India, Pakistan ease restrictions for some small businesses amid lockdown

14 Sept 02:10 Key points summarised by AI

India partially eased its month-long coronavirus lockdown, permitting neighborhood and residential area shops to reopen from Saturday with 50% staff, mandatory social distancing, masks, and gloves, while liquor sales and large malls remain prohibited until May 3.
Pakistan extended its nationwide lockdown until May 9 but shifted to a 'smart lockdown' strategy, allowing some industrial and commercial activities to resume under safety guidelines for targeted tracking and tracing of cases.
Pakistani officials emphasized that adherence to virus containment measures during the decisive month of Ramadan is crucial for controlling the disease and enabling further economic reopening, with prayer congregations generally allowed except in high-risk areas like Sindh province.

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Today 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.