With measured and progressive steps, China is working to deepen its multi-dimensional cooperation in Libya, engaging both the internationally recognized government in the west and the eastern authorities aligned with coup leader Khalifa Haftar.

Iranian diplomat Saeed Khatibzadeh has been making headlines for months, not only because he once served as the Foreign Ministry’s spokesman and later as an ambassador, but also because he is regarded as the youngest figure in Tehran’s diplomatic circle.

China recently hosted the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, followed by a military parade to mark the defeat of Japan in World War II – all accompanied by bilateral meetings with leaders of several allied countries.

Japan is pivoting from aid to strategic investment in Africa to compete with China and Russia while boosting development and Japanese business engagement.

Taiwan recently extended its mandatory military service to a full year and increased its defense budget to purchase drones and anti-ship missiles.