Tuesday, May 14
The city of Birmingham, once heralded as a beacon of municipal excellence, now grapples with severe financial distress, leading to drastic public service cuts and asset sales. This crisis emerged after the city declared bankruptcy last September due to its inability to balance its budget, resulting in a "section 114" notice, which is effectively a declaration of bankruptcy for local governments.
Manila summoned a senior Chinese envoy on Thursday to protest a water cannon incident that damaged two Philippine vessels during a patrol in the South China Sea. Zhou Zhiyong, the number two official at the Chinese embassy, was summoned by Manila over "the harassment, ramming, swarming, shadowing and blocking, dangerous manoeuvres, use of water cannons, and other aggressive actions of China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia vessels", according to a statement from the foreign ministry.
Taiwan remains vigilant post-Lai's inauguration as China's military drills loom. Tensions rise over Beijing's disdain for Lai, rejecting talks. Taiwan emphasizes stability in Taiwan Strait amidst Chinese pressure tactics, upcoming military exercises, and tourism proposal.
Kabul's Taliban-run institute trains men for tourism, aiming to change perceptions about Afghanistan. Challenges include visa issues and infrastructure. Despite hurdles, there's a push for the country to excel in tourism.
With some exceptions, Ukrainian men between the ages of 18 and 60 are not allowed to leave the country as they may be mobilised to fight, according to Ukraine's martial law. On Monday, the State Border Guard Service said in a statement on social media that 24 men alone have died while trying to cross the Tisa river on Ukraine's border with Romania.
Two injured in a clash between Maldivians and Indians in Maldives led to the arrest of a Maldivian. Media reported the incident near Hulhumale's Central Park, around 7 km from Male, at 9 pm on Monday. The detained person, confirmed as Maldivian, was apprehended by the police. The report didn't reveal the identities of the injured individuals.
Canada PM reaffirms commitment to Sikh community's protection, emphasizing diversity and security measures at Khalsa Day celebration in Toronto amid diplomatic tensions over Hardeep Singh Nijjar killing.
At least two individuals, including a child, lost their lives in tornadoes that swept through Oklahoma, Officials mentioned on Sunday as emergency teams were evaluating the extensive destruction to residences and establishments caused by the strong winds, hail, and flooding. A tornado tore through Holdenville in Oklahoma, a town with approximately 5,000 residents, on late Saturday.
