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Asia
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Sport
Judo: Strong start for the hosts in Astana
The Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam opened in style in Astana, with packed stands and top-level judo. Sukhbat Byambasuren, Amber Gersjes, Blandine Pont, Abdurakhim Nutfulloev and Faiza Mokdar all took gold, while Kazakhstan celebrated two medals on day one.
Indonesia
Indonesia volcano eruption kills three hikers on Mount Dukono
Mount Dukono erupted in North Halmahera, Indonesia, sending a massive ash cloud 10 kilometres into the sky. Three hikers, including two foreigners, were killed and 10 remain missing. Rescue teams are searching for 20 people affected near the volcano, officials said.
Business
Iraq announces huge oil find near Saudi border as Hormuz crisis bites
Iraq has the fifth largest proven oil reserves in the world, estimated at 145 billion barrels, representing about 17% of total Middle Eastern reserves and around 9% of global reserves, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).
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Economy
Pacific economies face slower growth amid energy market pressure
Rising fuel and fertiliser import costs are placing growing pressure on economies across Asia and the Pacific, especially small island states that rely heavily on imports. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) says governments are accelerating energy transition and resilience measures in response.
Markets
Oil drops below $100 while markets rise as US and Iran near a deal
Brent crude has fallen below $100 a barrel while Asian markets reached new all-time highs and European stocks rose at the open on reports that the US and Iran are nearing a deal for the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran
Fire at commercial complex near Tehran kills 11 and injures dozens
Iranian media reported on Wednesday that a fire at a shopping centre near the capital left 11 people dead and dozens of others injured. The prosecutor's office has called for an investigation into the incident to identify possible culprits, state-run media reported.
Azerbaijan
Kallas visits Baku to advance 'strategic partnership' with Azerbaijan
The EU's High Representative Kaja Kallas met Azerbaijan’s leadership in Baku for talks to advance what she called “our strategic interest” in connectivity between the EU, the South Caucasus and Central Asia, and to contribute to the regional peace process.