15 h. ago Xi’s trip to Russia, Beijing rolls out economic policy package: SCMP daily highlights

From Xi thanking Moscow for support over Taiwan to Beijing’s new measures to guard against US tariffs, here’s a round-up from today’s coverage.

Economics

15 h. ago Xi’s Russia trip, China unveils economic policy package: SCMP daily highlights

Xi’s Russia trip, China unveils economic policy package: SCMP daily highlights  South China Morning Post

Economics

15 h. ago Germany’s Merz stresses European unity, defence on first Paris trip as chancellor

Merz and France’s Macron hope to give the relationship fresh impetus at a crucial time.

Politics

17 h. ago China’s Xi Jinping launches Russia trip with thanks for Moscow over Taiwan

The island’s unification must be upheld as part of the post-war international order, Xi says.

Politics

18 h. ago Belgian teenagers with 5,000 ants in Kenya get US$7,700 fine or 1

Authorities said the ants were destined for European and Asian markets in an emerging trend of trafficking lesser-known wildlife species.

Politics

22 h. ago Hong Kong duo accused of aiding Abby Choi’s ex had ‘no intention to get involved’

Kowloon City Court heard closing submissions from the defence lawyers of Lam Shun and Irene Pun, with verdict to be learned on June 16.

Politics

27 h. ago How can Hong Kong help connect mainland Chinese firms with Qatar and Kuwait?

Trade Development Council urges Hong Kong to leverage professional services, international experience ahead of delegation trip to Gulf nations.

Politics

29 h. ago China's Xi congratulates Merz on election as German chancellor

China's Xi congratulates Merz on election as German chancellor  Reuters

Politics

37 h. ago Hong Kong to host crucial summit in wake of political elites’ postponed US trip

Regina Ip, who chairs a co-organiser of the Global Prosperity Summit, cited Donald Trump’s China talk comments as reason behind postponed visit last month.

Politics

37 h. ago Hong Kong’s Regina Ip reveals reason for earlier cancellation of US trip

Executive Council convenor Regina Ip says timing was not good for US trip as she provides details of key business summit in city.

Politics

43 h. ago Chinese, EU leaders exchange letters to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties

It comes amid a broader thaw in relations, with Beijing also confirming that it has lifted sanctions on European Parliament members.

Politics

43 h. ago Chinese, EU leaders agree to deepen ties amid Trump pressure, in anniversary exchanges

Two sides are seeing a broader thaw in relations, with Beijing also confirming that it has lifted sanctions on European Parliament members.

Politics

44 h. ago In historic first, Friedrich Merz fails to become Germany’s chancellor in first vote

The lower house of parliament, or Bundestag, now has 14 days to elect Friedrich Merz or another candidate.

Politics

44 h. ago In historic first, Friedrich Merz fails to become Germany’s chancellor in opening vote

The lower house of parliament, or Bundestag, now has 14 days to elect Friedrich Merz or another candidate.

Politics

44 h. ago Merz elected German chancellor, hours after initial shock defeat

Friedrich Merz wins on the second ballot to become Germany’s chancellor, hours after his historic defeat in the first round.

Events

47 h. ago John Lee to lead Hong Kong, mainland delegation to Qatar, Kuwait on Saturday

City leader’s second visit to Middle East after 2023 trip to Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates to drive more business and people-to-people ties.

Politics

49 h. ago European airlines steer clear of Pakistan airspace as India tensions mount

Air France and Lufthansa are among the growing list of carriers taking longer, costlier routes to Asia.

Events

55 h. ago US defence chief directs 20% cut to top military leadership positions

Pete Hegseth also told National Guard to shed 20% of top positions and directed military to shed additional 10% of general and flag officers.

Events

55 h. ago US Defence Secretary Hegseth orders 20% cut in number of top officers in military

Cuts are aimed at promoting efficiency but critics worry they could result in a more politicised force.

Events

60 h. ago India to hold drills in case of ‘hostile attack’ amid Kashmir tensions with Pakistan

The mock civil defence drills will focus on evacuation and civilian training to counter potential threats from Pakistan.

Events