Asia

The MDP is headed by pro-India former president Mohammad Solih, who was defeated by Muizzu, a pro-China leader, in the presidential elections.

With Beijing and New Delhi tussling for influence, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu was elected in September after pledging to cultivate "strong ties" with China and eject Indian troops.

The 33-year-old guru has a devout following but has long been accused of physically and sexually assaulting his followers, and has been hiding from authorities for several years.

Since returning to power in August 2021, Taliban authorities have imposed a strict interpretation of Islam, with women bearing the brunt of laws the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid".

The election was dominated by serious economic challenges that have called into question the Himalayan kingdom's long-standing policy of prioritising "Gross National Happiness" over growth.

If Taiwan's pro-independence party remains in power, Xi might be compelled to push reunification; however if the opposition, aligning with "one China," prevails, Beijing may adopt a patient stance.

Having at least one son was a strong desire influencing fertility preferences in South Korea, especially up through the early years of 21st century. And the declining fertility rate posed a problem.

The incident happened when unidentified terrorists attacked Laachi toll plaza in Kohat district of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Wednesday morning.

With unemployment a chronic problem, an exodus of young people in search of higher education and jobs abroad is undermining the country’s economic potential.

The US and Israel also remain deeply divided over how Gaza will be run when—and if—its current Hamas rulers are defeated.

Recent surveys show more than half of South Koreans want dog meat banned and a majority no longer eat it. But one in every three South Koreans still opposes a ban even though they don't consume it.

The Israeli army confirmed that a "hostile aircraft" had come down at one of its bases in the north and said that "no injuries or damage were reported."

In December, India asked Pakistan to extradite Saeed, a United Nations-proscribed terrorist, who is wanted by Indian probe agencies in a number of terror cases.

Tawil "had a leading role in managing Hezbollah's operations in the south", the security official said, requesting anonymity.

Three-time prime minister Sharif—regarded as the favourite in Khan's absence—was last ousted by the Supreme Court in 2017, and a subsequent ruling saw him barred from office for life over graft.

Describing the comments against PM Modi as "uncalled for", Adeeb said that the ruling party has these "extreme elements" who are calling for India out.

The Maldivian foreign ministry said the government is aware of "derogatory remarks" on social media platforms against foreign leaders and that the personal views do not represent its position.

"India congratulates PM Sheikh Hasina on her election victory, hopes for even stronger momentum in the bilateral partnership in support of each other's national development,’’ said Ambassador Verma.

Chances for survival diminish after the first 72 hours. Several other dramatic rescues have been reported over the past few days as soldiers, firefighters and others joined a widespread effort.