Philippines Investment Push: The US-ASEAN Business Council urges Manila to speed up and consistently implement reforms—issuing clear guidelines, cutting compliance burdens, harmonizing rules across agencies and local governments, and digitizing services—to unlock more US and wider investment. Arctic Trade Tensions: A new Asia-Europe shipping test via Russia’s Northern Sea Route has drawn Western criticism over sanctions and Russia permissions, even as South Korea seeks to make Arctic shipping routine. Hong Kong Rights Case: Two pro-democracy activists were convicted under the National Security Law for inciting subversion, with sentences up to 10 years looming. Central Asia Diplomacy: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan opened a new chapter of cooperation in Tashkent, with leaders stressing a shared “single geopolitical and geo-economic region.” Security at Kuwait Airport: Customs seized about 500 suspected psychotropic ecstasy pills from an Asian passenger at Kuwait International Airport. Singapore Wildlife Rescue: Changi’s leopard cats are confirmed breeding, but conservationists now face habitat pressure from Terminal 5 and coastal works. India Economy Watch: Sugar prices are sparking a political row as the Centre cites red rot and El Niño impacts while opponents question policy choices. Sports & Culture: Nagoya ramps up Asian Games hospitality, including 370 athlete meals and local dishes, while Bihar announces a Rs 70,000 crore Ganga “Marine Drive” plan.