‘Opportunistic’: experts weigh Manila’s minilateral agenda ahead of Trump-Xi meeting

South China Morning Post - Oct 23, 2026

The Philippines’ dual push for stronger “minilateral” defence links and a more robust Asean security role is dividing analysts, with one calling the move “opportunistic”. Some experts view Manila’s advocacy for the “Squad” alliance as a strategic opportunity to deepen core security partnerships while chairing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Others question how much actual weight is carried by this informal defence grouping – comprising the United States, the Philippines, Japan and...

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US midterm elections: New Hampshire voters face last-minute shake-up as Supreme Court blocks student IDs weeks before voters head to polls
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The Supreme Court has officially ruled that student IDs will not be accepted for voting purposes in New Hampshire. This decision is in light of a law signed by Governor Kelly Ayotte, which disqualified student IDs as valid identification for voters. A federal judge had previously acknowledged student IDs as sufficient alongside other verification methods.

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Oct 23, 2026
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The Nifty 50 closed 0.39% lower at 22,600, after hitting an intraday low of 22,372; Sensex fell 125.56 points to 73,123.83, after trading between 72,452 and 73,766

Jio IPO becomes first public issue globally to cross 1 crore applications; record puts spotlight on depth of India’s retail investor base
Oct 23, 2026
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Jio Platforms has achieved a remarkable milestone, garnering over one crore applications for its upcoming initial public offering. This surge signifies a burgeoning interest from India's retail investors in technology sectors. With the IPO set to debut on October 28, maintaining this enthusiasm is crucial. The communication strategies employed mirror those found in consumer marketing, urging potential investors to evaluate their financial objectives carefully before engaging with the IPO.

NASA may make a big announcement on Moon mission today. Here's what we know
Oct 23, 2026
NASA may make a big announcement on Moon mission today. Here's what we know

NASA is preparing for a press conference to share important updates on the Artemis program. The focus will be on the upcoming Artemis III mission and its objectives. Additionally, details regarding future lunar landings under Artemis IV are expected to be unveiled. NASA aims to return astronauts to the Moon by 2028, exploring the lunar south pole for scientific research.

India became third-largest exporter of arms to Europe: Defence Secretary RK Singh
Oct 23, 2026
India became third-largest exporter of arms to Europe: Defence Secretary RK Singh

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In 1841, Squire Whipple found a cheaper way to build long iron bridges; more than 100 of his designs later crossed America's canals and growing railroad lines
Oct 23, 2026
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Oct 23, 2026
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Polish PM Tusk seeks deeper tech, AI and space ties with India
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Polish PM Tusk seeks deeper tech, AI and space ties with India
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UK man becomes millionaire after discovering rare Pokemon card collection in his attic worth nearly Rs 19 crore
Oct 23, 2026
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