Sao Tome and Principe has partnered with China to build an $800 million deep-sea port aimed at economic development, not military use. The project, involving China Harbor Engineering Company, is expected to be completed by 2018. Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada emphasized the port's economic benefits and the need for sustainable debt. The Pentagon had previously considered a naval facility in the region, highlighting its strategic importance. Despite concerns over China's military expansion, Trovoada insists any military use of the port must align with Sao Tome's interests and its NATO collaborations. Taiwan, which maintains diplomatic ties with Sao Tome, expressed no concerns over the project.

Burkina Faso has seen significant progress in reducing female genital mutilation (FGM) over the past 25 years, with international aid agencies reporting a 30-40% decline. However, recent political instability following the overthrow of President Blaise Compaore has raised concerns about a potential resurgence of the practice. Despite robust enforcement efforts, regional variations exist, as highlighted by the recent trial of Bande Kadi in Zoundweogo province. FGM has been illegal in Burkina Faso since 1996, but fears persist that the current political chaos may lead some to believe the law is no longer in effect. Authorities remain vigilant, although evidence of an upsurge is currently anecdotal.

Chinese and exiled Tibetan players participated in a historic women's seven-aside soccer tournament in Germany, marking the first encounter between Chinese and dissident Tibetan athletes since 1959. The event, organized by Discover Football and sponsored by the German Foreign Ministry, highlighted the potential of sports diplomacy to bridge political divides. The Tibetan team, managed by Cassie Childers, used the opportunity to raise awareness about their situation as refugees. The tournament also featured players from 27 countries, emphasizing the global struggle for women's participation in sports. The final match saw a mixed team of Tibetans and Chinese players winning 3-1, symbolizing reconciliation and unity.

Hong Kong's 'Umbrella Movement' continues to occupy city streets, with demonstrators focusing on preserving the creative legacy of their pro-democracy campaign. The movement has inspired a wave of artistic expression, from sculpture to animation. Key figures like Sampson Wong and Willa Yip emphasize the importance of documenting and preserving these works. Zhou Fengsuo, a leader from the 1989 Tiananmen Square uprising, draws parallels between the two movements. Despite the festive atmosphere, activists are prepared to save their art from potential police action.

Hong Kong's student protest leaders plan a referendum to decide the future of their civil disobedience campaign for universal suffrage in the 2017 elections. The referendum, organized by the Federation of Students, aims to increase political pressure on the government after failed negotiations. The Hong Kong government offered limited concessions, which protest leaders rejected. The U.N. Human Rights Committee supports the protesters' demands for genuine universal suffrage, while Chinese authorities maintain the protests are illegal. The situation remains tense as protesters continue to demand the resignation of Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying and genuine electoral reforms.

Chelsia Lau, a Lantau-born chief designer at Ford Motor, has significantly influenced vehicle design over her 18-year career. Educated in Hong Kong and the US, Lau's innovative approach and understanding of diverse consumer needs have shaped models like the Ford Focus and Fiesta. Despite being one of the few women in the industry, she emphasizes the unique perspectives female designers bring. Lau's global experiences and passion for design extend beyond cars to aspirations in jewelry design. Her work reflects a blend of cultural insights and forward-thinking trends, driven by a deep connection to her craft.

Pui Fan Lee, a presenter for the BBC's children's channel CBeebies, reflects on her upbringing as the child of Chinese immigrants in Britain and her career in acting and television. Despite initially rejecting her Chinese heritage, she has embraced her identity and has become a standard bearer for Asian performers in British television. She is currently working on a third series of 'Show Me Show Me' and will be performing a children's stage show with co-presenter Chris Jarvis.

A shooting incident at a Chinese-run mine in Zambia has caused outrage and embarrassment for both countries. The critically injured worker, Chenjela, was shot by managers of a private company, sparking protests and political debate. Zambian President Rupiah Banda downplayed the incident, while opposition vice-president Guy Scott criticized the terms of Chinese contracts. The Zambian Development Agency defended Chinese investments, citing job creation and economic confidence. The incident has highlighted the tensions surrounding Chinese economic influence in Zambia ahead of upcoming elections.

Inconsistencies in the terms of the Bertiehaugh purchase raise questions about its redesignation as the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve. The Queensland government clarified that the land is a term lease for pastoral purposes under the Queensland Land Act 1994, with Silverback Properties as the registered lessee for the Terri Irwin Family Trust. Andrew Buckley, director of regional services for the Queensland government, confirmed that the lease must be used for agriculture or grazing, and any change in land use would require a new lease application, subject to due process and native title considerations.

The article explores the complex dynamics between Cape Alumina's proposed bauxite mine and the indigenous communities in Cape York, Australia. It highlights the economic benefits promised by the mining project, including job creation and regional investment, against the backdrop of environmental concerns and the cultural significance of the land to the Teapithiggi clan. The narrative delves into historical injustices faced by the indigenous people, the controversial acquisition of Bertiehaugh by Terri Irwin, and the impact of the Wild Rivers Act on local economic opportunities. Various stakeholders, including local leaders, environmental activists, and government officials, present their perspectives on the contentious issue, reflecting a broader debate on balancing development and conservation.