Around the Globe

The Philippine ambassador to Qatar reports that about 250,000 Filipinos in the Gulf state enjoy good standing with employers and have among the fewest run-ins with authorities. Filipinos form the sixth largest expatriate group in Qatar, with many in high-paying and middle-management roles, including in the oil and gas sector. Ambassador Mardomel Melicor explains that expatriates make up about 90 percent of Qatar’s population, led by Indians, Bangladeshis, Pakistanis, Nepalis, Egyptians and Filipinos, while Qataris account for around 10 percent. He says Qatar is pursuing labor reforms to comply with International Labor Organization standards.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced that the new “patriots only” Legislative Council, elected under Beijing‑imposed rules that cut directly elected seats, will lead institutional reform following the city’s deadliest fire in decades. The article details the 2021 electoral overhaul, the role of the pro‑Beijing Election Committee, tightened candidate vetting, and official plans for the legislature to review fire safety, building regulations, and governance measures once investigations into the fatal blaze conclude.

Catastrophic floods and landslides across parts of Asia have killed more than 1,500 people as of Thursday, with hundreds still missing and rescue operations ongoing in remote and isolated areas. Authorities in Indonesia’s North Sumatra and other affected regions prepared for renewed heavy rainfall after meteorologists issued fresh warnings. Governments deployed military, police, and volunteers to reach stranded residents, distribute aid, and restore access to cut-off communities. Disaster agencies opened information centers, expanded evacuation shelters, and monitored health risks in crowded camps, while environmental officials examined the role of land use and deforestation in slope instability and runoff.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi, India, for a two-day visit focused on defense and trade talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Indian officials. The visit includes discussions on military cooperation, arms deals, energy trade, and India’s continued imports of Russian oil amid strong pressure from the United States. Delegations from both countries will review strategic, economic, and regional security issues, with expectations of joint statements and possible agreements to strengthen the longstanding India-Russia partnership.

Chile’s parliament on Tuesday approved a law banning the use of smartphones by students on school premises, joining a growing list of countries restricting mobile device use over concerns for children’s mental and physical well-being.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced on Tuesday that an independent committee will investigate the cause of the city’s deadliest fire in decades, which killed 151 people last week.