The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is pursuing demolitions in katchi abadis, informal settlements, where many Christians also live. Police agents and vehicles have been deployed in large numbers at the G-7 settlement (Allama Iqbal Colony). Residents are protesting, complaining of the lack of advance notice and alternative housing. NGOs are challenging the authorities, claiming they are hostile toward minorities and people living in poverty.
The Hungarian prime minister's electoral defeat deprives China of its main ally in the EU, with repercussions on investments, European cohesion, and relations with Taiwan. However, the new government led by Péter Magyar will have ample room to reposition itself along European lines without abandoning economic ties.
Organized by the Fiat Mission movement, which, based in Kerala, promotes lay apostolate both in Indian dioceses and among Malayali migrant communities worldwide. Archbishop Moolachira of Guwahati presided over the Mission Mass. Among the most visited booths was that of the Archdiocese of Imphal, featuring testimonies from Christians in Manipur.
The pontiff leaves Algeria today to travel to Cameroon, the second stop on his apostolic journey to Africa. The testimony of a young woman who grew up in Italy and chose to be present in Algiers to experience this historic event alongside her people. “In the crowd, everyone was saying: it’s a sign of unity between Christians and Muslims. We’ve seen that change happens in a subtle but real way.”
In Tajikistan, a summit of border agency heads from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) addressed the repercussions of instability in Afghanistan. Cooperation has been strengthened to combat infiltration by terrorist and extremist groups of an Islamic fundamentalist nature.
Today’s headlines: Pakistan continues diplomatic efforts to facilitate another round of negotiations between the United States and Iran, while delegations from Lebanon and Israel met in Washington. Vietnamese President To Lam is in China. Indonesia is strengthening military cooperation with France.