SEOUL: North Korea yesterday ordered the indefinite postponement of a scheduled series of reunions for families divided since the 1950-53 Korean War, dealing a setback to months of efforts to improve ties between the Korean neighbours.
Six days of meetings between family members still separated six decades after the war had been due to start on Wednesday. The North’s Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of Korea accused the South of poisoning dialogue, in a statement carried by the KCNA news agency.
Malaysia PM to stay in power
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak faced down a threat to his leadership after nominations closed without anybody contesting his presidency of the ruling party, officials said.
Ahmad Maslan, UMNO information chief, said on Twitter: “Congratulations to UMNO president Najib and deputy president Muhyiddin (Yassin) who won without contest at 5pm this evening.”
Taiwan gets smart weapons
TAIPEI: Taiwan’s air force will be armed with “smart” munitions before the year’s end that could be used against any Chinese invasion by striking airfields and harbours on the mainland, media reported yesterday.
The new weaponry will enable Taiwanese fighter jets to hit Chinese targets from a distance and reduce the risk of having to fly over mainland territory, analysts say.
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