Neighbourhood News Digest – 02 December 2024

Bhutan

Health Minister responds to concerns over charges for off-hour healthcare services – The Bhutanese

During the 3rd Sitting of the Second Session of the Fourth Parliament, South Thimphu’s MP Tshewang Rinzin raised a question to the Ministry of Health (MoH) regarding the implementation of free healthcare services in Bhutan. He highlighted concerns about patients who are referred late to the Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National Referral Hospital, where they are asked to pay for consultations, which appears to contradict the principle of free healthcare services. Click here to read... [2]

Maldives

Departure tax, development fees to be hiked from today– Adhadhu

Departure tax and airport development fees have been increased from today under the amendments to the Airport Taxes and Fees Act. The law was amended to increase the state's dollar revenue and ease the foreign exchange deficit. The change will also increase the state's total revenue. With the changes in taxes and fees for outbound passengers, tickets for all but economy-class Maldivian passengers will be more expensive. According to the budget estimates, MVR 2 billion (USD 131 million) can be raised next year with the increase in airport development fee rates. The increase in the departure tax rate would bring in MVR 1.9 billion (USD 120 million). Click here to read... [3]

President reaffirms Maldives commitment to the Palestinian cause– PSM News

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reiterated the strong support of the Maldives for Palestine's struggle for justice and peace. As the world observes International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people, President Muizzu called on the international community to use its economic and political power to stop Israel from continuing with its genocide against the Palestinian people. He urged the international community to unite to bring those responsible for war crimes against Palestinians to justice. Furthermore, President Muizzu said that the government's support for the Palestinian cause is backed by the people living all over the nation. He highlighted the violence, discrimination, and loss of livelihood Palestinians has been enduring since generations. He described their struggle as a struggle of Maldivian people as well. Click here to read... [4]

Myanmar

Arakan insurgents are on the cusp of seizing power in West Myanmar. India faces tough choices – The Print

Arakan insurgents in Myanmar's Rakhine State are poised to consolidate control amid escalating conflicts with the central military junta. The Arakan Army’s rise poses challenges for India, which seeks to balance strategic ties with Myanmar's government and manage cross-border security concerns, including insurgent links in the Northeast. As the region’s instability threatens India’s Act East Policy and connectivity projects, New Delhi faces difficult decisions in navigating support, diplomacy, and regional security dynamics. This development underscores the growing complexities of India's foreign policy in Myanmar. Click here to read... [5]

Arrest warrant sought for Myanmar Commander-in-Chief for Rohingya crimes – UN News

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has filed its first arrest warrant against Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing for crimes against humanity, including the deportation and persecution of Rohingya Muslims during 2016-2017. Over one million Rohingya were displaced, and atrocities such as mass killings, sexual violence, and village burnings were documented. ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan highlighted extensive evidence and collaboration with Bangladesh and UN mechanisms. This marks a significant step in holding perpetrators accountable, with further applications anticipated. The ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber will decide on the warrant. Click here to read... [6]