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Report Frenchman Hurt in Violent Clash With Lover’s Family in Pattaya
Not today asean now.... today the name will be fully disclosed Abel Adrien Alain Alban Alexandre Alexis Antoine Armand Arnaud Arthur Auguste Augustin Aurélien Aymeric Alphonse Anatole André Anselme Antonin Arsène -
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EU Migrants Land on Algarve Beach, Ordered Out by Judge – Unlike UK
A group of 38 migrants made a dramatic landing on an Algarve beach, a site beloved by British tourists. After a treacherous 250-mile journey in a small 15ft boat, these asylum seekers reached Portugal, risking everything for a new chance at life. Upon their arrival, they were quickly apprehended by Portuguese police near Burgau, a place just a few miles from Praia da Luz, known for the mysterious disappearance of Madeleine McCann. Among the Moroccan group, one individual reported that four people sadly perished during the perilous five-day Atlantic crossing. Portugal’s firm approach to illegal immigration immediately came into play, with the 25 men, six women, and seven children facing imminent deportation back to Morocco. This contrasts sharply with the UK, where migrant arrivals by small boats are expected to surpass 50,000, raising questions about Sir Keir Starmer's strategies to tackle illegal entry. Onlookers on the picturesque Boca do Rio beach witnessed the weary migrants coming ashore. They were quickly provided with medical attention, and some children were taken to emergency facilities for further care. Temporary accommodations were set up in a sports hall in Vila do Bispo, where they received essentials like food and hygiene items. Portuguese authorities wasted no time in processing the migrants. Thirty-one were taken to court in Silves, where a judge ruled they had 20 days to leave voluntarily or face enforced deportation within 60 days. Another hearing in Lagos will address special cases, including a family and individuals with health issues. The detainees are now housed in secure detention centers across Lisbon, Faro, and Porto. This swift action marks a stark contrast to the UK, where migrants often remain in taxpayer-funded accommodations for extended periods. None of the newly arrived migrants applied for asylum, mainly because Portugal considers Morocco a safe country. António Leitão Amaro, Portugal’s Minister of the Presidency, praised officials for handling the situation with speed and dignity, while reinforcing the rule of law. Mayor Rute Silva of Vila do Bispo addressed the press, acknowledging the human drive for a better life but insisting on adherence to legal entry procedures. The Algarve incident highlights Portugal’s no-nonsense policy, distinguishing it from its European counterparts. Reports detail similar situations in Spain, where Moroccan migrants have landed and are being processed swiftly for deportation. A video captured by bystanders showed the men being detained by beachgoers, some of whom were off-duty police officers. While many migrants typically choose routes to Spain’s Canary Islands, Portugal has seen fewer crossings. However, the conditions faced by these individuals underscore the desperation that propels them on such risky journeys. Local businessman Paulo Lourenço, who watched the landing, described witnessing the immense relief and joy of the migrants upon reaching Portuguese soil. He shared how some carried minimal belongings and expressed gratitude for the safety they found. The swift response by Portuguese authorities underscores the nation’s stance on illegal immigration, reflecting an uncompromising yet humane approach. As European countries grapple with migration challenges, Portugal's actions serve as a reminder of the complexity surrounding these humanitarian issues. This situation not only highlights differing international policies but also raises critical questions about the broader European response to migration. The intricacies of immigration laws, human rights, and international cooperation continue to be pressing themes as countries navigate these complicated realities. Portugal’s approach may serve as a model for other nations seeking to balance compassion with the need for secure borders. As global migration patterns evolve, Portugal’s decisive actions demonstrate the ongoing challenges and responsibilities faced by nations welcoming—or turning away—those in search of new beginnings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Daily Mail 2025-08-12 -
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UK Starmer's Chagos Betrayal: Costs Soar 10x Higher Than Expected!
Sir Keir Starmer's Chagos Islands plan has sparked a storm, with official figures revealing a staggering cost far beyond initial claims. What's really at stake? Sir Keir Starmer's plan concerning the Chagos Islands faces intense scrutiny as new figures suggest the costs are drastically higher than initially stated. Documents released under the Freedom of Information Act indicate the true cost of handing over the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritius is nearly £35bn, far exceeding Starmer's public claim of £3.4bn. Labour ministers are accused of misleading Parliament and the public by using an "accountancy trick" to conceal the deal’s real expenses. This revelation coincides with Mauritius overtaking the UK in financial freedom rankings, adding to the controversy. Under Starmer’s proposal, the UK will relinquish the Chagos Islands by the year's end but maintain a lease on the strategic Diego Garcia military base, essential for UK and US military operations. The cost controversy emerged when the Government Actuary's Department initially estimated the expense at £34.7bn. This estimate was then ostensibly reduced using inflation assumptions and a debated accounting method sometimes applied to long-term projects. The disagreement over figures is significant. While Starmer claimed in May the total would be £3.4bn over 99 years, including inflation and discounts, Conservatives argued it would reach £30bn. The final figure, as calculated through the Treasury's Social Time Preference Rate, is 90% less than the payments' actual cash value over the next century. Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, accused Labour of using financial manipulation to downplay taxpayer costs. She emphasised the importance of transparency, criticising the apparent deception in presenting figures. Foreign Office sources defended the cost calculation method as standard for government spending on long-term projects. However, inconsistencies have emerged, as Labour’s other financial announcements don't utilize similar methods. For instance, Angela Rayner's affordable homes plan transparently includes inflation-adjusted costs as part of the spending. Parliamentary pressure mounts on Starmer’s government to provide clear financial details. The situation raises broader questions about fiscal transparency and accountability in political agreements. Critics insist on full disclosure to ensure taxpayers are not blindsided by hidden costs. As the debate unfolds, the Chagos Islands deal exemplifies the complex interplay between international diplomacy and domestic political pressures. Financial misrepresentations could undermine public trust and have significant political repercussions for Starmer’s leadership. The ongoing scrutiny further illustrates the challenges political figures face in navigating high-stakes international arrangements while ensuring accountability to their constituents at home. The outcome of this controversy could have lasting impacts on perceptions of integrity and effectiveness within the current administration. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-08-12 -
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EU EU leaders say Ukraine should have freedom to decide.
Statement on Ukrainian sovereignty endorsed by all European Union leaders except for Hungary’s Viktor Orbán Ahead of the crucial Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, nearly all European leaders have declared that Ukrainians must be allowed to determine their own future. This declaration comes as tensions rise over potential outcomes of the meeting, which could see significant decisions made about Ukraine without its participation. In their joint statement, European leaders emphasised that any meaningful negotiations require a ceasefire or reduction in hostilities. They stressed the importance of a diplomatic solution that safeguards both Ukraine's and Europe's security interests. Issued on Tuesday, the statement gained unanimous support from EU countries except Hungary. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a known ally of Putin, was the only dissenting voice, highlighting his previous attempts to block EU support for Ukraine. Europeans are striving to exert influence over the summit, wary of being sidelined. Trump has confirmed that the discussions with Putin will involve "land swapping," raising concerns about potential concessions. With Putin having instigated the largest land war in Europe since 1945, Europeans and Ukrainians fear he might secure favourable terms that reshape the region’s landscape without their input. The statement from EU leaders is a symbol of unity, despite Hungary's reluctance. The leaders also applauded Trump's efforts to end Russia’s aggression but reiterated that a durable peace must involve Ukraine. They insisted any agreement must respect Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law principles. President Zelenskyy has been firm in rejecting the idea of ceding territory to achieve peace. Currently, Russia maintains unstable control over parts of four Ukrainian regions.Trump, known for his confidence in deal-making, tempered expectations for immediate breakthroughs but indicated a willingness to engage in “constructive conversations” with Putin. He suggested various outcomes based on the talks' direction, expressing openness to report outcomes to European and NATO leaders, as well as President Zelenskyy. On Monday, Trump expressed criticism of Zelenskyy, noting his leadership span during the conflict and implying a lack of progress. This remark adds tension to the discussions, with European leaders eager to ensure continued support for Ukraine. In a further effort to rally support, European leaders will engage in virtual meetings led by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. While Trump’s participation in these talks is unconfirmed, he has stated intentions to gather diverse opinions before his meeting with Putin. This diplomatic effort underscores the EU's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty while highlighting internal divisions on the issue. The ongoing situation remains a complex challenge for international diplomacy, with all eyes on the upcoming summit’s potential ramifications for Ukraine and Europe. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Guardian 2025-08-12 -
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Report North Koreans are being sent to work "like slaves" in Russia
Thousands of North Koreans are being sent to Russia to toil in dire conditions, as President Putin turns to Pyongyang for help amid a major labour shortage due to the war in Ukraine. With many Russian men either killed, enlisted, or having fled, Moscow is increasingly relying on North Korean labour. Boeing sanctioned bodies and working with South Korean intelligence has revealed that thousands are subjected to appalling conditions. Interviews with escapees expose the grim reality. Jin, a worker, recounted his arrival in Russia, chaperoned by a North Korean agent straight to a gruelling construction site, working 18-plus hour days. Others, like Tae, described waking up terrified to repeat the punishing routine. Supervisors would beat those who tried to rest during long shifts. Living conditions are deplorable. Workers are confined to sites, sleep in overcrowded containers or unfinished buildings, and are constantly watched by North Korean state agents. Historically, North Korean labourers in Russia earned significant funds for Kim Jong Un's regime until a 2019 UN ban aimed to cut off these resources. Despite this, over 10,000 workers were sent to Russia last year, with numbers expected to rise to 50,000. Many work on large-scale projects, while others are placed in factories and IT centres, evading UN sanctions by entering on student visas. Russian official Sergei Shoigu admitted plans to use 5,000 North Koreans for rebuilding projects, despite legal prohibitions. North Korean workers are favoured for their low cost and high compliance. Their wages primarily go to the state, with a small portion promised only upon return. For those who escape, the reality of unfair pay is crushing. Tae was shocked to learn other construction workers from Central Asia earned five times more for less work. The meagre income and harsh conditions pushed some to defect. Escapes became rare as Pyongyang enforced stricter controls, using frequent ideological training and reducing workers' freedoms. Activists revealed that outings are now limited and under intense surveillance to prevent defections. The number of North Koreans reaching Seoul has halved, as escape becomes increasingly challenging. These labourers stand as a legacy of the alliance between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin, with expectations of continued deployments even after the war ends. Kim Seung-chul, an activist aiding escapes, noted the human cost: lives manipulated, silenced, and often sacrificed by geopolitical intrigue. While the world turns its attention to these issues, the workers remain trapped, hoping for an eventual path to freedom. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The BBC 2025-08-12
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