South Asia: Politics

IR

Sri Lanka houses Iranian sailors after ship attack, faces US pressure

Sri Lanka is providing shelter and visas to Iranian sailors rescued after their ship was attacked. The country's court has ordered the bodies of 84 sailors to be handed over to the Iranian embassy, and a local political leader, Jamaat, signed a condolence book there. According to a memo, the United States is pressing Sri Lanka not to send the Iranian crew and survivors back to Iran. Sri Lankan officials say they are trying to safeguard the lives of the sailors from a second Iranian ship and are holding talks on what to do next, as sending them home may take time.

IR

Sri Lanka's government monitors Israel-Iran conflict over multiple days

Sri Lankan media has been reporting daily on how the country is responding to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. The coverage spans at least 26 days, indicating sustained official monitoring of the situation. The reports focus on the government's diplomatic stance and any potential regional implications.

BN/KH/ID+8

Thailand's parliament re-elects Anutin as prime minister

Thailand's parliament has elected Anutin Charnvirakul to a second term as prime minister. The Pheu Thai party backed his candidacy, while the Democrat party chose to abstain from the vote. Anutin, now the country's 32nd premier, said he expects to take about a week to vet ministers and aims to form his new government before the Songkran holiday. His second term faces immediate challenges, including an energy crisis and trade risks. Leaders from Singapore and China have congratulated him on his re-election.

CN

China and Vietnam hold high-level strategic dialogue meeting

Senior officials from China and Vietnam held the first ministerial meeting of a new '3+3' strategic dialogue in Vietnam. The meeting was described as reflecting the strategic depth and high-level nature of relations between the two countries. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said a broad consensus was reached at the dialogue. Officials stated the talks aimed to strengthen bilateral bonds, security cooperation, and chart a path for unity among 'Global South' nations to support regional peace.