Countries near the South China Sea will have to find a way to live with rising tensions where a breakthrough between Beijing and Washington remains unlikely

If any conclusion is to be drawn from US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken's high-stakes visit to China, it is that neither Washington nor Beijing can afford to let relations sink any lower

Interviewees express exasperation over living under Taliban rule, especially regarding the severe restrictions on girls and women

A series of chain reactions are taking place in the country, such as the closure of many popular places which have now turned into hostile spaces

The Chinese spy balloon incident, as well as Beijing's cosy relationship with Moscow, have soured already tense relations

The Ottoman coups inspired similar coups against leaders in Iran, Iraq and Syria

Africa's growing importance is enhanced by the fact that it is situated along major sea lines of communication and trade