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FACT CHECK: No Marcos order expelling China from West PH Sea
Marcos says the government will defend the Philippines’ territory amid ‘worrisome’ Chinese presence in the West Philippine Sea but does not make reference to any expulsion of China.....»»
FACT CHECK | Constitutionality, not ‘noble intentions’, basis for allowing joint ventures in West Philippine Sea – Supreme Court
In her column published on manilatimes.net on Dec. 23, 2023, Anna Malindog-Uy proposed, among others, possible joint ventures in the utilization of the resources in the South China Sea to pave the way for a non-confrontational resolution of maritime and territorial claims involving the Philippines and China. The article consistently used the term South China […].....»»
Repression Increased in Asia in 2023, Human Rights Watch Says
Governments across Asia grew more repressive last year, emboldened by Western countries eager to curry favor with allies that might help check China's rise and taking increasingly brazen steps to silence their critics abroad, Human Rights Watch says in a new report.In its World Report 2024, launched Thursday morning in New York, the advocacy group takes stock of the human rights situation in more than 100 countr.....»»
FACT CHECK: No NATO pledge to defend PH in South China Sea
There are no announcements from the alliance about defending the Philippines, a non-NATO member, in its maritime disputes with China.....»»
Repression Increased in Asia in 2023, Human Rights Watch Says
Governments across Asia grew more repressive last year, emboldened by Western countries eager to curry favor with allies that might help check China's rise and taking increasingly brazen steps to silence their critics abroad, Human Rights Watch says in a new report.In its World Report 2024, launched Thursday morning in New York, the advocacy group takes stock of the human rights situation in more than 100 countr.....»»
FACT CHECK | FB posts on presence of China’s People’s Liberation Army in BARMM unproven
Two Facebook posts claiming that members of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) manned the Chinese vessel that conducted dredging activities in the Bangsamoro region are unfounded. They altered the content of the source news items apparently to mislead readers. Facebook pages Pilipinas Today and Pilipinas, which claim to be digital news media platforms, reported that […].....»»
FACT CHECK | SMI’s Tampakan project not yet exporting copper to China
Blogger Sass Sasot’s claim that Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI), developer of the controversial Tampakan project, the largest undeveloped copper and gold minefield in Southeast Asia, has started exporting to China is false. In a video circulating in various Facebook pages, Sasot stated that Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. has earned billions from the Tampakan […].....»»
FACT CHECK | China prevents Filipino fishers in West Philippine Sea during Duterte’s time
On December 22, Jun Abines posted on his Facebook page, where he describes himself as a writer, an item from quora.com containing a reply to the question “Do you believe the Philippines should give up its claims to China?” The question was referring to the disputed waters and features in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) […].....»»
Marcos s China strategy is wrong
Editor's note: Since Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. visit to China in January, the Philippines has had multiple maritime conflicts with China in the South China Sea. What happened? And what would happen if this trend continues? Take a look at this episode of Reality Check and find out. During Philippine Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.'s visit to Chi.....»»
Marcos s China strategy is wrong
Editor's note: Since Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. visit to China in January, the Philippines has had multiple maritime conflicts with China in the South China Sea. What happened? And what would happen if this trend continues? Take a look at this episode of Reality Check and find out. During Philippine Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.'s visit to Chi.....»»
FACT CHECK | Columnist echoes China’s claim regarding non-existent pact on grounded PH vessel in West Philippine Sea
Manila Times columnist Rigoberto D. Tiglao has echoed China’s claim that the Philippines had an agreement with Beijing to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal in the disputed West Philippine Sea, even if the Chinese government could not produce proof of such an agreement and Manila had denied there is no official […].....»»
Philippines, China trade blame over collisions in disputed sea
Beijing and Manila traded blame on Sunday for two collisions between Chinese vessels and Philippine boats on a resupply mission to Filipino troops on a remote outpost in the disputed South China Sea. The incidents happened near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands, a hotly contested region where Beijing deploys ships to assert its claims over almost the entire sea. A Philippine government task force said the "dangerous blocking manoeuvers of China Coast Guard vessel 5203 caused it to collide with the Armed Forces of the Philippines-contracted indigenous resupply boat" about 25 kilometres (15 miles) from Second Thomas Shoal. China said the "slight collision" happened after the resupply boat ignored "multiple warnings and deliberately passed through law enforcement in an unprofessional and dangerous manner", state broadcaster CCTV reported, citing the foreign ministry. In another incident, a Philippine coastguard vessel escorting the routine resupply mission was "bumped" by what the Philippine task force described as a "Chinese Maritime Militia vessel". China, however, accused the Philippine boat of "deliberately" stirring up trouble by reversing in a "premeditated manner" into a Chinese fishing vessel. Video released by the Philippine military showed the bow of the Chinese coastguard ship and the stern of the resupply vessel briefly touching. The Philippine vessel continues on its course. It is not clear if there was any damage. A second resupply boat was able to reach the grounded BRP Sierra Madre and "successfully resupply our troops and personnel stationed there", the statement said. "The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea condemns in the strongest degree the latest dangerous, irresponsible, and illegal actions of the CCG and the Chinese Maritime Militia done this morning," the task force said in a statement. It said the "provocative, irresponsible, and illegal action" of the Chinese coastguard boat had endangered the safety of the crew on the supply boat. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. Second Thomas Shoal is about 200 kilometres (124 miles) from the western Philippine island of Palawan, and more than 1,000 kilometres from China's nearest major landmass, Hainan island. China said "responsibility lies entirely with the Philippines" for Sunday's incidents. As China moves ever more confidently to assert its claims to sovereignty over the waters, officials and experts have warned of the potential for collisions. "This is exactly the kind of event that can happen given their dangerous manoeuvring," said Jay Batongbacal, director of the University of the Philippines' Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea. Batongbacal said the Chinese coastguard had deliberately hit the Philippine resupply vessel to see how Manila would respond and test the resolve of the Philippines' longtime ally Washington. "You don't accidentally hit another vessel out in the open ocean," Batongbacal told AFP. - US condemns 'latest disruption' - The Philippine Navy deliberately grounded the World War II-era BRP Sierra Madre on Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to check China's advance in the waters. The troops stationed on the crumbling ship depend on regular supply deliveries for their survival. The Philippines has outposts on nine reefs and islands in the Spratlys, including Second Thomas Shoal. US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said the United States condemned China's "latest disruption of a legal Philippine resupply mission" that put "the lives of Filipino service members at risk". Manila and Beijing have a long history of maritime disputes in the South China Sea. Tensions flared in August when China Coast Guard vessels used water cannons against a Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal, preventing one of the boats from delivering its cargo. A Chinese ship in April narrowly missed colliding with a much smaller Philippine Coast Guard vessel in the same area. (Cecil Morella with Sebastien Ricci in Beijing) burs-amj/lb © Agence France-Presse The post Philippines, China trade blame over collisions in disputed sea appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
GCash expands in Singapore
GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app, doubles down on its presence in Singapore as it can now be used as a cashless payment option in both Alipay+ and Alipay China-enabled merchants. This further expands GCash’s availability in one of the most famous destinations in Southeast Asia. It has already been accepted by Alipay+ merchants in 2022, but now GCash can also be used to pay in select AlipayCN establishments. Some of these merchants include 7-Eleven, which has the largest convenience store network in the country at 450 branches; the largest orange juice vending machine operator, iJooz; the exclusive distributor of duty-free cosmetic products, The Shilla Duty-Free; and the largest taxi operator, ComfortDelGro taxis. “GCash is committed to always being there for our millions of users wherever they are here in the Philippines and all over the world. Thanks to our global partner Alipay+, GCash users can now go cashless in thousands more touchpoints in Singapore,” said Ren-Ren Reyes, president and CEO of GCash mobile wallet operator, G-Xchange. Aside from expanding its touchpoints, GCash is also making it rewarding for users to go cashless in Singapore. When they use GCash to pay in 7-Eleven, iJooz, and hawkers like Lau Pa Sat they can get P85 off from their purchase. Likewise, users can enjoy up to P400 off at ComfortDelGro taxi rides and their shopping at The Shilla Duty-Free stores. To claim these vouchers, head on over to the GCash app and tap the “A+ Rewards” button. In the dropdown button, select Singapore and scroll down to select a voucher to purchase. When paying for your purchases at these destinations, be sure to look for the Alipay+ or AlipayCN logo at the checkout. Open your GCash app and select the QR or PayQR button at the bottom of the screen. Scan the merchant’s QR code, or tap “Pay Abroad with Alipay+ or AlipayCN” to have the merchant scan your generated QR. Then, check the amount and click “Pay” to see the receipt. GCash is continuously expanding its international footprint in partnership with Alipay+. Aside from Singapore, the Philippine e-wallet can be used to pay in select Alipay+-enabled merchants across Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Qatar, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy. “Our users can expect GCash to further expand its global reach as we partner with more merchants in more countries,” Reyes said. The Philippine finance super app is also making its services available to more Filipinos who live abroad as the GCash app can now be used with international numbers in the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Italy and Australia. The post GCash expands in Singapore appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
FACT CHECK: China Coast Guard did not fire on PH Navy ship near Scarborough Shoal
There are no reports confirming the supposed incident. The misleading video was uploaded amid China’s recent claims of driving away a Philippine ship from Scarborough Shoal......»»
Shanghai’s five-star The Middle House
The location The Middle House is a five-star hotel in the heart of China’s bustling metropolis of Shanghai. It is the epicenter of the lively Jing’an District, yet it manages to strike the ideal balance between the contemporary and the traditional. The hotel is situated in a convenient location close to Nanjing Road, which is considered to be one of the best shopping avenues in Shanghai, as well as Jing’an Temple, which is a historical and cultural landmark. The aesthetic The Middle House, created by renowned Italian architect Piero Lissoni, exhibits a distinctive architectural style that effortlessly combines elegance and modern aesthetics. Lissoni incorporated various materials, such as bamboo, porcelain, ceramic and lacquered textures. The refined interiors skillfully blend Chinese history and craftsmanship with Italian ingenuity, resulting in a beautiful tribute to modern-day Shanghai. The hotel’s public spaces are filled with an abundance of natural light, which creates a warm and peaceful atmosphere that is welcoming to guests. The design of the hotel showcases a dedication to crafting a balanced atmosphere that incorporates the vibrant urban spirit of Shanghai and the peacefulness of a high-end getaway. [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="190882,190878,190880,190881"] The room We stayed in a Studio 60 with floor-to-ceiling windows facing a bustling street. During the course of our stay, I would sit on the couch and watch people cross the street. I would sit outside the Starbucks Roastery at different times of the day. The view was exhilarating and relaxing at the same time. A similar design philosophy carries through to their luxurious dwellings and presents an amazing showcase of contemporary design and modern renditions of traditional Chinese elements. Guests staying in any room can enjoy features like a rain shower and free-standing bathtub, exclusive artisanal bath and body products, premium bathroom accessories, luxury down bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, a state-of-the-art Bluetooth speaker and the use of Mr. Goodnight, the hotel’s signature blue tassel master light switch. A complimentary maxi bar and an espresso machine with a selection of beverages are also present for use. The breakfast As you step into Cafe Gray, you’ll be greeted by an elegant and modern interior, adorned with sleek furnishings and large windows that flood the space with natural light. The inviting atmosphere creates a sense of tranquility, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely morning meal. The breakfast menu at Cafe Gray is a culinary delight, boasting a wide array of options to suit both my palate and my husband’s. I went from Asian one day (Shanghai specialty xiao long bao and shen jian bao) to Western the next day (honey-glazed ham with hashbrown is a winner!), then back to Asian (the laksa is fantastic!). My husband Berg, on the other hand, indulged in fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup one day and waffles the next day. [caption id="attachment_190883" align="aligncenter" width="525"] View from Studio 60. The Middle House is located in the lively Jing’an District and is connected to the Taikoo Hui mall.[/caption] The art collection Entering the hotel takes you to a place with a flair for the dramatic. The space was designed by Lissoni with a deliberate emphasis on contrast. This was achieved by employing dark colors and striking jewel tones for the walls and furnishings, which served to accentuate the carefully selected art works from the hotel’s art collection titled I Dream of China, by both local Chinese and international artists, serving as a representation of the artistic intersection that characterizes the city of Shanghai. The installation Vases in a Steel Cage by Shanghai artist Liu Dao of the neighborhood art group Island6 creates a thought-provoking contrast between delicate porcelain vases and a rigid metal enclosure in one area of the property. The service When it comes to service at the Middle House, one word immediately comes to mind: dedicated. From the moment we arrived and stepped onto the property to our experiences at the various outlets, even while waiting outside for our ride back to the hotel, and throughout our check-out process, the service we received at every step of the way was truly dedicated. It is a testament to the art of hospitality at the Middle House. The commitment of the Middle House team to ensuring a memorable and seamless experience for each guest is remarkable. Shanghai, although both familiar and unfamiliar to us, has undergone significant changes in the past three years since the pandemic began. It has become a new place for us. Are the places we used to frequent still there? Most of our friends in Shanghai have left, but staying at the Middle House and engaging in conversations with the team provided us with answers, insights and new recommendations. This helped us appreciate the city even more. The post Shanghai’s five-star The Middle House appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Spins, deceptions, barrage
Chinese propaganda was in full force yesterday as the country’s state media again referred to the Philippines’ removal of the floating barrier as done to further the interest of the Americans. The narrative that China wants the world to follow is that the actions of the Philippines are all being dictated by the United States, to which the country has a long history of subservience. Thus, the Philippines’ sovereign interests are really at stake in the challenges to China’s aggressive assertions. Beijing’s propaganda mill has been busy since the expanded Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement increased from five to nine the number of Philippine military bases US forces have access to. It initially raised the bogey of the broader military pact being the launch pad for an American defense of Taiwan if China attacked, which is farthest from the truth since it presumes that Filipinos would be stupid enough to risk their country for another’s interest. The latest volley from China was related to removing the floating barrier that cordoned off Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc to Filipino fishermen. The Philippine Coast Guard should check the contraption to determine where it was manufactured. Recall the suspicion that the rocks and other materials used for China’s reclamation of Philippine islands had come from Zambales with the collusion of local government officials. Wang Wenbin, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, said the Philippine statement was just what it wanted to believe itself. “China’s resolve in safeguarding its sovereignty and maritime rights and interests over Huangyan Island (Scarborough Shoal) is unwavering. We call on the Philippines not to make provocations or stir up trouble,” Wang said. Moreover, China parrots the line that opening four additional military bases was a move “to win US support for its claims in the South China Sea.” The US then wants to exploit the Philippines so that “it can intervene in the Taiwan question and the South China Sea issue from a closer range.” The US is using the Philippines as a pawn in its campaign to “contain China,” according to the propaganda minions. EDCA was an offshoot of the Mutual Defense Treaty, a post-World War II pact in which the Philippines and the United States committed to come to each other’s aid in case of attack. Based on the hype generated in Beijing, the Philippines has made several “failed” attempts to deliver building materials to reinforce the “grounded warship” on China’s Ren’ai Jiao, also known as Ayungin or Second Thomas Shoal, since August. Indeed, attempts to reinforce the BRP Sierra Madre ended in a cat-and-mouse chase that succeeded, revealing that China is out of touch with reality. Also, the Sierra Madre is not a warship but a landing craft. It is an LST 542-class tank landing ship, previously known as the USS Harnett County, built for the United States Navy during World War II. The paid hacks and lapdogs of the Chinese government want to create an image that the venture between the Philippines and the US is meant to contain Beijing. The fundamental issue, however, remains the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, or UNCLOS, that has under it the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea, or ITLOS. The Permanent Court of Arbitration, or PCA, issued the 2016 ruling favoring the Philippines was formed under ITLOS. Thus, UNCLOS invalidated China’s historical claims and upheld the exclusive economic zone from which the Philippines can derive economic benefits. Any argument that strays from the guiding principle must be treated with a grain of salt, if not doused with cold water. The post Spins, deceptions, barrage appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
London Fashion Week throws spotlight on young designers
After New York, the fashion world descended on London Friday for a catwalk extravaganza showcasing big names such as Burberry but also the work of young designers who could become household names. Ahead of the official start, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour on Thursday evening hosted a star-studded event billed as Britain's answer to New York's Met Gala. Supermodels Kate Moss, Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford were joined by stars of music, theatre, and film from Kate Winslet and Brian Cox to Annie Lennox and Rita Ora. Actress Sienna Miller however stole the show with a daring pregnancy bump-baring outfit. Last year's London Fashion Week, billed as a comeback after disruption due to the Covid pandemic, was overshadowed by the death of Queen Elizabeth II and 10 days of national mourning. This year, more than 80 designers are set to present their spring/summer 2024 collections, with around 50 catwalk shows and other presentations. "It's going to be five really exciting days full of creativity," said Caroline Rush, chief executive of organizers of the British Fashion Council. But in the world of fashion, London is enduring a post-Covid slump, with inflation -- the highest in the G7 at 6.8 percent in July -- and Brexit combining to create a depressed economic backdrop. That has left the British capital trailing Paris, Milan, and New York in the fashion week stakes. In a sign of its loss of influence, even British former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham has crossed the Channel to present her designs in Paris since last year. Fresh UK finding On Wednesday, the UK government announced £2 million ($2.5 million) to support young designers, which will go to the BFC's existing NewGen program. The scheme, which over the last 30 years has supported the best young fashion designers, aims to launch the high-end global brands of tomorrow. The UK government funding will go towards the staging of five fashion weeks over two years, said the BFC. Previous recipients include the legendary Alexander McQueen, who died in 2010. On Saturday, the Design Museum in London is presenting an exhibition celebrating young NewGen talents, and the energy they have brought to the industry. "REBEL: 30 Years of London Fashion" showcases about 100 designs, some of which have gone down in pop culture history. This year, about 20 designers are benefiting from the NewGen program. Most are recent graduates, but who have already managed to dress some of the biggest stars. Outfits by Ukrainian designer Masha Popova have been worn by singer Dua Lipa. Di Petsa has dressed actress Zendaya. Among the more established names are 16Arlington, JW Anderson, Molly Goddard, Richard Quinn, Roksanda, and Simone Rocha. But Burberry, the London fashion house founded in 1856, remains the most eagerly awaited show. It takes place on Monday afternoon and will be only the second collection for British creative director Daniel Lee, following on from his February show. The ex-Bottega Veneta designer replaced Riccardo Tisci a year ago. Sales have soared in China for the brand with the distinctive check print. On the final day, Tuesday, Ukrainian designers will present their collections with London once again hosting Ukrainian Fashion Week due to Russia's invasion. The BFC is also trying to make London an increasingly inclusive venue for catwalk shows. It has launched a survey aimed at all those working in the sector, with questions on their gender, sexual orientation, religion, and social background. "The audit is long overdue and marks the first step towards the vital measurement of the UK fashion industry's collective progress towards the goal of fair representation," the BFC said. The results will be announced later this year. The post London Fashion Week throws spotlight on young designers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
London Fashion Week throws spotlight on young designers
After New York, the fashion world descends on London from Friday, showcasing big names such as Burberry but also the work of young designers who could become household names of the future. Last year's event, billed as a comeback after disruption due to the Covid pandemic, was overshadowed by the death of Queen Elizabeth II and 10 days of national mourning. This year, more than 80 designers are set to present their spring/summer 2024 collections, with around 50 catwalk shows and other presentations. "It's going to be five really exciting days full of creativity," said Caroline Rush, chief executive of organizers the British Fashion Council (BFC). Fashion bible Vogue rolled out the red carpet on Thursday night for a gala launch event. But in the world of fashion, London is enduring a post-Covid slump, with inflation -- the highest in the G7 at 6.8 percent in July -- and Brexit combining to create a depressed economic backdrop. That has left the British capital trailing Paris, Milan, and New York in the fashion week stakes. In a sign of its loss of influence, even British former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham has crossed the Channel to present her designs in Paris since last year. Fresh UK funding On Wednesday, the UK government announced £2 million ($2.5 million) to support young designers, which will go to the BFC's existing NewGen program. The scheme, which over the last 30 years has supported the best young fashion designers, aims to launch the high-end global brands of tomorrow. The UK government funding will go towards the staging of five fashion weeks over two years, said the BFC. Previous recipients include the legendary Alexander McQueen, who died in 2010. On Saturday, the Design Museum in London is presenting an exhibition celebrating young NewGen talents, and the energy they have brought to the industry. "REBEL: 30 Years of London Fashion" showcases about 100 designs, some of which have gone down in pop culture history. This year, about 20 designers are benefiting from the NewGen program. Most are recent graduates, but who have already managed to dress some of the biggest stars. Outfits by Ukrainian designer Masha Popova have been worn by singer Dua Lipa. Di Petsa has dressed actress Zendaya. Among the more established names are 16Arlington, JW Anderson, Molly Goddard, Richard Quinn, Roksanda, and Simone Rocha. But Burberry, the London fashion house founded in 1856, remains the most eagerly awaited show. It takes place on Monday afternoon and will be only the second collection for British creative director Daniel Lee, following on from his February show. The ex-Bottega Veneta designer replaced Riccardo Tisci a year ago. Sales have soared in China for the brand with the distinctive check print. On the final day, Tuesday, Ukrainian designers will present their collections, with London once again hosting Ukrainian Fashion Week due to Russia's invasion. The BFC is also trying to make London an increasingly inclusive venue for catwalk shows. It has launched a survey aimed at all those working in the sector, with questions on their gender, sexual orientation, religion, and social background. "The audit is long overdue and marks the first step towards the vital measurement of the UK fashion industry's collective progress towards the goal of fair representation," the BFC said. The results will be announced later this year. Another must-see fashion event in London is the exhibition "Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto", which opens on Saturday at the V&A museum. It retraces the 60-year career of "Coco" Chanel, featuring some of her greatest creations that revolutionized women's wardrobes. (AFP Photos) [caption id="attachment_184160" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Canadian model Winnie Harlow poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_184161" align="aligncenter" width="525"] British model Jodie Turner-Smith poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_184162" align="aligncenter" width="525"] British model Georgia May Jagger poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_184163" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Irish writer Sinead Burke poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_184164" align="aligncenter" width="525"] British actress Simone Ashley poses upon arrival to attend the "Vogue World: London" event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in central London on the eve of London Fashion Week on 14 September 2023. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP)[/caption] The post London Fashion Week throws spotlight on young designers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US, Vietnam warn against ‘threat or use of force’ in South China Sea
The United States and Vietnam warned on Monday against the "threat or use of force" in the disputed South China Sea, days after the latest clash involving Chinese vessels. President Joe Biden and Vietnam's Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong said the competing claims on the strategic waterway must be settled under international norms. Beijing claims almost the entire sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored an international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. "The leaders underscored their unwavering support for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, without the threat or use of force," Biden and Trong said in a joint statement. They also called for "freedom of navigation and overflight and unimpeded lawful commerce in the South China Sea". The statement came a day after Biden and Trong struck a deal to deepen cooperation, widely seen as a way to counter China's growing assertiveness in the region. Washington is at loggerheads with Beijing on a range of issues including trade, security, human rights and climate change and is looking to boost its network of allies to counter Chinese influence. Vietnam, which fought a war with China between 1979 and 1988, is wary of its giant northern neighbor, and is one of a handful of countries with claims on the many islets and outcrops that dot the South China Sea. Last week the Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard and "militia" boats of harassing two of its own coast guard vessels as they took supplies to Filipino troops on the Second Thomas Shoal. The Philippine Navy deliberately grounded an old ship on the shoal in 1999 to check China's advance in the waters. China deploys hundreds of vessels to patrol the South China Sea and swarm reefs. The Philippines, a longtime US ally, has outposts on nine reefs and islands in the Spratly Islands -- which Vietnam also claims along with the Paracel Islands. Manila says Chinese coast guard and navy ships routinely block or shadow Philippine boats in the contested waters. Tensions between Manila and Beijing flared last month when China Coast Guard vessels used water cannon against a Philippine resupply mission to the reef, preventing one of the boats from delivering its cargo. pdw/aph/ser © Agence France-Presse The post US, Vietnam warn against ‘threat or use of force’ in South China Sea appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
From the moon to the sun: India readies next space mission
India's space agency takes aim at another milestone Saturday with the launch of a probe to study the Sun, a week after its successful unmanned landing on the Moon. Aditya-L1 will carry scientific instruments to observe the Sun's outermost layers, blasting off at 11:50 am (0620 GMT) for its four-month journey. The United States and the European Space Agency have sent numerous probes to the center of the solar system, beginning with NASA's Pioneer program in the 1960s. But if successful, the latest mission from the Indian Space Research Organisation will be the first by any Asian nation to be placed in solar orbit. "It's a challenging mission for India," astrophysicist Somak Raychaudhury told broadcaster NDTV on Friday. Raychaudhury said the mission probe would study coronal mass ejections, a periodic phenomenon that sees huge discharges of plasma and magnetic energy from the Sun's atmosphere. These bursts are so powerful they can reach the Earth and potentially disrupt the operations of satellites. Aditya will help predict the phenomenon "and alert everybody so that satellites can shut down their power", he said. "It will also help us understand how these things happen, and in the future, we might not need a warning system out there." Aditya -- the name of the Hindu Sun deity -- will travel 1.5 million kilometers (930,000 miles) to reach its destination. It is traveling on the ISRO-designed, 320-tonne PSLV XL rocket that has been a mainstay of the Indian space program, powering earlier launches to the Moon and Mars. The mission also aims to shed light on the dynamics of several other solar phenomena by imaging and measuring particles in the Sun's upper atmosphere. Budget program India has been steadily matching the achievements of established spacefaring powers at a fraction of their cost. The South Asian nation has a comparatively low-budget space program, but one that has grown considerably in size and momentum since it first sent a probe to orbit the Moon in 2008. Experts say India can keep costs low by copying and adapting existing technology, and thanks to an abundance of highly skilled engineers who earn a fraction of their foreign counterparts' wages. Last month's successful landing on the lunar surface -- a feat previously achieved only by Russia, the United States, and China -- cost less than $75 million. The touchdown was widely celebrated by the public, with prayer rituals to wish for the mission's success and schoolchildren following its final descent from live broadcasts in classrooms. India became the first Asian nation to put a craft into orbit around Mars in 2014 and is slated to launch a three-day crewed mission into the Earth's orbit by next year. It also plans a joint mission with Japan to send another probe to the Moon by 2025 and an orbital mission to Venus within the next two years. The post From the moon to the sun: India readies next space mission appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»