 2025 during the final two days of the Regional PIP PC Annual Review and PRET Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Participants included representatives from Member States, WHO Country Offices, WHO SEARO, WHO Headquarters, partner agencies, and invited multidisciplinary technical experts. They reviewed the draft and provided detailed feedback, which has since been incorporated into a revised version. The consultation helped shape a shared regional vision for robust, PRET‑aligned pandemic preparedness, building on country‑level progress, addressing existing gaps and challenges, and aligning with global and regional health security frameworks. The publication is planned for release during the SEAR regional committee in 2026.SEARO documented the evolution of the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Planning process in the Region, tracing its development from its origins as a planning tool for responding to avian influenza outbreaks in 2006, through the experiences of the 2009 and 2019 pandemics, to the current status. The document outlines the way forward for respiratory pathogen pandemic planning across all 10 SEAR countries, aligning future national plans with WHO’s PRET Framework for broad respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness.The Infectious Hazard Management (IHM) Unit has drafted the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Guidance on Influenza Prevention and Control, aligned with the Global Influenza Strategy and other regional initiatives. The draft is currently under review. Although this technical product was developed in response to a request from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (MoPH‑DPRK), SEARO is finalizing it for use not only in DPRK but also across all Member States in the Region.The Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit, in collaboration with WHE/SEARO, completed a regional landscape analysis on key barriers, challenges, and opportunities for the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccination in WHO South‑East Asia Regional (SEAR) countries.Additionally, the Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit has completed a regional landscape analysis of influenza vaccine procurement systems across the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR).KEY MEETINGS AND PUBLICATIONSMEETINGS:Six-month progress review of the implementation of the PIP-PC workplans in SEAR, focusing on Outputs 1 and 2 for the period January to June 2025, and held virtually across three sessions on 4, 8, and 10 July 2025. Read moreAnnual Regional Meeting (Hybrid) on Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) and WHO’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Implementation in SEAR in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27 to 30 October 2025. Read more18th Bi-regional Meeting (Virtual) of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and influenza surveillance in WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9 to 11 September 2025. Read morePUBLICATIONSImplications of influenza A virus surveillance in Southeast Asian Region countries: a scoping review of approaches for the surveillance of swine influenza viruses at human-swine interfaces. Read moreAnnual South-East Asia regional meeting on operational planning for implementation of global influenza strategy and preparedness for respiratory viruses in 2025 Report on annual review meeting of implementation of pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) partnership Contribution (PC) Fund in South-East Asia Region and the simulation exercise on PRET Status of influenza in who south-East Asia Region
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