France’s Penicaud: China coronavirus situation ‘worrying’ but French trends positive
The situation in China, where a second wave of coronavirus infection is feared, is “worrying” but trends in France remain positive, Labour Minister Muriel Penicaud said on Wednesday.
Indonesian court finds three Papuan men guilty of treason
An Indonesian court found three Papuan men guilty of treason on Wednesday in a high-profile trial closely watched as an indicator of political freedoms in the world’s third-largest democracy.
South Korean unification minister offers to step down, Yonhap says
South Korean Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul, who oversees engagement with North Korea, offered on Wednesday to step down, saying he takes responsibility for a worsening in ties between the neighbours, the Yonhap news agency said.
WHO moves to update COVID-19 guidance after ‘great news’ in drug study
The World Health Organization (WHO) said it was moving to update its guidelines on treating people stricken with COVID-19 to reflect results of a clinical trial that showed a cheap, common steroid can help save critically ill patients.
Group of 86 NGOs issue letter calling for scrapping of planned Hong Kong security law
A group of 86 non-government organisations issued a joint letter on Wednesday asking Chinese authorities to scrap plans to introduce national security legislation in Hong Kong, saying it threatens basic rights and freedoms.
Beijing cuts flights to curb potential spread of mounting coronavirus cases
Scores of domestic flights in and out of Beijing were cancelled on Wednesday as officials ramped up attempts to contain a coronavirus outbreak in the Chinese capital over the past week that has sparked fears of renewed wider contagion.
Honduran president says he is infected with coronavirus
Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez has been diagnosed with the coronavirus, is receiving treatment and will work remotely and through his aides, he said late on Tuesday.
Australia says borders likely to stay closed until 2021
Australia is unlikely to reopen its border to international travellers until next year but will look to relax entry rules for students and other long-term visitors, Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said on Wednesday.
Thailand reports no new coronavirus cases or deaths
Thailand on Wednesday reported no new coronavirus infections or deaths, marking 23 successive days without a domestic transmission.
Kazakh lower house speaker tests positive for COVID-19
The speaker of the lower house of Kazakhstan’s parliament has self-isolated after testing positive for the novel coronavirus, the legislature said on Wednesday.
