U.S. plans to open embassy in South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu
The Hindu
The U.S. plans to open an embassy in the South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, the State Department said on March 31, as Washington seeks to counter China’s growing influence in the region.
The U.S. plans to open an embassy in the South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, the State Department said on March 31, as Washington seeks to counter China’s growing influence in the region.
“Consistent with the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy, a permanent diplomatic presence in Vanuatu would allow the U.S. Government to deepen relationships with Ni-Vanuatu officials and society,” the department said in a statement.
The U.S. currently has diplomatic relations with Vanuatu, which has a population of 3,19,000 spread across 80 islands, but does not have an embassy.
Flash floods in Afghanistan kill 17, injure 11, and affect 1,800 families, damaging infrastructure and worsening humanitarian conditions.
Kim Jong Un praises North Korean troops in Russia, celebrating their alliance and urging bravery in a New Year's message.
From fireworks and street parties to quiet prayers and moments of remembrance, countries across the globe rang in New Year 2026 in strikingly different ways. Celebrations lit up cities from Pyongyang, Seoul and Beijing to Sydney, Rio, London and New York, while others marked the moment with tradition, reflection and tribute. A look at how the world ushered in the New Year as clocks struck midnight across continents.
Iran executed over 1,500 people in 2025, marking a 35-year high, according to the Iran Human Rights group.
Xi Jinping praises China's tech advancements and reaffirms intentions to annex Taiwan in his New Year’s Eve address.
Shorts News:Watch: Italians dive into Rome’s freezing Tiber to welcome the New Year
Explore tragic nightclub and bar fires throughout history, highlighting devastating incidents and their significant loss of life.
Shorts News:Watch: Historic Amsterdam church engulfed in flames over New Year’s
Sri Lanka Navy honors foreign vessels, including Indian ships, for vital disaster assistance after Cyclone Ditwah's devastation.
Tarique Rahman expresses deep gratitude to dignitaries and supporters for their presence at Khaleda Zia's funeral in Dhaka.
Switzerland bar fire LIVE: Follow The Hindu's LIVE updates as a fire in bar in Swiss Alps has left several dead, injured 100 during New Year's celebrations.
Bulgaria adopts the euro, ending the lev's long history, amid mixed public reactions and hopes for economic stability.
Australia expresses disappointment over China's new 55% beef tariffs, warning of significant trade impacts worth over AU$1 billion.