Sri Lanka unveils a groundbreaking free visa scheme, joining 40+ countries including the US, Germany, France, and the UK, aiming to boost tourism amid geopolitical tensions and air travel disruptions.

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Sri Lanka unveils a groundbreaking free visa scheme, joining 40+ countries including the US, Germany, France, and the UK, aiming to boost tourism amid geopolitical tensions and air travel disruptions.

Southeast Asia faces widespread protests and diplomatic tensions as the Gaza conflict ignites public outrage. Nations urge calm while activists call for urgent humanitarian aid amid escalating violence.

A French court will soon rule on allegations that Lafarge, the cement giant, funded jihadist groups in Syria to keep its operations running amid the civil war, raising critical questions about corporate complicity in conflict zones.

South Korea’s exports surged 36.7% in the first 10 days of April, driven by robust demand for semiconductors, the Korea Customs Service reported. The strong chip market continues to boost the nation’s trade performance.

Singapore Airlines has joined Cathay Pacific, China Southern, Qantas, Jetstar, and Air New Zealand to boost international arrivals at Christchurch Airport, contributing to a remarkable 22% growth in visitor numbers, signaling a strong travel recovery.

CNN’s Kaitlan Collins defends press access in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the importance of transparent journalism amid growing restrictions. Her remarks highlight ongoing challenges faced by foreign reporters in the kingdom.

Qatar actively participated in the 17th Ministerial Meeting of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue, reinforcing regional ties and discussing enhanced cooperation across economic, political, and cultural sectors.
![Mayon Volcano Summary of 24Hr Observation 13 April 2026 12:00 AM [EN/TL] – ReliefWeb](https://asia-news.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/224136-mayon-volcano-summary-of-24hr-observation-13-april-2026-1200-am-en-tl-reliefweb-300x200.jpg)
Mayon Volcano showed increased seismic activity in the 24-hour period ending April 13, 2026, 12:00 AM. Authorities advise residents to stay alert and monitor updates for potential ash emissions.

JD Vance revealed that recent talks faltered because Iran refused to abandon its nuclear program, underscoring rising tensions and challenges in diplomatic efforts to curb Tehran’s atomic ambitions, The Guardian reports.

The United Arab Emirates is teaming up with Jordan, Turkey, Qatar, Oman, Cyprus, and others in a groundbreaking tourism boom that’s sparking an exciting new wave of travel-transforming the region into a must-visit global hotspot. This is the travel surge everyone’s buzzing about!

U.S. intelligence reveals China is preparing a shipment of MANPADS to Iran, raising concerns over regional security and arms proliferation, according to SOFX sources. The move could escalate tensions in the Middle East.

Cambodia has given the green light to new casinos, even as Amnesty International raises alarms about connections to human rights abuses at scamming compounds. Critics caution that this move could ignite a surge in exploitation and criminal activity

Rose Lavelle and Lindsey Horan each found the back of the net, driving the USWNT to an exciting 2-1 triumph over Japan, according to the Orange County Register. This hard-fought victory boosts the team’s confidence as they gear up for upcoming tournaments

India’s reliance on oil imports leaves it vulnerable amid global supply shocks. Despite efforts to diversify energy sources, rising demand and geopolitical tensions continue to challenge its energy security.

In 2026, Asia-Pacific is emerging as a premier destination for investment immigration. Boasting expanding economic prospects and simplified visa programs, the region is drawing investors worldwide eager to unlock fresh opportunities for residency and growth.

Thailand authorities have just seized an extra B8.27 billion tied to a sprawling regional scam network, ramping up their crackdown on financial crime. This bold move strikes at cyber fraud syndicates running their schemes across borders

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlights how maintaining the Taiwan status quo is vital for Indo-Pacific peace and prosperity, emphasizing stability amid rising regional tensions and geopolitical rivalry.
The Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 bursts into action as Pakistan A takes on Oman in Match 1. Both teams are eager to make a powerful start, but with Pakistan A’s impressive depth and current form, they hold the upper hand in this thrilling opener.

Nepal’s trekking industry faces turmoil as a recent Mount Everest scandal exposes safety oversights and permit irregularities. Authorities vow reforms to restore trust in the adventure travel sector.

Inside Myanmar’s conflict zones, harrowing reports reveal that military forces are not only bombarding monasteries but also deliberately blocking menstrual pads from reaching women. As violence rages on and displacement grows, the humanitarian crisis intensifies with devastating consequences