China will drop a requirement for inbound travellers to take COVID-19 PCR tests starting from Jan 8, 2023, customs authorities said on Wednesday.
PCR checks for imported chilled and frozen foods will also be dropped, China's General Administration of Customs said.
China's management of COVID-19 is set to be downgraded to the less strict Category B from the top-level Category A from Jan. 8, the health authority said on Monday.
Russia's Putin, in New Year address, voices confidence in victory in Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin used his annual televised New Year's address to rally his troops fighting in Ukraine, saying he believed in them and in victory in a war that he has framed as part of an existential struggle with the West.
Sydney brings in New Year with nod to victims of Bondi attack
Australia's Sydney began 2026 with a fireworks display held under an enhanced police presence, weeks after gunmen killed 15 people in the city.
Russia releases video footage to challenge Kyiv over alleged attack
Russia's defence ministry released video footage on Wednesday of what it said was a downed drone at a briefing intended to show Ukraine tried this week to attack a presidential residence and challenge Kyiv's denials that such an attack took place.
Thailand frees 18 Cambodian soldiers as ceasefire holds
Thailand has released 18 Cambodian soldiers on Wednesday that it had detained since July under the renewed ceasefire the two countries agreed on the weekend to end a border conflict, Cambodian and Thai authorities said.
Mali and Burkina Faso announce reciprocal travel ban on US
Mali and Burkina Faso have said they are imposing a travel ban on US citizens in response to an equivalent measure announced by the Trump administration earlier this month.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has shared a New Year message, extending his best wishes to people in the UAE and around the world.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has shared a New Year message expressing optimism for the year ahead.
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent New Year greetings for 2026 to Their Highnesses and Majesties, Presidents, Kings and Princes of countries around the world, wishing them continued health and prosperity for their nations.
