US, Australia, UK sign key deal in nuclear sub alliance

17 Sept 10:31 Key points summarised by AI

Australia formally embarked on a program to equip its navy with nuclear-powered submarines, solidifying a new defense alliance with Britain and the United States.
Defence Minister Peter Dutton signed an agreement allowing the exchange of sensitive 'naval nuclear propulsion information' between the three nations, marking the first public deal since the AUKUS alliance was announced.
The AUKUS deal aims to confront growing strategic tensions in the Pacific, providing Australia with eight state-of-the-art, nuclear-powered submarines and sharing advanced capabilities in cyber, AI, and undersea technology.
The agreement has drawn strong criticism, angering China, which views it as an 'extremely irresponsible' threat to regional stability, and infuriating France due to the last-minute cancellation of its substantial diesel-electric submarine contract with Australia.

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.