Japan is preparing to host a Japan–Central Asia Summit in Tokyo on December 19–20, with plans for bilateral talks between Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Central Asian leaders. LDP Vice President Taro Aso highlighted the summit’s importance, noting that other major powers have recently strengthened their ties with the region. A similar summit planned for last year was canceled due to emergency megaquake warnings in Japan.
SpaceX is preparing a secondary share sale that could raise its valuation to around $800 billion, potentially surpassing OpenAI as the most valuable private company in the U.S. The surge in value is driven by SpaceX’s strong launch business and the rapid global expansion of its Starlink internet service. However, analysts caution that the valuation is not guaranteed until the sale is completed, and shifts in market demand could alter the outcome.
Sri Lanka’s stock market fell 3.04% as Cyclone Ditwah triggered heavy selling, though construction stocks rose on expectations of rebuilding demand. Analysts say investors are cautious and the downward trend is likely to continue. Across Asia, markets moved mixed, with Japan declining, Pakistan rising, and India slipping due to cyclone impacts and trade uncertainties.
The German President’s historic state visit to London underscored the strength of Anglo-German relations through both grand ceremony and meaningful political dialogue. Beyond symbolic pageantry, leaders focused on cooperation in trade, climate policy, security, and cultural exchange amid evolving global challenges. Despite complexities such as Brexit, the visit highlighted major opportunities for deeper partnership and shared responsibility for Europe’s future.