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China inching towards resuming fuel exports as Penny Wong presses Australia’s case

By foreign affairs correspondent Stephen Dziedzic In short: (ABC-Australia) The Chinese government is working with Australian businesses on jet fuel supplies, Foreign Minister Penny Wong has confirmed. Beijing restricted jet fuel and diesel exports after the Iran war broke out. What’s next? Senator Wong says it’s only the “first step” to secure more fuel supplies […]

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Japan is sending warships to Australia in a landmark deal, and there could be plenty more to follow

By Natalie Whiting By Stephen Dziedzic In short: (ABC-Australia) Australia’s multi-billion-dollar deal with Japan for its future warships could set a template that will help Tokyo rapidly expand defence exports across Asia. Last weekend, it was announced that Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is to supply the Royal Australian Navy with three upgraded Mogami-class frigates. Days after […]

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Japan overhauls defence export rule to sell arms to 17 countries, including Australia

In short:  Japan has overhauled its defence export rule, allowing Japanese-made arms — including warships, combat drones and missiles — to be sold internationally. Some fear the move away from Japan’s postwar pacifist policy could increase global tensions. What’s next? Japan will only sell to 17 countries that have signed defence equipment and will monitor […]

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EU backs $148bn loan for Ukraine after pipeline spat resolved

In short:  (ABC- Australia) The EU has given a preliminary green light to unblocking a $148 billion loan for Kyiv, after a months-long pipeline row was resolved. Russian oil will soon arrive through the repaired Druzhba pipeline, whose damage had pitted Hungary’s ousted premier against Ukraine. What’s next? Hungarian energy giant MOL said it expects […]

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Soaring airfares and reduced flights force some Australians to reconsider holiday and work plans

By Iris Zhao, Lachlan Bennett and Angelica Silva https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-20/soaring-airfares-international-travel-plans-australians/106571280 (ABC-Australia) Following an unexpected surgery, Rose recently attempted to reschedule a family visit to China for herself and her son.  She was shocked by what she was asked to pay. The Melbourne mum, who doesn’t want to use her real name for privacy reasons, originally bought […]

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