Poised

Japan’s Niigata prefectural assembly on Tuesday approved a plan to allow the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power station—the world’s largest—to resume operations, marking a pivotal step in the country’s return to nuclear energy nearly 15 years after the Fukushima disaster. The vote advances Tokyo Electric Power Co.’s first nuclear restart since the 2011 earthquake and tsunami crippled its Fukushima Daiichi plant and led to a nationwide shutdown of 54 reactors. Since then, Japan has permanently retired some units and restarted…

Mogadishu (AX) — Somalia is preparing to relaunch Somali Airlines in the coming months, marking the national carrier’s first return to service since it was grounded more than 30 years ago during the civil war, the country’s transport minister said Sunday. Government says management, regulation and fleet plans are in place as the carrier enters final operational planning. Two Airbus A320s have been acquired; additional jets are slated from 2026. IATA’s Billing and Settlement Plan access is being reinstated after 33 years, a…

BRUSSELS — Ireland is expected to opt for a financial contribution to frontline migration states in emergency situations rather than take in relocated migrants, as European Union justice ministers meet in Brussels to sign off on elements of the EU Migration Pact. The pact’s central “solidarity mechanism” is designed to ease sudden pressure on countries such as Italy and Greece when arrivals spike. Under the plan, other member states would share the burden either by relocating some migrants for screening and processing or by…

Ireland is expected to choose financial solidarity over relocation under the European Union’s new migration framework, as justice ministers meet in Brussels to sign off on key elements of the EU Migration Pact. Under the pact’s emergency solidarity mechanism, member states would be required to help frontline countries such as Italy and Greece when they are suddenly overwhelmed by migration flows. Governments could either accept a share of people for screening and processing, or make a financial contribution to ease the…

Japan’s choice of a conservative woman to lead the ruling party reframes familiar dilemmas The Liberal Democratic Party’s selection of Sanae Takaichi as its leader — a 64‑year‑old conservative who could become Japan’s first female prime minister — is less a break with the past than a new turn in an old playbook. Her victory, against younger and more moderate rivals, signals the LDP’s attempt to recapture voters unsettled by inflation, stagnating wages and a rising appetite for parties that promise real change on immigration…

As AGOA’s clock runs out, U.S. influence in Africa faces a test After a quarter-century as the marquee U.S. trade tool for sub-Saharan Africa, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is poised to expire on September 30 — and with Congress preoccupied and polarized, the chances of a last-minute renewal look slim. The prospect is more than a technical lapse: it is a moment that forces a choice about how Washington wants to engage with a continent where other powers are already deepening economic ties. What AGOA has…

Somalia's Ambitious Step into the Cosmos: A New Era or Overambition? In an unexpected announcement that has captured imaginations globally, Somalia is exploring plans to become the world’s next satellite launching pad. While this may seem like a bold step for a nation grappling with reconstruction, the possibility hints at broader aspirations and potential implications for Somalia and the global stage. Exploring a New Frontier Mohamed Mahmud Allaale, a seasoned communications strategist and advisor to Somalia’s Ministry of…

Trump's Recognition of North Western State of Somalia: A Shift in International Dynamics? Rumor has it, according to a former UK defense honcho, that Donald Trump is plotting to recognize North Western State of Somalia as an official country. This move could turn political tides and shake old alliances. Gavin Williamson spilled the beans to The Independent, revealing his talks with Trump's camp. The crux of the matter? Official recognition of North Western State of Somalia, which lies strategically on the Red Sea, making it…

In the bustling heart of Seoul, amidst the din of a typical Wednesday morning on November 6, 2024, televisions flickered with the image of a familiar face: the Republican torchbearer and ex-President Donald Trump once again stepping into the spotlight of global affairs. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man) In the city of London, despair was the mood as Americans saw an unexpected climax to their high-stakes political drama. The yards came alive with murmurs when predictions were upended as Trump clinched presidency for a sequel.…

Captured on a screen in Seoul, South Korea, the image of Donald Trump, once again the Republican presidential nominee and former President, graced Wednesday’s news programs on November 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man) LONDON (AP) — The voice of American voters resounded louder and clearer than anticipated by many experts. As the world waits, a cloud of unease gathers over Donald Trump's re-election as President, stirring apprehensions among his allies about potential global instability. With a commanding lead beyond the…