India warns of dangers of 'hidden agendas' in unviable projects or unsustainable debt October 11, 2023 at 01:38AM

India has warned countries in the Indian Ocean region to be cautious of "hidden agendas" in unviable projects or unsustainable debt, in an apparent reference to China's "debt trap" diplomacy. Speaking at a meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association, India's External Affairs Minister stressed the importance of maintaining the Indian Ocean as a free and open space.

Ecuador presidential hopefuls pledge action on ports, where bananas hide cocaine October 11, 2023 at 01:07AM

Presidential candidates in Ecuador are vowing to combat drug exports by using the military to crack down on drug trafficking in the country's ports. Cocaine is often hidden in banana shipments, and authorities have also found drugs concealed in tuna, pineapples, and sugar. Both candidates in the upcoming election have promised to militarize ports and airports to tackle drug trafficking.