Japan faces new virus emergencies, three months before Olympics

13 Sept 14:17 Key points summarised by AI

Japan declares new, stricter virus states of emergency in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hyogo, responding to a surge in infections and highly contagious mutated variants.
The measures, effective April 25-May 11, will close businesses serving alcohol and major commercial facilities, coinciding with the Golden Week holiday to curb movement.
Despite the emergency, officials maintain the Tokyo Olympics will proceed, even as local health facilities face overwhelming pressure and the national vaccination program progresses slowly.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.