Japan moves to ease tensions; China’s reusable rocket: SCMP’s weekly roundup

Japan moves to ease China tensions, US ambassador irks Singapore: SCMP’s weekly roundup

From the Japanese PM’s latest remarks on Taiwan to a US ambassador coming under fire in Singapore, here are seven stories from SCMP’s recent reporting

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae has told the Japanese parliament that Tokyo’s position on Taiwan remains unchanged. Photo: AFP

Published: 12:26pm, 5 Dec 2025

We have selected seven stories from this week’s news across Hong Kong, mainland China, the wider Asia region and beyond that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.

1. Japan’s Sanae Takaichi moves to ease weeks of tensions with China over the Taiwan Strait

After weeks of turmoil in relations with China, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has sought to dial down tensions with Beijing over a hypothetical conflict in the Taiwan Strait.

2. What is role of property management giant ISS at blaze-ravaged Hong Kong estate?

Fire rages through the residential blocks of Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. Photo: Dickson Lee

A global property management giant engaged to oversee the tender for fire safety and serve as the interface between residents and renovation contractors at Hong Kong’s ill-fated Wang Fuk Court estate broke its silence on Monday to offer condolences, but declined to comment on its involvement.

3. Whereabouts of 6-year-old Chinese boy Yuanxin unknown after ICE detention

Advocacy groups in the US are urging the public to apply pressure on elected officials over concerns for a 6-year-old boy separated from his father by ICE. Photo: Instagram/ immigrationcoalition

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