Hong Kong’s High Court sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to up to 10 years in prison under a Beijing-imposed security law, sparking criticism from the U.S., which called the trial “politically motivated.” Authorities insist the law was needed to restore order.
Hong Kong’s High Court on Tuesday sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to prison terms of up to 10 years following a landmark national security trial, which has dealt a significant blow to the city’s once vibrant democracy movement and attracted criticism from the U.S. and other nations.
In 2021, a total of 47 pro-democracy activists were arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit subversion under a national security law imposed by Beijing. They faced potential life sentences. Benny Tai, a former legal scholar identified as one of the “organisers” of the group, received a 10-year jail term, the longest handed down under the 2020 law so far.
Some Western governments have criticised the proceedings, with the U.S. calling them “politically motivated” and urging the release of the activists, who it claims were legally and peacefully engaged in political activities.
However, the Chinese and Hong Kong authorities argue the national security legislation was necessary to restore order following the widespread pro-democracy protests in 2019, and insist the activists have been dealt with in accordance with local laws.
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Germany's Interior Minister Nancy Faeser claims success in tackling irregular immigration, highlighting a rise in deportations and a decrease in asylum claims. With coalition talks underway, the SPD and conservatives remain divided over immigration policy.
Kazakhstan’s foreign minister met with the EU’s special representative for Central Asia to discuss investment, trade, and regional cooperation. Both sides emphasized digitalization, climate policy, and infrastructure projects, reaffirming their commitment to deeper economic ties.
As the EU-Central Asia summit approaches, European experts highlight growing economic, geopolitical, and energy interests in the region. With increasing bilateral agreements and investment, Europe aims to enhance cooperation while promoting stability, trade, and regional integration.
Azerbaijan is rising as a global leader in pomegranate production and export, with Forbes highlighting its ideal climate, government support, and growing international demand. With premium-quality produce and sustainable farming, Azerbaijan is shaping the future of the global pomegranate market.
Aid groups in Myanmar’s worst-hit areas urgently need shelter, food, and water after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake killed over 2,700 people. Rescue efforts face challenges due to ongoing civil war, damaged infrastructure, and restricted aid access, with the toll expected to rise.
As the world shifts toward clean energy at an ever-accelerating pace, large economies are scrambling to secure reliable supply chains for rare earth minerals. These minerals, once seen as mere industrial components, have become a political tool in the global power struggle
Russian forces carried out a drone attack on Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, late Wednesday, injuring at least twenty one people and causing structural damage, according to Ukrainian officials.
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen was banned from running for public office for five years after being convicted of embezzlement, ruling her out of the 2027 presidential race. She received a four-year prison sentence, with two years suspended, and a €100,000 fine. Le Pen plans to appeal.
The Armenian armed forces attempted three reconnaissance drone flights over Azerbaijan Army positions near Gerenzur, but all were successfully intercepted. Meanwhile, Armenian units repeatedly fired on Azerbaijani positions from multiple regions, escalating tensions in the area.
Portugal's centre-right Democratic Alliance (AD) leads in a new opinion poll, but still falls short of a parliamentary majority ahead of the May 18 snap election. The AD’s support rose to 34.4%, while the Socialist Party (PS) trails at 27.8%.
Japan is investing 802.5 billion yen ($5.4 billion) in Rapidus, a chip startup, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign chipmakers and enhance semiconductor production. The move comes amid rising tensions between the U.S. and China, emphasizing Japan’s focus on securing its chip supply chain
The Kremlin stated that President Vladimir Putin is willing to normalize relations with Finland if Helsinki seeks to rebuild ties, acknowledging the current state of relations as "sad."
Yassine Cheuko, Lionel Messi's bodyguard, has been banned from guarding the footballer on the touchline during Inter Miami matches. Major League Soccer has taken control of matchday security, limiting Cheuko's role to the locker room and mixed zones.
Germany's Interior Minister Nancy Faeser claims success in tackling irregular immigration, highlighting a rise in deportations and a decrease in asylum claims. With coalition talks underway, the SPD and conservatives remain divided over immigration policy.
Germany's Interior Minister Nancy Faeser claims success in tackling irregular immigration, highlighting a rise in deportations and a decrease in asylum claims. With coalition talks underway, the SPD and conservatives remain divided over immigration policy.
Kazakhstan’s foreign minister met with the EU’s special representative for Central Asia to discuss investment, trade, and regional cooperation. Both sides emphasized digitalization, climate policy, and infrastructure projects, reaffirming their commitment to deeper economic ties.
As the EU-Central Asia summit approaches, European experts highlight growing economic, geopolitical, and energy interests in the region. With increasing bilateral agreements and investment, Europe aims to enhance cooperation while promoting stability, trade, and regional integration.
Azerbaijan is rising as a global leader in pomegranate production and export, with Forbes highlighting its ideal climate, government support, and growing international demand. With premium-quality produce and sustainable farming, Azerbaijan is shaping the future of the global pomegranate market.
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