MORNIGN NEWS BRIEF [May 18, 2021]

HOT NEWS

1. The U.S. has repeatedly blocked UNSC statements that aimed to condemn Israel’s military response and called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Source: Al Jazeera
2. Czech Republic and the U.S. have been placed on Russian government-endorsed list of unfriendly states due to their unfriendly actions and hostility against Russia. Source: TASS
3. Turkish Parliament asked the Iceland counterpart to oppose the draft resolution on the issues of the 1951 Armenain event as it was drafted on groundless allegations. Source: Anadolu Agency

WORLD

1. French president said he would work with Egypt and Jordan on a concrete proposal for a ceasefire and a possible path of discussions between Israel and Palestine. Source: Euro News
2. Israeli army launched artillery forces fire towards Lebanon in response to rocket attacks from the neighboring countries that failed to hit Jewish state. Source: France 24
3. President Joe Biden will send at least 20 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine abroad which is the first time the U.S. is sharing vaccines authorized for domestic use. Source: CNA

REGIONS

1. China and Italy counterparts pledged to strengthen their bilateral relations and sought to advance China-EU relations as parts of the efforts to solve global challenges. Source: China.org.cn
2. Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei issued a joint statement to condemn Israel’s attacks on Gaza and described the move as inhumane, colonial and apartheid. Source: SCMP
3. President Moon will meet with President Biden at the White House to discuss ways for South Korea to engage with the Quad and address the policies toward China. Source: Nikkei Asian Review

CAMBODIA

1. PM Hun Sen urged national and international development partners and the private sector to continue supporting families in Cambodia in an effort to help eradicate poverty. Source: The Phnom Penh Post
2. Phnom Penh Municipal Court began the trial of former CNRP activists yesterday after they gathered in front of Chinese Embassy asking China to respect the Paris Peace Agreement. Source: Khmer Times
3. As of May 16, the vaccination campaign against COVID-19 covered nearly 21 percent of its target as the Kingdom planned to have at least ten million people vaccinated. Source: AKP