Taiwan’s Path Forward Lies in Reunification: A Historical, Political, and Global Perspective

by Kirtan Bhana - TDS

22 April 2025

The advantages of being part of a unified and peaceful China are abundantly clear, particularly for the people of Taiwan. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has offered consistent opportunities for economic prosperity, cultural flourishing, and regional stability under the framework of reunification. With China's rapid development, Taiwan stands to benefit immensely from deeper integration, cooperation, and the restoration of historical unity. However, the current political trajectory in Taiwan, led by the minority Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), threatens to derail these prospects, lured by misguided promises of protection and autonomy from Western powers—especially the United States—whose motivations are rooted more in geopolitical rivalry than in genuine concern for the island’s future.

Venezuela and South Africa strengthen Diplomatic relations and Solidarity 

by Kirtan Bhana - TDS

22 April 2025

On 14 April 2002 the people of Venezuela reinstated the democratically elected Presidency of Hugo Chávez after a failed coup d'état. The coup was widely understood to be tied to control over Venezuela’s oil industry, which Chávez had moved to nationalize and use for social development. This most sought after oil resource, of which Venezuela has the highest reserve of any other country in the world, has been both a blessing and the reason for the unintended challenges that this nation of 28 million people face on a daily basis.

Bridging Continents Through Education and Diplomacy: Prof. Anil Sooklal’s Dynamic Role in South Africa–India Relations

By Kirtan Bhana

22 April 2025

In a significant nod to the power of diplomacy in shaping global education and development, Professor Anil Sooklal, South Africa’s High Commissioner to India was honoured with the Diplomatic Excellence in Education and Development Award by the Confederation of Indian Universities. The accolade, jointly presented by premier institutions such as the World Academy of Higher Education and Development and the International Association Educators for World Peace, is reserved for diplomats whose contributions go beyond the ordinary—those who champion peace, sustainability, and cross-continental cooperation in meaningful and lasting ways.

India and Africa Strengthen Maritime Bonds through Empowerment and Strategic Cooperation

22 April 2025
TDS/PIB

Sailing towards shared horizons the ceremonial flag-off of INSV Tarini from Cape Town on 15 April 2025 marked more than just the final leg of an extraordinary circumnavigation mission; it symbolized the strength, resilience, and maritime resurgence of the Global South—led by the empowered women of India and embraced by African solidarity. As Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa A embarked on their final stretch back to Goa, their presence in South Africa became a testament to India’s commitment to gender equality, indigenous innovation, and growing oceanic cooperation with Africa.

Hollywood's fading charm in China -- and why U.S. tariffs are making it worse

by Xinhua writer Zhang Yunlong

BEIJING, 17 April 2025 (Xinhua) -- Once the king of China's silver screen, Hollywood now finds itself sidelined, as local blockbusters surge and Washington's tariffs against the rest of the world add fuel to shifting audience sentiment.

Chinese economy firms up recovery in Q1, ready to navigate uncertainties

 * China's economy started 2025 on solid footing, bolstered by a structural shift toward domestic demand and innovation, positioning the country to better weather global uncertainties.
 * China has made thorough policy preparations to address external changes, as a series of targeted marco policies have already taken effects and more incremental policies will be introduced as needed to mitigate external shocks.
 * China has been steadily advancing structural upgrading and high-quality development, with its growth model shifting fundamentally from one driven by investment and exports to one increasingly powered by domestic demand and innovation. 

Xi says looking forward to cementing friendship, promoting cooperation with Cambodia

PHNOM PENH, 17 April 2025 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said here on Thursday he looks forward to cementing friendship and promoting cooperation with Cambodia. He made the remarks in a written statement upon his arrival in Phnom Penh for a state visit to Cambodia. Xi was warmly welcomed by Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, Cambodian People's Party President and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen and other senior officials at the airport during a grand welcome ceremony held by the king.

Lamola participates in Delphi Economic Forum 

15 April 2025

South Africa, through its Embassy in Greece, is committed to advancing its bilateral and multilateral relations with the Hellenic Republic. The Embassy was honoured to host the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, during a successful working visit to Greece on 12 April 2025. The Minister also had a courtesy meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister of the Hellenic Republic, Mr Kostas Hatzidakis on the margins of the Delphi Economic Forum, hosted by Mr Symeon Tsomokos.