The International Monetary Fund (IMF) cut Asia’s economic forecasts on Friday as global monetary tightening, rising inflation blamed on the war in Ukraine, and China’s sharp slowdown dampened the region’s recovery prospects.

IMF cuts Asia's economic forecasts & says China slowdown to drag on Asia growth

Asian shares fell on Thursday to their lowest since April 2020 as risk appetite among investors faded after inflation data across the globe re-ignited fears of aggressive interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve.

WION Business News | Asia stocks slip as risk appetite wanes on rate-hike fears

Amidst the burning debate of data privacy around the world, eight Shangri-La hotels in Asia have been hit by a data breach exposing crucial information about the guests. Names, email addresses, phone numbers have potentially been exposed in the breach.

Unauthorised activities found in Shangri-La hotel's I-T network, eight hotels in Asia affected

Hong Kong has long been Asia's financial hub but now a new city is catching up. Singapore is aiming to displace Hong Kong as the wealthiest hub in Asia.

Singapore emerges as safe haven in Asia, Hong Kong's wealth hub status in danger

Global tourism is recovering fast post-Covid lockdowns but Asian tourists are only expected to resume international travel by 2024.

Covid restrictions hit tourists travelling from China | World Tourism Day

By 2024, the new CEO of online travel agency Agoda predicted on Monday&nbsp;that Asian visitors will only gradually begin travelling abroad at pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;

According to Omri Morgenshtern, who took over as CEO of Agoda in July, the Asia-focused company anticipates it will take around six months for travellers from Asian nations, excluding China, to travel with confidence after the corresponding COVID-19 limitations are repealed.&nbsp;

"Korea opened up two months ago … but numbers are 40 per cent of what it was before, so it's not jumping," he said.

In contrast to the greater and speedier tourism recovery in the US and Europe, Agoda's booking volumes across its Asian regions have returned to 2019 levels, although more so in domestic travel, Morgenshtern told Reuters in an interview.&nbsp;

In the US or Europe, it seemed as though everyone had already determined that COVID was gone, according to Morgenshtern, who noted that travel rapidly resumed and many people stopped wearing masks there.&nbsp;

But even after the regulations were lifted, most individuals in numerous Asian nations, including Thailand, South Korea, Singapore, and Indonesia, continued to wear masks.

According to Morgenshtern, Agoda is introducing more goods that will enable users to book their entire trip through the website and take advantage of further savings.&nbsp;

A division of Booking Holdings Inc., the business lost 1,500 employees in 2020 to reduce spending in the face of the epidemic. He said that headcount had now reached pre-Covid&nbsp;levels.

(with inputs from agencies)

By 2024, the new CEO of online travel agency Agoda predicted on Monday that Asian visitors will only gradually begin travelling abroad at pre-pandemic levels. According to Omri Morgenshtern, who took over as CEO of Agoda in July, the Asia-focused company anticipates it will take around six months for travellers from Asian nations, excluding China, to travel with confidence after the corresponding COVID-19 limitations are repealed.

By 2024, the new CEO of online travel agency Agoda predicted on Monday that Asian visitors will only gradually begin travelling abroad at pre-pandemic levels. According to Omri Morgenshtern, who took over as CEO of Agoda in July, the Asia-focused company anticipates it will take around six months for travellers from Asian nations, excluding China, to travel with confidence after the corresponding COVID-19 limitations are repealed. "Korea opened up two months ago … but numbers are 40 per cent of what it was before, so it's not jumping," he said. In contrast to the greater and speedier tourism recovery in the US and Europe, Agoda's booking volumes across its Asian regions have returned to 2019 levels, although more so in domestic travel, Morgenshtern told Reuters in an interview. In the US or Europe, it seemed as though everyone had already determined that COVID was gone, according to Morgenshtern, who noted that travel rapidly resumed and many people stopped wearing masks there. But even after the regulations were lifted, most individuals in numerous Asian nations, including Thailand, South Korea, Singapore, and Indonesia, continued to wear masks. According to Morgenshtern, Agoda is introducing more goods that will enable users to book their entire trip through the website and take advantage of further savings. A division of Booking Holdings Inc., the business lost 1,500 employees in 2020 to reduce spending in the face of the epidemic. He said that headcount had now reached pre-Covid levels. (with inputs from agencies)

Asian tourists to resume international travel at pre-pandemic levels by 2024: Agoda CEO

The Asian Development Bank cut its economic growth forecast for developing Asia amid rising interest rates, a prolonged war in Ukraine and China's Covid Zero policy.

World Business Watch: Asian development bank cuts growth forecast for year 2022-23

A new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has shown that there are at least 20 quadrillion ants on Earth.

Highlighting even that staggering figure likely underestimates the total population of the insects, the study states that it is important for measuring the consequences of changes to their habitat.

During the research, scientists analysed 465 studies that measured the number of ants locally in the field.

Some major regions including central Africa and Asia had little or no data even though surveys have been carried out on all continents.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-want-to-meet-cute-little-smugglers-these-ants-will-leave-you-in-awe-493869">Watch: Want to meet cute little gold smugglers? These ants will leave you in awe</a>

"It is of utmost importance that we fill these remaining gaps to achieve a comprehensive picture of insect diversity," according to the study.

Therefore, in comparison to the estimates, "the true abundance of ants globally is likely to be considerably higher" as per the study.

Nearly two-thirds of more than 15,700 named species and subspecies of ants that are found all over the planet, are yet to be described.

Planning to study the environmental factors influencing the population density of the tiny creatures, scientists believe that the total global biomass of ants is thought to be 12 megatons of dry carbon.

Hosting organisms and serving as either predators or prey, ants are an essential part of ecosystems around the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has shown that there are at least 20 quadrillion ants on Earth. Highlighting even that staggering figure likely underestimates the total population of the insects, the study states that it is important for measuring the consequences of changes to their habitat.

A new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has shown that there are at least 20 quadrillion ants on Earth. Highlighting even that staggering figure likely underestimates the total population of the insects, the study states that it is important for measuring the consequences of changes to their habitat. During the research, scientists analysed 465 studies that measured the number of ants locally in the field. Some major regions including central Africa and Asia had little or no data even though surveys have been carried out on all continents. Watch: Want to meet cute little gold smugglers? These ants will leave you in awe "It is of utmost importance that we fill these remaining gaps to achieve a comprehensive picture of insect diversity," according to the study. Therefore, in comparison to the estimates, "the true abundance of ants globally is likely to be considerably higher" as per the study. Nearly two-thirds of more than 15,700 named species and subspecies of ants that are found all over the planet, are yet to be described. Planning to study the environmental factors influencing the population density of the tiny creatures, scientists believe that the total global biomass of ants is thought to be 12 megatons of dry carbon. Hosting organisms and serving as either predators or prey, ants are an essential part of ecosystems around the world. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

How many ants are there on Earth? Scientists have an estimate

Europe was the centre of power in the nineteenth century, the twentieth century was Americanized. Now, Asia’s rise has been swift. Over the past few decades, the Centre of power has shifted from West to East. &nbsp;India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s remarks on the “Asian century” triggered the discourse on how normalcy matters between New Delhi and Beijing in shaping the "Asian Century" which was itself coined by the former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping in 1988. 

Addressing the future of India-China relations at Chulalongkorn University, he described it as an extremely difficult phase. It is, however, worthwhile to quote the former U.S. Senator and American diplomat, “There are no permanent friends or permanent enemies, just permanent interests.” In response, Beijing backs that ‘we have far more common interests than differences'. This piece provides three reasons to substantiate the notion of an Asian century and further highlight that organizations like BRICS and SCO may diffuse the existing deep hostilities and suspicions within the Asian region. Under this backdrop, let us examine how New Delhi and Beijing can shape the Asian Century. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Firstly, Asia is the home for fast-growing Emerging Markets. Asia currently hosts two fast-growing economies that are in the top 10 by GDP PPP. For example, in 2021 China was in the second place on the list (only the United States remained ahead), whereas India ranked sixth, and this Asian country was ahead of such mature economies as Canada, Italy, France, and Australia. Both countries aim to ensure economic growth, and they are the largest consumers of natural and mineral resources in the world that to provide the industries with ‘’combustible materials’’. In 2020, China was the world's biggest importer of crude oil ($150 billion), iron ore ($99 billion), petroleum gas ($36.6 billion) and copper ore ($33.9 billion). 

As of 2021, China remained the largest importer of crude oil, ahead of the USA. China accounted for 22.3% of global crude oil imports. At the same time, India imported 10.4% of global crude oil imports. And the country ranked third with this indicator. Coal is another raw material that could provide rapid growth for China and India economies and to decrease the poverty of its population.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2021, China and India were among the top five countries that were world leaders in coal imports. In terms of coal imports, India ranked first. China was in third place behind Japan. It is interesting to note that Asian countries accounted for the highest dollar worth of imported coal in 2021 with purchases amounting to $120.5 billion or 80.9% of the worldwide total. &nbsp;

Currently, the geopolitical situation is beneficial for these Asian countries and probably it will help to bring the Asian century much closer. Russia is one of the largest oil and coal exporters in the world. Western countries have imposed a ban to buy Russian hydrocarbons. That is the reason India and China increased Russian oil and coal imports. Actually, in the July 2022 India's coal import raised 10% on-month to 2.03 million tons from Russia. On the other hand, in June 2022, China increased coal imports from Russia by 22%compared to the previous month, to 6.12 million tons. 

Secondly, Asia is the venue for Demographic Giants. The problem of ensuring growth for the two Asian economies is directly related to the urgency to reduce poverty and to improve living standards for the population. India and China are two demographic giants. These are the most populated countries in the world. In 2022, China ranked first in the world, and India ranked second. Both countries have populations over a billion. The BRICS countries (the group also includes Brazil, Russia, and South Africa) are regarded as the five major emerging economies expected to dominate in the 21st century, are all in the top ten most populous countries (South Africa is exception), indicating how important the size of their populations are to their economic expansion. Currently, the main source of economic growth is human capital. The quality of human capital affects the creativity and innovativeness of the country's economy. Unlike mature economies of developed nations, India and China are the largest reservoir of human capital that will ensure economic growth over the long term. In another words, demographic dividend of India and China is one of the main pillar of Asian century.

Thirdly, BRICS is the Frame for Asian Century. India and China are the members of BRICS. The organization is informal, but it is a platform for direct interaction between the countries. This fact allows coordinating actions in different areas (humanitarian sphere, academic and research cooperation, trade, military interactions, etc.). BRICS makes it possible to establish and maintain direct contacts at the highest level. Any organization needs time to develop mutually beneficial mechanisms of interaction. However, it is India and China that can turn the BRICS into a reliable framework for building Asian century. These countries have the great potential because of their demographic, industrial, intellectual and creative resources. The Asian region forms the current agenda that developed countries have to reckon with. 

For a long time, the Asian region was in the shadow of European and American powers. The need to cope with numerous problems and overcome countless disputes did not allow the countries of the region to form a system that would transform their immense potential into a world of prosperity and progress. The Asian century is not about seizing resources and imposing one's power on other peoples and countries. The Asian century will reveal the full diversity of cultures and civilizations of the region, which are capable of providing prosperity and happiness to billions of people on the planet. To ensure the Asian century, two countries that form its basis are of great importance. India and China are able to anchor in the global world to overcome various contradictions and build a system with permanent friends for mutual economic and social prosperity. Billions of people with their everyday hard work and desire for a better life deserve the advent of the Asian century, which will show that cultural, political, language, and ethnical differences are no longer obstacles for true human happiness. 

Dr. Sandeep Tripathi is a Founder President of Forum for Global Studies, New Delhi and Assistant Professor at Sharda University, Greater Noida. 

Dr. Kirill Sablin is an Associate Professor at Department of Economics and Public Administration, Kemerovo State University, Russia.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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Europe was the centre of power in the nineteenth century, the twentieth century was Americanized. Now, Asia’s rise has been swift. Over the past few decades, the Centre of power has shifted from West to East.

Europe was the centre of power in the nineteenth century, the twentieth century was Americanized. Now, Asia’s rise has been swift. Over the past few decades, the Centre of power has shifted from West to East. India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s remarks on the “Asian century” triggered the discourse on how normalcy matters between New Delhi and Beijing in shaping the "Asian Century" which was itself coined by the former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping in 1988. Addressing the future of India-China relations at Chulalongkorn University, he described it as an extremely difficult phase. It is, however, worthwhile to quote the former U.S. Senator and American diplomat, “There are no permanent friends or permanent enemies, just permanent interests.” In response, Beijing backs that ‘we have far more common interests than differences'. This piece provides three reasons to substantiate the notion of an Asian century and further highlight that organizations like BRICS and SCO may diffuse the existing deep hostilities and suspicions within the Asian region. Under this backdrop, let us examine how New Delhi and Beijing can shape the Asian Century. Firstly, Asia is the home for fast-growing Emerging Markets. Asia currently hosts two fast-growing economies that are in the top 10 by GDP PPP. For example, in 2021 China was in the second place on the list (only the United States remained ahead), whereas India ranked sixth, and this Asian country was ahead of such mature economies as Canada, Italy, France, and Australia. Both countries aim to ensure economic growth, and they are the largest consumers of natural and mineral resources in the world that to provide the industries with ‘’combustible materials’’. In 2020, China was the world's biggest importer of crude oil ($150 billion), iron ore ($99 billion), petroleum gas ($36.6 billion) and copper ore ($33.9 billion). As of 2021, China remained the largest importer of crude oil, ahead of the USA. China accounted for 22.3% of global crude oil imports. At the same time, India imported 10.4% of global crude oil imports. And the country ranked third with this indicator. Coal is another raw material that could provide rapid growth for China and India economies and to decrease the poverty of its population. In 2021, China and India were among the top five countries that were world leaders in coal imports. In terms of coal imports, India ranked first. China was in third place behind Japan. It is interesting to note that Asian countries accounted for the highest dollar worth of imported coal in 2021 with purchases amounting to $120.5 billion or 80.9% of the worldwide total. Currently, the geopolitical situation is beneficial for these Asian countries and probably it will help to bring the Asian century much closer. Russia is one of the largest oil and coal exporters in the world. Western countries have imposed a ban to buy Russian hydrocarbons. That is the reason India and China increased Russian oil and coal imports. Actually, in the July 2022 India's coal import raised 10% on-month to 2.03 million tons from Russia. On the other hand, in June 2022, China increased coal imports from Russia by 22%compared to the previous month, to 6.12 million tons. Secondly, Asia is the venue for Demographic Giants. The problem of ensuring growth for the two Asian economies is directly related to the urgency to reduce poverty and to improve living standards for the population. India and China are two demographic giants. These are the most populated countries in the world. In 2022, China ranked first in the world, and India ranked second. Both countries have populations over a billion. The BRICS countries (the group also includes Brazil, Russia, and South Africa) are regarded as the five major emerging economies expected to dominate in the 21st century, are all in the top ten most populous countries (South Africa is exception), indicating how important the size of their populations are to their economic expansion. Currently, the main source of economic growth is human capital. The quality of human capital affects the creativity and innovativeness of the country's economy. Unlike mature economies of developed nations, India and China are the largest reservoir of human capital that will ensure economic growth over the long term. In another words, demographic dividend of India and China is one of the main pillar of Asian century. Thirdly, BRICS is the Frame for Asian Century. India and China are the members of BRICS. The organization is informal, but it is a platform for direct interaction between the countries. This fact allows coordinating actions in different areas (humanitarian sphere, academic and research cooperation, trade, military interactions, etc.). BRICS makes it possible to establish and maintain direct contacts at the highest level. Any organization needs time to develop mutually beneficial mechanisms of interaction. However, it is India and China that can turn the BRICS into a reliable framework for building Asian century. These countries have the great potential because of their demographic, industrial, intellectual and creative resources. The Asian region forms the current agenda that developed countries have to reckon with. For a long time, the Asian region was in the shadow of European and American powers. The need to cope with numerous problems and overcome countless disputes did not allow the countries of the region to form a system that would transform their immense potential into a world of prosperity and progress. The Asian century is not about seizing resources and imposing one's power on other peoples and countries. The Asian century will reveal the full diversity of cultures and civilizations of the region, which are capable of providing prosperity and happiness to billions of people on the planet. To ensure the Asian century, two countries that form its basis are of great importance. India and China are able to anchor in the global world to overcome various contradictions and build a system with permanent friends for mutual economic and social prosperity. Billions of people with their everyday hard work and desire for a better life deserve the advent of the Asian century, which will show that cultural, political, language, and ethnical differences are no longer obstacles for true human happiness. Dr. Sandeep Tripathi is a Founder President of Forum for Global Studies, New Delhi and Assistant Professor at Sharda University, Greater Noida. Dr. Kirill Sablin is an Associate Professor at Department of Economics and Public Administration, Kemerovo State University, Russia. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India-China: An anchor of the evolving Asian century

In what comes as an ironic statement by the Thailand government, pot-smoking tourists are reportedly not welcome in the country. Thailand's health minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Wednesday made the rather surprising statement.

In what comes as an ironic statement by the Thailand government, pot-smoking tourists are reportedly not welcome in the country. Thailand's health minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Wednesday made the rather surprising statement. "We don't welcome those kinds of tourists," said Charnvirakul referring to the tourists who land in Thailand with the sole purpose of using recreational marijuana. As reported by WION, in June, earlier this year, Thailand legalised the growing of marijuana and its consumption in food and drinks, with the aim of boosting its agriculture and tourism sectors. Cannabis growers were instructed to register on a government app called PlookGanja or grow ganja, another nickname for the spikey-leafed plant. Nearly 100,000 people signed up on the app, immediately after the announcement, health ministry official Paisan Dankhum had remarked back then. It is pertinent to note that the country had legalised cannabis for medical use in 2018. Thus the decision to legalise it for all and largely decriminalise its consumption was met with global appreciation. However, some caveats were applied even when opening up the market. Accordingly, smoking recreational susbstances outside, in public spaces can still lead to arrests under "public nuisance" laws rather than drugs legislation. Offenders potentially face a 25,000 baht ($780) fine, as well as up to three months in jail. And cannabis products with more than 0.2 per cent concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) -- the psychoactive compound that produces the drug's "high" remain illegal. In Pics | Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival However, the volte-face to discourage tourists can backfire as Thailand's tourism sector has just started to pick itself up after devastating waves of the Coronavirus pandemic crippled the sector. Read More: Thailand becomes first Asian country to legalise consumption of marijuana According to data, last year the total number of foreign tourists in Thailand stood at 428,000, a steep fall from the record high of 40 million established in 2019. Analyst reports suggest that over the coming decade the legal cannabis market could be worth anything from $50 billion to $200 billion as countries relax laws around personal and medical use. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Thailand's health minister advises pot-smoking tourists to not visit the country

India has confirmed holding talks with NATO officials late in 2019. Chinese state media criticised the talks saying NATO would trigger tensions and divisions in Asia. Palki Sharma tells you how India must deal with the alliance.

Gravitas: India held talks with NATO in 2019

The supper buffet at Singapore's Grand Hyatt hotel normally costs customers approximately $70 and features a delicious assortment of satay chicken, wok-fried mud crab, and chilled tiger prawns. For a tenth of that cost, those on a stricter budget who also care about sustainability can fill a box. Tech entrepreneurs in Asia are using food that would have otherwise gone to waste to offer cheap meals through mobile phone apps.

According to&nbsp;Preston Wong, chief executive officer and co-founder of Treatsure, which collaborates with chains including the Hyatt, Accor Group and the Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel to allow app users to pick out and collect a “buffet-in-a-box” of food that would otherwise be thrown out, Treatsure has more than 30,000 customers and has prevented the waste of 30 metric tonnes of food since its introduction in 2017.

Users normally have to wait until the end of service before they can pick up their meals. Even still, that's a long cry from Singapore's 817,000 tonnes of food waste in 2021, a 23% increase from the previous year. According to officials, Semakau, Singapore's sole landfill, should be able to handle all of the country's solid waste disposal requirements through at least 2035.

Hong Kong has comparable issues. According to Hong Kong's Environmental Protection Department, it has already filled 13 landfills and will continue to fill the remaining sites through 2020 at a rate of around 3,300 tonnes of food waste each day.

“The space is very limited,” said Anne-Claire Béraud, Hong Kong country manager of Phenix by OnTheList, an app launched in the territory last year. “Everything is very dense so there isn’t a lot of space to treat all this waste.”

Users of the app can pick up a "Mystery Basket" of food for at least a 50% discount from places like Pret A Manger and a nearby cake business called The Cakery. According to the business, it has sold 25,000 baskets thus far, preventing the waste of 4.5 kilogrammes of CO2 and around 1 kilogramme of food.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-is-indian-flag-unfurled-or-hoisted-on-independence-day-whats-the-difference-506751">Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence day? What's the difference?</a>

The original Phenix platform was introduced in France in 2014 and then spread to four other European nations, saving 150 million meals. To launch the app in Asia, it worked with the flash sale startup OnTheList. In contrast to North America and Europe, where regulations are being strictly enforced, Asia is still in the early stages of developing the idea of sustainable food. Unsold food from supermarkets is already prohibited in France, while Spain has proposed laws to reduce waste by fining businesses. Laws have been passed in US states like California and New Jersey to lessen the quantity of food that ends up in landfills.

(with inputs from agencies)

The supper buffet at Singapore's Grand Hyatt hotel normally costs customers approximately $70 and features a delicious assortment of satay chicken, wok-fried mud crab, and chilled tiger prawns.

The supper buffet at Singapore's Grand Hyatt hotel normally costs customers approximately $70 and features a delicious assortment of satay chicken, wok-fried mud crab, and chilled tiger prawns. For a tenth of that cost, those on a stricter budget who also care about sustainability can fill a box. Tech entrepreneurs in Asia are using food that would have otherwise gone to waste to offer cheap meals through mobile phone apps. According to Preston Wong, chief executive officer and co-founder of Treatsure, which collaborates with chains including the Hyatt, Accor Group and the Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel to allow app users to pick out and collect a “buffet-in-a-box” of food that would otherwise be thrown out, Treatsure has more than 30,000 customers and has prevented the waste of 30 metric tonnes of food since its introduction in 2017. Users normally have to wait until the end of service before they can pick up their meals. Even still, that's a long cry from Singapore's 817,000 tonnes of food waste in 2021, a 23% increase from the previous year. According to officials, Semakau, Singapore's sole landfill, should be able to handle all of the country's solid waste disposal requirements through at least 2035. Hong Kong has comparable issues. According to Hong Kong's Environmental Protection Department, it has already filled 13 landfills and will continue to fill the remaining sites through 2020 at a rate of around 3,300 tonnes of food waste each day. “The space is very limited,” said Anne-Claire Béraud, Hong Kong country manager of Phenix by OnTheList, an app launched in the territory last year. “Everything is very dense so there isn’t a lot of space to treat all this waste.” Users of the app can pick up a "Mystery Basket" of food for at least a 50% discount from places like Pret A Manger and a nearby cake business called The Cakery. According to the business, it has sold 25,000 baskets thus far, preventing the waste of 4.5 kilogrammes of CO2 and around 1 kilogramme of food. Also Read: Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence day? What's the difference? The original Phenix platform was introduced in France in 2014 and then spread to four other European nations, saving 150 million meals. To launch the app in Asia, it worked with the flash sale startup OnTheList. In contrast to North America and Europe, where regulations are being strictly enforced, Asia is still in the early stages of developing the idea of sustainable food. Unsold food from supermarkets is already prohibited in France, while Spain has proposed laws to reduce waste by fining businesses. Laws have been passed in US states like California and New Jersey to lessen the quantity of food that ends up in landfills. (with inputs from agencies)

Asia sees boom in apps that turn restaurant leftovers into low-cost meals

In the first six months of the year, South Africa saw a rise in Rhino poaching, a total of 259 Rhinos were poached for their horn.

Between January and June 2022, 259 rhinos were poached as compared with 249 countrywide in the same period last year. About 82 rhinos were poached in Kruger National Park alone.

“Recent trends in rhino poaching show a move away from the Kruger Park to private reserves and KwaZulu-Natal where the majority of rhinos have been killed this year. This makes it all the more important for the national government to shift its focus to supporting provincial authorities and private reserves in the war on rhino poaching” said the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms Barbara Creecy.

Poaching statistics 2022 show a loss of 210 rhinos on state properties and 49 in privately-owned parks. &nbsp;As indicated, the hardest hit during this period is KwaZulu-Natal which recorded a loss of 133 rhinos. This is more than triple the 33 rhinos killed in the first six months of the year.

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"The demand for rhino horn remains a constant threat to our rhino populations as crime syndicates continue to operate within our borders. The number of successful arrests and prosecutions recorded over the past 6 months, can be attributed to the continued successful collaboration between the law enforcement agencies, including the SAPS, DPCI and the Green Scorpions, Customs officials, and the National Prosecuting Authority. These efforts are supported by private security," Creecy said.

Partnerships between the public and private sectors remain key to combating wildlife trafficking. &nbsp;In addition to work being undertaken within the seven Integrated Wildlife Zones, the partnership now includes both the financial and transport sectors, as well as transit and end-user countries in Southeast Asia, especially with the People’s Republic of China, Malaysia, and Vietnam, the Minister said.

Between January and June, 69 people were arrested in connection with rhino poaching and rhino horn trafficking. &nbsp;Of these, 13 alleged poachers were arrested in the Kruger National Park, the statement from the ministry indicated.

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&nbsp;

In the first six months of the year, South Africa saw a rise in Rhino poaching, a total of 259 Rhinos were poached for their horn. Between January and June 2022, 259 rhinos were poached as compared with 249 countrywide in the same period last year.

In the first six months of the year, South Africa saw a rise in Rhino poaching, a total of 259 Rhinos were poached for their horn. Between January and June 2022, 259 rhinos were poached as compared with 249 countrywide in the same period last year. About 82 rhinos were poached in Kruger National Park alone. “Recent trends in rhino poaching show a move away from the Kruger Park to private reserves and KwaZulu-Natal where the majority of rhinos have been killed this year. This makes it all the more important for the national government to shift its focus to supporting provincial authorities and private reserves in the war on rhino poaching” said the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms Barbara Creecy. Poaching statistics 2022 show a loss of 210 rhinos on state properties and 49 in privately-owned parks. As indicated, the hardest hit during this period is KwaZulu-Natal which recorded a loss of 133 rhinos. This is more than triple the 33 rhinos killed in the first six months of the year. × "The demand for rhino horn remains a constant threat to our rhino populations as crime syndicates continue to operate within our borders. The number of successful arrests and prosecutions recorded over the past 6 months, can be attributed to the continued successful collaboration between the law enforcement agencies, including the SAPS, DPCI and the Green Scorpions, Customs officials, and the National Prosecuting Authority. These efforts are supported by private security," Creecy said. Partnerships between the public and private sectors remain key to combating wildlife trafficking. In addition to work being undertaken within the seven Integrated Wildlife Zones, the partnership now includes both the financial and transport sectors, as well as transit and end-user countries in Southeast Asia, especially with the People’s Republic of China, Malaysia, and Vietnam, the Minister said. Between January and June, 69 people were arrested in connection with rhino poaching and rhino horn trafficking. Of these, 13 alleged poachers were arrested in the Kruger National Park, the statement from the ministry indicated. Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Rise in rhino poaching in South Africa to meet demand from Asia

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi met with Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, President Halimah Yacob and other Cabinet members on Monday at the start of her Asian tour.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi begins Asia tour by meeting Singapore PM

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi kicked off an Asia tour that has been shrouded in secrecy following an escalation in tensions with China over Taiwan. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint: Pelosi's Asia tour kicks off under Taiwan cloud

The crisis in China's real estate sector is getting bigger. Asia's richest woman has lost more than half of her fortune. Palki Sharma brings you her story.

Gravitas: How Asia's richest woman lost 50% of her fortune

For centuries, people's movements have shaped political and social order in South Asia. The current chaos in Sri Lanka brings back flashes from other Asian nations. Molly Gambhir tells you about similar uprisings in the region.

WION Fineprint | Sri Lanka: A look at 'people power' in Asia

A cask of rare scotch whisky has set a new world record after selling for £16m ($20mn) to a private collector in Asia. The single malt dates to November 1975 and smashed the previous record of £1m ($1.2mn) set in April this year, the Financial Times reports.

As reported by The Guardian, Thomas Moradpour, the president and chief executive of Ardbeg’s owner, Glenmorangie, a subsidiary of the LVMH luxury goods group, said the record-breaking cask was a source of pride for the local community. He said the people of Islay had seen the distillery come back from the brink of extinction to become “one of the most sought-after whiskies in the world”.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-century-old-3800-tonne-building-in-shanghai-start-walking-496092">&nbsp;How did this century-old, 3,800-tonne building in Shanghai start 'walking'?</a>

Known as Cask No 3, the whisky was produced at the 207-year-old Ardbeg distillery, on the Scottish island of Islay. It sold for more than twice the amount the distillery and its entire stock was bought for in 1997. The distillery will draw around 88 bottles of whisky from the cask in each of the next five years and deliver them to the buyer. That’s about £36,000 ($43,000) per bottle. The record sale comes after the supermarket Morrisons accidentally priced bottles of scotch whisky at just £2.50 ($3), a 93% discount from its usual price of £36 ($43), last month.

Bill Lumsden, the head of distilling and whisky creation at Ardbeg, said, as reported by The Guardian, “I’ve really only tasted a whisky like this two or three times in my career. “It has an emotional, comforting quality to it I find hard to put into words.”

(with inputs from agencies)

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A cask of rare scotch whisky has set a new world record after selling for £16m ($20mn) to a private collector in Asia. The single malt dates to November 1975 and smashed the previous record of £1m ($1.

A cask of rare scotch whisky has set a new world record after selling for £16m ($20mn) to a private collector in Asia. The single malt dates to November 1975 and smashed the previous record of £1m ($1.2mn) set in April this year, the Financial Times reports. As reported by The Guardian, Thomas Moradpour, the president and chief executive of Ardbeg’s owner, Glenmorangie, a subsidiary of the LVMH luxury goods group, said the record-breaking cask was a source of pride for the local community. He said the people of Islay had seen the distillery come back from the brink of extinction to become “one of the most sought-after whiskies in the world”. Also Read: How did this century-old, 3,800-tonne building in Shanghai start 'walking'? Known as Cask No 3, the whisky was produced at the 207-year-old Ardbeg distillery, on the Scottish island of Islay. It sold for more than twice the amount the distillery and its entire stock was bought for in 1997. The distillery will draw around 88 bottles of whisky from the cask in each of the next five years and deliver them to the buyer. That’s about £36,000 ($43,000) per bottle. The record sale comes after the supermarket Morrisons accidentally priced bottles of scotch whisky at just £2.50 ($3), a 93% discount from its usual price of £36 ($43), last month. Bill Lumsden, the head of distilling and whisky creation at Ardbeg, said, as reported by The Guardian, “I’ve really only tasted a whisky like this two or three times in my career. “It has an emotional, comforting quality to it I find hard to put into words.” (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rare scotch whisky sold for $20mn to a private collector in Asia. What's so special?

The Asia Pacific markets swung into positive territory during afternoon trade, European markets have opened with gains today, spurred on by a lift in sentiment in Asia, where stocks market lifted on news that China will ease COVID restrictions

European trade positive after a lift in Asia sentiment

Today is the last trading day of the week and clearly, it's not going to be as good as it was last year. Yesterday, US stock markets closed sharply lower in a broad sell-off.

Wall Street plunges as recession fear grows

South&nbsp;Korea's unionised&nbsp;truckers&nbsp;headed back on the roads on Wednesday after the union and the transport ministry reached a tentative late-night agreement, ending a nationwide strike that crippled ports and industrial hubs.

The transport ministry and&nbsp;truckers&nbsp;union agreed on late Tuesday to extend the&nbsp;truckers&nbsp;minimum freight rates and continue discussing expanding a guarantee of minimum pay for carrying cargo to cover additional products. The transport ministry will also review expanding fuel subsidies.

Shares in some affected industries rose after the eight-day strike had delayed cargo shipments from autos to cement and alcohol, costing&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;more than 1.2 billion dollars in lost output and unfilled deliveries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-trucker-strike-snarls-supply-chains-488159">South Korean trucker strike snarls supply chains</a>

"So the strike has been called off until our demands are passed in parliament", said Park Jung-hoon, an official at the union's Busan chapter, referring to the process the transport ministry must undertake to implement the agreement.

"In the next two to three days, 100 per cent of unionised&nbsp;truckers&nbsp;at Busan port are expected to return to work after they get some rest. There might be some shippers who seek retributions, and in such cases, we will respond strongly".

The strike had been an early test of the new government of President Yoon Suk-yeol and had further stretched global supply chains already disrupted by China's COVID-19 curbs and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Woo Sang-ho, the interim leader of the opposition liberal Democratic Party which has a majority in parliament, welcomed the agreement but said the issue of guaranteeing freight rates required legislation and called for "fundamental improvement" to address conditions faced by the&nbsp;truckers.

Watch |&nbsp;South Korea truckers return to work after strike ends

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"The ruling party must not remain a mediator, but should promote directly" the minimum freight rate system as it is directly tied to people's safety, a joint statement with the union and a Democratic Party committee said on Wednesday.

There was confusion about whether the government and Yoon's ruling conservatives agreed to make the minimum pay system a permanent feature or merely extend a temporary measure for another fixed period, union official Kim Jae-gwang said.

Business lobby group&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;International Trade Association said the minimum freight rate system "does not take into account market functions", reduces production and weakens international competitiveness by "placing a one-sided burden on the shipper".

SHARES GAIN, PRODUCTION RESUMES

Still, investors responded positively, with shares in Hyundai Motor gaining as much as 4.4 per cent&nbsp;while shares in Hanil Cement rose as much as 7 per cent, outperforming the benchmark KOSPI's 1.8% fall.

"Production has been normalised at our Ulsan Plant and we will continue to minimise customer inconvenience from the production disruption", Hyundai Motor said in a statement on Wednesday.

Yoo Ji-woong, an analyst at Daol Securities estimated the strike had impacted about 5,000 vehicles each for both Hyundai and Kia but said there were sufficient opportunities to make up for lost production during June through overtime.

Steelmaker POSCO, a unit of POSCO Holdings, halted work at some plants on Monday due to a lack of space to store unshipped products, but plans to achieve originally planned production output by adjusting its maintenance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-says-north-korea-fires-multiple-artillery-shots-from-rocket-launchers-487600">South Korea says North Korea fires multiple artillery shots from rocket launchers</a>

"We plan to resume our overland transport of steel products out of Pohang and Gwangyang steel plants starting 1 pm (0400 GMT) on Wednesday", a spokesperson said.

Korea&nbsp;Zinc said its shipments of sulphuric acid, a key raw material of semiconductors, are back on track after strikers retreated from its production base in Ulsan.

An official at SK Plasma, which manufactures medicines with plasma, said shipments of plasma supplies, which had been trapped in Busan port, partially resumed on Wednesday.

But shares in drinks company HiteJinro rose as much as 4.5 per cent&nbsp;in early trade, as subcontracted&nbsp;truckers&nbsp;had still not returned to work as of Wednesday morning because they had additional demands for a pay hike, a HiteJinro official said.

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South Korea's unionised truckers headed back on the roads on Wednesday after the union and the transport ministry reached a tentative late-night agreement, ending a nationwide strike that crippled ports and industrial hubs.

South Korea's unionised truckers headed back on the roads on Wednesday after the union and the transport ministry reached a tentative late-night agreement, ending a nationwide strike that crippled ports and industrial hubs. The transport ministry and truckers union agreed on late Tuesday to extend the truckers minimum freight rates and continue discussing expanding a guarantee of minimum pay for carrying cargo to cover additional products. The transport ministry will also review expanding fuel subsidies. Shares in some affected industries rose after the eight-day strike had delayed cargo shipments from autos to cement and alcohol, costing South Korea more than 1.2 billion dollars in lost output and unfilled deliveries. Also read | South Korean trucker strike snarls supply chains "So the strike has been called off until our demands are passed in parliament", said Park Jung-hoon, an official at the union's Busan chapter, referring to the process the transport ministry must undertake to implement the agreement. "In the next two to three days, 100 per cent of unionised truckers at Busan port are expected to return to work after they get some rest. There might be some shippers who seek retributions, and in such cases, we will respond strongly". The strike had been an early test of the new government of President Yoon Suk-yeol and had further stretched global supply chains already disrupted by China's COVID-19 curbs and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Woo Sang-ho, the interim leader of the opposition liberal Democratic Party which has a majority in parliament, welcomed the agreement but said the issue of guaranteeing freight rates required legislation and called for "fundamental improvement" to address conditions faced by the truckers. Watch | South Korea truckers return to work after strike ends "The ruling party must not remain a mediator, but should promote directly" the minimum freight rate system as it is directly tied to people's safety, a joint statement with the union and a Democratic Party committee said on Wednesday. There was confusion about whether the government and Yoon's ruling conservatives agreed to make the minimum pay system a permanent feature or merely extend a temporary measure for another fixed period, union official Kim Jae-gwang said. Business lobby group Korea International Trade Association said the minimum freight rate system "does not take into account market functions", reduces production and weakens international competitiveness by "placing a one-sided burden on the shipper". SHARES GAIN, PRODUCTION RESUMES Still, investors responded positively, with shares in Hyundai Motor gaining as much as 4.4 per cent while shares in Hanil Cement rose as much as 7 per cent, outperforming the benchmark KOSPI's 1.8% fall. "Production has been normalised at our Ulsan Plant and we will continue to minimise customer inconvenience from the production disruption", Hyundai Motor said in a statement on Wednesday. Yoo Ji-woong, an analyst at Daol Securities estimated the strike had impacted about 5,000 vehicles each for both Hyundai and Kia but said there were sufficient opportunities to make up for lost production during June through overtime. Steelmaker POSCO, a unit of POSCO Holdings, halted work at some plants on Monday due to a lack of space to store unshipped products, but plans to achieve originally planned production output by adjusting its maintenance. Also read | South Korea says North Korea fires multiple artillery shots from rocket launchers "We plan to resume our overland transport of steel products out of Pohang and Gwangyang steel plants starting 1 pm (0400 GMT) on Wednesday", a spokesperson said. Korea Zinc said its shipments of sulphuric acid, a key raw material of semiconductors, are back on track after strikers retreated from its production base in Ulsan. An official at SK Plasma, which manufactures medicines with plasma, said shipments of plasma supplies, which had been trapped in Busan port, partially resumed on Wednesday. But shares in drinks company HiteJinro rose as much as 4.5 per cent in early trade, as subcontracted truckers had still not returned to work as of Wednesday morning because they had additional demands for a pay hike, a HiteJinro official said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea truckers return to work after strike deal; shares rally

Fiji faces its biggest threat from "devastating climate change" rather than conflict, the country's defence minister warned Sunday at a high-level security summit that has been dominated by geopolitical tensions.

This weekend's Shangri-La Dialogue, which brings together defence ministers from around the world, has seen sparring between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan while delegates also voiced concern about the Ukraine war.

It comes as Beijing jostles with Western powers for influence over Pacific island nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/funds-needed-for-tackling-climate-disasters-up-more-than-800-in-20-years-report-485996">Funds needed for tackling climate disasters up ‘more than 800%’ in 20 years: Report</a>

But Fijian Defence Minister&nbsp;Inia Seruiratu sought instead to focus attention on the threat posed by climate change to his Pacific country, which is regularly hit by cyclones.

"Machine guns, fighter jets, ships... are not our primary security concern," he told hundreds of delegates at the event in Singapore.

"The single greatest threat to our very existence is... human-induced, devastating climate change.&nbsp;It threatens our very hopes and dreams of prosperity.&nbsp;

"Waves are crashing at our doorsteps, winds are battering our homes, we are being assaulted by this enemy from many angles."

He said security was "broader than many of us have traditionally defined it", urging other countries to support Fiji's efforts to combat climate change.

Last September, Fiji passed a sweeping climate change act which declared a climate emergency while setting out the legal framework for the nation's response.

Watch |&nbsp;'Super Algae' to help fight climate change

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Cyclones, rising seas

Low-lying Pacific island nations are some of the most vulnerable countries to climate change in the world. Threats range from cyclones that are becoming more regular and powerful, to rising seas.

Ahead of last year's key climate talks in Glasgow, Pacific states warned they were bearing the brunt of global warming and urged wealthy, industrialised nations to do more.

China has been vying for influence in the region with other nations, including Australia and the United States.

But Fiji was among 10 Pacific nations that last month rebuffed China's push for a wide-ranging security pact, in a high-profile political setback for Beijing.

While he avoided the topic during his address, Seruiratu was asked about it at a question and answer session afterwards.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-talks-test-global-resolve-on-warming-485504">Climate talks test global resolve on warming</a>

He said people had asked him "everybody's coming to Fiji and courting you but when will you get married?"

"Let me say this. Marriage is about... an enduring relationship. Relationships must be enduring and built on trust."

Seruiratu also struck a conciliatory tone towards Beijing, despite the recent failed attempt to push its security pact.&nbsp;

"China is a key development partner, and that is a known fact. And that is accepted as well in the region," he said.&nbsp;

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Fiji faces its biggest threat from "devastating climate change" rather than conflict, the country's defence minister warned Sunday at a high-level security summit that has been dominated by geopolitical tensions.

Fiji faces its biggest threat from "devastating climate change" rather than conflict, the country's defence minister warned Sunday at a high-level security summit that has been dominated by geopolitical tensions. This weekend's Shangri-La Dialogue, which brings together defence ministers from around the world, has seen sparring between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan while delegates also voiced concern about the Ukraine war. It comes as Beijing jostles with Western powers for influence over Pacific island nations. Also read | Funds needed for tackling climate disasters up ‘more than 800%’ in 20 years: Report But Fijian Defence Minister Inia Seruiratu sought instead to focus attention on the threat posed by climate change to his Pacific country, which is regularly hit by cyclones. "Machine guns, fighter jets, ships... are not our primary security concern," he told hundreds of delegates at the event in Singapore. "The single greatest threat to our very existence is... human-induced, devastating climate change. It threatens our very hopes and dreams of prosperity. "Waves are crashing at our doorsteps, winds are battering our homes, we are being assaulted by this enemy from many angles." He said security was "broader than many of us have traditionally defined it", urging other countries to support Fiji's efforts to combat climate change. Last September, Fiji passed a sweeping climate change act which declared a climate emergency while setting out the legal framework for the nation's response. Watch | 'Super Algae' to help fight climate change Cyclones, rising seas Low-lying Pacific island nations are some of the most vulnerable countries to climate change in the world. Threats range from cyclones that are becoming more regular and powerful, to rising seas. Ahead of last year's key climate talks in Glasgow, Pacific states warned they were bearing the brunt of global warming and urged wealthy, industrialised nations to do more. China has been vying for influence in the region with other nations, including Australia and the United States. But Fiji was among 10 Pacific nations that last month rebuffed China's push for a wide-ranging security pact, in a high-profile political setback for Beijing. While he avoided the topic during his address, Seruiratu was asked about it at a question and answer session afterwards. Also read | Climate talks test global resolve on warming He said people had asked him "everybody's coming to Fiji and courting you but when will you get married?" "Let me say this. Marriage is about... an enduring relationship. Relationships must be enduring and built on trust." Seruiratu also struck a conciliatory tone towards Beijing, despite the recent failed attempt to push its security pact. "China is a key development partner, and that is a known fact. And that is accepted as well in the region," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fiji's biggest threat 'climate change, not conflict'

Chinese&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that it was up to the United States to&nbsp;improve&nbsp;the&nbsp;bilateral&nbsp;relationship, as ties were at a critical juncture.

Repeating several times at an Asian security meeting that China only sought peace and stability, and was not an aggressor, he called on the United States to "strengthen solidarity and oppose confrontation and division".

He said China firmly rejected "US&nbsp;smearing, accusations and even threats" in Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue meeting on Saturday.

"We request the US&nbsp;side to stop smearing and containing China. Stop interfering in&nbsp;China's&nbsp;internal affairs. The&nbsp;bilateral&nbsp;relationship&nbsp;cannot&nbsp;improve&nbsp;unless the US&nbsp;side can do that", Wei, dressed in the uniform of a general in the People's Liberation Army, told delegates.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strategy-for-indo-pacific-region-fueling-future-conflict-china-487354">Also read |&nbsp;US strategy for Indo-Pacific region fueling future conflict: China</a>

Austin said on Saturday there had been an "alarming" increase in the number of unsafe and unprofessional encounters between Chinese planes and vessels with those of other countries. He added that the United States would stand by its allies, including Taiwan.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine&nbsp;has&nbsp;taken centre stage at the meeting, and Wei made a point of saying China supported peace talks and opposed "providing weapons, applying maximum pressure". He said China had not provided any material support to Russia.

"What is the root cause of this crisis? Who is the mastermind behind this? Who loses the most? And who stands to gain the most? Who is promoting peace and who is adding fuel to the fire? I think we all know the answers to these questions", he said, without addressing them or stating&nbsp;China's&nbsp;position.

Meia Nouwens, a Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said Wei’s speech was consistent with Beijing’s official line on Russia-Ukraine issues.

"He did also underline that China is a partner of Russia and not an ally of Russia and that they do not have an alliance", she said. "They're underlining that at the end of the day, Chinese policy&nbsp;has&nbsp;always been to pursue&nbsp;China's&nbsp;own interests and not tie itself to those other countries”.

Watch |&nbsp;The final day of security summit underway: China remains firm on Taiwan issue

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In an address via video link on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned delegates that the invasion of his nation threatened the rules-based order and put the entire world in danger of famine and food crises.

UNCHANGED ON TAIWAN

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a “special operation” that it&nbsp;says&nbsp;is not designed to occupy territory but to destroy its southern neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous&nbsp;nationalists.

Addressing the issue of Taiwan, Wei said&nbsp;China's&nbsp;position on the island, which Beijing views as a province, was unchanged. He said the Chinese government sought "peaceful reunification" with Taiwan but reserved "other options".

"China will definitely realise its reunification", Wei said. "Those who pursue Taiwan independence in an attempt to split China will definitely come to no good end".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-restaurant-attack-nine-people-arrested-over-violence-against-women-487159">Also read |&nbsp;China restaurant attack: Nine people arrested over violence against women</a>

In Taiwan, Premier Su Tseng-chang said on Sunday that the island does not want to close the door to China and is willing to engage in the spirit of goodwill, but on an equal basis and without political preconditions.

South Korean&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Lee Jong-sup said at the Singapore meeting that his country would enhance its&nbsp;defence&nbsp;capabilities and work closely with the United States and Japan to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threat. The South would also help North Korea if it denuclearised, he said.

Fiji's&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Inia Seruiratu said that for all the focus&nbsp;on military matters at Shangri-La Dialogue, more pressing threats were being ignored.

"In our blue Pacific continent, machine guns, fighter jets, grey ships and green battalions are not our primary security concern," Seruiratu said.

"The single greatest threat to our very existence is climate change. It threatens our very hopes and dreams of prosperity", he added.

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Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that it was up to the United States to improve the bilateral relationship, as ties were at a critical juncture.

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that it was up to the United States to improve the bilateral relationship, as ties were at a critical juncture. Repeating several times at an Asian security meeting that China only sought peace and stability, and was not an aggressor, he called on the United States to "strengthen solidarity and oppose confrontation and division". He said China firmly rejected "US smearing, accusations and even threats" in Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue meeting on Saturday. "We request the US side to stop smearing and containing China. Stop interfering in China's internal affairs. The bilateral relationship cannot improve unless the US side can do that", Wei, dressed in the uniform of a general in the People's Liberation Army, told delegates. Also read | US strategy for Indo-Pacific region fueling future conflict: China Austin said on Saturday there had been an "alarming" increase in the number of unsafe and unprofessional encounters between Chinese planes and vessels with those of other countries. He added that the United States would stand by its allies, including Taiwan. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has taken centre stage at the meeting, and Wei made a point of saying China supported peace talks and opposed "providing weapons, applying maximum pressure". He said China had not provided any material support to Russia. "What is the root cause of this crisis? Who is the mastermind behind this? Who loses the most? And who stands to gain the most? Who is promoting peace and who is adding fuel to the fire? I think we all know the answers to these questions", he said, without addressing them or stating China's position. Meia Nouwens, a Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said Wei’s speech was consistent with Beijing’s official line on Russia-Ukraine issues. "He did also underline that China is a partner of Russia and not an ally of Russia and that they do not have an alliance", she said. "They're underlining that at the end of the day, Chinese policy has always been to pursue China's own interests and not tie itself to those other countries”. Watch | The final day of security summit underway: China remains firm on Taiwan issue In an address via video link on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned delegates that the invasion of his nation threatened the rules-based order and put the entire world in danger of famine and food crises. UNCHANGED ON TAIWAN Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a “special operation” that it says is not designed to occupy territory but to destroy its southern neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists. Addressing the issue of Taiwan, Wei said China's position on the island, which Beijing views as a province, was unchanged. He said the Chinese government sought "peaceful reunification" with Taiwan but reserved "other options". "China will definitely realise its reunification", Wei said. "Those who pursue Taiwan independence in an attempt to split China will definitely come to no good end". Also read | China restaurant attack: Nine people arrested over violence against women In Taiwan, Premier Su Tseng-chang said on Sunday that the island does not want to close the door to China and is willing to engage in the spirit of goodwill, but on an equal basis and without political preconditions. South Korean Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup said at the Singapore meeting that his country would enhance its defence capabilities and work closely with the United States and Japan to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threat. The South would also help North Korea if it denuclearised, he said. Fiji's Defence Minister Inia Seruiratu said that for all the focus on military matters at Shangri-La Dialogue, more pressing threats were being ignored. "In our blue Pacific continent, machine guns, fighter jets, grey ships and green battalions are not our primary security concern," Seruiratu said. "The single greatest threat to our very existence is climate change. It threatens our very hopes and dreams of prosperity", he added. Watch WION's live TV here:

China's defence chief says US has to improve bilateral relationship

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U.S. President Joe Biden is traveling to South Korea and Japan, after hosting Southeast Asian leaders at the White House last week. The administration’s spotlight on Asia is a clear signal that the Indo-Pacific region remains its priority, even as it focuses on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. For further analysis, we're joined by VOA's Correspondent, Jessica Stone.

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