World

One of Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's first promises after his election in 2018 was to build the Mayan train, a long railway that would criss-cross 1,554 kilometres of tropical forests in the eastern Yucatan peninsula. The goal is to connect major tourism centres. While the idea appears good on paper, it has engineers on edge and environmentalists crying foul. Meanwhile, its initial cost has already tripled. Our correspondents report.

With over 300,000 visitors and thousands of deals expected to be made, exhibitors from the aeronautic and air defence industries have gathered outside Paris for the "Le Bourget" air show. We also take a look at Switzerland's decision to become carbon neutral by 2050 and raise corporate taxes to 15 percent.

An unprecedented African peace mission to Ukraine and Russia leaves observers in the region wondering about the timing.

A severe weather system has battered southern Brazil leaving at least 11 people dead while searches are taking place for 20 others who are missing.

US officials hope Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to China will lower tensions with Beijing. In what was seen as a special gesture, announced at the last minute, the top US diplomat met China's head of state.

The government plans a 75% emission cut by 2050 but the right-wing Swiss People's Party warned the plan will cause energy prices to rise. A separate vote on higher corporate taxes is being held.

The US Justice Department accused the Minneapolis police of discriminating against Black and Native American people. Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was convicted of murdering George Floyd in April 2021.

Despite some progress, Africa has the world's lowest rates of blood donation. Myths and a lack of information could harm the continent's health. Experts want this to change.

Police in Tunisia have detained more than a dozen opposition figures in the past months, accusing them of conspiring against state security. Activists have said President Kais Saied has been steadily turning back the clock on democracy since July 2021.

A UK court has rejected an attempted appeal by the WikiLeaks' founder who is fighting extradition to the US.

The EU’s climate advisory board has recommended the bloc adopt ambitious targets for 2040. Researchers say there are multiple options to slash emissions, with plenty of political wiggle room.

After the collapse of communism and the end of the Cold War in Europe, many countries abolished compulsory military service. But in the wake of the war in Ukraine, several are considering bringing it back.