UK PM Rishi Sunak urges world to use AI and science to end malnutrition November 20, 2023 at 03:14AM

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a new science initiative to develop flood-tolerant rice, disease-resistant wheat, and other climate change resilient crops. He emphasized the need for a "fundamental shift" in addressing the global food security crisis exacerbated by climate change. Sunak urged leaders to utilize artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology to combat malnutrition worldwide. The UK will establish a "virtual science hub" linking international researchers working on resilient crops.

Over 4 lakh Afghans return home from Pak following crackdown November 20, 2023 at 02:36AM

Over 400,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan as part of Pakistan's crackdown on illegal foreigners. The majority of these individuals used the border crossings of Torkham and Spin Boldak to return home. While 1.7 million Afghans were living in Pakistan, only those without proper documents were targeted in the crackdown. The numbers of Afghans returning to their country have increased following the Taliban's takeover in 2021. Pakistan has also introduced new visa requirements for residents in the border town of Chaman, leading to protests and disruptions.

Foreigners, aid workers moved to safety from Myanmar fighting November 20, 2023 at 12:36AM

Foreigners, including UN agency staff, are being evacuated from Myanmar as an insurgency against military rule intensifies. Ethnic minority insurgents allied with a pro-democracy civilian government launched an offensive last month, trapping hundreds of foreigners in conflict areas. China is assisting in the evacuation of its nationals and other foreigners. The civilian government-in-exile said that anti-junta forces in Kayah State had temporarily paused their offensive to allow aid workers to leave.

Rohingya refugees not welcome in Indonesia November 19, 2023 at 11:12PM

A wooden boat carrying Rohingya refugees was denied entry into western Indonesia by local communities, despite pleas from the desperate men onboard. Over 800 Rohingya refugees have arrived in Indonesia's Aceh province in the past week. While sympathies exist among Acehnese locals, concerns over resources, conflicts, and smuggling networks have caused tensions. The refugees who were eventually allowed to land still face an uncertain future in Aceh, as locals may force them back to sea. Indonesia, not being a signatory of the UN Refugee Convention, is not compelled to accept Rohingya refugees.