TOKYO -- Japan's defense ministry on Friday submitted a record defense budget request of 8.8 trillion yen for the fiscal year 2026, with a focus on deploying various missiles and drones.
The budget request, up from last year's record 8.5 trillion yen initial request, is the fourth in a five-year defense buildup plan of around 43 trillion yen, as Japan zeroes in on its target of spending 2 percent of gross domestic product on defense by 2027. (Japan-Defense Budget)
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BERLIN -- Unemployment in Germany rose to above 3 million in August for the first time in a decade, data from the Federal Employment Agency showed Friday.
In another blow to Europe's largest economy, 46,000 more people were without a job this month, pushing the unemployment rate up to 3.025 million and increasing it by 0.1 percentage point to 6.4 percent. (Germany-Umemployment)
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BANGKOK -- Thailand's Constitutional Court on Friday removed suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office for violating the constitution over her phone conversation on the border issue with Cambodia.
A panel of judges agreed by six votes to three to strip Paetongtarn of premiership status, ruling that her actions constituted a serious violation of ethical standards. (Thailand-PM-Remove)
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YAOUNDE -- Chadian head coach of the national men's football team Raoul Savoy on Friday announced a 24-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Ghana and Madagascar.
At a press conference to unveil the list, Savoy said he has chosen a squad that combines experience and youthfulness. (Sports-Soccer-Chad) ■
