West Asia Diplomacy: China’s Xi Jinping backed a new regional security architecture in talks with Egypt’s Sisi, stressing Palestinian issues must stay central and urging China-Egypt cooperation to protect shipping lanes amid US-Iran tensions. Pacific Island Geopolitics: US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau’s push for Pacific Island support hit a snag as Beijing pressured Pacific leaders to skip a Palau summit, reshaping attendance and undermining Washington’s outreach. China-ASEAN Trade Infrastructure: China is moving toward opening the Pinglu Canal, a US$10.8bn river-to-sea link aimed at boosting inland manufacturing freight to Southeast Asia, with a first command vessel delivered ahead of the China-ASEAN Expo. Regional Economy & Energy: Bangladesh rolled out rooftop solar incentives with battery storage to ease power shortages, while Kuwait’s handball team wrapped up preparations for the Asian Games in Japan. Markets: Tokyo stocks slid sharply as oil prices rose on West Asia risks and Japan bond yields climbed. Tech & Policy: ASEAN is set to sign a Digital Economy Framework Agreement covering data governance, AI, identity, cybersecurity and digital trade, with implications for cross-border rules across the region. Health: A study found a genetic marker used for vancomycin reactions may also flag risk for lamotrigine-related severe reactions, highlighting gaps in current gene panels. Local Culture: Frieze Seoul and Kiaf Seoul kicked off amid a market correction, with dealers shifting toward longer-term audience building.