Abayomi Azikiwe, PANW Editor, Featured on 1+1 with Youri Smouter, Discussing the History and Contemporary Affairs of the Kingdom of Eswatini

Watch this 1+1 interview with Abayomi Azikiwe, editor of the Pan-African News Wire, discussing the history and contemporary affairs of the Kingdom of Eswatini in Southern Africa. 

To view this entire episode just go to the following link: Mali Attacked By Western Backed Proxies - YouTube

The interview was conducted by Youri Smouter and examines the 3.4 million years of historical development in the region. 

We look back on the societal structures which evolved from the 4th to the 19th centuries C.E.

Later we explore the colonial and independence process and the current period of neo-colonial rule.

Abayomi Azikiwe, PANW Editor, Featured on Black Agenda Radio Discussing the Attacks on Mali by Western-backed Rebels

Listen and watch this interview by Margaret Kimberley, Executive Editor of Black Agenda Report, with Abayomi Azikiwe, editor of the Pan-African News Wire. 

To review this news segment just go to the following URL: Mali Attacked By Western Backed Proxies

The discussion centers around the recent attacks by separatists and jihadists rebels who launched a deadly attack on various regions and cities throughout the West African state. 

Azikiwe looks at the regional dimensions of the conflict while analyzing the crisis of neo-colonialism in the 21st century. Mali is part of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) which is opposed by France and the United States.

This interviewed aired on Fri. May8, 2026.

Niger Orders Suspension of France 24, RFI, AFP and Other French Media

By Al Mayadeen English

The reason cited by Niger’s authorities for the suspension is threatening national stability and social cohesion amid growing tensions in the Sahel.

Authorities in Niger announced on Friday the suspension of several French media organizations, accusing them of threatening public order and national stability.

In a statement broadcast on state television, Niger’s authorities said the affected outlets had repeatedly aired “content likely to gravely endanger public order, national unity, social cohesion and the stability of the institutions” of the country.

The suspension, which took effect immediately, applies to satellite packages, cable networks, digital platforms, websites, and mobile applications. The targeted organizations include France 24, Radio France Internationale, Agence France-Presse, TV5Monde, TF1 Info, Jeune Afrique, and Mediapart, among others.

Niger-France ties in free fall

The move marks a further deterioration in relations between Niger’s government and France following the July 2023 coup that brought the junta to power.

Niger’s transitional authorities have pledged to drastically reduce and eventually sever longstanding ties with France, framing the move as part of a broader effort to end what they describe as lingering French neo-colonial influence in the country.

This position reflects growing regional tensions in West Africa, where several governments have increasingly questioned military, economic, and political cooperation with Paris. The Nigerien leadership has emphasized reclaiming full sovereignty over national resources and security policy, while also seeking alternative international partnerships.

Supporters of the shift portray it as a decisive break from colonial-era structures, whereas critics warn it could deepen instability and weaken existing security cooperation in the Sahel.

Other outlets banned

Shortly after the coup brought the junta to power, both France 24 and Radio France Internationale were suspended, while Britain’s BBC was banned in December 2024.

The announcement also comes amid a broader crackdown on French media across the Sahel region. Earlier this week, Burkina Faso, an ally of Niger and Mali within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), banned TV5Monde broadcasts. Mali has likewise imposed restrictions on several French media outlets as it grapples with escalating jihadist and rebel attacks.

Niger’s decision comes days ahead of a major summit between France and African countries set to take place in Nairobi. None of the three junta-led AES member states is expected to participate.

South Africa Debt Outlook Improves on Stronger Fiscal Position: Moody's

By Al Mayadeen English

7 May 2026 17:08

Moody's Ratings said South Africa’s improving fiscal position and reform efforts could stabilize debt in the near term and support gradual economic recovery, despite ongoing constraints from high debt levels.

Moody's Ratings signaled a more favorable trajectory for South Africa’s public finances, Reuters reported Wednesday, citing a report that said stronger fiscal management and reforms could help stabilize government debt this year before a gradual decline.

The agency pointed to a combination of higher revenues, tighter control over expenditures, and easing borrowing costs as key drivers behind the improved outlook. However, it cautioned that debt levels exceeding 80% of gross domestic product continue to restrict the government’s capacity to respond to potential economic shocks. Moody’s currently assigns South Africa a Ba2 rating with a stable outlook.

Deficit, Debt Outlook

According to the report, the country’s fiscal deficit is expected to narrow to 4.3% of GDP in 2026 and further to 3.8% in 2027, compared with 4.5% in 2025. At the same time, the primary surplus is projected to rise to 1.8% of GDP by 2027, surpassing the estimated 1.5% threshold required to stabilize debt.

Moody’s estimates that general government debt reached its peak at 86.8% of GDP in 2025 and anticipates a gradual decline to 84.9% by 2028. Still, debt servicing costs remain elevated, with interest payments accounting for 18.8% of government revenue in 2025, higher than many similarly rated economies.

The agency also noted that a shift toward a lower inflation target of 3%, with a tolerance range of one percentage point, could help reduce risk premiums and lower financing costs over time.

Economic growth is forecast to recover gradually, rising from 0.5% in 2024 to around 2% by 2028, supported by stronger investment and resilient consumer demand. Moody’s added that continued reforms in electricity supply, logistics networks, and water infrastructure could raise medium-term growth potential above 2% and encourage private sector participation.

Reform Risks

The outlook remains contingent on the durability of recent fiscal gains and the pace of structural reforms, particularly in energy and transport, where constraints tied to Eskom and Transnet have historically weighed on growth and investor confidence. Analysts also note that part of the recent revenue improvement has been supported by favorable commodity prices, raising questions about sustainability if external conditions weaken, while elevated borrowing costs and global financial volatility continue to pose risks.

Looking ahead, the report identified the 2027-2029 electoral period as a potential test for the continuity of reforms, though it assessed the likelihood of a significant policy reversal as limited. Its baseline scenario assumes the  Government of National Unity will remain intact throughout its term, with both the African National Congress and the Democratic Alliance prioritizing stability ahead of the 2029 general election.

ISIS-linked Attack on Nigerian Army Base Kills 2 Soldiers in Borno

By Al Mayadeen English

Suspected ISIS militants attacked a Nigerian army base in Borno state, killing two soldiers and injuring several others, including a commanding officer.

Suspected ISIS terrorists launched an attack on a Nigerian military position in Magumeri, leaving several soldiers dead and others injured, Reuters reported, citing security sources and the Nigerian army.

The assault targeted a Forward Operating Base in northeastern Borno State during the early hours of Thursday, marking another escalation in the prolonged insurgency that has destabilized the region for years.

A military source told Reuters that militants stormed the base amid poor visibility, resulting in multiple casualties among Nigerian troops.

“Three soldiers were killed in the attack while the commanding officer was severely injured ... and 14 other soldiers were injured,” the source said, adding that about eight militants were killed.

According to the source, troops later pushed back the attackers and seized around 20 motorcycles, several machine guns, and rocket-propelled grenades.

A member of the civilian joint task force, a vigilante network assisting the military in anti-insurgency operations, said he witnessed the aftermath of the raid, including damaged structures and fallen soldiers inside the base.

“The commanding officer sustained injury and about 20 others sustained gunshot injuries,” he said, adding that about 10 Boko Haram fighters were killed.

Nigeria’s military later confirmed the attack, saying forces from Operation Hadin Kai had repelled an infiltration attempt by ISIS fighters.

Magumeri base assault

In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba said troops “successfully contained” the assault and “neutralised scores” of militants during the confrontation.

“Regrettably, two gallant soldiers paid the supreme price in the course of the battle, while an officer and other wounded personnel are currently stable and receiving appropriate medical attention,” Uba stated.

The insurgency in northeastern Nigeria, driven mainly by ISIS and Boko Haram terror factions, has persisted for more than a decade despite repeated military offensives.

Tunisian Court Sentences Ex-justice Minister to 20 Years in Prison

By Al Mayadeen English

7 May 2026 13:04

Noureddine Bhiri, a senior Ennahda political figure, was sentenced to 20 years in Tunisia over passport forgery claims tied to his tenure as justice minister.

A Tunisian court has sentenced former Justice Minister Noureddine Bhiri, a senior figure in the Ennahda Movement, to 20 years in prison in a case involving allegations of facilitating forged passports and citizenship documents for foreign nationals, according to state media.

The case centers on accusations that Bhiri and others were involved in “fabricating passports and falsifying citizenship documents” allegedly issued to foreign individuals wanted in "terrorism-related cases" during his tenure as justice minister in 2012. Bhiri and his legal team have firmly denied the allegations.

Bhiri is already in detention after receiving a separate 43-year sentence in April 2025 in a case linked to “conspiracy against state security.”

Passport forgery claims

Citing a judicial source, Tunisia’s state news agency reported on Wednesday that the criminal chamber specializing in terrorism cases at the Tunis primary court issued sentences ranging from 11 to 30 years in the same case.

Bhiri and former security official Fathi al-Baladi were each sentenced to 20 years in prison.

In addition, the court issued a 30-year sentence in absentia with immediate enforcement against Moaz Kheriji, the son of Ennahda leader Rached Ghannouchi, along with three other unnamed defendants described as fugitives.

Two additional defendants were sentenced to 11 years in prison, while all those convicted were placed under five years of administrative supervision.

The court also removed former Prime Minister Hamadi Jebali from the list of defendants in the case, according to the same source.

Although the rulings can still be appealed, the court ordered their immediate enforcement, meaning the sentences will begin to be carried out before a final verdict is reached.

Identity documents

According to the state news agency, the case involves claims that forged documents enabled a Syrian national allegedly linked to international terrorism-related cases to obtain Tunisian identity papers.

The agency added that the origins of the case date back to a Syrian man and his wife, who allegedly obtained Tunisian passports through the country’s embassy in Vienna between 1982 and 1984. Bhiri has argued that the matter predates his time in office.

The indictment alleges that the couple’s nationality and identity documents were improperly regularized in 2012 during Bhiri’s tenure at the Justice Ministry. Bhiri’s defense has rejected the charges, describing the case as politically motivated and lacking legal basis.

Broader crackdown on opposition figures

Since February 2023, Tunisian authorities have detained several opposition politicians, lawyers, and civil society figures on charges including undermining public order, conspiring against state security, collusion with foreign entities, and money laundering. Defendants and their legal teams deny the accusations.

Those facing prosecution include Ennahda leader Rached Ghannouchi, National Salvation Front leader Ahmed Nejib Chebbi, former presidential office minister Ridha Belhaj, Republican Party secretary-general Issam Chebbi, and former minister Ghazi Chaouachi.

While Tunisian authorities maintain that judicial procedures are independent and conducted according to law, opposition groups argue that the arrests and trials form part of a wider political crackdown on dissent.

Egypt Inflation Eases to 14.9% Despite War-driven Pressures

By Al Mayadeen English

6 May 2026 17:47

Egypt’s annual inflation slowed to 14.9% in April, below expectations, as price pressures eased slightly despite ongoing impacts from energy costs, currency weakness, and structural economic challenges.

Egypt’s annual urban inflation eased slightly in April, defying expectations of an increase despite mounting economic pressures, according to official figures released Wednesday.

Data from the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics showed that consumer prices rose 14.9% year-on-year in April, down from 15.2% in March. The reading came below forecasts from a Reuters poll, which had projected inflation would climb to 15.9%.

On a monthly basis, prices increased by 1.1% in April. Food and beverage costs declined 0.7% compared to the previous month, although they remained 6.7% higher than a year earlier.

Inflation pressures persist

A Reuters poll of 14 analysts had forecast inflation would climb to 15.9% in April, with the analysts saying the war on Iran had triggered an increase in electricity prices at the start of the month, a weakening of the currency, and an increase in commodity prices, especially poultry.

Beyond these immediate pressures, inflation in Egypt continues to reflect deeper structural factors. The weakening of the Egyptian pound has made imports more expensive, feeding into domestic prices, while higher global energy costs, intensified by the war, have pushed up fuel and electricity prices, increasing production and transport costs across sectors. Food inflation, though easing slightly on a monthly basis, remains elevated due to sustained pressures on supply chains and import costs.

The government’s economic reform program, supported by an $8 billion financial package agreed with the International Monetary Fund in March 2024, has also played a dual role. While currency liberalization and subsidy reductions have contributed to price increases in the short term, tighter monetary policies have helped bring inflation down from its peak of around 38% in September 2023.

Debt burden grows

These dynamics are compounded by Egypt’s structural reliance on imports and external financing, leaving the economy highly sensitive to exchange rate fluctuations and global price shocks. Foreign currency inflows, particularly from the Suez Canal, tourism, and remittances, remain critical to stabilizing the pound. However, disruptions linked to regional tensions have weighed on these revenues, adding pressure on the balance of payments and the exchange rate.

At the same time, fiscal pressures and high debt levels have led authorities to raise administered prices, particularly in energy, as part of efforts to reduce budget deficits. Interest payments consume a significant share of public spending, limiting the government’s ability to cushion households from rising costs.

Looking ahead, inflationary pressures may persist. Authorities announced on May 3 an increase in natural gas prices for several energy-intensive industries, a move that could feed into higher production costs and consumer prices in the coming months. Combined with ongoing currency pressures and elevated global energy prices, this suggests that the recent easing in inflation may prove temporary rather than a sustained trend.

Putin Draws Parallels Between Ukraine War and WWII on Victory Day

By Al Mayadeen English

Russia marked the 81st anniversary of Victory Day with military parades, heightened security, and renewed emphasis by President Vladimir Putin on Russia’s historical role in defeating Nazi Germany and its continued military resilience amid the Ukraine war.

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on Friday that Russia is developing advanced weapons systems based on battlefield experience, as the country marked the 81st anniversary of Victory Day with military parades and heightened security measures amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Speaking during the annual celebrations in Moscow’s Red Square, Putin linked Russia’s military modernization efforts to lessons drawn from current combat operations, while presenting the event as a symbol of national resilience and military strength.

“I congratulate you on the Victory Day, our sacred, bright and main celebration,” Putin said. “We mark it feeling pride and love for our country, feeling the common duty to protect the interests and future of our Motherland.”

The Russian president also recalled the immense sacrifices made by the Soviet people during World War II, stressing that the memory of those who fought Nazi Germany remains central to Russia’s historical identity.

“Preserving the memory of the Great Patriotic War, its true story and heroes is a matter of honour for us,” Putin stated. “We will always remember the feat of the Soviet people, that it was they who made the decisive contribution to the defeat of Nazism, saved their country, saved the world.”

Wartime victory commemorations

Victory Day, observed every year on May 9, commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in 1945 and remains one of the most significant state ceremonies in Russia. The Soviet Union bore the brunt of the war against Nazi Germany, suffering an estimated 27 million military and civilian deaths during the Great Patriotic War.

The Eastern Front became the decisive theater of World War II, where the bulk of Nazi Germany’s military forces were destroyed through battles such as Stalingrad, Kursk, and the Siege of Leningrad.

Military parades are held annually in Moscow and other Russian cities under a law adopted in 1995 honoring the Soviet victory in World War II. For many in Russia, Victory Day serves not only as a remembrance ceremony but also as a reaffirmation of the country’s historical role in defeating fascism in Europe.

This year’s celebrations unfolded under exceptional wartime conditions. Russian authorities tightened security across Moscow amid concerns over potential Ukrainian drone attacks, reportedly introducing internet restrictions and reinforcing air defense systems around the capital.

The Red Square parade featured marching formations from Russian military academies, strategic missile forces personnel, aerospace forces units, and naval crews. Russian aerobatic teams also flew over Moscow, while Su-25 attack aircraft concluded the aerial display by trailing the colors of the Russian flag across the sky.

Putin also drew parallels between the Soviet war effort and Russia’s current military campaign in Ukraine.

“The great feat of the generation of victors inspires the soldiers who are today carrying out the tasks of the special military operation,” he said. “They are resisting an aggressive force that is armed and supported by the entire NATO bloc.”

Russian Su-30 and MiG-29 warplanes performed a saluting flight at the Victory Day military parade in Moscow. pic.twitter.com/b4oUmRjiTo

Victory Day tensions

Despite the symbolic display, this year’s parade appeared more restrained than previous editions. Reports indicated that Russia reduced the presence of heavy military hardware, with some analysts linking the decision to security concerns and the continued demands of the war in Ukraine.

The commemorations also coincided with overlapping ceasefire initiatives related to the Russia-Ukraine war. Earlier in the week, Putin announced a temporary truce tied to the Victory Day commemorations, while US President Donald Trump later announced a broader ceasefire running from May 9 to May 11. Trump said the arrangement would involve a “suspension of all kinetic activity” alongside a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 detainees from each side.

The ceasefire announcements came amid growing concerns surrounding the security of the Moscow events. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also issued remarks interpreted by observers as an indirect reference to the parade’s security, further underscoring tensions surrounding the commemorations.

Victory Day parades have long served as both historical remembrance ceremonies and demonstrations of Russian military power. The tradition dates back to the original 1945 parade in Red Square following Nazi Germany’s surrender, when Soviet troops marched through Moscow after playing the central role in crushing the Nazi war machine in Europe.

Closing his speech, Putin praised Russia’s unity and endurance amid ongoing geopolitical confrontation.

“The key to success is our moral and ethical strength, our courage and valour, our unity and our ability to endure everything and overcome any trial,” he said. “I am firmly convinced that our cause is just, we are together, and victory has always been and will always be ours.”

Botswana Mourns Death of Festus Mogae, the Former President Who Prioritized HIV/AIDS Fight

By SELLO MOTSETA

2:00 PM EDT, May 8, 2026

GABORONE, Botswana (AP) — Festus Mogae, Botswana’s former president who made a national priority of the fight against HIV and AIDS during his tenure from 1998 to 2008, has died at the age of 86, the government said Friday. No cause of death was given.

Botswana President Duma Boko said that under Mogae’s leadership, the country earned international respect for principled, sound economic management and a commitment to democracy. He said the country would undergo three days of national mourning in honor of its former head of state.

Botswana, a sparsely populated and arid country in southern Africa, is the biggest producer of diamonds by value and the second biggest by volume behind Russia. Diamonds account for around 80% of Botswana’s exports and a quarter of its gross domestic product, according to the International Monetary Fund.

Mogae is credited with championing the fight against HIV/AIDS in Botswana, which he made a national priority, and launched free access to antiretroviral drugs at public health facilities in 2002 and extending it to noncitizens in 2019.

This led to a significant decease in the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the country, which at the time had one of the highest infection rates in the world.

Boko said Mogae carried the name of Botswana with dignity across the world and remained a voice of reason, unity and progress throughout his life.

“Today Botswana mourns a distinguished statesman, a patriot whose life was devoted to the service of his country,” said Boko in an address to the nation.

Mogae won the Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership — one of the most prestigious honors for African governance — recognizing his democratic leadership and peaceful transfer of power.

Botswana has unearthed all of the world’s largest rough diamonds over the last decade, including a 2,492-carat stone discovered last year that was the second-biggest diamond ever dug out of a mine and the biggest in more than a century.

Mogae, an economist by profession, was the governor of the Bank of Botswana before leading the country.

Court in Chad Jails 8 Opposition Leaders for 8 Years in Insurrection Case

2:45 PM EDT, May 8, 2026

N’DJAMENA, Chad (AP) — A Chadian court in the capital N’Djamena sentenced eight opposition leaders to eight years in prison Friday for convictions on charges including insurrection.

Leaders of the coalition opposition group Political Actors Consultation Group, or GCAP, were also found guilty by the High Court of N’Djamena for offenses including rebellion and disturbing public order. They were arrested last month.

The judge also fined them 500,000 Central African francs ($897) each. The prosecutor had requested a 10-year sentence for each of the members.

The GCAP repeatedly criticized President Mahamat Idriss Deby and called for a boycott of the 2024 election. The Chadian Supreme Court dissolved the group in April.

Other opposition leaders have been jailed since the last election. In October last year, Succes Masra, a former prime minister, was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

“We are not only surprised but disappointed by this court decision, which was based on non-existent offenses,” Adoum Moussa, the representative for the defense lawyers, said.

A Government Critic Dies in Custody in Rwanda, Drawing Calls for an Independent Probe

By RODNEY MUHUMUZA

6:42 AM EDT, May 8, 2026

KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) — A Rwandan academic and government critic died in custody as he was set to be freed from jail, immediately raising concern from a prominent rights group that urged an investigation into the death of Aimable Karasira.

Karasira died on Wednesday after he took an overdose of his own medication, according to Rwandan authorities. Human Rights Watch questioned that account, urged the international community to pay attention, and called for a “body of experts” to conduct an independent probe.

“There are many reasons to question the circumstances surrounding Aimable Karasira’s death in custody, not least the years of harassment and persecution he experienced at the hands of the authorities,” the group’s Clémentine de Montjoye said in a statement. “The government bears the burden of proving that Karasira was not unlawfully killed.”

Karasira died at the Nyarugenge District Hospital in Kigali, the Rwandan capital. Hillary Sengabo, a spokesman for the Rwandan prison system, told The New Times newspaper of Rwanda that Karasira “took chunks of medicine which he had been prescribed for a preexisting condition.”

In 2020, Karasira released a video on his YouTube channel in which he discussed losing relatives during the 1994 genocide and in its aftermath — after the rebels who stopped the genocide had taken charge of Rwanda’s government. Karasira later faced pressure from intelligence officials and threats from others he didn’t know, according to Human Rights Watch, which has documented the case.

Karasira was arrested in 2021, charged with several crimes relating to genocide denial and sowing division. He was convicted of some offenses and acquitted of others.

“The prosecution appealed his acquittal on several charges, including genocide denial and justification, and demanded a 30-year sentence, which was pending at the time of his death,” said the statement by Human Rights Watch. “But as Karasira had already served four years of his five-year term awaiting trial, his sentence was nearing its end, and he was to be released on May 6.”

Michela Wrong, a British historian who has written a book about the alleged crimes of the Rwandan government, said the death of Karasira “says so much about Rwanda.”

“He told visitors he was being beaten and tortured,” she said on social platform X. “Prison eventually proved a fatal experience, as for so many in Rwanda. Now he’s supposedly died of an overdose of his prescription medicine.”

According to Human Rights Watch, Karasira’s death is reminiscent of the 2020 death in custody of singer and government critic Kizito Mihigo. The group said both men had the “moral authority” that resonated with the public and confounded officials.

The government of President Paul Kagame, whose party has ruled Rwanda since 1994, has tried to bridge ethnic divisions using legal means and other measures. He is also praised by many for presiding over relative peace and stability.

The government imposed a tough penal code to punish genocide and outlaw the ideology behind it, and Kagame has fostered a culture of obedience among his roughly 14 million people. Rwandan ID cards no longer identify a person by ethnicity and lessons about the genocide are part of the curriculum in schools.

Hundreds of community projects, backed by the government or civic groups, focus on uniting Rwandans and every April the nation joins hands in somber commemorations of the genocide anniversary.

But critics accuse Kagame of crushing all dissent. Many see him as the architect of an authoritarian regime that has stamped out virtually all opposition in Rwanda as opponents are jailed, flee, disappear or die under mysterious circumstances.

Islamic Militants Attack DR Congo Villages Near Uganda, Killing 40 People, Local Group Says

By JEAN-YVES KAMALE

9:48 AM EDT, May 8, 2026

KINSHASA, Congo (AP) — An Islamic State-affiliated group attacked villages in Congo near the border with Uganda, killing at least 40 people and burning and looting homes, a local civil society group said Friday.

The attacks were carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces overnight from Wednesday through Thursday afternoon, according to Charité Banza, the leader of the Ituri civil society group and Kinos Katua, a member of the group who lives in the area.

The Allied Democratic Forces, which has roots in Uganda and which pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group in 2019, has long operated in the border region.

Banza told The Associated Press that 25 people were killed in border villages in the Beni territory of North Kivu while 15 others were killed in Ituri province.

The death toll may rise because several residents were still missing after the attacks, Katua said.

In a recent report this week, Amnesty International accused the Allied Democratic Forces of “war crimes and crimes against humanity.”

The ADF is one of the numerous groups operating in Congo and it routinely attacks civilians. In July 2025, the group killed 66 people in eastern Congo in what the United Nations called a “bloodbath.”

The country also faces attacks from roughly 100 other rebel groups, most prominently the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, which has seized key cities in the eastern region.

WHO Head Will Oversee Evacuation of Passengers, Crew from Hantavirus-stricken Cruise Ship

By IAIN SULLIVAN and ELENA BECATOROS

7:03 AM EDT, May 9, 2026

TENERIFE, Spain (AP) — The head of the World Health Organization arrived in Spain on Saturday to oversee the evacuation of more than 140 passengers and crew from a hantavirus-stricken cruise ship headed to the Canary Islands.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said he would be heading to the Spanish island of Tenerife off the coast of West Africa, along with senior Spanish government officials, “to oversee safe disembarkation of the passengers, crew members and health experts.”

The Dutch-flagged ship, the MV Hondius, is expected to arrive in Tenerife in the early hours of Sunday. Tedros said that at this point, nobody on board the Hondius was showing symptoms of the virus.

“WHO continues to actively monitor the situation, coordinate support and next steps and will keep Member States and the public updated accordingly. So far, the risk for the population of Canary Islands and globally remains low,” he posted on X.

Spain’s Health Minister Monica Garcia said on Friday she would be heading to Tenerife with Tedros and Interior Fernando Grande-Marlaska to coordinate the disembarkation.

Passengers will be isolated

Three people have died since the outbreak, and five passengers who left the ship are infected with hantavirus. Both the U.S. and the U.K. have agreed to send planes to evacuate their citizens from the cruise ship.

The head of Spain’s emergency services, Virginia Barcones, has said passengers will be taken to a “completely isolated, cordoned-off area” once they disembark.

Hantavirus is usually spread by the inhalation of contaminated rodent droppings and isn’t easily transmitted between people. But the Andes virus detected in the cruise ship outbreak may be able to spread between people in rare cases. Symptoms usually show between one and eight weeks after exposure.

According to a letter sent by the Dutch foreign and health ministers to parliament late Friday, Spain has activated the EU civil protection mechanism for a medical evacuation plane equipped for high-consequence infectious disease to be on standby.

In case anyone falls ill, the medics on board the ship will inform the Spanish authorities, and the evacuation plane ″will be sent to Tenerife so that the sick person can be quickly transported by air to the European mainland.″

The Dutch government will work with Spanish authorities and the ship company to arrange repatriation of Dutch passengers and crew as soon as possible after arrival in Tenerife, subject to medical conditions and advice from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the letter said. Those without symptoms will go into home quarantine for six weeks and be monitored by local health services.

As the ship is Dutch-flagged, the Netherlands may also temporarily accommodate people of other nationalities and monitor them in quarantine.

Countries scramble to track passengers who disembarked

Health authorities across four continents were tracking down and monitoring more than two dozen passengers who disembarked before the deadly outbreak was detected. They were also scrambling to trace others who may have come into contact with them.

On Friday, the WHO said a flight attendant on a plane briefly boarded by an infected cruise passenger had tested negative for hantavirus. Her possible infection had raised concerns about the virus’ potential transmissibility.

The flight attendant’s negative result should ease concerns among the public, said Christian Lindmeier, a WHO spokesman. “The risk remains absolutely low,” he said. “This is not a new COVID.”

On April 24, nearly two weeks after the first passenger had died on board, more than two dozen people from at least 12 different countries left the ship without contact tracing, Dutch officials and the ship’s operator have said.

It wasn’t until May 2 that health authorities first confirmed hantavirus in a ship passenger, the WHO said.

The KLM flight attendant who tested negative for the virus was working on a plane headed from Johannesburg to Amsterdam on April 25, and had later fallen ill.

The cruise passenger briefly aboard that flight — a Dutch woman whose husband died on the ship — was too ill to stay on the international flight to Europe and was taken off in Johannesburg, where she died.

The Dutch public health service is undertaking contact tracing on passengers who had contact with the ill woman before she left the plane.

A Briton, Spaniard suspected of being infected

On Friday, U.K. health authorities said a third British national who had been a passenger on the ship is suspected of being infected with hantavirus. The U.K. Health Security Agency said the person is on the island of Tristan da Cunha, a remote British overseas territory in the South Atlantic where the ship stopped in April. There was no word on the person’s condition.

Spanish health officials said Friday a woman in the southeastern Spanish province of Alicante has symptoms consistent with ‌a hantavirus infection and is being tested.

She was a passenger on the same flight as the Dutch woman who died in Johannesburg after traveling on the cruise ship, Secretary of ⁠State for Health Javier Padilla told reporters.

Two other Britons who were on the ship have been confirmed to have the virus. One is hospitalized in the Netherlands and the other in South Africa.

Authorities in South Africa are working to trace contacts of any passengers who previously got off the ship. They have focused mainly on an April 25 flight from the remote island of St. Helena in the South Atlantic to Johannesburg, the day after some passengers disembarked on the island.

Some state officials across the U.S. said they were monitoring a small number of residents who were on the ship and already went home, as well as people who may have come into contact with ship passengers. None has symptoms.

___

Becatoros contributed from Sparta, Greece. Associated Press writer Angela Charlton in Paris contributed to this report.

ELENA BECATOROS

Becatoros oversees coverage of southeast Europe for The Associated Press, with frequent assignments to the Middle East and Afghanistan. Based in Athens, Greece, she has worked around the world, including covering war in the Balkans, Iraq, Afghanistan and Ukraine.

The Morning Star View on the 2026 Election Results

The vote count gets underway in the 2026 Senedd elections at Ysgol Bro Teifi, in Ceredigion, May 8, 2026

THE threat of the far right looms over British politics. That is the most serious takeaway from the 2026 elections.

It is not that Reform are winning everywhere. The Scottish National Party look secure in power at Holyrood, despite their vote share falling. Labour’s historic defeat in Wales is down to the advance of Plaid Cymru, which topped the polls, as well as Reform.

Green advances have been strong in some areas, with the election of their first London mayor in Hackney a milestone for the party, and the Liberal Democrats are holding their own. The parties in freefall are the big two at Westminster, something polls have indicated for a long time.

But Reform is not only by far the biggest winner in terms of council seats — its advance is most general. Nigel Farage boasted today that it was sweeping aside Tories in Conservative heartlands and Labour in places that party had dominated since World War I.

This isn’t new either — Reform showed it by taking Durham and Kent county councils last year — but it’s a big problem for the left. Various left-of-Labour forces are capable of winning in particular parts of the country but there is no progressive party or alliance that is competitive at British level in that way.

Ultimately this is due to the crisis in working-class representation — the empty space in politics where a party of the working class should be.

That’s why left-of-Labour sentiment is expressed differently depending where you are.

Zack Polanski’s Greens are a growing force — but lots of their members and many prominent supporters were previously in the Jeremy Corbyn movement, their current alignment less down to anything distinctive about the Greens than the fact that their politics has been outlawed in Labour.

The Greens remain relatively marginal in Wales, since frustration at Labour has a more obvious outlet via Plaid Cymru. In areas where independent socialists have built a presence, as in Blackburn or parts of Birmingham, they can be the beneficiaries of Labour’s betrayal of its roots.

So Labour has been rejected — but not replaced. Whether that means the party can claw back lost ground is uncertain.

Collapse in Wales — where it has reigned for 100 years — retreat in London and wipeouts at Reform’s hands in parts of north-west England show it has no strongholds left. The corporate shills and smug politicos who ignored the demolition of previous red walls in Scotland and north-east England have brought this on the party.

Certainly Keir Starmer must be shown the door. Unions demanding Labour change direction should force the parliamentary party’s hand, insisting too on a clearout of the Labour Together clique whose every act since seizing control of the party has led it to this pass.

If Labour is to stand a chance of recovery it will need to adopt radical policies that make an obvious difference to people — nationalising water and energy, cutting bills, building council houses at scale.

And if the left is to stand a chance of stopping Reform it needs to become the mass movement pushing that change.

Trade unions need to reach into the 80 per cent of workers who aren’t organised: that means putting resources into trades councils to rebuild local visibility and presence, testing new access rights to demand entry to workplaces across the country, linking with community campaigns around housing or pollution. Anti-racist work needs to be embedded in the workplace, as well as on the streets.

Our movement has all but disappeared from most working-class neighbourhoods. The far right could soon be in government as a result.

We will not stop it by flocking to whichever left-liberal outfit is currently ahead where we live, though tactical votes for these often make sense. We will only do so by rebuilding working-class power, and that starts with the unions.

Quit or Labour Will Die, MPs and Unions Tell Starmer

PM told to go after disastrous election results

Prime Minister Keir Starmer meets Labour Party members at Kingsdown Methodist Church Hall in Ealing, west London, May 8, 2026

Andrew Murray

First Minister and SNP leader John Swinney with party supporters, at the election count for the 2026 Holyrood elections, at Dewars Centre in Perth, May 8, 2026

QUIT now or Labour will die, Sir Keir Starmer was told by his own MPs today as disastrous local election results rolled in from across Britain.

Leading figures on the left called for swift change in Downing Street as Labour lost votes in all directions after two years of failed government with hundreds of council seats falling to Reform, the Greens and even the Tories.

Labour was on course to lose around 1,300 seats and control of dozens of councils, as well as being crushed in the Welsh Senedd and Scottish parliament elections. Vote-counting continues tomorrow in many areas.

Former party chair Ian Lavery said that the Prime Minister would “kill Labour” and should be replaced or “the party could cease to be in the immediate future. We cannot have stability when we’re at 16 per cent in the polls and witnessing annihilation.”

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham had the same message: “The writing is on the wall for this Labour government and it could be the beginning of the end for the party itself.

“The working class have been abandoned and have delivered their verdict. It is change or die. Now or never.”

Leading left MP Jon Trickett said Sir Keir “needs to go.

“The pride of one individual cannot be more important than the future of so many communities and councillors up and down this country,” he added.

Suspended Labour MP Diane Abbott said: “Keir Starmer is very unpopular. But it is the policies that drive that unpopularity. Simply changing the leader without changing the policies will not avert disaster in 2029.”

Poplar and Limehouse MP Apsana Begum said: “To avert the ultimate disaster of a Reform government, there needs to be a superspeed change, in both leadership and policy.”

Generally loyalist Knowsley MP Anneliese Midgley said: “Unless we see significant change very quickly it is clear that he cannot lead us into another election.”

However, Sir Keir stuck his fingers firmly in his ears and pledged to carry on as Prime Minister to the next general election, and the cabinet appeared politically paralysed.

“There’s a five-year term I was elected to do. I intend to see that through,” Sir Keir said, pledging major policy announcements imminently.

This announcement cheered the international money markets and nobody else, as voters evicted Labour from town halls it had run for decades.

The biggest winner was the hard-right Reform UK, which had gained nearly 900 seats by early evening. Leader-owner Nigel Farage said the results showed his party could win in Tory and Labour areas alike and was on course for government.

“What has happened is a truly historic shift in British politics,” he said.

However, polling expert Peter Kellner said that Reform had underperformed as against last year and that its support had “peaked.”

With around half results declared, Labour had lost 672 seats and the Tories 423, with the Greens gaining 175.

To avert the Farage menace, trade union leaders and Labour MPs were exploring ways to prise Sir Keir out of office, with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham favoured to take over — a process that would take months at least since he is not presently an MP and thus unavailable.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and a number of MPs on the party’s “soft left” are pushing for the Prime Minister to set a timetable for departing.  

One such told the New Statesman: “Rejected by the public. Increasingly rejected by his own party. If Keir truly listens to these results he will set out a date for his departure. If he doesn’t, he’ll go down in history as the man whose hubris killed the Labour Party.”

Another warned that “the party has been dominated by a small clique who have brought us to the edge of extinction.”

Unison general secretary Andrea Egan pledged resistance to attacks on public service workers by Reform-led authorities and added: “Labour faces oblivion because it is not delivering for the vast majority of people.

“What must change is not just the leader but the entire approach: only a Labour government which always puts the interests of workers before the wealthy can succeed.”

Transport union TSSA general secretary Maryam Eslamdoust said that “TSSA will now seek to work with other unions to assert our political influence at all levels of the Labour Party to try to deliver” change.

“Labour urgently needs a leadership election to allow members to pick a candidate who is much more responsive to the needs of working people and who can stop the very real danger of a far-right government coming to power,” she said.

Daniel Kebede, leader of the teachers’ union NEU, warned that “a far-right party, pledging mass detention, deportation, and hyper-austerity in public services, is on course to take the keys to No.10 — with a vote share ahead of every other party.

And Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright said there was “no credible path” for a government led by Sir Keir to recover and “he should resign.”

Suspended Labour MP Karl Turner said that “Keir Starmer is more toxic on the doorstep in East Hull than Jeremy Corbyn ever was.”

Green Party leader Zack Polanski, celebrating a range of advances for his party, summed up: “My message to Keir Starmer is that he needs to go. I think that’s the country’s message.”

And Socialist Campaign Group secretary Richard Burgon said: “It is clear that Keir has fought his last election as Labour leader and, deep down, he will know it. The party should now work towards a timetable for an orderly transition to a new leader by the end of this year.”

Miss World Africa 2025 Hasset Calls for Stronger Pan-African Mindset at ASMIS 2026

ADDIS ABABA, May 8 (ENA) — Miss World Africa 2025 and Miss World first runner-up Hasset Dereje has called on Africans to embrace authenticity, strengthen pan-African values, and take greater responsibility in telling the continent’s stories through their own perspectives and cultures.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) 2026 in Addis Ababa, Hasset stressed that changing global perceptions about Africa must begin with Africans believing in themselves and valuing their own identity.

“I think we need to work on our pan-African mindset first,” she said. “As Africans, we need to know that Africa comes first, and in order for us to change the narrative of Africa, it is very important that we first change our own perception of Africa because even us we don’t really believe in ourselves.”

Hasset reflected on her experiences representing Ethiopia on the global stage, noting that many Africans often compromise their own identity and cultural values in pursuit of Western standards.

“As Miss World Africa, going to the competition, I saw many representatives trying to be what they are not,” she said. “When it comes to being African, we Africans are the ones compromising our own values.”

According to her, African traditions, cultures, folklores, and moral values are too often viewed as backward, including by Africans themselves.

“I have traveled across Africa and different continents, and I have seen that our traditions, our cultures, our beautiful clothes, and our songs are often undermined,” she noted. “We are always compromising ourselves for others and other cultures.”

Drawing from her experience in the fashion industry, Hasset emphasized that Africa possesses unique cultural wealth that should be celebrated and promoted proudly.

“It is discouraging to see us worshiping the Western world while neglecting our own identity,” she stated. “We function best when we are ourselves.”

The digital creator stressed that authenticity remains central to reshaping Africa’s narrative globally.

“Knowing ourselves and not degrading our culture is what we need to do,” she said, urging African creators to intentionally incorporate African identity and values into every form of content they produce.

“We have to narrate our stories ourselves,” Hasset added. “We are the best storytellers for ourselves.”

Her remarks echoed broader discussions at ASMIS 2026, where influencers, policymakers, and digital creators repeatedly emphasized the importance of authentic African storytelling, responsible digital influence, and stronger continental collaboration in reshaping Africa’s image globally.

Ethiopia Spearheads Digital Hub for African Content Creators

Addis Ababa, May 8, 2026 —Ethiopia is prioritizing the development of robust digital infrastructure that empowers the next generation of digital creators and storytellers, Bereket Driba, Ethiopia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the AU and UNECA, said. 

Speaking at the inaugural African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) 2026 held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, Bereket Driba, Ethiopia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the AU and UNECA, outlined the government's vision to transform the nation into a digital gateway for the continent.

According to Bereket, the Ethiopian government is prioritizing expanded digital connectivity to help creators collaborate, innovate, and participate in public interest initiatives.

He emphasized that while creators may choose to work independently, the government is also seeking partnerships with digital influencers and content producers on national priorities, particularly in promoting Ethiopia’s tourism sector.

The nation has been actively inviting creators and supporting initiatives such as the summit, describing the effort as part of broader measures to welcome influencers and strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem, he added.

Bereket also stressed the importance of using digital influence to drive broader change across Africa. 

According to him, although many African countries enjoy political freedom, citizens should also examine whether genuine freedom is reflected in the practical use of digital platforms and influence.

The diplomat also noted that social media influencers can play a major role in shaping policy directions and advancing African integration by improving understanding among countries, enhancing cross border visibility, and supporting the aspirations of AU’s Agenda 2063.

For her part, Strategic Planning and Delivery Director at the AU Commission, Botho Kebabonye Bayendi, said Africa is entering what she described as a decade of acceleration. 

However, she warned that while policies and regional strategies designed to promote digital growth and content creation already exist, implementation by member states remains weak.

“Frameworks are there, the policies are there, we lack implementation,” Bayendi said, noting that AU level commitments often take considerable time before they are adopted nationally.

Bayendi encouraged digital creators to use the borderless nature of social media to advocate for policy implementation, arguing that digital platforms now provide easier access to AU and national leadership than traditional channels.

She further called on member states to align AU and UN policy frameworks with national development plans, stressing that the effectiveness of strategies should be measured through concrete implementation rather than repeated policy drafting.

The AU official also linked digital governance with broader governance values, saying that the treatment of outsiders, tourism management, migration, and exports should reflect a pan African approach.

She underscored the importance of data governance and protection, particularly in situations where content creators may face suspicion or have equipment confiscated under security claims that contradict regional policy commitments.

International human rights lawyer and strategic advisor Ashagrie G. Abdi said social media influencers can no longer be viewed merely as entertainers or storytellers.

According to Abdi, audiences, including policymakers, increasingly rely on influencer generated content to understand events and developments, giving creators growing influence over national and continental decision making.

He urged creators to speak honestly, including by criticizing failures where necessary, and called on institutions such as the AU to engage meaningfully with influencer communities instead of overlooking their impact.

Overall, panelists emphasized that accurate information can strengthen public trust and support development agendas, while misinformation can cause serious harm.

They described the role of digital creators as extending beyond promotion to include accountability and public interest engagement.

22 Sudanese Red Crescent Volunteers Killed During Conflict

Source: Xinhua| 2026-05-09 02:40:15|Editor: huaxia

KHARTOUM, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A total of 22 volunteers from the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) have been killed during the ongoing conflict, Mohamed Abdullah, director of the SRCS branch in Khartoum State, has said.

"Since the outbreak of the fighting, 22 SRCS volunteers have lost their lives while carrying out their humanitarian duties, and many others remain missing," said Abdullah.

Qasim Dafallah, an SRCS volunteer who worked in Khartoum, said humanitarian work has "completely changed" since the war began.

"Field teams now enter active combat zones to recover bodies and evacuate trapped civilians without real security guarantees," he said. "Sometimes we moved on foot because ambulances could not enter. We saw families trapped for days without food or medicine."

Since mid-April 2023, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces have been engaged in a war that has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions of people inside Sudan and abroad, according to international estimates. 

African Social Media Influencers Urged to Utilize Digital Diplomacy for Continental Prosperity

Source: Xinhua| 2026-05-09 01:41:45|Editor: huaxia

People attend the first African Social Media Influencers Summit in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, May 8, 2026. The first African Social Media Influencers Summit kicked off Friday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, aiming to leverage digital diplomacy to share authentic African narratives with the world. (Ethiopian News Agency/Handout via Xinhua)

ADDIS ABABA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The first African Social Media Influencers Summit kicked off Friday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, aiming to leverage digital diplomacy to share authentic African narratives with the world.

Held under the theme "Influence for a Better Africa," the summit brought together content creators and communication strategists from over 30 African countries.

Speaking at the event, Seife Deribe, chief executive officer of Ethiopian News Agency, said African social media influencers should take a more active role in reshaping global perceptions toward Africa as misinformation and outdated stereotypes continue to distort the continent's image.

Deribe urged the participants to challenge distorted representations of Africa and to promote authentic narratives that reflect the continent's progress, culture, and potential.

Ghanaian YouTuber and pan-African content creator Wode Maya echoed this sentiment, calling on Africans to take ownership of their stories. "If you want to tackle stereotypes, you don't wait for somebody to tell stories for you. You have to start telling the real stories," Maya said.

According to data presented at the summit, Africa loses up to 4.2 billion U.S. dollars annually due to distorted perceptions and narratives shaped by non-Africans.

The first African Social Media Influencers Summit also intended to promote partnerships, knowledge sharing and digital entrepreneurship through reaching more than 400 million viewers worldwide.

South African Parliament's Rejection of Report Regarding Ramaphosa Ruled Unconstitutional

Source: Xinhua| 2026-05-09 00:30:45|Editor: huaxia

People attend a rally against South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg, South Africa, May 8, 2026. South Africa's Constitutional Court on Friday ruled that the country's parliament acted unconstitutionally when it rejected an independent panel report on the Phala Phala matter involving President Cyril Ramaphosa, reopening the possibility of impeachment proceedings against the head of state. (Photo by James Blackmore/Xinhua)

JOHANNESBURG, May 8 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's Constitutional Court on Friday ruled that the country's parliament acted unconstitutionally when it rejected an independent panel report on the Phala Phala matter involving President Cyril Ramaphosa, reopening the possibility of impeachment proceedings against the head of state.

In its judgment, the country's highest court declared invalid the National Assembly's 2022 decision to halt further inquiry into allegations surrounding the theft of large sums of foreign currency from Ramaphosa's Phala Phala game farm. The court also ordered that the independent panel's report be referred back to parliament's impeachment committee for further consideration.

Speaking at Constitutional Hill in Johannesburg's Braamfontein, South African Chief Justice Mandisa Maya said "it is declared that the vote of the National Assembly taken on Dec. 13, 2022, declining to refer the report of the independent panel to an impeachment committee as envisaged in the National Assembly rules, is inconsistent with the Constitution, invalid and it is set aside."

The case was brought by opposition parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters and the African Transformation Movement, which challenged the National Assembly's refusal to advance the impeachment process.

The independent panel, chaired by former Constitutional Court judge Sandile Ngcobo, found prima facie evidence suggesting possible constitutional and legal violations by the president in relation to the Phala Phala incident.

The matter relates to the alleged theft of about 580,000 U.S. dollars from Ramaphosa's private game farm in Limpopo Province in 2020, which later sparked public controversy over whether the funds were properly declared and reported to authorities.

The panel recommended further investigation into possible breaches of the Constitution and the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act, including issues related to undeclared foreign currency and reporting obligations.

In response to the Constitutional Court's ruling, the South African Presidency issued a statement, saying that Ramaphosa respects the judgment and reaffirms his commitment to the Constitution, the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law.

China, France Shoulder Important Responsibilities for Upholding Int'l Peace, Stability, Development: Top Diplomat

By Xinhua

May 09, 2026 09:13 AM

Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, holds talks with Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic adviser to the French president, in Beijing, capital of China, May 8, 2026. (Xinhua/Dai Tianfang)

China and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council and major independent countries, shoulder important responsibilities for upholding international peace, stability and development, China's top diplomat Wang Yi said on Friday.

Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, made the remarks when holding talks with Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic adviser to the French president, in Beijing.

Noting that the strategic guidance of the two heads of state reflects the high level and special nature of bilateral relations, Wang said China stands ready to work with France to achieve greater progress in China-France cooperation and deliver more benefits to the two peoples.

China values the recent passage by the French Parliament of a bill to ease the return of colonial-era looted artifacts, and is ready to strengthen cooperation with France in this regard to enhance people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and mutual learning between civilizations, Wang said.

Against the backdrop of growing turmoil in today's world, it is necessary for both countries to strengthen strategic communication and coordination, jointly address global challenges, and advance the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership to achieve sound and steady development free from various types of interference, Wang said.

He stressed that the foundation of China-France relations lies in solid political mutual trust, and the key is mutual respect for each other's core interests. He expressed the hope that France will abide by the one-China principle in practice, refrain from any form of official interaction with Taiwan authorities, and not send any wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.

Indicating that China and Europe are always partners, not rivals, Wang said it is hoped that France will play a positive and constructive role in encouraging the EU to adopt a correct and rational perception of China and pursue a practical and open economic and trade policy toward China.

Bonne said France highly values the long-standing friendship and mutual trust between the two heads of state, adding that France fully understands the importance and sensitivity of the Taiwan question, adheres to the one-China policy, and will not change its position on this issue.

France looks forward to working closely with China to find constructive solutions to global crises, he said, adding that given the current international situation, it is crucial to maintain dialogue and cooperation between Europe and China.

Noting that the EU needs China and hopes to be mutually reliable partners with China, Bonne added that France is ready to play an active role in promoting EU-China dialogue and cooperation.

The two sides also had in-depth exchanges of views on issues of common concern, including global economic governance and the situation in the Middle East.

Manila Should Avoid Becoming a Staging Ground for Japan’s Rearmament Agenda: Philippine Scholar

By Global Times

May 09, 2026 12:46 AM

Illustration: Chen Xia/GT

Editor's Note: 

Against the backdrop of Japan's rapidly advancing military expansion and its new major arms export agreements, history inevitably comes to mind. In the annual Balikatan military exercises, meaning "shoulder-to-shoulder" in Tagalog, which concluded on Wednesday, Japan marked its first-ever full participation alongside the US and the Philippines. Japan's combat troops that once invaded the Philippines as aggressors are now returning as so-called close partners. What concerns do Filipinos harbor over these developments? And how should one view the Philippines' simultaneous cooperation with both China and Japan? Rommel Banlaoi (Banlaoi), president of the Philippine Society for International Security Studies and director of the Philippines-China Studies Center at Diliman College, shared his views with Global Times (GT) reporter Wang Zixuan.

GT: A series of recent military actions by Japan, including expanding long-range strike capabilities, approving a record defense budget and lifting restrictions on the export of lethal weapons, have drawn widespread attention. From the perspectives of the Philippines and Southeast Asia, what concerns do you have about these moves?

Banlaoi: This is a seismic shift that resonates deeply in Philippine history. For many Filipinos, the sight of Japanese soldiers on Philippine soil still evokes the painful memories borne by survivors and their families from World War II, when Japan's military presence signified occupation and exploitation. At present, however, Tokyo arrives as a "partner" in collective security. 

This transformation is far from merely symbolic. It reflects Japan's accelerating neo-militarism, the normalization of its military role in the region, and its growing ambition to project power across the "Indo-Pacific." It is therefore imperative for the Philippines to navigate this development with the utmost strategic prudence.

GT: For the first time, more than 1,000 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force troops joined the Balikatan military exercise in the Philippines. What's your take on this?

Banlaoi: Japan's involvement in this year's Balikatan is expected to reinforce the Philippines' deterrence posture. Yet cooperation with Japan must be carefully managed. Tokyo's strategic ambitions, closely aligned with Washington's "Indo-Pacific" agenda, inevitably seek to draw the Philippines further into their security architecture. It is therefore essential for Manila to avoid becoming a staging ground for Japan's rearmament agenda, even when such an arrangement is cloaked in the language of partnership and mutual defense.

Japan's combat role in Balikatan is not merely a military exercise - it is a clear signal of shifting power dynamics across the "Indo-Pacific." For the Philippines, the strategic imperative is to transform this consequential moment into an opportunity for principled and balanced diplomacy.

GT: How can the Philippines maintain strategic balance amid Japan's constant wooing? 

Banlaoi: The central challenge for Manila is to pursue strategic balance. While Japan's support is indispensable for building the Philippines' defense capabilities, Manila must simultaneously work to stabilize and sustain its relations with China.

China is not only the dominant power in the South China Sea. It also remains the Philippines' largest trading partner and a critical source of foreign direct investment. Tilting too heavily toward Japan and the US risks escalating tensions with China and undermining the Philippines' capacity to pursue a peaceful resolution of maritime disputes. Stabilizing relations with China is not an act of submission - it is a rational strategic choice born of geopolitical reality.

A balanced approach ensures that Philippine sovereignty is protected without sacrificing the economic opportunities that China provides - a country that, at present, is registering remarkable economic achievements. More importantly, a balanced foreign policy advances Philippine security by shielding the country from being drawn into the crossfire of great-power rivalry.

The Philippines should strengthen ASEAN-led mechanisms to ensure that Southeast Asia does not become a theater of great-power competition. At the same time, defense cooperation with Japan must be framed with historical sensitivity - honestly acknowledging the wounds of the past while deliberately building the trust required for the future for final healing. Finally, Manila must pursue robust economic diplomacy with China, ensuring that security partnerships do not overshadow the country's economic priorities.

China Firmly Opposes Groundless Accusations and Malicious Smears, FM Spokesperson Says After Norway Reportedly Arrests Chinese on Spying Allegations

By Global Times

May 08, 2026 03:49 PM

Photo: Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Friday that he was "not aware of the specific situation," when asked by a foreign reporter to comment on an Associated Press report that Norwegian police had arrested a Chinese citizen on espionage charges for allegedly attempting to set up a receiver to collect sensitive satellite data.

"China firmly opposes any groundless accusations and malicious smears against China, and believes that Norway will effectively protect the lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens," Lin said at the regular press conference.

Global Times

Mali Attacked by Western-backed Rebels 

Several major cities and towns have been severely impacted in joint attacks by separatists and jihadists from the north to the south of the West African state

By Abayomi Azikiwe, Editor, Pan-African News Wire

Wednesday May 6, 2026

Geostrategic Analysis

On April 25, hundreds of armed rebels conducted attacks against the Malian military and government resulting in the deaths of Minister of Defense General Sadio Camara along with other officials and civilians.

These incursions across the country were by no means surprising in light of the ongoing security crisis in Mali and throughout the entire Sahel region.

The Tuareg people in northern Mali have been in conflict with the Malian government since the early days of independence during the 1960s. The Tuaregs are scattered across several West and North African states including Mali, Niger, Algeria, Libya and Burkina Faso. 

They are categorized as a Berber-speaking group which has a recorded presence in Northwest Africa for more than two thousand years. Due to the character of French colonialism, divisions between the Tuaregs and other Malian groups carried over after national independence in 1960.

There are Tuareg organizations which continue to demand autonomy or separation. However, they are not recognized as an independent entity by any international body such as the United Nations and the African Union (AU).

The Islamist rebels known as the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) have found a base for recruitment among the Tuaregs in northern Mali. In the most recent episode of fighting, the JNIM has linked up with a coalition of Tuareg groups labeled as the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). 

Mali and other Sahel states have been profoundly affected by the rebel attacks. The military coups since 2020 in Mali as well as Niger and Burkina Faso were prompted by the failure of civilian regimes along with their French and U.S. military allies to curb the actions by groups like the JNIM and the FLA.

Mali is a member of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) which was formed amid earlier threats to militarily intervene by the former colonial power of France and its continuing allies in the region. Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso had been suspended from membership in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a formerly 15-member grouping established initially in 1975.

The rationale for their suspension was related to the refusal to return these governments to what is described as “civilian rule.” Yet, all of these heads-of-state which maintained control in these landlocked countries were allied with France, the United States and other NATO countries.

Under the guise of providing security for the Sahel states, two formations were established by France. Operation Barkhane and the G5 Sahel were ostensibly designed to fight rebel incursions by separatists and jihadists. In addition, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) formed in early 2008, has played a role in West Africa as well. Nonetheless, the presence of these NATO states working in conjunction with governments and their militaries in the region has done absolutely nothing to create a more stable atmosphere in the ECOWAS and AES states. 

Turning Towards the Russian Federation

These AES governments turned to the Russian Federation as an alternative to working with Paris and Washington. Since 2023, these states have been under grave threats by the imperialists and their surrogates.

It was revealed as early as June 2024 that the Ukraine government, a proxy of U.S. imperialism, had been working closely with the rebels in Mali prompting a severing of diplomatic relations between Bamako and Kiev. The right-wing government in Ukraine wants to join NATO and the European Union (EU). 

In regard to the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, Ukraine is on the side of Tel Aviv and Washington irrespective of the worldwide condemnation of the imperialist-zionist aggression. Thousands of people have been killed in the bombings of Iran and Lebanon during the unprovoked operation “Epic Fury” and the later “Project Freedom” launched on February 28. 

Moreover, in the Gaza region of Palestine, there have been at least 70,000 Palestinians killed by the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) since October 2023. Demonstrations have occurred internationally denouncing the genocide being carried out against the Palestinians. 

Despite the worldwide solidarity with the Palestinians and Lebanese people, Washington and Tel Aviv have refused to halt their genocidal wars. The Republic of South Africa filed a lawsuit in late 2023 against the apartheid regime in Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the highest legal body within the United Nations. Within a month, the South African lawsuit received a positive ruling from the ICJ jurists. The court ruled that South African charges of genocide against the Palestinians were plausible. Nonetheless, nothing has been done by the U.S. and Israel to ameliorate the situation in Gaza.

Consequently, the Ukrainians, working alongside the rebels, are seeking to destabilize and destroy the governments and resources of the people of the AES. Mali has gold and uranium resources which could be utilized to improve the social conditions of the people inside the country. Burkina Faso is also rich in gold while Niger is a major source of uranium.

In a report published by the Associated Press in 2024, it emphasized:

“Mali’s government is cutting diplomatic ties with Ukraine over allegations that Kyiv aided an attack last month by armed groups in the West African country in which Malian soldiers and Russian mercenaries suffered heavy losses. Mali’s government spokesman, Col. Abdoulaye Maiga, said in a statement Sunday that the decision to immediately cut ties was prompted by comments from a Ukrainian official indicating his country’s involvement in the insurgency in Mali. Ukrainian military intelligence agency spokesman Andriy Yusov last week told Ukrainian broadcaster Suspilne that armed groups in Mali had received ‘all the necessary information they needed’ from Kyiv to conduct the July attack. Dozens of Russia’s Wagner mercenaries and Malian soldiers were killed by jihadis and rebels in July in northern Mali, in what one analyst described as the largest battleground blow to the Wagner group in years.” (https://apnews.com/article/mali-ukraine-wagner-junta-embassy-rebel-russia-senegal-a471c7332369d154af57ad0816fb3504)

The Wagner Group has been phased out and replaced by the Africa Corps which is under the control of the government in Moscow. The Africa Corps has been working with the AES countries to ensure their safety while they embark upon development projects to reverse the underdevelopment engendered by neo-colonialism. 

Economic Status and Political Instability

The AES countries have been negatively impacted by the domination exercised by the world capitalist system over their national and regional economies. Neo-colonialism has not increased the national income and societal development.

Since its break with France and the U.S., there has been economic growth in Mali. Nonetheless, the attacks carried out by the rebel groupings are undoubtedly hampering development which could further drive down the rates of poverty and deprivation.

In a World Bank report on the human development index in Mali, it notes that:

“Poverty incidence in Mali has remained high and stable, averaging around 45 percent since 2011. The ongoing conflict has been devastating, resulting in significant loss of life and mass displacement. The scale of displacement has fluctuated with the intensity of the conflict, with nearly 400,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) currently recorded as of 2024, according to UNHCR. Over time, as many as 855,000 people have been displaced and subsequently returned. Remarkably, agricultural production has shown resilience to the conflict. Cultivated areas of key crops have remained stable, even in regions where agricultural production is vulnerable to disruption. This resilience is evident in rice cultivation in the Niger Delta and cotton production.” (https://documents.worldbank.org/en/publication/documents-reports/documentdetail/099709004212596601)

Consequently, the western hostility towards Mali and other AES governments will continue until there is greater unity with other states in the region. As long as the divisions between those who remain in ECOWAS and others such as the AES which are seeking greater sovereignty and genuine economic independence continue, the economic growth and development will remain stalled.

Obviously, the unity and development of Africa cannot proceed under neo-colonialism. These states can only advance if a program of socialist transformation is enacted.