An uncontrolled outbreak has caused dozens of deaths since 15 March. Among the victims is Risa, aged 7 months; her twin sister Ruhi is in a critical condition in Dhaka. Hospitals under pressure and structural shortcomings are exacerbating the crisis. The government has launched an emergency vaccination campaign. Fr Costa: ‘Measles requires specialised wards and staff’.
Talks between Washington and Tehran will take place in Islamabad on Friday after threats of escalation. China has applied pressure, consolidating its influence in the region. Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir has played a crucial role. Uncertainties remain regarding the actual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the Israeli-Lebanon front. Pakistani Christians tell AsiaNews that they are praying for lasting “peace and prosperity”.
A coalition of civil society groups and organisations is calling on Anura Kumara Dissanayake to release at least 10 detainees unconditionally. Some have been in prison for over 30 years without trial. The controversial anti-terrorism law is under scrutiny.
New Beijing-mediated talks took place today in Xinjiang to halt fighting along the Pakistan-Afghan border. Meanwhile, Islamabad is positioning itself as a mediator in the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran, after presenting a tentative ceasefire initiative, with Chinese backing.
The event took place yesterday at the National Press Club in the capital, organised by the Bangladesh Christian Association. Leaders pointed out that other religions enjoy numerous public holidays, whilst Christians have only one at Christmas. Among their demands is greater participation in the country’s public life.
The marriage of Maria Bibi of Lahore has been upheld, following an apparent conversion to Islam. Her father's appeal for her release has been rejected. Activists and the local Church are outraged. The Bishop of Faisalabad slams loopholes in the law, calling for urgent reforms to set the marriage age at 18 and boost the protection of minors.
