New Zealand hopes to relax border controls next year

14 Sept 01:26 Key points summarised by AI

New Zealand plans a cautious border reopening in 2022, aiming to maintain its virus-free status while gradually easing strict current controls.
Future border policies will categorize international arrivals based on vaccination status and country risk, determining isolation requirements from full quarantine to quarantine-free entry.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern emphasizes a "careful and deliberate" strategy to prevent new variants, like Delta, from entering the country, learning from other nations' experiences.
The ultimate goal is quarantine-free travel for all vaccinated individuals, supported by a planned nationwide vaccination ramp-up by year's end.

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.