November 11, 2021

*) EU accuses Belarus of 'trafficking' migrants toward border The European Union has accused Belarus of state-sponsored human "trafficking” by luring desperate migrants to the Polish border – the edge of the EU. Polish authorities estimate up to 4,000 migrants have gathered along its border with Belarus, where many are now stuck in makeshift camps in freezing weather. One EU leader said the bloc was considering the idea of funding the construction of a wall on its eastern border, an idea that will face many humanitarian obstacles. *) Taliban to enforce Islamic law in Afghanistan The Taliban has announced the establishment of a military tribunal to enforce Islamic law in Afghanistan. The group’s spokesperson said the tribunal has been formed following the command of Taliban supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada. The military tribunal will have the authority to interpret Islamic rulings, issue decrees relevant to Islamic civil laws and jurisprudence in high-level cases. *) China's leader Xi warns against 'Cold War' in Indo-Pacific China's President Xi Jinping has warned against returning to Cold War-era tensions in the Indo-Pacific. His remarks come amid growing tensions with Washington over Taiwan and after the US, Britain and Australia announced a new security alliance in the region. Current tensions have been partially offset by a surprise deal between Beijing and Washington on climate. Xi is expected to participate in an online meeting with other Pacific Rim leaders, including President Biden, on Saturday. *) COP26: Countries launch plan for green shipping corridors A 19-member coalition, including the UK and US, has agreed on creating zero-emission shipping trade routes between ports. The "Clydebank Declaration" was launched at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow and aims to establish at least six green corridors by 2025. The corridors will require developing supplies of zero-emission fuels, the infrastructure required for decarbonisation and regulatory frameworks. And finally... *) Finland