David Arase News Today

Pakistan News: SCO strengthens counterterrorism efforts post deadly attacks, focusing on ISIS-K threats. Concerns over external influences destabilizing regions. Chi

After attacks in Russia and Pakistan, analysts expect more focus on combating terrorism when China chairs the SCO in July.

Official statements after Wang Yi and Jake Sullivan meet in Bangkok make no mention of attacks in key maritime corridor, with one analyst calling the issue ‘too important to avoid’ but ‘too sensitive to mention’.

Beijing has called for an end to the attacks on the ships and expressed concern over the escalating situation but is unlikely to play a bigger role, affecting its global standing, analysts say.

The former US secretary state continued to play a back channel role in later years, helping to stabilise relations in turbulent times.

The White House has confirmed that a leaders’ summit will go ahead in San Francisco this month. ‘No major thaw’ is anticipated but it could send a signal that they’re managing their differences, according to observers.

Leaders from 130 countries are arriving in Beijing for the summit as the infrastructure plan marks its 10th anniversary.

Frank B.

Tokyo announces its biggest military build-up since World War II.

This does not augur well for the all-important US-China relations too, says ST's Goh Sui Noi. Read more at straitstimes.com.