Carney calls for China-Canada relationship that adapts to ‘new global reality’
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney pitched a new China-Canada relationship that could bring security and prosperity for both nations, in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. “Together we can build on the best of what this relationship has been in the past, and create a new one that adapts to [the] new global reality,” Carney said during his opening remarks, adding that it could deliver stability, security and prosperity for both nations. Carney is on a state visit to China, the... [Continue Reading]
S Korean firefighters tackle huge blaze in last of Seoul’s ‘shanty towns’
No casualties reported as huge fire breaks out in makeshift homes on fringe of Seoul's upmarket Gangnam district. [Continue Reading]
Australia Faces Criticism Over Detention Practices and Antisemitism Issues
The recent findings from a United Nations committee have intensified scrutiny around Australia's immigration detention policies, particularly concerning practices at offshore facilities. The UN Committee Against Torture has concluded that Australia breached the Convention Against Torture by subjecting an Iranian asylum seeker to prolonged and harsh conditions during his detention at Manus Island in Papua New Guinea. This Iranian man initially arrived in Australia in 2013 and was subsequently moved to Manus Island for processing. His complaints to the UN detailed severe maltreatment, including violent assaults from security personnel, which severely impacted his physical and mental well-being. After years of... [Continue Reading]
Maroons captain calls time on Origin career to focus on club duties
Ali Brigginshaw announces she has played her last State of Origin game for Queensland as she looks to focus on one final NRLW season with Brisbane. [Continue Reading]
US and Japan Reaffirm Defence Cooperation Amid Regional Tensions
The relationship between the United States and Japan remains robust, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to mutual defence and regional security. During a recent meeting, US Pentagon chief Hegseth assured Japanese Defence Minister Koizumi that the alliance is unshaken, despite the shifting focus of the Trump administration towards the western hemisphere. Koizumi expressed confidence about the ongoing collaboration between the two countries, emphasizing their strategic partnership during these turbulent times in the Asia-Pacific region. Koizumi indicated that both countries are planning to enhance the presence of their forces in the Nansei Islands, which span from Okinawa to Taiwan. This... [Continue Reading]
Canada's Carney begins talks with Xi in Beijing
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping began talks in Beijing, marking the first meeting between the countries' leaders in China's capital in eight years. [Continue Reading]
Rescue and Legal Developments in Queensland Create Public Interest
The dramatic fall of an 18-year-old climber and ongoing legal proceedings surrounding a teenager's murder have captured public attention in Queensland, highlighting the complexities of emergency response and criminal justice in the region. On November 30, Jake McCollum embarked on what was supposed to be a routine solo bushwalk on Queensland's Mount Walsh. However, his adventure took a tragic turn when he accidentally fell 80 meters from a rocky pinnacle, suffering serious injuries including a fractured spine, broken ribs, and internal bleeding. Despite the severity of his situation, Mr. McCollum's quick thinking and the foresight of his parents led to... [Continue Reading]
Australia Faces Criticism Over Treatment of Detained Asylum Seekers
Australia's immigration policies have come under renewed scrutiny following a ruling by a United Nations committee that found the country breached the Convention Against Torture by subjecting an Iranian man to prolonged detention in Papua New Guinea. The man, who had initially arrived in Australia via Christmas Island, was transferred to Manus Island, where allegations of torture and poor living conditions emerged. The UN's Committee Against Torture highlighted the psychological and physical harm the man endured, including episodes where he suffered violence at the hands of guards. After nearly three years in harsh detention conditions, he was finally moved back... [Continue Reading]
Can Machado actually transfer the Nobel Peace Prize to Trump?
While it can be gifted, refused or displayed, the Nobel Peace Prize itself — once awarded — belongs to its original recipient forever. [Continue Reading]
Japan and US Strengthen Military Ties Amid Cold Weather in Region
Japan's Defence Minister, Yasuhide Koizumi, has highlighted the unwavering partnership between Japan and the United States during a meeting with US Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth. Koizumi stated that the alliance remains "completely unshaken," despite concerns regarding the future of US involvement in the Asia-Pacific region under the current administration, which has been focusing more on the western hemisphere. During their discussions, both officials examined the possibility of enhancing military cooperation, particularly within the Nansei island chain, which includes Okinawa and extends toward Taiwan. They agreed to prioritise joint military exercises and collaboration in their respective defence industrial sectors. This move... [Continue Reading]
High chance of cyclone forming off Kimberley coast
A tropical cyclone is highly likely to form off Western Australia's far north coast next week, with the Bureau of Meteorology closely monitoring conditions between the Kimberley and Northern Territory. [Continue Reading]
Rescues and Legal Battles Highlight Recent Events in Queensland
Recent events in Queensland have showcased both the desperate situations individuals can find themselves in and the complexities of the justice system. Two distinct cases highlight the resilience of the human spirit in crises and the ongoing struggle for justice in the face of tragedy. On November 30, Jake McCollum, an 18-year-old from Bundaberg, faced a life-threatening situation after plunging 80 meters from a rocky outcrop near the summit of Mount Walsh. The incident occurred during what was intended to be his first solo bushwalk. After suffering severe injuries, including a fractured spine and internal bleeding, McCollum was left stranded... [Continue Reading]
Canada’s PM Carney, China’s Xi Jinping hold first Beijing talks in eight years
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met Xi Jinping in Beijing on Friday, the first leaders’ talks there in eight years. Carney hailed a “new strategic partnership” as Canada seeks to diversify trade after US tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump. [Continue Reading]
UN Finds Australia Violated Convention Over Asylum Seeker Treatment
A recent ruling by a United Nations committee has determined that Australia breached the Convention Against Torture through its treatment of an Iranian asylum seeker detained offshore on Manus Island, Papua New Guinea. The UN committee's conclusion highlights concerns over Australia's international obligations regarding the treatment of detainees. The case revolves around an Iranian man who journeyed to Christmas Island in 2013 before being transferred to Manus Island for processing. Complaints filed with the UN allege that his time in detention was marred by severe conditions, violence, and self-harm, leading to lasting mental and physical health issues. According to the... [Continue Reading]
China’s quantum warfare weapons; ‘rising star’ quits US: SCMP’s 7 highlights
We have selected seven stories from this week’s news across Hong Kong, mainland China, the wider Asia region and beyond that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing. 1. Chinese military says it is developing over 10 quantum warfare weapons The People’s Liberation Army said more than 10 experimental quantum cyber warfare tools were “under development”, many of which were being “tested in front-line... [Continue Reading]
Chinese power stocks surge on State Grid’s record US$574 billion investment plan
Shares of Chinese electricity and grid equipment makers surged after State Grid unveiled a 4 trillion yuan (US$574 billion) plan to upgrade the country’s power networks, as surging demand and the global race in artificial intelligence drive investment in energy infrastructure. Baoding Tianwei Baobian Electric, which makes transformers, climbed 4.6 per cent to 14.50 yuan in Shanghai and power equipment manufacturer Henan Pinggao Electric jumped 4.8 per cent to 20.83 yuan. Suzhou Electrical... [Continue Reading]
Video Analysis of ICE Shooting Sheds Light on Contested Moments
Newly available videos and existing footage synchronized and assessed by The Times provide a frame-by-frame look at how an ICE officer ended up shooting and killing a motorist in Minneapolis. [Continue Reading]
Japan and US Strengthen Defence Ties Amid Weather Changes in Asia
The Pentagon's recent discussions with Japanese officials have underscored the ongoing commitment between the United States and Japan in maintaining regional security. In talks led by Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth and Japanese Defence Minister Minoru Koizumi, both nations reiterated their strong alliance despite concerns surrounding future US commitments in the region. Koizumi remarked that their collaboration remains “completely unshaken,” emphasising the need for continued cooperation during a period of global uncertainty. During their meeting, the two officials acknowledged the significance of enhancing their military presence in the Nansei island chain, which includes crucial territories such as Okinawa and extends towards... [Continue Reading]
Australia's Legal and Human Rights Challenges Highlighted This Week
The Australian government's treatment of asylum seekers and its handling of recent incidents involving hate speech and murder allegations have raised significant legal and ethical questions. A UN committee recently issued a landmark ruling stating that Australia breached the Convention Against Torture by subjecting an Iranian man to prolonged offshore detention, amplifying ongoing debates regarding the country's immigration policies. The case centers on an Iranian asylum seeker who arrived on Christmas Island in 2013 and was later transferred to the Manus Island detention center in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Testimonies revealed that he endured severe conditions, including violence that left... [Continue Reading]
This tiny, walking shark is doing something never seen before
Known best for their ability to "walk" on the sand and coral where they usually live, new research shows epaulette sharks could also defy assumptions in other ways. [Continue Reading]
10 tennis courts' worth of poppies stolen in recent theft, police say
Investigations are continuing into the theft of a large quantity of poppy capsules from a Tasmanian farm. Police have confirmed the harvested area equates to 10 tennis courts, or 2,500 square metres. [Continue Reading]
Social media study challenges blanket bans, links teen wellbeing to 'balanced' use
The findings of a newly released study have challenged one-size-fits-all rules and blanket bans, as the Australian government's social media ban for children under 16 has been in effect for over a month. [Continue Reading]
China’s supercooling tech packs 40% more punch into chips used in military radar
Chinese scientists have unlocked a revolutionary supercooling innovation in semiconductor technology, paving the way for a 40 per cent leap in the performance of gallium nitride-based radar systems, which are widely used in China’s most advanced stealth aircraft. The new Chinese-made chips can handle extreme power loads in the X and Ka bands – frequencies critical for advanced radar systems, satellite communications and next-generation wireless computer networks. “This is the most significant... [Continue Reading]
Top faith leaders urge PM to scrap new racial hatred offence
A broad of coalition of Australia's most influential religious leaders have urged the prime minister to scrap Labor's proposal to outlaw the promotion of racial hatred. [Continue Reading]
Live: White House says Iran halted 800 executions, warns all options remain on table
A White House spokesperson said Thursday that Iran had backed away from plans to execute 800 protesters following intervention threats from President Donald Trump, but warned that “all options” remain on the table for the United States. Follow our liveblog for all the latest developments. [Continue Reading]
What we know about the US and European military presence in Greenland
Here is what we know about the US military footprint in Greenland, and how the increase of troops from Denmark and its allies stacks up. [Continue Reading]
Japan, US vow ‘unshaken’ defence alliance despite Trump’s pivot from Asia
The defence chiefs of Japan and the United States on Thursday agreed that the bilateral alliance is “unshaken” and pledged to reinforce its deterrence capabilities amid concerns in Asia that Washington’s focus is shifting from the region. Following his meeting with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon near Washington, Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said he was reassured that the administration of President Donald Trump remains committed to peace and stability in the... [Continue Reading]
Behrouz Boochani says Iranian refugees are 'suffering' in Australia
The United Nations committee has determined Australia breached its international legal obligations by allegedly exposing an asylum seeker from Iran to torture in immigration detention. [Continue Reading]
Peak Jewish body considers further legal action against Islamic preacher
A video has been referred to the peak body’s lawyers to seek advice about possible contempt proceedings. [Continue Reading]
Teen survives 80m mountain fall thanks to GPS locator and headphones
Jake McCollum's bluetooth headphones allowed him to receive calls through his otherwise unusable phone during the arduous wait for emergency services. [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong temperatures to fall to 12 degrees next week as winter monsoon arrives
This story has been made freely available as a public service to our readers. Please consider supporting SCMP’s journalism by subscribing. Get faster notifications on the latest updates by downloading our app. Temperatures in Hong Kong are expected to sharply dip to as low as 12 degrees Celsius (53.6 Fahrenheit) on Wednesday next week as a cold front moves through the city midweek. The Hong Kong Observatory said the fine and relatively warm weather on Friday, brought by a dry northeast monsoon,... [Continue Reading]
US seizes sixth tanker as Venezuela’s interim leader vows oil sector reform
US forces say another Venezuela-linked tanker seized as Trump moves to take control of nation's oil reserves. [Continue Reading]
Brazil’s Bolsonaro transferred to prison with ‘more favorable’ conditions
Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro was transferred to prison on Thursday to begin serving a 27-year sentence for orchestrating a failed coup, under conditions described by a court as “more favorable.” The 70-year-old was convicted over efforts to overturn his 2022 election loss to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. [Continue Reading]
Man charged in Pheobe Bishop case has matters mentioned in court
Lawyers for Kieren Mittelheuser have applied for a registry committal for charges of accessory after the fact to murder and perverting justice. [Continue Reading]
Death of man at ICE camp could be investigated as homicide after examiner’s report
Washington Post reports local medical examiner found ‘asphyxia’ to be cause of Geraldo Lunas Campos’s deathThe death of a man who was being held at a federal detention camp in Texas in early January may be investigated as a homicide after the local medical examiner reportedly found the preliminary cause was “asphyxia due to neck and chest compression”.Geraldo Lunas Campos, a 55-year-old Cuban migrant who was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in July last year, was pronounced dead on 3 January. He had been in ICE custody at Camp East Montana, a sprawling tent camp at the Fort... [Continue Reading]
Pentagon Will ‘Refocus’ Military Publication Stars and Stripes
The agency’s chief spokesman outlined plans to intervene in the previously independent newspaper’s coverage. [Continue Reading]
Philippines’ Cebu residents cry foul over mounting garbage, health risks
A deadly garbage avalanche in central Philippines last week, which killed 19 and led to more than 20 missing, has prompted outrage from civic and green groups over poor enforcement of environmental laws for contributing to the disaster. On January 8, a mountain of debris collapsed at a 15-hectare landfill in the village of Binaliw, Cebu City, where over 100 sanitation workers were on site. Officials say the tragedy may have been partly caused by recent earthquakes and heavy rains affecting soil... [Continue Reading]
Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties final preview – the third remaster
GameCentral gets a new hands-on session with the remake of Yakuza 3 and its conjoined spin-off, as Kiryu takes on a sewing machine. [Continue Reading]
Many Fiery Remarks, Little Clarity on What’s Next at Security Council Meeting on Iran
Iran’s representative denied the country had killed protesters, as the U.S. ambassador said President Trump had made clear “all options are on the table” to stop the killing. [Continue Reading]
Cuba counts cost of alliance after 32 troops killed in Venezuela
The recent events in Venezuela have exposed the strategic risks of Cuba’s foreign entanglements. [Continue Reading]
'A place to talk': How people are using sunrises and sunsets to connect
These young people are using sunrises and sunsets to create connection, build friendships and fight the war against loneliness. [Continue Reading]
Birrell knocked out of Adelaide International semifinal by Mboko
It was a tough ask from the outset for Kimberly Birrell, coming up against the teen sensation Victoria Mboko who has been in excellent form of late. [Continue Reading]
UN Security Council holds emergency meeting on deadly protests in Iran
Iran, the US and Iranian civil society spoke about the deadly protests which have been obscured by an internet blackout. [Continue Reading]
What we know about the unprecedented weather event on Great Ocean Road
Record-breaking rain fell on the popular holiday towns in the space of a mere few hours on Thursday, triggering flash flooding that swept away cars, caravans and tents. Here's what we know about the intense rain system. [Continue Reading]
Three teens arrested following violent home invasion in Melbourne's south-east
Victoria Police has arrested three teenagers aged between 13 and 16 after they allegedly broke into a home, wielding machetes. [Continue Reading]
Japan is turning to the seabed to reduce its reliance on China
Tokyo hopes the plan to mine as much as 16 million tonnes of rare earths will help reduce its reliance on China, but will it work? [Continue Reading]
Injuries force snowboard champ Brockhoff to quit weeks before Olympics
Former snowboard cross world champion Belle Brockhoff announces her retirement just weeks out from the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, due to a series of significant long-term injuries. [Continue Reading]
US ambassador to China David Perdue to visit Hong Kong at the end of January, sources say
America’s ambassador to China, David Perdue, will visit Hong Kong at the end of January to speak at a business conference, according to sources. Perdue will address the Goldman Sachs Global Macro Conference Asia-Pacific 2026 on January 27, several people familiar with the matter told the South China Morning Post. They said the envoy was expected to spend “several days” in the city. The US consulate in Hong Kong declined to comment on the matter. But an American diplomat in the city, speaking on... [Continue Reading]
Kyrsten Sinema sued by former bodyguard’s ex-wife over ‘alienation of affection’
Heather Ammel says ex-Arizona senator pursued romantic relationship with her husband that led to couple’s breakupKyrsten Sinema, a former US senator from Arizona, had a romantic relationship with a member of her security detail that led to the breakup of the man’s marriage, his ex-wife alleges in a lawsuit seeking at least $75,000 from Sinema.Matthew and Heather Ammel had “a good and loving marriage” with “genuine love and affection” before Sinema interfered, pursuing Matthew Ammel despite knowing he was married, Heather Ammel alleges in her lawsuit. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Trump’s ‘America first’ agenda driving countries closer to China: survey
United States President Donald Trump’s “America first” agenda is helping to make China great again and ushering in a “truly multipolar world”, according to a survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations. “A year on from Trump’s return, in countries across the globe, many people believe China is on the verge of becoming even more powerful,” the think tank said after surveying 25,949 people from 21 countries, including the US, China, Russia, Britain and Brazil. Most respondents thought... [Continue Reading]