Pakistan and Afghanistan Reopen Main Border Crossing
After nearly a month-long closure due to clashes, Pakistan and Afghanistan have reopened their main border crossing at Torkham. The crossing, a crucial route for travel and trade between the two nations, was closed on February 21 following skirmishes between their security forces. The border will initially be open for trade, with pedestrian crossing allowed from Friday.
Thousands Evacuated Amid Floods in Malaysia
Severe flooding in Malaysia has forced over 10,000 people to evacuate their homes, with numbers doubling in just ten hours. The Johor Disaster Management Committee reported that victims from over 3,000 families have been relocated to temporary relief centers across several districts. The floods come just ahead of the Hari Raya (Eid al-Fitr) celebrations.
China’s CERES-1 Rocket Deploys Eight Satellites into Orbit
China successfully launched its CERES-1 Y10 commercial rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, placing eight satellites into a sun-synchronous orbit. Among them are satellites from the Yunyao-1 series, which aim to form a constellation of 90 satellites for improved meteorological data collection and weather forecasting, supporting various industries and Belt and Road partner countries.
Curfew Imposed in Indian City After Violence Over Historic Tomb
Authorities in Nagpur, India, have imposed an indefinite curfew following clashes that left more than a dozen police officers injured. The violence erupted when members of a Hindu group demanded the removal of the tomb of 17th-century Mughal ruler Emperor Aurangzeb, leading to vehicle damage and unrest in the city.
Thailand to Reduce Visa-Free Stay for Tourists
Thailand plans to halve the length of visa-free stays for foreign tourists from 60 to 30 days. The move aims to prevent misuse of the visa exemption scheme by individuals engaging in illegal work. The decision comes after concerns were raised over foreigners exploiting the system.
