Briefly

CHINA

Former envoy to France assumes new position

The Foreign Ministry confirmed on Thursday that Lu Shaye, the former Chinese ambassador to France, has assumed a new position as the Special Representative of the Chinese government for European Affairs. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said in a news conference on Thursday that Lu will assist in coordinating European affairs and engage in consultations and exchanges with countries and institutions of the European Union. Describing Lu as a seasoned diplomat familiar with European affairs, Guo expressed belief that Lu will actively fulfill his duties. It is believed that Lu will assist in communication and coordination with the European side, promote dialogue and cooperation and contribute to the stable and healthy development of China-EU relations, the spokesman said.

ARGENTINA

Govt announces pullout from WHO

Argentina's President Javier Milei has ordered the country's withdrawal from the World Health Organization due to "profound differences" with the UN agency, a presidential spokesperson said on Wednesday. Argentina's decision is based on "profound differences in health management, especially during the (COVID-19) pandemic", spokesman Manuel Adorni said in Buenos Aires. He said WHO guidelines at the time led to the largest shutdown "in the history of mankind". Argentina will not allow an international organization to intervene in its sovereignty "and much less in our health", he added.

THE PHILIPPINES

4 killed in plane crash, investigation ongoing

A private plane crashed in Maguindanao del Sur Province in southern Philippines on Thursday afternoon, killing four people, local media reported. The accident happened at around 2 pm local time in Ampatuan town. Police responders have been looking into the accident to determine the victims' nationalities.

TURKIYE

Too early to talk about pact: Source

Turkiye's priority in Syria is achieving stability and security, and ridding the country of militants, but it is too early to talk about a pact that would see Ankara establish military bases there, a Turkish Defense Ministry source said on Thursday. Reuters reported on Tuesday that Turkiye and the new Syrian administration were to discuss a joint defense pact during talks between their presidents this week, including establishing two Turkish air bases in Syria and training its new army.

China Daily - Xinhua - Agencies