China hosts largest ever SCO summit as South Caucasus draws attention
The 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit began in Tianjin on 31 August, marking the largest gathering in the bloc’s history, with China dee...
Friedrich Merz has been elected as Germany’s 10th chancellor, prompting a wave of international reactions and congratulations as he prepares to navigate significant challenges at home and abroad.
Conservative leader Friedrich Merz became Germany’s chancellor after securing parliamentary approval in a second round of voting. His election followed a coalition agreement between his Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) and the Social Democrats. Known for his pragmatic approach and emphasis on immigration reform, Merz has pledged to address Germany’s economic and political challenges while strengthening international cooperation.
World leaders welcomed his election, with French President Emmanuel Macron emphasizing the importance of Franco-German collaboration for European sovereignty and security. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted cooperation on economic growth and migration issues. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed confidence in Germany’s leadership under Merz to enhance European defense, while US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce reiterated the US commitment to transatlantic cooperation.
Merz also made headlines with his call for the US to respect Germany’s domestic politics, underscoring his belief in national sovereignty and constructive international dialogue. In a statement, he encouraged the US to avoid partisan involvement in German affairs, signaling his intent to assert a balanced approach in global diplomacy.
Among the congratulatory messages, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Merz about strengthening bilateral ties and plans for a potential Berlin visit, reflecting Germany’s ongoing commitment to its partnership with Israel.
As Merz assumes leadership, he faces high expectations domestically and internationally, with leaders anticipating his contributions to addressing shared global challenges and fostering stronger alliances.
A powerful eruption at Japan’s Shinmoedake volcano sent an ash plume more than 3,000 metres high on Sunday morning, prompting safety warnings from authorities.
According to the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ), a magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck the Oaxaca region of Mexico on Saturday.
The UK is gearing up for Exercise Pegasus 2025, its largest pandemic readiness test since COVID-19. Running from September to November, this full-scale simulation will challenge the country's response to a fast-moving respiratory outbreak.
A Polish Air Force pilot was killed on Thursday when an F-16 fighter jet crashed during a training flight ahead of the 2025 Radom International Air Show.
Malaysia marked its 68th National Day on Sunday with a vibrant parade in Putrajaya attended by over 14,000 participants and the country’s top leadership.
Norway will purchase a fleet of British-built frigates to reinforce its naval strength, the government confirmed on Sunday. The move marks a decisive step in what is expected to be the country’s largest-ever military procurement and a significant boost to NATO’s northern maritime defences.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Saturday cancelled a planned visit to China as nationwide protests spread beyond Jakarta, with several regional parliament buildings set on fire.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for the 31th of August, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in the northern Chinese port city of Tianjin on Sunday for a regional security summit, Chinese and Russian state media reported.
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