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Japan lawmakers advance controversial LGBTQ bill

Japan’s lower house approved a bill opposing “unjust discrimination” against sexual minorities, but activists criticized its watered-down language. The bill, expected to become law, faces disappointment for not meeting expectations of LGBTQ advocates. Despite public support for same-sex marriage, Japan’s legal framework lags behind, leading to divided court rulings.

Trump’s own words used to build case against him

US prosecutors built their case against former President Donald Trump using his own words and notes from his lawyers. The indictment accuses Trump of hoarding classified documents and endangering national security. It relies heavily on statements made by Trump, including instances where he disclosed confidential information to individuals without security clearances. Trump’s meetings with his lawyers are also recounted, with notes suggesting an effort to mislead investigators. Trump is set to appear in a federal court in Miami.

Petition found in box that stopped Abe murder hearing: Japanese media

A suspicious package caused the cancellation of a court hearing for the man accused of murdering former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe. The package, which triggered a security alert, was later found to contain a petition seeking a lenient sentence for the accused. The suspect allegedly targeted Abe due to his ties to the Unification Church.

Thai PM frontrunner faces election probe

Thailand’s potential prime minister faces a probe that could disqualify him due to ownership of shares in a defunct media company, violating election laws. The investigation, expected to last for an undetermined period, may result in disqualification and a jail term of up to 10 years. The ruling party remains confident and emphasizes the importance of people power and adherence to constitutional principles. The outcome of this investigation will impact the formation of the new government and may lead to further political unrest.

Hearing for Abe murder suspect cancelled over suspicious object: Japan media

A pre-trial hearing for the accused killer of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was canceled due to a suspicious object delivered to the court. The object, described as an unidentified bag, prompted the evacuation of the Nara District Court. The accused, Tetsuya Yamagami, faces murder charges and potential execution if convicted. The assassination of Abe in July the previous year has drawn attention to security shortcomings in Japan.

Homework will ‘never be the same’ says ChatGPT founder

Artificial intelligence will transform education, but won’t replace learning, according to Sam Altman, founder of ChatGPT. Speaking at Keio University, he compared AI to calculators for words and emphasized the need for changes in teaching and evaluation methods. Altman also expressed the importance of regulations for AI and acknowledged that while some jobs may disappear, new opportunities will arise.

No progress on biases against women in a decade: UN report

Despite global campaigns for women’s rights, biases against women in data tracking have remained unchanged over the past decade, according to a UN report. The report highlights that biased gender social norms are deeply entrenched in society, with nearly 90% of people having at least one bias. The prejudices persist among both men and women, hindering progress towards gender equality and impacting women’s rights worldwide. The report emphasizes the need to address these biases to achieve gender equality and the Sustainable Development Goals.

UBS set for ‘bumpy’ integration of Credit Suisse

UBS is set to finalize its acquisition of Credit Suisse, but the integration process is expected to be challenging. UBS Chief Sergio Ermotti warned of difficult decisions and job losses, while concerns about the size and political implications of the megabank have been raised. Talent retention and potential spin-offs of business units are among the key challenges. The merger is seen as necessary to prevent a financial crisis, with the Swiss government and central bank providing support and guarantees. The full impact of the merger will become clearer after the release of second-quarter financial results.

Saudi announces investment deals at Arab-China summit

Saudi Arabia and China have signed billions of dollars in investment deals at the China-Arab business conference in Riyadh. The agreements cover various sectors including technology, agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism. The conference reflects the growing commercial and diplomatic ties between China and Middle Eastern countries, including recent efforts to improve relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Can you trust your ears? AI voice scams rattle US

AI voice cloning tools are being used by fraudsters in a new type of scam, posing as family members and demanding ransom. The technology is becoming indistinguishable from human speech, enabling cybercriminals to exploit victims more effectively. The rise of AI voice cloning raises concerns about the blurring of reality and fiction and the need for new technologies to verify identities.