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Defense Policy / Programs

• Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder Holds a Press Briefing DoD 24 Aug 2023
• United States DoD and Indonesia MoD Joint Press Statement DoD 24 Aug 2023 -- Today, Secretary Austin and Minister Prabowo reaffirmed the strength of the defense pillar of our enduring Strategic Partnership.
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Remarks Welcoming His Excellency Prabowo Subianto, Minister of Defence for the Republic of Indonesia to the Pentagon DoD 24 Aug 2023
• 2nd Marine Division participates in a large-scale training exercise, MDMX, for the first time USMC News 24 Aug 2023 -- U.S. Marines and Sailors with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment conducted Marine Air-Ground Task Force Distributed Maneuver Exercise during Integrated Training Exercise 3-23 at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, April 25.
• PACAF, allies support Pacific Airlift Rally 23 US Air Force 24 Aug 2023 -- Pacific Air Force Airmen returned from Pacific Airlift Rally 23, a multinational, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise involving the U.S., Philippines, Japan, Indonesia and Malaysia air forces at Clark Air Base, Philippines, Aug. 14-18.
• Ship detachment of Pacific Fleet leaves Qingdao port for Vladivostok Russia MoD 24 Aug 2023 -- Ship detachment of the Pacific Fleet completed planned activities as part of a business call and left the port of Qingdao of the People's Republic of China in the direction of the Fleet's main base.
• Participants of joint and special exercises of the CSTO are sent to the Republic of Belarus Russia MoD 24 Aug 2023 -- In the period from 25 to 29 August 2023, participants of the joint and special exercises of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) Interaction 2023, Search 2023, Echelon 2023, and Barrier 2023 will regroup in the Republic of Belarus.
• Satellite Images Show Wagner Camp In Belarus Being Dismantled RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- Images obtained by RFE/RL show that a suspected tent camp thought to be occupied by troops from Russia's Wagner mercenary group near the Belarusian village of Tsel is being dismantled.
• Pentagon to Train Ukrainian Pilots on F-16s in US VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- The Pentagon says the military will start training Ukrainian pilots to fly U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets inside the United States beginning in October.
• U.S. Plans To Train Ukrainian Pilots On F-16s In Arizona Starting In October RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- The United States said it will begin training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 warplanes in October, joining a Western coalition that is helping to prepare Kyiv's fliers on the sophisticated combat aircraft to join the fight against the Russian invasion.
• U.S. Will Train Ukrainian F-16 Pilots, Ground Crews DoD News 24 Aug 2023 -- The Defense Department will begin training Ukrainians to fly and maintain F-16 fighter jets in the coming months, Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said today.
• US to begin training Ukraine F-16 pilots in September: Pentagon Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- The United States has said it will begin training Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 warplanes soon amid a race by Washington and its allies to provide Kiev with the American supersonic aircraft.
• F-16 Training for Ukrainian Pilots to Begin in October in Tucson, Arizona - Pentagon Sputnik 24 Aug 2023 -- The United States will start training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 aircraft in October after their English language training in September, Department of Defense spokeman Pat Ryder said on Thursday.
• War in Ukraine - Military support for Ukraine Germany - Federal Government 24 Aug 2023 -- Germany provides support for Ukraine by supplying equipment and weapons, these come from supplies of the Federal Arms Forces and from deliveries from industry financed from the Federal Government's funds for security capacity building. An overview.
• Germany Supplies Ukraine With US Patriot System Missiles for First Time Sputnik 24 Aug 2023 -- Germany has supplied Ukraine with missiles for US Patriot air defense systems for the first time, according to an updated list of the German government published on Thursday.
• Norway plans to donate F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine Government of Norway 24 Aug 2023 -- 'Norway is supporting Ukraine in its efforts to build a modern air defence system. This is both important and necessary. We have already decided to train Ukrainian fighter jet pilots and announced in the summer that we would provide two Norwegian F-16 jets for training purposes. We are planning to donate Norwegian F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, and will provide further details about the donation, numbers and time frame for delivery, in due course,' said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
• Norway to 'donate' US-made F-16 jets to Ukraine: Norwegian prime minister Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store says Norway will "donate" F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, becoming the third country after Denmark and the Netherlands to pledge the US-made warplanes to Kiev.
• Norway to Provide F-16 Fighter Jets to Ukraine - Reports Sputnik 24 Aug 2023 -- The Norwegian government has decided to send F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, Norwegian broadcaster reported on Thursday, citing sources.
• Norway to donate air defence missiles to Ukraine Government of Norway 24 Aug 2023 -- 'Norway will continue to support Ukraine's fight to defend itself against Russia for as long as it takes. Ukraine urgently needs more military support and equipment, in particular air defence missiles and ammunition. Norway is providing the support it can in this context,' said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
• Norway to donate mine clearance equipment to Ukraine Government of Norway 24 Aug 2023 -- 'Norway will continue to support Ukraine's fight to defend itself against Russia for as long as it takes. Ukraine urgently needs more military support and equipment, and there is an acute need for mine breaching equipment. With this donation, Norway is helping to strengthen Ukraine's demining capabilities. This support is important and essential to Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion,' said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
• KCNA Report on Accident in Second Launch of Military Reconnaissance Satellite KCNA 24 Aug 2023 -- The National Aerospace Development Administration (NADA) of the DPRK conducted the second launch of reconnaissance satellite Malligyong-1 aboard the new-type carrier rocket Chollima-1 at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in Cholsan County of North Phyongan Province at dawn of August 24, Juche 112 (2023).
• U.S. sensor systems will greatly boost Taiwan's air combat readiness: MND, experts CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Thursday that a proposed arms package, comprising infrared search and track systems (IRST) for the country's fleet of F-16V aircraft, will vastly improve their long-range detection and target tracking, significantly boosting its air-to-air combat capabilities.
• US to sell aircraft tracking systems to Taiwan island with PLA's J-20 stealth fighter in mind; scheme 'futile' Global Times 24 Aug 2023 -- The US recently approved a possible sale of infrared search and track (IRST) systems for F-16 fighter jets to the island of Taiwan in an apparent move to counter J-20 stealth fighter jets of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), which experts said on Thursday will prove to be futile.
• Taiwan's defense spending to reach record NT$606.8 billion in 2024 CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan's government has proposed a national defense budget of NT$606.8 billion (US$19.1 billion) for next year, according to a budget plan approved by the Cabinet on Thursday.
• U.S. announces sale of F-16 search and track systems to Taiwan CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- The United States government has greenlit a proposed US$500 million sale of infrared search and track (IRST) systems for F-16 fighter jets, and related equipment, to Taiwan, the 11th U.S. arms sale to the country since President Joe Biden took office in 2021.
• Exercise Thai Boomerang commences in Thailand Australia DOD 24 Aug 2023 -- The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has deployed 120 personnel and six aircraft this week to Thailand to participate in Exercise Thai Boomerang 23.
• Pacific partners ensure a smooth delivery Australia DOD 24 Aug 2023 -- Australian Defence Vessel Reliant, HMPNGS Cape Gloucester and the Australian Army's 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment have transferred essential stores to Manus Island in support of upcoming military Exercise Puk Puk in September.
• A hosting first for HMAS Adelaide Australia DOD 24 Aug 2023 -- A US Army special operations Chinook, from the 'Night Stalkers' regiment, conducted deck landings on HMAS Adelaide as part of Exercise Balance Action.
• Units learn from each other Australia DOD 24 Aug 2023 -- Soldiers of the 9th Battalion, Royal Queensland Regiment (9RQR), and the 6th Engineer Support Regiment (6ESR) conducted a joint unit training activity last month.
• DAC approves proposals worth Rs 7,800 crore to enhance operational capabilities of the Armed Forces India PIB 24 Aug 2023 -- A Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting, held under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 7,800 crore on August 24, 2023
• Iranian Army to stage large-scale electronic warfare drills Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Various divisions of the Iranian Army are set to launch a large-scale and joint military exercise involving electronic warfare units and featuring the country's domestically designed and manufactured radars, drones, micro aerial vehicles (MAVs) and other military equipment.
• Secretary Blinken's Call with Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Park and Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi US Dept. of State 24 Aug 2023
• Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Meeting with Francesco Talo, Diplomatic Advisor to the Prime Minister of Italy The White House 24 Aug 2023
• Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Meeting with Quint National Security Advisors The White House 24 Aug 2023

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Aug. 24, 2023

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 24 August 2023 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 24 Aug 2023
• Could State Department, Bagram or Ghani Have Made Afghan Airlift Less Chaotic? VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- This month, the Taliban are marking two years since they retook control of Kabul, a swift blow that shocked the international community and set in motion a frantic evacuation led by the United States.
• Afghan women stopped by Taliban from attending university in Dubai Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Dozens of young women have allegedly been barred by the Taliban from leaving for the United Arab Emirates where they were planning to complete their university education.
• Taliban Halts Some 100 Afghan Women From Flying To U.A.E. On University Scholarships RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- The founding chairman of the Dubai-based Al Habtoor Group says Taliban authorities have stopped around 100 women from traveling to the United Arab Emirates, where he planned to sponsor their university education.
• More than two million children displaced by brutal conflict in Sudan as violence spreads to new areas UNICEF 24 Aug 2023 -- At least two million children have been forced from their homes since the conflict in Sudan erupted four months ago - an average of more than 700 children newly displaced every hour. As violence continues to ravage the country, over 1.7 million children are estimated to be on the move within Sudan's borders and more than 470,000 have crossed into neighbouring countries.
• More than two million children displaced by Sudan war: UNICEF UN News 24 Aug 2023 -- The conflict in Sudan has uprooted more than two million children - an average of more than 700 newly displaced every hour, the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) reported on Thursday.
• Six years on, still no justice for Myanmar's Rohingya UN News 24 Aug 2023 -- UN human rights chief Volker Türk, on Thursday, reiterated the call for accountability and justice for the hundreds of thousands of Rohingya driven from their homes in Myanmar by security forces in 2017, in what has been described as "textbook" ethnic cleansing.
• The Sixth Anniversary of Genocide Against Rohingya US Dept. of State 24 Aug 2023 -- On August 25, the sixth anniversary of genocide against Rohingya, the United States stands with the victims and survivors and reaffirms our commitment to pursue justice and accountability for the atrocities committed by the Burma military.
• U.S. Sanctions Individuals Contributing to the Recent Escalation of Conflict in the DRC US Dept. of State 24 Aug 2023 -- Today, the United States is imposing sanctions on six individuals contributing to the most recent escalation of conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
• Treasury Targets Individuals Contributing to Increased Conflict and Instability in the Eastern DRC US Treasury 24 Aug 2023 -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned six individuals for contributing to the most recent escalation of conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Today's sanctions reflect the United States' commitment to advancing efforts toward resolution of the crisis, promoting accountability for human rights abuses including conflict-related sexual violence, and addressing the dire humanitarian situation.
• Central African Republic: 'Tensions and divisions' eroding human rights UN News 24 Aug 2023 -- An independent UN expert expressed grave concern on Thursday over the human rights situation in the Central African Republic (CAR), calling for political dialogue and a new "climate of trust".

News Reports

• BRICS Bloc Adds Six New Members VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- The BRICS group of emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - is admitting six new members, its leaders announced Thursday on the final day of their annual summit. The group considers itself an alternative to the U.S.-led world order.
• BRICS to welcome six new members, a 'historical milestone' Global Times 24 Aug 2023 -- The BRICS countries welcomed six new members from three different continents on Thursday, marking a historic milestone that underscored the solidarity of BRICS and developing countries and determination to work together for a better future, officials and experts said. The expansion of the BRICS, as a new starting point for multilateral cooperation, will play a positive role for more equitable and just global governance, experts said.
• Six countries invited to join BRICS People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- BRICS leaders agreed on Thursday to invite six countries, namely Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, to join the group.
• BRICS countries to counter hegemony amid rising multipolar world order: Putin People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- The BRICS group supports the rise of a multipolar world order, and opposes attempts made by some countries to assert their hegemony, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday at the 15th BRICS Summit during a virtual address.
• BRICS invites Iran, five other countries to join as new members Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Iran has been invited to become a member of the BRICS group of emerging economies, whose leaders are in Johannesburg, South Africa, to discuss the bloc's expansion.
• Johannesburg II Declaration. BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism, Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa, 23 August 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2023
• BRICS Expansion to 11 Nations, 37% of Global GDP Offers 'Big Boost' for Multilateralism Sputnik 24 Aug 2023 -- The massive new expansion of the BRICS economic bloc offers substantial opportunities, including for trade in non-dollar currencies between a vast swath of humanity and even greater investment opportunities using institutions outside of the US or Europe, an expert told Sputnik.
• BRICS Sets Out Key Points in 15th Summit's Declaration Sputnik 24 Aug 2023 -- The three-day historic summit of BRICS — the group uniting the world's largest developing economies, transpired in the South African capital of Johannesburg. To wrap up the event, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa presented a joint declaration during the venue's final day.
• BRICS Expansion Shows Policy of Unilateralism on Decline - Raisi Sputnik 24 Aug 2023 -- Earlier in the day, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the BRICS leaders have decided to invite Argentina, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, the UAE and Saudi Arabia to join the group.
• Argentina, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE and Ethiopia Get BRICS Membership Sputnik 24 Aug 2023 -- The leaders of the BRICS countries believe that the time has come to use local currencies and alternative payment systems, Cyril Ramaphosa said. "There is global momentum to use of local currencies, alternative financial arrangements and alternative payment systems. As BRICS we are ready to explore opportunities for improving the stability, reliability and fairness of the global financial architecture," Ramaphosa said at the BRICS Summit media briefing. According to Ramaphosa, the admission of new members to the BRICS is the first phase of the group's expansion process.
• Secretary-General's remarks at the BRICS summit UN Secretary-General 24 Aug 2023
• Secretary-General's opening remarks at press encounter at BRICS Summit meeting UN Secretary-General 24 Aug 2023
• At BRICS Summit, Guterres global unity call in face of 'existential' challenges UN News 24 Aug 2023 -- The UN chief on Thursday underscored the urgent need for unity and justice to tackle humanity's pressing challenges, which range from the climate crisis to economic disparities and conflicts with global implications.
• BRICS leaders made media statements President of Russia 24 Aug 2023 -- At the 15th BRICS Summit, held in Johannesburg, heads of state from this interstate association made statements for the media.
• Meeting in the BRICS Plus/Outreach format President of Russia 24 Aug 2023 -- Vladimir Putin took part, via videoconference, in the BRICS Plus/Outreach format meeting.
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answer to a question from the "Moscow. Kremlin. Putin" programme, August 24, 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2023
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2023
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with President of the Central African Republic (CAR) Faustin-Archange Touadéra on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2023
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with President of the Plurinational State of Bolivia Luis Arce Catacora Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24 Aug 2023
• Russia publishes names of passengers, crew on crashed Embraer plane People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- The Russian civil aviation authority (Rosaviatsia) published on Thursday the names of all 10 passengers and crew members who were on board the Embraer plane that crashed in the Tver region, among them -- Yevgeny Prigozhin and Dmitry Utkin.
• Russian president sends condolences to Prigozhin's family after plane crash Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his "condolences" over a plane crash that killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and nine others.
• Wagner head plane crash provokes discussion in China Radio Free Asia 24 Aug 2023 -- Russia's civil aviation agency said Wagner Group head Yevgeny Prigozhin was on an airplane that crashed near Moscow Wednesday. It has fueled a wave of online discussion in China, where some drew comparisons to the Chinese Communist Party's not so distant past.
• In Indirect Confirmation Of Prigozhin's Death, Putin Offers Condolences To Family RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his first remarks since the deadly crash of the plane thought to be carrying the founder of the Wagner group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, expressed his condolences to the man's family while also referring to the "serious mistakes" made by the mercenary leader.
• Yevgeny Prigozhin, Mercenary Leader Whose Mutiny Was 'Stab In The Back' For Putin, Presumed Dead In Plane Crash RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the notorious mercenary company Wagner who became a key figure in Russia's war on Ukraine before staging a mutiny that rattled the Kremlin and brought rebel fighters to Moscow's doorstep, is believed to have died in a plane crash north of Moscow.
• The List Is Long: Russians Who Have Died After Running Afoul Of The Kremlin RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- One was a dogged reporter determined to expose corruption, malfeasance, and abuse from the halls of power in Moscow to the killing fields of Chechnya.
• The Man Called 'Wagner': Dmitry Utkin, The Mercenary Field Commander Reported Dead In Russian Plane Crash RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- "Wagner is a cruel fellow," a Wagner officer told RFE/RL in 2018, speaking of senior mercenary field commander Dmitry Utkin, whose call sign was "Wagner." "He's no fool."
• Convenient Crashes: A Look At Russia's History Of Suspicious Aircraft Disasters RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- The Embraer Legacy 600 passenger jet dropped off radar screens around 6:11 p.m. Moscow time on August 23, not long after departing Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport en route to St. Petersburg. Rescuers found the wreckage of the jet a few hours later near the city of Tver, north of Moscow.
• Satellite Images Show Wagner Camp In Belarus Being Dismantled RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- Images obtained by RFE/RL show that a suspected tent camp thought to be occupied by troops from Russia's Wagner mercenary group near the Belarusian village of Tsel is being dismantled.
• Moscow Court Extends Pretrial Detention Of U.S. Reporter By Three Months RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- The pretrial detention of U.S. reporter Evan Gershkovich, who is accused of espionage - a charge he, his employer, The Wall Street Journal, and the U.S. government reject - has been extended by a Moscow court for another three months.
• Wagner chief killed in plane crash near Moscow People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- Russia's Federal Agency for Air Transport conformed on Wednesday that Wagner Group private military company's leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash in the Tver Region near Moscow.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on BRICS Expansion PRC MofA 24 Aug 2023
• Chinese foreign ministry stresses solidarity with Africa, as bilateral trade grows steadily Global Times 24 Aug 2023 -- A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that strengthening solidarity and cooperation with African countries will always be an important cornerstone of China's foreign policies, while noting steady growth in China-Africa trade this year and great prospect for future cooperation.
• President Xi Jinping Attended a Press Segment of The 15th BRICS Summit and Stressed that BRICS Expansion Is a New Starting Point for BRICS Cooperation and Will Inject New Vitality into the BRICS Cooperation Mechanism PRC MofA 24 Aug 2023 -- On the morning of August 24 local time, President Xi Jinping attended a press segment of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.
• Hand in Hand Toward a Community of Shared Development PRC MofA 24 Aug 2023 -- Remarks by H.E. Xi Jinping
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on August 24, 2023 PRC MofA 24 Aug 2023
• Spying allegations spark calls on British government to cancel minister's China trip Radio Free Asia 24 Aug 2023 -- Chinese spies have used LinkedIn to infiltrate targets in the United Kingdom, according to a media report, prompting calls for Foreign Secretary James Cleverly to cancel a reportedly planned trip to China.
• China's low-cost deal with Solomon Islands paper could bring large strategic benefit Radio Free Asia 24 Aug 2023 -- In the geopolitical sphere of the Pacific, China has undeniably demonstrated sharp acumen for recognizing opportunities and remarkable skills for making deals with island countries in the region, especially those of a strategic nature.
• Major Muslim group buys into China's narrative of happy Uyghurs in a stable Xinjiang Radio Free Asia 24 Aug 2023 -- Seeking to promote its rosy narrative about the peace and prosperity enjoyed by majority-Muslim Uyghurs in the far-western region of Xinjiang, China earlier this month invited delegates from the 57-nation Organization of Islamic Cooperation to visit and observe.
• Landmark Beijing Mosque Gives Way to 'Sinicization' Program VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- Beijing's Doudian Mosque, the largest Islamic house of worship in northern China, is the latest architectural landmark to be transfigured under Beijing's Sinicization program aimed at downgrading or eliminating foreign religious influences from the country.
• Ranks of 'Full-Time Children' Grow in China Amid High Youth Unemployment VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- It's been more than a year since Andy Lin graduated from his master's program in Hong Kong, but unlike many young people in China who are desperately trying to find a job, the 27-year-old from Anhui province has become what many call a "full-time child" since returning to the mainland.
• Yuan's share of global payments exceeds 3% in July: SWIFT Global Times 24 Aug 2023 -- The yuan retained its position as the fifth most-used currency for global payments in July, with a share of 3.06 percent, according to the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT) - the second time the currency exceeded the 3 percent benchmark.
• Xi says BRICS important force in shaping int'l landscape People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said here on Wednesday that the BRICS is an important force in shaping the international landscape.
• Full Text: Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the 15th BRICS Summit People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed the 15th BRICS Summit on Wednesday.
• China-Africa economic links create impetus for recovery People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- Trade and investment between China and Africa are strengthening and becoming more mature, and are proof of the successful building of a China-Africa community with a shared future, according to experts and business executives.
• China, South Africa sign letter of intent on deepening BRI cooperation Global Times 24 Aug 2023 -- China and South Africa on Wednesday signed a letter of intent on co-building the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a move to upgrade bilateral cooperation, China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) announced on Wednesday.
• Xi calls for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China, Bangladesh People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called on China and Bangladesh to push for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and give full play to their economic complementarity.
• Xi says Chinese modernization to bring new opportunities to China-Ethiopia cooperation People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- China is advancing Chinese modernization with its high-quality development, which will bring new opportunities to cooperation between China and Ethiopia, said Chinese President Xi Jinping here on Wednesday.
• COVID-19 still No.1 infectious disease in Beijing: health officials Global Times 24 Aug 2023 -- COVID-19 is still the number one infectious disease in Beijing, said Beijing health officials on Thursday, noting that EG.5, a sublineage of the Omicron variant, is currently the dominant strain across China, accounting for over 70 percent of COVID-19 infections.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Aug.24, 2023 ROC MND 24 Aug 2023
• Ko open to talks with KMT chairman, presidential aspirants CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲), who recently ruled out the possibility of being anyone's running mate in next year's presidential election, said Thursday he would be willing to talk with opposition political camps to work out a winning strategy.
• Opposition presidential candidate pledges to expand direct flights to China CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), the presidential candidate of the Kuomintang (KMT), announced on Thursday that if elected, he will increase the number of Chinese visitors to Taiwan and resume direct air routes to 60 Chinese cities.
• From popular mayor to ho-hum candidate, KMT's Hou struggles to gain traction CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- After winning re-election as New Taipei mayor by a 25-point margin in November 2022, Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) was thought to be the "chosen one" who could help the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) win back power it lost to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in 2016.
• Terry Gou hints at possible presidential bid during temple visit CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. founder Terry Gou (郭台銘) on Thursday hinted he may run to be the new Taiwan president as he rallied support during a temple visit in New Taipei.
• KMT presidential candidate Hou to make 8-day trip to U.S. in September CNA 24 Aug 2023 -- New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) candidate for the 2024 presidential election, will visit the United States next month to meet with Congress members and affirm his commitment to Taiwan's democratic values, his campaign office said Thursday.
• G7 Foreign Ministers' Statement On the Launch Using Ballistic Missile Technology by North Korea US Dept. of State 24 Aug 2023 -- The text of the following statement was released by the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union.
• Press Statement of DPRK Defence Minister KCNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Kang Sun Nam, minister of National Defence of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) made public the following press statement on Thursday:
• North Korea says satellite launch failed in second attempt, vows to try again Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- North Korea says its second attempt to put a military reconnaissance satellite into orbit has failed, but vows to try for the third time in October.
• Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Inspects Kumsong Tractor Factory KCNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, inspected the Kumsong Tractor Factory on Aug. 23.
• President Raeisi: Iran eyes cooperation with BRICS member states Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi says Tehran seeks to promote cooperation with the member states of the BRICS group of emerging economies.
• Iran officially becomes member of BRICS IRNA 24 Aug 2023 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran officially became a member of the BRICS bloc of emerging economies, the Iranian president's deputy chief of staff for political affairs has announced.
• Xi congratulates Iran for becoming BRICS member, hails group expansion to have major influence on world Global Times 24 Aug 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Iran for becoming a BRICS member when meeting with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in Johannesburg on Thursday on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS Summit.
• Iran's joining BRICS indicates opposition to US unilateralism: Raisi IRNA 24 Aug 2023 -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has said that Iran's officially joining BRICS group of emerging economies signifies the opposition to US unilateralism.
• Iran earns great achievement by joining BRICS as full member, says Amir-Abdollahian Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahioan has praised Iran's membership in the BRICS group of emerging economies, emphasizing that the move can pave the way for the Iranian administration in its pursuit of objectives and development of macro strategies.
• President Raeisi: Benefits of Iran's membership in BRICS will be 'historic' Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi says the country offers unique opportunities for member states of the BRICS group of emerging economies in the fields of trade, energy and transit.
• BRICS powers welcome Iran's membership, say ready to 'deepen' ties Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- President Xi Jinping says China is willing to boost cooperation with Iran on BRICS and other platforms, hours after the group of emerging economies formally invited the Islamic Republic to become a full member.
• Iran has no more funds blocked abroad over sanctions: Deputy FM Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- Iran has no more blocked funds in other countries because of US sanctions after funds frozen in banks in South Korea and Iraq were released under an understanding with Washington, according to a senior Iranian Foreign Ministry official.
• Iran's Judiciary Issues Another Warning Against Protests Over Amini's Death RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- Iran's judiciary has once again warned government opponents not to take to the streets to mark the anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini next month as tensions rise a year after the 22-year-old died while in police custody for an alleged violation of the country's head scarf law.
• Exclusive: Which Iranians Charged With US Offenses Could Be Freed in Iran Prisoner Swap? VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- As the United States and Iran try to finalize a prisoner deal that has taken significant steps forward this month, one element of it remains as obscure as ever: Which, if any, Iranians detained or prosecuted in the U.S. on federal charges might be traded for five Americans held by Tehran?
• Ramaphosa warns against global payment system being used as geopolitical instrument People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday expressed his concerns that global financial and payment systems are increasingly being used as instruments of geopolitical contestation.
• Prime Minister's meeting with the President of the Republic of Mozambique India MEA 24 Aug 2023
• Prime Minister's meeting with the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran India MEA 24 Aug 2023
• Prime Minister's participation in the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue India MEA 24 Aug 2023
• Prime Minister's meeting with the President of the Republic of Senegal India MEA 24 Aug 2023
• Prime Minister's meeting with Prime Minister of the Republic of Ethiopia India MEA 24 Aug 2023
• Pakistani Rupee Hits Record Low VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- For the first time in Pakistan's history, the country's currency plummeted in value to more than 300 rupees against the dollar, raising fears that everyday items could get more expensive as consumers continue to face back-breaking inflation.
• Iraqi resistance group vows to 'crush' US projects in region Press TV 24 Aug 2023 -- An Iraqi resistance group has warned the United States that it would "crush" Washington's destructive projects in the region.
• IAEA Director General Statement on Discharge of Fukushima Daiichi ALPS Treated Water IAEA 24 Aug 2023 -- Japan's Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) today started discharging ALPS treated water stored at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station into the sea, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) experts present at the site confirmed.
• Japan: IAEA monitoring treated water release from Fukushima nuclear plant UN News 24 Aug 2023 -- Japan has begun discharging treated radioactive wastewater from the disabled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station into the Pacific Ocean, 12 years on from the major meltdown there, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed on Thursday.
• Japan releases Fukushima nuclear wastewater despite concerns Radio Free Asia 24 Aug 2023 -- Japan has started the gradual release of treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean, despite regional and local concerns, with plans to eventually pump more than a million metric tons of it into the sea.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Statement on the Japanese Government's Start of Releasing Fukushima Nuclear-Contaminated Water into the Ocean PRC MofA 24 Aug 2023 -- On August 24, in disregard of the strong criticism and opposition from the international community, the Japanese government unilaterally started the release of the Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean. China firmly opposes and strongly condemns it.
• Press Statement of DPRK Foreign Ministry Spokesman KCNA 24 Aug 2023 -- A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry of the DPRK issued the following press statement on Thursday:
• China suspends imports of all Japanese aquatic products People's Daily 24 Aug 2023 -- China will suspend the imports of all aquatic products originating from Japan starting from Thursday to prevent risks from Japan's discharge of nuclear-contaminated wastewater.
• Myanmar junta 'furious' over US bank sanctions Radio Free Asia 24 Aug 2023 -- U.S. sanctions on two of Myanmar's state-owned banks aimed at cutting off funds to the military regime are making the junta "furious," military officials have acknowledged, prompting the junta to pivot to banks in India, China and Thailand to conduct foreign currency transactions.
• Hun Manet aims to turn Cambodia into upper middle-income country by 2030 Radio Free Asia 24 Aug 2023 -- Prime Minister Hun Manet said he wants to turn Cambodia into an upper middle-income country by 2030 - and a high-income country by 2050 - in an hour-long speech to ministers at his first cabinet meeting on Thursday.
• Kyrgyz-Kazakh Relations Strained Amid Water Cutoff, Border Traffic Jam RFE/RL 24 Aug 2023 -- The video recorded on a Kazakh farmer's smartphone reached the Internet like a distress signal.
• Analysts: Situation Worsening in Niger as Food Prices Rise, Security Deteriorates VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- Conditions for people in Niger are getting worse, as security appears to be deteriorating, according to regional experts who spoke with VOA. Prices of staple foods such as rice and cooking oil have increased, while the country has endured more violence in the past three weeks than it had since the beginning of the year.
• Last-Minute Gabon Voting Rule Change Poses Governance Risk, Experts Say VOA 24 Aug 2023 -- Political analysts say a last-minute rule change in Gabon's August 26 national elections, which now stipulates voters must select their presidential and parliamentary candidate from the same political party, poses a governance issue — if the ultimate winner is anyone other than a candidate of the ruling Gabonese Democratic Party, or the PDG.
• Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on the 2024 budget: it's a safe budget in difficult times Republic of Poland 24 Aug 2023 -- The effects of the global pandemic and Russia's attack on Ukraine are still being felt, especially by our economy. Thanks to the successful fight against the VAT mafias, despite the global crises, we can announce a stable budget for unstable times.
• "We are determinedly taking the steps aimed at overcoming the problems caused by inflation" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 24 Aug 2023 -- Addressing AK Party's provincial heads, President Erdoğan said: "We are determinedly taking the steps aimed at overcoming the problems caused by inflation in our citizens' lives. We have started to see the positive outcomes of the measures we have taken."