China, US spar over origin of coronavirus

13 Sept 11:27 Key points summarised by AI

China's government campaigns to cast doubt on the coronavirus's origin, with a Beijing official promoting unsubstantiated theories that the US military brought the virus to Wuhan.
The US State Department strongly protested China's claims, summoning the Chinese ambassador and calling the theories "dangerous and ridiculous," while US officials continue to refer to it as the "Wuhan virus."
This diplomatic spat contradicts China's own initial assessments and global scientific consensus, which indicates the virus originated in Wuhan, with the WHO stating it was "unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019."

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Yesterday 12:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advises Thai nationals in Europe to avoid protest areas and reconsider non-essential travel, citing widespread unrest in countries like France, Italy, and Spain.
The warning comes as demonstrations escalate, with some turning violent, prompting concerns for safety and leading to an emergency Cabinet meeting in Italy and a proposed postponement of diplomatic talks.
Thai embassies and the Department of Consular Affairs issue advisories, urging citizens to monitor local developments, follow official announcements, and register their travel details for assistance, while emphasizing that no Thais have been directly affected yet.