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Eritrea

The latest news, analysis and opinion on Eritrea. In-depth analysis, industry insights and expert opinion.

Capital

Asmara

Head of State

President Isaias Afwerki

Head of Government

President Isaias Afwerki

A container ship crosses the Suez Canal towards the Red Sea in 2023. Cargo ships have largely avoided the area in recent years due to attacks by Houthi rebel groups. Photo: EPA-EFE

China trade

Explainer | The return of Red Sea shipping: 3 scenarios for Chinese trade

Houthi rebels have signalled a halt in attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, allowing a possible end to costly detours.

5 Dec 2025 - 1:04AMvideocam

United States

US pauses all immigration applications from 19 countries

3 Dec 2025 - 10:16AM

Europe’s refugee crisis

UK’s Farage unveils plan to deport asylum seekers, warns of ‘civil disorder’

27 Aug 2025 - 1:40PM

United States

Trump’s new travel ban takes effect, citizens of 12 nations barred from US

Ban comes amid rising tensions over the US president’s escalating campaign of immigration enforcement.

9 Jun 2025 - 2:17PMvideocam

Africa

Africa warns Trump travel ban could dampen relations

Seven African nations are among 12 countries targeted by the US, with the African Union asking for ‘a more consultative approach’ and ‘constructive dialogue’.

6 Jun 2025 - 5:47PM

Donald Trump

Trump bans nationals from 12 countries entering US, citing security concerns

Afghanistan, Haiti, Myanmar among 12 nations facing outright entry ban; seven additional countries to face heightened scrutiny.

5 Jun 2025 - 5:23PM

China-Africa relations

China hosts delegation of 100 African military officers to strengthen ties

Young and mid-career African officers from 40 countries will be trained in PLA basics, China’s military system and technology models.

10 May 2025 - 10:19PM

The young and mid-career African military officers are in China to visit top military academies around the country. Photo: The National University of Defence Technology

South China Sea

Chinese scholars urged to ‘construct narratives’ to defend South China Sea claim

China faces ‘an increasingly arduous battle’ to win over public opinion in the disputed waters, speakers tell an academic seminar in Hainan.

30 Jun 2024 - 6:00AMvideocam

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Japan

As Japan slips down press freedom scoreboard, is its compliant media to blame?

Japan ranked the lowest among G7 nations in Reporters Without Borders’ 2024 World Press Freedom Index. Observers say it’s because the country’s media has been shaped into a ‘good servant’ of the political class.

7 May 2024 - 12:00PMvideocam

China trade

Chinese firms in Africa all at sea amid Red Sea crisis, rising shipping costs

Houthi militants have launched attacks in the Red Sea shipping lanes, increasing costs and disrupting production for Chinese firms in East Africa.

21 Feb 2024 - 4:51PMvideocam

Chinese foreign direct investment in Africa has grown steadily from US$75 million in 2003 to US$5 billion in 2021, according to the China Africa Research Initiative at Johns Hopkins University. Photo: Bloomberg

US-China relations

China is facing more overseas security risks in year of elections, report says

With more than 60 countries heading to the polls – including the US, Russia and India – expect a ‘new phase in the geopolitical game’, according to Chinese think tank.

26 Jan 2024 - 5:21PMvideocam

This year’s election calendar is packed, with more than 60 countries heading to the ballot box. Photo: Shutterstock Images

Middle East

Asian exporters face more Red Sea risks after US-led attacks on Houthis

Shipments of spare parts for goods such as electronic goods and cars from Asia to Europe have already been affected by the conflict in recent weeks.

23 Jan 2024 - 6:00PMvideocam

Israel-Gaza war

Opinion | China and India have a duty to act on Houthi threat to global shipping

While the lukewarm responses to the US-led counter-attacks are understandable, the major powers must rise above their divisions to protect a global good – safe passage for the world’s ships and their crew.

17 Jan 2024 - 5:30AMvideocam

War and conflict

Red Sea risks could push oil prices up as Asia feels pinch of cargo delays

The tensions have ratcheted up war premiums on shipping freight, with many taking longer journeys after being diverted from the troubled Red Sea route.

16 Jan 2024 - 6:33PMvideocam

A cargo ship travels on the Suez Canal in Ismailia Province, Egypt, January 13, 2024. Photo: Xinhua

China-Africa relations

Amid brewing diplomatic storm in the Red Sea, China is unlikely to take sides

Analysts say Beijing is expected to stay out of a row over a controversial port deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland.

14 Jan 2024 - 12:23PMvideocam

Somaliland has given Ethiopia access to its ports, such as the port of Berbera (pictured) in return for recognising it as an independent state. Photo: AFP

Middle East

Iran’s navy seizes oil tanker in Gulf of Oman, in new threat to Mideast shipping

The seizure also comes after weeks of attacks by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels on shipping in the Red Sea.

11 Jan 2024 - 11:25PMvideocam

Israel-Gaza war

Killing of Hamas deputy leader in Beirut raises risk of war spreading

Saleh al-Arouri would be the most senior Hamas leader killed since the militant group attacked Israel on October 7.

3 Jan 2024 - 3:00PMvideocam

China-Africa relations

China tests diplomatic prowess in Ethiopia as it rebuilds after Tigray war

Chinese special envoy Xue Bing meets leaders in the East African country where Beijing seeks to gain peacemaking experience while protecting investments, according to analysts.

17 Dec 2023 - 11:00PMvideocam

Chinese special envoy for the Horn of Africa Xue Bing (right) meets Awol Arba, president of Afar regional state in northern Ethiopia, one of the areas most affected by the Tigray conflict. Photo: Handout

China-Africa relations

Why Africa should engage China in curbing illegal arms trade amid insecurity

Engaging Beijing on small arms and light weapons control issues seen as ‘useful way forward’ giving its growing influence on the continent.

5 Dec 2023 - 3:08PMvideocam

Israel-Gaza war

Analysis | Helicopter-borne Houthi attack on ship raises risks in Red Sea

Attack on cargo vessel by Iran-backed rebels highlights the danger now lurking in one of the world’s key shipping routes as the Israel-Gaza war rages.

22 Nov 2023 - 2:09PM

China-Africa relations

West races to challenge China’s dominance in African minerals market

Europe and the US announce plans aimed at securing mineral supplies from resource-rich Africa, to establish a supply chain with less of a ‘Chinese imprint’.

5 Nov 2023 - 4:03PMvideocam

Resource-rich African countries are at the centre of a race for market dominance between China and the West. Photo: EPA-EFE

China-Africa relations

Why Chinese interest is soaring in Guinea’s Simandou iron ore reserves

Guinea’s Simandou range holds the world’s largest known undeveloped reserve of high-grade iron ore, bearing both economic and geopolitical significance for China, as it seeks resource security and less dependence on Australia.

29 Oct 2023 - 4:32PMvideocam

Workers prepare to lift a bundle of steel reinforcing bar with a gantry crane at a metal stock yard in Shanghai. The construction industry, which consumes massive amounts of steel and aluminium, still gets most of the financing from Beijing despite a slowing economy. Photo: Bloomberg

Belt and Road Initiative

‘Huge potential’: China looks to belt and road to feed demand for minerals

With export controls already put in place by the West over semiconductors and other necessary components for the development of its tech industry, China is making strides in finding other paths to keep up supplies of the minerals it needs to produce and innovate at scale.

25 Oct 2023 - 9:16AMvideocam

Americas and the Caribbean

Peru megaport to open new Pacific route to China. Will it be a win for all?

A US$3 billion megaport in Peru seen as a new gateway to Asia is on track to open four of its 11 berths in 2024, offering a faster Pacific Ocean route to China for sea cargo from this part of Latin America.

8 Sep 2023 - 11:21AMvideocam

Belt and Road Initiative

Will militants derail China’s belt and road plans in Pakistan?

Insurgents have targeted Chinese nationals in a series of attacks over the years, particularly in Balochistan, which links Xinjiang to the Arabian Sea.

26 Aug 2023 - 11:15AMvideocam

China-Africa relations

Chinese weapons giant Norinco expands operations in West Africa

Gap in African military market left by Russia and France pursued by Chinese arms supplier.

21 Aug 2023 - 10:00AMvideocam

Chinese arms supplier Norinco has opened a new sales office in Senegal, expanding its influence in West Africa. Photo: AFP

China-Africa relations

China and Russia pursue Eritrea for its strategic location in Africa

Big powers consider Eritrea’s access to the Red Sea, Suez Canal and Persian Gulf waters and onwards to the Indian Ocean important.

15 Aug 2023 - 4:00PMvideocam

Belt and Road Initiative

China’s Belt and Road Initiative regains momentum

The value of deals signed in the first half of the year passed US$43 billion, with metals and mining seeing strong growth.

5 Aug 2023 - 8:59PMvideocam

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Eritrea

.css-sioo19{color:#c79a00;}Explainer | The return of Red Sea shipping: 3 scenarios for Chinese trade

Houthi rebels have signalled a halt in attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, allowing a possible end to costly detours.

US pauses all immigration applications from 19 countries

UK’s Farage unveils plan to deport asylum seekers, warns of ‘civil disorder’

Trump’s new travel ban takes effect, citizens of 12 nations barred from US

Ban comes amid rising tensions over the US president’s escalating campaign of immigration enforcement.

Africa warns Trump travel ban could dampen relations

Seven African nations are among 12 countries targeted by the US, with the African Union asking for ‘a more consultative approach’ and ‘constructive dialogue’.

Trump bans nationals from 12 countries entering US, citing security concerns

Afghanistan, Haiti, Myanmar among 12 nations facing outright entry ban; seven additional countries to face heightened scrutiny.

China hosts delegation of 100 African military officers to strengthen ties

Young and mid-career African officers from 40 countries will be trained in PLA basics, China’s military system and technology models.

Chinese scholars urged to ‘construct narratives’ to defend South China Sea claim

China faces ‘an increasingly arduous battle’ to win over public opinion in the disputed waters, speakers tell an academic seminar in Hainan.

As Japan slips down press freedom scoreboard, is its compliant media to blame?

Japan ranked the lowest among G7 nations in Reporters Without Borders’ 2024 World Press Freedom Index. Observers say it’s because the country’s media has been shaped into a ‘good servant’ of the political class.

Chinese firms in Africa all at sea amid Red Sea crisis, rising shipping costs

Houthi militants have launched attacks in the Red Sea shipping lanes, increasing costs and disrupting production for Chinese firms in East Africa.

China is facing more overseas security risks in year of elections, report says

With more than 60 countries heading to the polls – including the US, Russia and India – expect a ‘new phase in the geopolitical game’, according to Chinese think tank.

Asian exporters face more Red Sea risks after US-led attacks on Houthis

Shipments of spare parts for goods such as electronic goods and cars from Asia to Europe have already been affected by the conflict in recent weeks.

.css-1m2rp1p{color:#34b8b5;}Opinion | China and India have a duty to act on Houthi threat to global shipping

While the lukewarm responses to the US-led counter-attacks are understandable, the major powers must rise above their divisions to protect a global good – safe passage for the world’s ships and their crew.

Red Sea risks could push oil prices up as Asia feels pinch of cargo delays

The tensions have ratcheted up war premiums on shipping freight, with many taking longer journeys after being diverted from the troubled Red Sea route.

Amid brewing diplomatic storm in the Red Sea, China is unlikely to take sides

Analysts say Beijing is expected to stay out of a row over a controversial port deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland.

Iran’s navy seizes oil tanker in Gulf of Oman, in new threat to Mideast shipping

The seizure also comes after weeks of attacks by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels on shipping in the Red Sea.

Killing of Hamas deputy leader in Beirut raises risk of war spreading

Saleh al-Arouri would be the most senior Hamas leader killed since the militant group attacked Israel on October 7.

China tests diplomatic prowess in Ethiopia as it rebuilds after Tigray war

Chinese special envoy Xue Bing meets leaders in the East African country where Beijing seeks to gain peacemaking experience while protecting investments, according to analysts.

Why Africa should engage China in curbing illegal arms trade amid insecurity

Engaging Beijing on small arms and light weapons control issues seen as ‘useful way forward’ giving its growing influence on the continent.

Analysis | Helicopter-borne Houthi attack on ship raises risks in Red Sea

Attack on cargo vessel by Iran-backed rebels highlights the danger now lurking in one of the world’s key shipping routes as the Israel-Gaza war rages.

West races to challenge China’s dominance in African minerals market

Europe and the US announce plans aimed at securing mineral supplies from resource-rich Africa, to establish a supply chain with less of a ‘Chinese imprint’.

Why Chinese interest is soaring in Guinea’s Simandou iron ore reserves

Guinea’s Simandou range holds the world’s largest known undeveloped reserve of high-grade iron ore, bearing both economic and geopolitical significance for China, as it seeks resource security and less dependence on Australia.

‘Huge potential’: China looks to belt and road to feed demand for minerals

With export controls already put in place by the West over semiconductors and other necessary components for the development of its tech industry, China is making strides in finding other paths to keep up supplies of the minerals it needs to produce and innovate at scale.

Peru megaport to open new Pacific route to China. Will it be a win for all?

A US$3 billion megaport in Peru seen as a new gateway to Asia is on track to open four of its 11 berths in 2024, offering a faster Pacific Ocean route to China for sea cargo from this part of Latin America.

Will militants derail China’s belt and road plans in Pakistan?

Insurgents have targeted Chinese nationals in a series of attacks over the years, particularly in Balochistan, which links Xinjiang to the Arabian Sea.

Chinese weapons giant Norinco expands operations in West Africa

Gap in African military market left by Russia and France pursued by Chinese arms supplier.

China and Russia pursue Eritrea for its strategic location in Africa

Big powers consider Eritrea’s access to the Red Sea, Suez Canal and Persian Gulf waters and onwards to the Indian Ocean important.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative regains momentum

The value of deals signed in the first half of the year passed US$43 billion, with metals and mining seeing strong growth.

Explainer | The return of Red Sea shipping: 3 scenarios for Chinese trade

Opinion | China and India have a duty to act on Houthi threat to global shipping