DRC and Rwanda agree on economic cooperation deal
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have agreed on a US-brokered economic cooperation framework tied to a June peace deal. It covers joint efforts in energy, infrastructure, health, minerals, and environmental protection.
Both nations affirmed full control over their natural resources and pledged to boost local mineral processing. A draft is in place, with public input to follow before final approval, according to Al Jazeera.
China renews alerts for rainstorms and heat waves
China’s weather agency on Saturday issued yellow alerts for heavy rain and high temperatures in several regions, according to Xinhua.
Downpours are expected through Sunday across parts of the northeast, east, south, and southwest, including Taiwan, with some areas facing over 70 mm of rain per hour, thunderstorms, and strong winds.
Temperatures are set to hit 35–39°C in many areas, with parts of Shaanxi, Chongqing, and Xinjiang possibly exceeding 40°C. Authorities urged the public to stay safe and take precautions, Xinhua reported.
China and Nepal mark 70 years of diplomatic ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nepali President Ram Chandra Poudel on Friday exchanged greetings to mark 70 years of diplomatic relations, vowing to deepen cooperation and friendship.
Xi praised the strong, time-tested ties and called for closer collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative. Poudel thanked China for its continued support and reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to the one-China policy, according to Xinhua.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli also pledged to strengthen bilateral ties and deliver tangible benefits to both nations.
South Africa's Western Cape confirms bird flu outbreaks, urges public vigilance
New bird flu cases have been confirmed in South Africa’s Western Cape, with outbreaks also reported in North West and Mpumalanga. Infected birds were culled to stop the spread.
Wild bird deaths, including pelicans near Cape Town, have also been linked to the virus, according to Xinhua.
Officials say the risk to humans is low and store-bought poultry is safe. The public is urged not to touch sick or dead birds and to report any unusual deaths. Farmers are advised to tighten biosecurity.
