Catherine Connolly, an independent member of the Irish parliament (TD), has been elected as the 10th President of the Republic of Ireland following a historic landslide victory. Connolly secured an unprecedented 914,143 first preference votes, accounting for 63% of the total votes cast, the highest in Irish presidential election history. Her triumph was officially announced on Saturday evening at Dublin Castle, where she defeated Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys. Outgoing President Michael D. Higgins congratulated Connolly, describing the day as “momentous” and pledging his office’s “full support” ahead of her inauguration on November 11. However, the election also saw a record 213,738 spoiled votes, nearly 13% of the total, prompting calls for reflection on voter dissatisfaction and the limited candidate choices. Humphreys garnered 29% of first preference votes, while Fianna Fáil’s Jim Gavin, who withdrew from the race but remained on the ballot, secured 7%. BBC NI’s Dublin correspondent, Gabija Gataveckaite, noted that the high number of spoiled ballots sends a clear message to the government about the electorate’s discontent. Tánaiste Simon Harris acknowledged the issue, emphasizing the need for “soul searching” after a 46% voter turnout. Connolly, a TD since 2016, was supported by major left-wing parties, including Sinn Féin, Labour, the Social Democrats, People Before Profit, and the Greens. Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald expressed confidence that Connolly’s victory could pave the way for a left-wing coalition in the next general election. During her campaign, Connolly positioned herself as a proponent of a united Ireland, advocating for a border poll during her seven-year presidency. McDonald echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism that Connolly’s tenure would see significant progress toward this goal.
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Commemoration reaffirms Taiwan as part of China, Lin
In a significant gathering marking the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration to China, Justin Lin Yifu, former chief economist of the World Bank and dean of the Institute of New Structural Economics at Peking University, emphasized the importance of the commemoration. ‘This event not only honors the historical achievements but also reaffirms that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China,’ Lin stated. The ceremony, held in Beijing, was attended by numerous dignitaries and featured an exhibition showcasing the history of Taiwan compatriots’ resistance against Japanese aggression. The event also highlighted various cultural and historical activities across China, including ceremonies in Liaoning to commemorate CPV martyrs and the early opening of the ski season in Zhangjiakou. The commemoration serves as a reminder of the enduring bond between Taiwan and the mainland, urging the younger generation to remember their roots and the shared history that unites them.
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Taiwan youth urged to remember root
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Year-long funeral ceremony starts for Thailand’s former queen Sirikit
Thailand has embarked on a solemn year-long funeral ceremony for its former Queen Sirikit, who passed away at the age of 93. Revered as the ‘Mother of the Nation,’ her birthday was celebrated as Thailand’s Mothers’ Day. The ceremony began on Sunday, with her remains being transported to Bangkok’s Grand Palace, where she will lie in state for a year before her cremation. The royal family holds a semi-divine status in Thailand, with their images adorning public spaces and private homes across the country. Digital billboards in Bangkok displayed towering black tributes, and citizens were urged to wear dark clothing and refrain from public celebrations. Queen Sirikit, the wife of Thailand’s longest-reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and mother of the current King Vajiralongkorn, was known for her dual role as a fashion icon and a compassionate maternal figure. Her influence extended beyond Thailand, with Western media drawing parallels to former US First Lady Jackie Kennedy. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul postponed his departure to an ASEAN summit to witness the funeral procession but later endorsed a peace deal with Cambodia. US President Donald Trump expressed his condolences on social media. Sirikit’s legacy includes her glamorous public appearances in the 1960s and her dedication to visiting rural communities. Her health had declined in recent years, leading to her hospitalization since 2019. The nation mourns the loss of a beloved figure who played a pivotal role in Thailand’s history.
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England beats New Zealand by 8 wickets in Women’s Cricket World Cup, finishes second in league phase
In a decisive match at the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup, England secured an eight-wicket victory over New Zealand, marking the end of Sophie Devine’s ODI career. New Zealand, opting to bat first, struggled against England’s bowling attack, with left-arm spinner Linsey Smith claiming 3-30. The White Ferns were bowled out for 168 runs in 38.2 overs, with Georgia Plimmer top-scoring at 43 and Devine contributing 23 in her final ODI appearance. England’s response was led by opener Amy Jones, who remained unbeaten at 86, guiding her team to 172-2 in just 29.2 overs. England’s dominant performance secured them second place in the league, setting up a semifinal clash with South Africa. New Zealand, finishing sixth, bid an emotional farewell to Devine, who received a guard of honor from both teams. Meanwhile, rain disrupted the India-Bangladesh game in Navi Mumbai, delaying the start and reducing the match to 43 overs per side.
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‘Dream realised’: Youngest Asian nation East Timor now Asean’s 11th member after 14-year wait
East Timor, Asia’s youngest nation, has officially become the 11th member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) after a 14-year wait. The historic moment was marked during the opening of the ASEAN annual summit in Kuala Lumpur, where East Timor’s flag was raised amidst applause from regional leaders. Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao described the occasion as a ‘dream realised’ and a ‘new beginning’ that promises ‘immense opportunities’ for trade and investment. East Timor, also known as Timor-Leste, is one of Asia’s poorest nations, with a fledgling economy valued at approximately $2 billion, a stark contrast to ASEAN’s collective GDP of $3.8 trillion. The country’s accession to ASEAN is seen as a symbolic victory for its leaders, including President Jose Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Gusmao, who played pivotal roles in the nation’s struggle for independence. Ramos-Horta, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, first proposed the idea of joining ASEAN in the 1970s, envisioning regional integration as a pathway to stability and growth. Despite its modest economic contribution, East Timor aims to leverage its unique experiences in conflict resolution to strengthen ASEAN’s mechanisms, particularly in addressing disputes over borders and the South China Sea. The country’s journey to ASEAN membership underscores its resilience and determination to forge a brighter future within the regional bloc.
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Lassie and Lost in Space actress June Lockhart dies aged 100
June Lockhart, the celebrated actress renowned for her iconic roles in television series such as *Lassie* and *Lost in Space*, has passed away at the age of 100. The veteran performer died peacefully of natural causes at her Santa Monica residence on Thursday, as confirmed by a family spokesperson. Lockhart’s illustrious career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on both stage and screen. Born on June 25, 1925, in New York City, she made her cinematic debut at just 13 years old in the 1938 film *A Christmas Carol*, sharing the screen with her parents, esteemed actors Kathleen and Gene Lockhart. Her Broadway breakthrough came in the 1940s with her ‘enchanting’ performance in *For Love or Money*, earning her a Tony Award, a Donaldson Award, and the Associated Press citation for Woman of the Year for Drama. Lockhart’s portrayal of Ruth Martin in *Lassie* during the late 1950s and 1960s solidified her status as a household name, garnering her an Emmy nomination. She further captivated audiences as the nurturing mother in the science-fiction classic *Lost in Space* from 1965 to 1968. Even in her later years, Lockhart remained active, lending her voice to a 2021 Netflix remake of *Lost in Space*. A lifelong enthusiast of current events, she remained engaged with the world, reading the *New York Times* and *LA Times* daily until her final days. She is survived by her two daughters, including Anne Lockhart, who followed in her mother’s footsteps as an actress.
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Malaysian expert: Success of China-US trade talks lies in restoring communication
The ongoing China-US trade talks in Kuala Lumpur are being closely watched, but their success hinges not on achieving major breakthroughs but on restoring effective communication between the two economic giants, according to Ong Tee Keat, president of the Belt and Road Initiative Caucus for the Asia-Pacific and former Malaysian transport minister. Ong emphasized that Malaysia’s role as the host underscores the potential of Global South nations to act as mediators in high-stakes international diplomacy, rather than merely passive participants. He highlighted the importance of dialogue in resolving tensions and fostering cooperation between the world’s largest economies. The talks, held in Kuala Lumpur, symbolize Malaysia’s growing influence in global affairs and its ability to facilitate constructive engagement between major powers. Ong’s insights reflect a broader shift in international relations, where emerging economies are increasingly playing pivotal roles in shaping global dynamics.
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47th ASEAN Summit kicks off in Malaysia
The 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit officially began in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Sunday, October 26, 2025. The event, themed ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability,’ marks a pivotal moment for regional cooperation and development. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, serving as the ASEAN Chair for 2025, addressed the opening ceremony, emphasizing the challenges posed by rising geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties. He underscored ASEAN’s resilience, rooted in mutual respect and collective reasoning, which continues to unite its member states. A significant milestone of the summit was the formal admission of Timor-Leste as the 11th member of ASEAN, celebrated through the signing of a declaration. Over the next three days, leaders will engage in discussions aimed at strengthening regional integration, fostering economic growth, and enhancing connectivity within the ASEAN community. Established in 1967, ASEAN comprises Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and now Timor-Leste.
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Rebel group claims capture of Sudan army headquarters in key city
The Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has claimed a significant victory in the nation’s ongoing civil war by capturing the army headquarters in the besieged city of el-Fasher. This marks a pivotal moment in the conflict, as el-Fasher was the last major stronghold of government forces in the Darfur region. The RSF announced on social media that it had destroyed large military vehicles and seized equipment at the 6th Division Headquarters, a claim corroborated by BBC Verify through verified videos showing RSF fighters inside the base. The loss of this strategic location deals a severe blow to the Sudanese army, which has yet to issue a formal response. The RSF has surrounded el-Fasher for 18 months, subjecting the city to relentless bombardment and trapping an estimated 300,000 civilians. Satellite imagery from August revealed extensive earthen walls constructed around the city, effectively trapping residents. Hunger and disease have spread rapidly due to dwindling food and medical supplies. The RSF has been accused by UN investigators of committing crimes against humanity, with the US alleging genocide against Darfur’s non-Arab population. Since the conflict began in 2023, over 150,000 people have died, and 12 million have been displaced, creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The RSF now controls nearly all of Darfur and much of the Kordofan region, with plans to establish a rival government in el-Fasher. The Sudanese army retains control over northern and eastern regions, but its grip on Darfur has effectively ended. The situation in el-Fasher remains dire, with civilians enduring unimaginable suffering as the conflict escalates.