Author: David

Dhaka (AFP) – In a vast Bangladeshi factory hall thrumming with sewing machines, garment workers churn out seemingly endless pairs of mountain hiking trousers for customers in Europe and North America.

Hong Kong (AFP) – Asian markets struggled Thursday after a tepid lead from Wall Street, with investors growing increasingly worried about the outlook for inflation and US interest rates as Donald Trump’s second presidency looms.

Maputo (AFP) – Mozambique’s opposition leader is expected to return from exile Thursday to push his claim to have won presidential elections, risking an escalation in a dispute about the vote just days ahead of the swearing in of his rival.

Manila (AFP) – Hundreds of thousands of Catholic pilgrims swarmed the streets of Manila in search of a miracle Thursday, straining to reach a centuries-old statue of Jesus Christ in an annual display of religious fervour.

Melbourne (AFP) – The Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year, begins in Melbourne on Sunday and promises to be jam-packed with plotlines.

Sydney (AFP) – Australia recalled opener Nathan McSweeney and called up all-rounder Cooper Connolly on Thursday for the first time in a spin-heavy Test squad for the tour of Sri Lanka, with Steve Smith captain.

Moe Bye (Myanmar) (AFP) – A Myanmar military drone tracked a car carrying anti-junta forces as it drove through the contested village of Moe Bye. Moments after it parked near a house, the operator dropped an explosive.

Beirut (Lebanon) (AFP) – Lebanese lawmakers are expected to finally elect a president Thursday after more than two years of deadlock, in a much-needed step to help lift the war-battered country out of financial crisis.

Havana (AFP) – One rum, two owners: the decades-long legal battle between the Cuban government and spirits giant Bacardi over the popular Havana Club rum brand has entered a new phase with the enactment of a new US trademark law.

Anajás (Brazil) (AFP) – As the sun rises over the Amazonian island of Marajo, Renato Cordeiro laces up his boots, grabs his knife, and heads out to tap his rubber trees.