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Biden backs Philippines in South China Sea

Published

1 month ago

October 26, 2023

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Amid escalating tensions following recent vessel collisions in the South China Sea, President Joe Biden asserted the United States’ unwavering commitment to defend the Philippines against potential attacks within the disputed territory.

This development marks a significant reaffirmation of military support in the region, intensifying the geopolitical atmosphere.

The declaration comes in the wake of two separate incidents involving Filipino and Chinese vessels, highlighting the precarious security situation in the contested maritime space. In response to these confrontations, Biden emphasized the “ironclad” nature of the US defense commitment under the Mutual Defense Treaty established in 1951, obligating both nations to mutual support in the event of an armed attack.

The Filipino government has actively challenged China’s maritime claims, evidenced by its recent removal of floating barriers and orchestrated media coverage spotlighting Beijing’s aggressive naval maneuvers. These actions underscore the growing assertiveness of Manila’s stance on China’s activities in the region.

Strategic ally

Biden’s proclamation, characterized as his most definitive stance since the renewed tensions, underscores the strategic importance of the Philippines in maintaining regional stability. The Southeast Asian nation’s geographical position is particularly significant, bordering vital flashpoints in the Pacific, including the South China Sea and Taiwan.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning quickly countered Biden’s assertions, stating the US holds no authority in disputes between China and the Philippines. Moreover, she stressed that any American intervention should not infringe upon China’s sovereignty and maritime interests.

The heightened tensions were ignited by recent naval incidents, including the collision of a Chinese coast guard ship with a Filipino supply boat within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Another confrontation involved a Chinese militia boat and a Philippine coast guard vessel. These skirmishes have amplified security concerns, with Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr. accusing China of intentional collisions and narrative manipulation.

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The Game Awards 2023: Industry celebrates huge year

Published

13 hours ago

December 4, 2023

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The gaming community is abuzz with anticipation as The Game Awards 2023 approach, scheduled for this Friday, December 7th. This annual event has become a significant highlight for gamers worldwide, celebrating the best titles released throughout the year. With an array of outstanding games in contention, fans are eagerly speculating about the potential winner of the coveted Game of the Year (GOTY) award.

Nominated Titles

The competition is fierce, with some stellar titles vying for the top spot. The nominees include:

Alan Wake 2
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Resident Evil 4
Spider-Man 2
Baldur’s Gate 3
Super Mario Bros Wonder

Each game brings a unique experience to the table, making the decision for the ultimate winner even more challenging. Fans and critics alike are engaging in heated discussions about their personal favorites and predictions.

Watch the Live Announcement Video Here

Resident Evil 4 Remake in VR: A Terrifying Experience Awaits

Capcom is set to thrill fans with a groundbreaking update for Resident Evil 4 Remake. Starting December 8th, owners of PSVR2 and the Remake will have access to a free add-on VR Mode. The immersive experience includes the entire main story with 3D audio, a shooting range for weapon interactions, and a terrifying yet thrilling encounter with the iconic game in virtual reality.

The addition of VR mode is a significant leap for the PSVR2 lineup of games, offering players a chance to dive into the horror classic in an entirely new dimension.

Experience the Chills with the RE Remake VR Mode Trailer

PlayStation 5 Slim Hits Australia

Exciting news for Australian gamers as the sleek PlayStation 5 Slim is set to hit shelves this week. Available for pre-order from major retailers, the slim version will be available on Wednesday, December 6th, just in time for the holiday season.

Options include both disc and digital consoles, with prices at $799 for the disc version and $769 for the digital version bundled with two controllers via Amazon AU. Additional accessories, such as the disc drive and vertical stand, can be purchased separately.

Get a Closer Look at the New PlayStation 5 Slim

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora – A New Frontier in Gaming

In the midst of the gaming frenzy, Ubisoft is set to release Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora on Friday, December 7th. This action-adventure game, set in the expansive open world of the Western Frontier of Pandora, offers a first-person perspective and promises a visually stunning experience.

Fans of the Avatar movies are in for a treat, with the game available on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. The captivating graphics seen in early footage have heightened the anticipation for this exciting addition to the gaming landscape.

Embark on a New Adventure with the Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora Trailer

As the gaming community gears up for The Game Awards and the release of highly anticipated titles and updates, December promises to be a thrilling month for gamers worldwide. Stay tuned for the big reveals and immerse yourself in the ever-evolving world of gaming.

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EV integration and recent tax reimbursement raises questions

Published

17 hours ago

December 4, 2023

ticker NEWS

The Victorian Government’s decision to reimburse Electric Vehicle (EV) owners over an alleged unconstitutional tax has sparked discussions about the global evolution of EV integration.

Automotive journalist Mike Costello emphasises the broader implications for environmental policies and the potential precedent this sets for other regions.

The incident underscores the importance of transparent processes in identifying and compensating affected EV owners and may prompt a reevaluation of tax structures globally.

How governments handle this situation can impact the perception of their support for green initiatives and influence the trust of EV owners.

In summary, this reimbursement marks a pivotal moment, shaping future policies and fostering a more supportive environment for electric vehicles on a global scale.