North Korea-Japan Security Tensions: Pyongyang condemned Japan’s record defense budget, warning it could fuel an arms race and citing plans for hypersonic missiles, drones and AI-linked command systems. West Asia Diplomacy: Malaysia and Brunei urged restraint after renewed hostilities involving the US and Israel against Iran, warning of civilian harm and disruption to Strait of Hormuz shipping. Asia-Pacific Finance Security: Asia-Pacific central banks, led by the Philippines’ BSP, formed a task force to share information to fight digital scams and manage AI-related risks. India-Russia Talks: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar heads to Moscow for trade and cooperation talks ahead of Putin’s India visit for the BRICS summit. Bangladesh Economy Watch: Bangladesh’s IMF programme remains stalled as the lender presses Dhaka to complete banking, tax and climate-resilience reforms. Cross-border Payments: US fintech Afriex said a partnership with Global Innovations Bank will speed Africa-Asia transfers and help with regulatory and FX plans. Sports & Regional Pride: Qatar’s cricket chief joined the ACC executive board; Bahrain topped West Asia table tennis with 26 medals; India approved 492 athletes for the Asian Games, with athletics leading. Tech & Culture: China’s BiliBili relaunched its international push to attract Western creators, aiming to rival YouTube. Business & Travel: Skyscanner says “incognito” and search timing don’t reliably change fares, while India’s MICE sector is forecast to grow 12–14% annually.