Harbin city shuts eateries, coronavirus curbs ease elsewhere in China

23 Sept 06:15 Key points summarised by AI

Harbin, a major city in northeastern China, has suspended all dine-in services to combat the country's largest current coronavirus cluster.
This strict measure in Harbin contrasts sharply with other regions of China, where coronavirus restrictions are easing and public life is resuming.
Heilongjiang province, bordering Russia, has become the new epicenter of the epidemic, with over half of China's recent local transmissions linked to citizens entering from Russia.
Provincial officials have acknowledged failures in epidemic prevention and control, including an "inadequate understanding" and delayed testing, which contributed to the outbreak's severity.

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.