In the badminton women’s singles at the Asian Games, Nepal’s Rashila Maharjan was defeated 2–0 by China’s Wang Zhi Yi. In the men’s singles, Nepal’s Kshitij Khanal lost 2–0 to Iran’s Nima Rostamporalagaldani. With these losses, Nepal’s challenge in the badminton singles event at the Asian Games has come to an end. October 10, Kathmandu.
At the 20th Asian Games badminton singles event, Nepal’s Rashila Maharjan, Rihanna Sherchan, and Kshitij Khanal were eliminated in the second round. In the women’s singles, Rashila was defeated in straight sets, 2–0, by China’s Wang Zhi Yi. Despite competing against a world-class opponent, Rashila was unable to advance to the next stage, losing 21-4 and 21-2. Similarly, Rihanna was defeated 2–0 by Sri Lanka’s WeiHena Liyanage Ranithma Thinudhi, losing 9-21 and 6-21 in the two sets.
In the men’s singles, Kshitij was beaten in straight sets 21-14 and 21-9 by Iran’s Nima Rostamporalagaldani. The Iranian player secured a 2–0 victory, advancing to the round of 16. With this result, Nepal’s participation in the Asian Games badminton singles event has concluded.
The Nepal national cricket team has advanced to the quarterfinals of the 20th Asian Games. The match between Nepal and Japan, held on Saturday morning in Aichi Nagoya, Japan, was abandoned due to rain, resulting in both teams sharing 1 point each and securing the top position in Group A. The group originally comprised three teams: Japan, which has now been eliminated, Afghanistan as the group runner-up, and Nepal as the group winner. Nepal will face Sri Lanka in the quarterfinals, while Afghanistan will compete against India.
For the fourth consecutive time, the match was reduced to 15 overs due to rain. Japan won the toss and chose to field, and Nepal scored 149 runs for the loss of four wickets. Lokesh Bam scored 57 runs, and Sandeep Jora remained unbeaten on 52 runs. Opening batsman Kushal Bhurtel scored 4 runs, Asif Sheikh 21 runs, Kushal Malla 2 runs, and Gulshan Jha also scored 2 runs. Due to persistent rain, Japan could not commence their innings, leading to the match being abandoned and the points shared. Nepali supporters present in Japan had gathered at Korogi Athletic Park in Nagoya to watch the match.
Despite the likelihood of rain before the game, a notable number of Nepali fans were present at the stadium. This marks the fourth consecutive occasion Nepal’s team has reached the Asian Games quarterfinals; however, the team has yet to progress beyond this stage. In previous editions—Guangzhou 2010 (China), Incheon 2014 (South Korea), and Hangzhou 2023 (China)—Nepal was defeated in the quarterfinals by Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and India respectively.
Captained by Dipendra Singh Airee, the Nepal team aims to win at least a medal this time. Their key achievement in becoming group winners was securing victories over both India and Afghanistan during the league stage. In the 2014 Incheon Asian Games quarterfinal, Nepal narrowly lost to Afghanistan, despite bowling Afghanistan out for 119 runs but falling short by 8 runs with a total of 111. This event marks the only meeting between Nepal and Afghanistan in the current tournament. By advancing as group winners, Nepal has effectively overcome the setback suffered against India in the earlier stage. Sri Lanka has also sent a strong team, and if Nepal defeats them, it will be an opportunity to avenge the 2010 loss.
October 26, Kathmandu — Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared that any attempt by India to block the waters of the Indus River would be considered a ‘warlike step’ by Pakistan.
Addressing the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday, Sharif emphasized that the Indus River is a lifeline not just for Pakistan but the entire region. He stated, “There is no legal basis for India’s unilateral decision to break the current treaty.”
He further added, “India’s claims and actions have already been rejected by UN experts and the Court of Arbitration. Water should never be used as a weapon. Rivers must enrich nations, not be a means of division.”
Sharif made it clear that any effort to obstruct, stop, or redirect Pakistan’s share of the river water would be regarded as a ‘warlike act.’ He warned India against committing any mistakes in this matter.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has once again raised the Kashmir issue at the United Nations. Sharif assured from this platform that, “Until the Kashmiri brothers and sisters gain the right to self-determination, we will continue to support them diplomatically, politically, and morally.”
He described Kashmir as Pakistan’s jugular vein, a connection that will remain eternal. Sharif accused the ideology influenced by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) across the border of promoting religious hatred in India. He cited resulting incidents such as mob violence, communal clashes, attacks on religious sites, and restrictions on religious freedom.
Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif Indus Water Treaty
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In the men’s marathon at the 20th Asian Games, Nepal’s Bahadur Khadka completed the race in 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 42 seconds, finishing in the last position. Japan’s Ichitaka Yamashita won the gold medal with a time of 2 hours, 10 minutes, and 49 seconds. India’s Sawan Barwal secured second place, while China’s Feng Peiyu came in third.
Making his debut at the Asian Games, Khadka aimed to break the nearly four-decade-old record set by Baikuntha Manandhar but was unable to do so. Kathmandu, October 10 – Khadka finished the designated marathon distance in 2:23:42, trailing the winner Yamashita by 12 minutes and 53 seconds.
Yamashita completed the race in 2 hours, 10 minutes, and 49 seconds to win gold. India’s Sawan Barwal finished 48 seconds behind in second place, and China’s Feng Peiyu placed third, 1 minute and 24 seconds after the winner.
Debuting at the Asian Games, Khadka had aimed to surpass the longstanding record set by Baikuntha Manandhar, who ran 2:15:03 at the third South Asian Games in Kolkata, India, in 1987. Despite several attempts by various athletes to break Manandhar’s record since then, it remains unbeaten.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that his country has proposed an agreement to the United States to reopen the Hormuz Strait within one week.
“If the necessary conditions are met,” this reopening is possible, he told reporters at the United Nations headquarters in New York. According to him, these conditions were included in the memorandum of understanding signed in June.
“Now the decision lies in America’s hands,” Araghchi said. He explained that the plan was conveyed from Qatar to the US.
When asked about Iran’s proposal, a US official confirmed ongoing positive talks through intermediaries and said that discussions are also progressing on nuclear issues.
At the start of this week, US President Donald Trump warned that he would “destroy the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
Impact on Energy Prices
On February 28, the United States and Israel launched air strikes against Iran, in response to which Iran attacked US airbases in Israel and Gulf countries and also closed the Hormuz Strait.
Before the conflict began, about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through this waterway. The closure of the Hormuz Strait triggered significant fluctuations in energy prices.
With the US presidential election approaching in November, pressure is growing to find a solution to end the ongoing conflict involving President Trump.
“If the necessary conditions are fulfilled, the waterway can be reopened, and normal traffic can be restored within seven days,” Araghchi told reporters.
He did not specify what actions the US would need to take but noted that “the steps required from the US are not new but are covered in the existing memorandum of understanding.”
Image credit, ISNA/WANA/REUTERS
All Preparations Complete
“I can say that if the US side is serious about the agreement to reopen the Hormuz Strait, all preparations have been completed,” Araghchi added.
A US official stated that with control over the Hormuz Strait, America is in a “much stronger position” and is not in any hurry.
The memorandum of understanding was signed on June 18 between the US and Iran to ensure a ceasefire and to partially reopen the Hormuz Strait.
The agreement included a fourteen-point clause assuring that Iran would never acquire nuclear weapons.
The US, Iran, and their partners agreed to cease all military operations and to ease the US naval blockade and sanctions.
The agreement also covered ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels in the Hormuz Strait and future discussions with Oman regarding transportation management.
However, the agreement broke down shortly after both sides resumed attacks.
Iran’s Support for the Houthis
Iran has claimed that it attacks ships crossing the Hormuz Strait without permission.
The US has launched attacks on Iranian bases and tankers located off the Iranian coast in the Hormuz Strait.
The US continues its blockade of Iranian ports, severely impacting Iran’s economy.
Subsequently, President Trump has claimed that the US has succeeded in exporting oil through this waterway.
Shipping data shows an average of 18 vessels transporting fuel daily over the past 10 days, though some days saw the number drop to nine.
Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen have intensified attacks aimed at disrupting oil exports from Saudi Arabia through the Red Sea.
This month, the group captured major strategic areas along the Red Sea coast.
Among these is the Mocha port on the Bab al-Mandab Strait, another crucial route for global shipping.
For more information, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Additionally, our radio program airs Monday to Friday at 8:45 PM.
Nepal, the group winner, will compete against Sri Lanka in the men’s cricket quarterfinals of the 20th Asian Games on Tuesday morning at 5:45 AM. The final group stage match against Japan was abandoned due to rain, resulting in no outcome. With 3 points from two matches, Nepal secured their place in the top eight. The Nepali team had previously defeated Afghanistan by 5 wickets in the first game but was eliminated by India in the quarterfinals of the 19th Asian Games.
Kathmandu, 26 September – Nepal will face Sri Lanka in the men’s cricket quarterfinals of the 20th Asian Games. Having emerged as the winner of Group A, Nepal is now preparing for the upcoming quarterfinal match against Sri Lanka.
The final group stage match against Japan on Friday was canceled due to rain, with both teams sharing 1 point each. This result allowed Nepal to accumulate 3 points from two matches, confirming their position as group winners and securing a spot in the last eight. Nepal will now meet Sri Lanka in the quarterfinals, while group runners-up Afghanistan will play against India.
Nepal earned their quarterfinal berth by defeating Afghanistan by 5 wickets in their opening match. The quarterfinal faceoff between Nepal and Sri Lanka is scheduled for Tuesday at 5:45 AM. Previously, Nepal had been eliminated by India in the quarterfinals of the 19th Asian Games.
One month after the devastating floods on September 26 (Bhadra 10), officials have stated that priorities have shifted from search and rescue operations to repairing damaged road networks and essential infrastructure.
According to the government’s rapid damage and needs assessment, 55 kilometers of roads and 37 motorable bridges were damaged due to the floods.
Even now, many displaced people in Rasuwa remain in relief camps located in Nuwakot and Kathmandu, as main road networks have not yet been reconnected. Mohan Acharya, Member of Parliament from Rasuwa, emphasized that roads remain the most urgent requirement in these areas.
Another major challenge is the relocation of people from over 7,500 damaged homes and the rehabilitation of approximately 33,000 affected individuals, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).
Preliminary estimates indicate that the floods caused damages exceeding NPR 40 billion and that reconstruction costs will surpass NPR 70 billion.
“In major disasters, the first three to four weeks are critical for search, rescue, and relief. We are now moving towards relocating people from camps to temporary housing. Such timelines are typical also in other countries,” said Anil Pokhrel, former Executive Director of the NDRRMA.
“The focus must now shift from relief and rescue to connecting electricity, communication, and transportation access up to Rasuwa, alongside providing temporary housing.”
Key Activities Completed So Far
Image source: RSS
Caption: Crowds on the rope bridge crossing the Trishuli River in Nuwakot
The National Disaster Authority reported that the flood that struck a month ago resulted in 1,453 deaths and 5,550 missing persons. The government declared the affected areas as disaster crisis zones for three months immediately after the flooding to initiate search, rescue, and relief efforts.
The government simultaneously appealed for financial contributions to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund on the day of the flood, successfully raising over NPR 1.5 billion.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah ‘Balen’ recently addressed the United Nations General Assembly to inform the international community about the damages Nepal is suffering due to climate-related disasters and sought further support.
Three days after the flood, officials discovered many bodies in severe decomposition, making identification impossible. They decided to conduct mass burials to enable families to find closure. Meanwhile, relatives of missing persons began performing ceremonies using symbolic images to mourn their losses.
The government faced criticism for delayed rescue efforts inside hydroelectric project tunnels and underground structures. On September 19 (the tenth day after flooding), two people were rescued alive from an underground powerhouse in a hydroelectric project. On the following day, another survivor was found inside a tunnel and one more was rescued from a flood-affected house. No further survivors have been found since then.
According to the Disaster Authority, search efforts for missing persons continue in the Upper Trishuli 1, A, and B areas.
Elsewhere, search and rescue operations have been completed. Initially, the government housed flood-affected people in 37 holding centers. Following a monthly rent assistance announcement of NPR 15,000 for four families per center, the population in the centers decreased, according to Disaster Authority Executive Chief Dharma Raj Upreti.
“Currently, there are 24 centers operating with roughly 1,300 residents,” he stated.
Remaining Tasks
Image source: RSS
Although relief was promised for families of deceased and missing persons, officials reported delays due to technical issues.
To provide compensation to families of missing persons, the authority has initiated legal amendments to declare missing individuals as deceased or legally equivalent.
Furthermore, efforts continue to provide temporary housing initially and permanent housing subsequently for those displaced from their homes.
The authority has identified land and residential areas for rehabilitation and is preparing housing prototypes.
“This is a complete displacement; rebuilding in the same location is not possible. Considering this, we are addressing some technical challenges,” said Chief Upreti.
MP Mohan Acharya from Rasuwa stated that after the Bhote Koshi-Trishuli floods, a critical task is housing and relocating the displaced, but it remains a challenge to appropriately engage local communities and resettle them within their own vicinity.
“As seen after the earthquake, people showed little interest living in the newly constructed buildings. Without consulting local residents, rehabilitation efforts tend to be unsuccessful,” he added.
“It is not easy to ask people to settle in only one place given limited suitable land. Therefore, it is essential to resettle them near their places of origin to avoid livelihood problems.”
Image source: RSS
Former authority head Anil Pokhrel noted that this rehabilitation effort poses even greater challenges than post-earthquake recovery.
“Since many settlements built after the earthquake yielded poor outcomes, livelihood support is needed. Space for cattle rearing and drying agricultural products like bhattis (biscuit-making) needs to be accounted for,” he explained.
“The new settlement planning authority remains unclear, but plans must consider at least 25 to 50 years ahead. The area must be considered within the context of economic corridors between India and China.”
The authority asserts that it is giving proper attention to these aspects.
“Discussions with local governments are underway to address cultural beliefs and the strong sentiment of ‘my place,’ which takes time,” Chief Upreti informed.
Experts emphasize that a Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) is essential for accurate damage evaluation and determining reconstruction costs. Following this, the government plans to convene a donor conference to seek international support.
Former authority head Anil Pokhrel stresses that Nepal should learn important lessons from this disaster and study risks and preventative measures applicable to other river systems.
Given that major hydroelectric projects exist in this region, he says comprehensive studies for their sustainable reconstruction are mandatory.
“Beyond roads, bridges, and settlements, careful planning is needed for sustainable rebuilding of hydroelectric facilities,” he remarked.
MP Mohan Acharya emphasized that people in the Bhote Koshi-Trishuli hydroelectric zones depend on these facilities for their livelihoods, and thus their reconstruction must be prioritized.
“Livelihoods in Rasuwa are mainly based on three pillars — hydroelectricity, tourism, and the international border. All these sectors require urgent reconstruction on the government’s priority list,” he stated.
Current Ongoing Efforts
Image source: RSS
Authority chief Dharma Raj Upreti stated that work is currently underway to reconnect the road network up to Rasuwa.
“We are operating a bridge on Betravati and repairing 37 suspension bridges. Road repair efforts are progressing,” he added.
According to the authority, communication and electricity networks have been nearly fully restored.
Damage assessment remains ongoing, with data collection and evaluation in progress. DNA samples have been collected and are being tested from 1,329 recovered bodies and relatives of 2,035 missing persons.
Because the law requires a 10-year waiting period to officially declare missing persons deceased, Chief Upreti revealed that legal amendments are being pursued to allow immediate declarations.
You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more related content on this news.
During a state dinner, U.S. President Donald Trump presented Chinese President Xi Jinping with a statue of a bald eagle. Trump emphasized that he and Xi have made “significant progress” on contentious issues between the U.S. and China, agreeing to extend a temporary trade agreement for another two months. Xi urged caution on the Taiwan issue, stressing that the U.S. must maintain the “correct stance opposing Taiwan independence.” Kathmandu, September 25.
President Donald Trump gifted President Xi Jinping a statue of the American national symbol, the bald eagle, during a state dinner. They described the eagle as a symbol of “America’s independent and free spirit.” In international diplomacy, gift exchanges are seen as an important means of fostering goodwill and improving relations. However, such gifts often carry cultural and political messages, making the choice sensitive at times.
Efforts Toward a Long-Term Trade Agreement Earlier, Trump noted that he and Xi have made “significant progress” on several disputed issues between the U.S. and China. According to sources, both countries have agreed to maintain the temporary trade agreement for an additional two months. During this period, both sides will continue efforts toward a long-term trade deal. However, uncertainty surrounding the trade war has not been fully resolved.
Charu Chanana, investment strategist at Saxo Markets, noted that businesses are looking for practical signs of real change, such as new arrangements on tariffs, supply of rare minerals, purchasing of U.S. agricultural products, and changes in rules regarding U.S. chip exports. She described the meeting between the two leaders as a “summit focused more on stability than on breakthrough success.” As for Taiwan, Xi pressed the U.S. to maintain the “correct stance opposing Taiwan independence” during their talks.
According to China’s state news agency Xinhua, Xi urged the U.S. to proceed cautiously on Taiwan. He stressed that the Taiwan issue is vital for the long-term development of China-U.S. relations. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, while Taiwan operates as a self-governing entity with a separate political system. In recent years, China has strongly opposed pro-independence activities in Taiwan and has hinted at the use of force if necessary. Although the U.S. has no formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, American law mandates providing Taiwan with necessary materials and support for self-defense. This places the U.S. in a delicate position of balancing diplomatic relations with China and security support for Taiwan.
September 25, Tokyo (RASAS/Xinhua) – The death toll from landslides and floods triggered by heavy rainfall after a typhoon in the Kanto region of eastern Japan has reached 11, with three people still reported missing. According to local media, among the fatalities, seven are from Chiba Prefecture, east of Tokyo, and four are from Kanagawa Prefecture, located southwest of the capital. The public broadcaster NHK reported that the body of a 70-year-old woman who went missing due to a landslide in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, was recently found. Police and fire authorities continue to search for the missing individuals.
The typhoon “Dujan,” which made landfall on Japan’s eastern Pacific coast on Monday, brought heavy rains to the Kanto region and the Izu Islands. The intense rainfall caused landslides and flooding, resulting in significant damage, particularly in Chiba Prefecture around Tokyo. According to NHK, by Thursday afternoon, nearly one thousand buildings across Chiba and Kanagawa prefectures were destroyed, damaged, or submerged due to the storm. In northern Chiba’s Imbanuma area, some dams broke after the typhoon, flooding nearby residential areas, rice paddies, and roads. Although water levels have been receding, flooding persists in some places, with restoration efforts continuing through Friday. The typhoon also disrupted daily life and transportation. As of 6 a.m. Friday, approximately 11,790 households in Chiba and Kanagawa prefectures remained without electricity. Some train services in Chiba have been suspended or reduced.
Meanwhile, Japan’s Meteorological Agency has indicated the possibility of a 26th typhoon this season approaching Japan in the coming days. Warnings have been issued for Okinawa and other regions about high waves at sea and worsening weather conditions associated with the approaching storm.
U.S. President Donald Trump hosted a state dinner at the White House on Thursday in honor of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington. During the dinner, Trump and Xi discussed a range of topics including Taiwan, trade, and artificial intelligence (AI). Leading figures from OpenAI, Nvidia, Amazon, Tesla, SpaceX, and Google were also in attendance at the event.
President Trump highlighted that despite differences in political systems, the relationship between the peoples of the two nations remains strong. He expressed optimism about building ties that promote prosperity and security for future generations. President Xi also conveyed the view that the national goals of both countries could be mutually reinforcing. Throughout Xi’s visit, both leaders engaged in dialogue on key issues such as Taiwan, trade, and AI.
Trump gave Xi a tour of the Marine One presidential helicopter along with a new helipad under construction. During the dinner, Trump discussed the new ballroom being built on the southern side of the White House and invited attendees to view the construction site. He compared the structure to the “Great Hall of the People,” where Xi hosted a state dinner for Trump in May.
Technology industry leaders present at the dinner included Sam Altman of OpenAI, Jensen Huang of Nvidia, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk of Tesla and SpaceX, and Sundar Pichai of Google and Alphabet. Trump gifted Xi a sculpture of an eagle made in collaboration with First Lady Melania Trump. The dinner menu featured dishes such as wild mushrooms with yellow squash, sesame-crusted sea bass, and desserts including cherries, walnuts, and vanilla cream.
In the Asian Games cricket event, Nepal defeated Afghanistan by 5 wickets, successfully chasing a target of 103 runs in 17.2 overs. Captain Deependra Singh Airey stated that the team is progressing with the goal of securing a medal and praised the outstanding performance. Kushal Bhurtel took 4 wickets and Lalit Rajbanshi claimed 3 wickets, helping Nepal restrict Afghanistan to 102 runs in 20 overs.
Kathmandu, 25 September – After defeating Afghanistan in the first cricket match of the 20th Asian Games, Nepal’s captain Deependra Singh Airey expressed that the team is advancing with a strong objective to win a medal. Nepal successfully chased the target of 103 runs in 17.2 overs while losing 5 wickets. Notable contributions came from Sandeep Jora with 34 runs, Rohit Paudel unbeaten on 33, and Deependra himself scoring 15 runs.
Following the match, Deependra commented that the toss does not determine the outcome of the game and Nepal maintained pressure on their opponents from the start. “The toss is beyond our control. Although we were prepared to bat first, the opposition chose to bat. We then delivered an excellent bowling performance,” he explained.
Nepal bowled out Afghanistan for 102 runs in 20 overs, losing 7 wickets. Kushal Bhurtel took 4 wickets while Lalit Rajbanshi secured 3 wickets. Deependra highlighted how the spinners played a decisive role. “We expected our spinners to perform well. Lalit and Kushal bowled excellently, which helped us keep the opposition’s score low. That made chasing the target easier,” he said.
On his own batting, Deependra stated that he adopted a strategy suited to the match situation, playing with less risk and ensuring stability to guide the team to victory. “I planned to stay at the crease for a long time and lead the team to victory, so I did not take many risks,” he added.
The final group stage match will be played against Japan on Saturday. With a victory, Nepal will top the group and face Sri Lanka in the quarterfinals. “Tomorrow’s match is crucial. There is both turn and bounce on the pitch, so we are preparing accordingly,” Deependra said.
Expressing full confidence in the team’s chances of winning a medal, he affirmed, “Our team is fully prepared and experienced. We have given 100 percent to bring home a medal.”
Kushal Bhurtel, who took 4 wickets, expressed satisfaction at contributing to the team with his bowling, despite being dismissed for zero runs while batting. “Wherever we go, we receive great support from Nepali fans. I feel even more love here than in China,” said Bhurtel. “My batting wasn’t good today, but I’m happy to have contributed through bowling.”
The Ministry of Defense of Kazakhstan reported that 14 of the 17 soldiers who fell into the sea during a naval exercise in the Caspian Sea coastal area have died. The incident occurred on Thursday in the western Mangystau region during combat training when the weather suddenly deteriorated. Three soldiers were rescued. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has ordered the formation of a government commission to investigate the accident and declared Friday a national day of mourning.
On September 25 in Almaty, Kazakhstan (RASS/AFP) — A tragic accident during a naval exercise off the Caspian Sea coast resulted in the death of 14 soldiers. The Defense Ministry confirmed the number after finding two more bodies on Friday. The incident occurred in the western Mangystau region on Thursday when adverse weather caused 17 soldiers to fall into the sea during combat training exercises. Three soldiers were rescued, according to the Defense Ministry.
The Ministry communicated via Telegram that the search and rescue operation was completed on Wednesday, confirming the deaths of 14 soldiers. Earlier, officials had reported 12 fatalities. President Tokayev has ordered the establishment of a government commission to investigate the cause and circumstances surrounding the accident. A criminal investigation related to the incident has also been initiated. President Tokayev declared Friday a national day of mourning in remembrance of the fallen soldiers.
Following the accident, search and rescue teams prioritized locating soldiers who were missing at sea. Initial reports suggest that the soldiers fell into the sea due to adverse weather conditions during the exercise.
At the 20th Asian Games held at Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium in Nagoya City, Japan, Nepal’s Rajan Rokaya was unable to complete the men’s 10,000-meter race. Similarly, Ahmad Ridat from Palestine also did not finish the race. Bahrain’s Birhanu Balew secured the gold medal by completing the distance in 28 minutes and 27.51 seconds.
In the women’s 10,000-meter event, Nepal’s Santoshi Shrestha finished in 11th place. During the men’s 10,000-meter race of the 20th Asian Games, Rajan Rokaya was unable to complete the event. Bahrain’s Albert Kiptoo earned the bronze medal by finishing in 28 minutes and 34.38 seconds, while India’s Gulveer Singh secured the silver medal with a time of 28 minutes and 29.38 seconds.
In a significant development, 80 countries led by Bahrain have jointly called for the immediate and complete reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions in West Asia. Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdul Latif Al-Jayyani urged during the 81st United Nations General Assembly for ensuring the safe and uninterrupted passage of ships through this critical waterway. The joint statement warned that attacks originating from Iran, Houthi activities, and blockades in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait pose increasing risks to trade, energy security, and the global economy. (October 9, New York)
At a press conference held at the United Nations headquarters in New York during the 81st General Assembly, Foreign Minister Abdul Latif Al-Jayyani represented the 80 member states in appealing for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He highlighted how obstructions in the strait could severely affect international trade, energy security, and the world economy.
According to Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Al-Jayyani called for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2817, which was adopted in March. He expressed deep concern over attacks near Oman’s coast that resulted in the death of an Indian citizen, as well as the launch of six ballistic missiles by the Houthi group towards Saudi Arabia, extending condolences to the families affected. The joint statement underscored worries about alleged attacks by Iran on neighboring countries, the disruption of international trade, and the growing threat to energy security and the global economy.
The participating nations urged that, in accordance with international law, the Strait of Hormuz be reopened immediately and that the safe passage of vessels be guaranteed without any unlawful fees or obstructions. Serious concerns were also raised about the activities of the Yemeni Houthi group, attacks against Saudi Arabia, and assaults in the Red Sea. The statement warned that increased activity near the Bab al-Mandab Strait could further jeopardize international maritime traffic and global trade.
In an international friendly football match held in Bangalore, India played to a 1-1 draw against Panama. Ryan Williams scored for India in the 41st minute, while Omar Valencia equalized for Panama in the 68th minute. Following this match, India is scheduled to play friendlies against Brazil in Kolkata on October 3 and Uruguay three days later.
The game, hosted at Bangalore’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium, saw Williams open the scoring in the first half. Taking advantage of a long pass from Akash Mishra, Williams skillfully beat goalkeeper Marcos Reyes to give India a 1-0 lead. India created several good opportunities during the first half, including a chance at the 8th minute when Williams attempted a shot from a cutback by Mishra, but he was unable to convert.
In the second half, Panama increased their offensive pressure. Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made a crucial save in the 50th minute, denying Giovani Herbert and helping India hold on to their lead. However, in the 68th minute, Omar Valencia scored from a long-distance strike outside the penalty area, bringing Panama back into the match. India also crafted scoring opportunities towards the end of the game.
India, ranked 138th in the FIFA rankings, took a point against Panama, who are placed 44th. India had previously won the SAFF Championship in Bangalore earlier in 2023. The team now prepares to face five-time World Cup champions Brazil in a friendly match on October 3 in Kolkata.
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