Latest news with #Wa
The Advertiser
11-08-2025
- Sport
- The Advertiser
Injury seemingly cruels Caslick's Wallaroos Cup dream
Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp is clinging to the hope Charlotte Caslick will rejoin the Wallaroos for the business end of the Women's Rugby World Cup after a broken ankle denied the attacking trump a seat on the plane to England. The Wallaroos flew out of Sydney on Monday for the global showpiece starting on August 22, but Caslick was a conspicuous absentee from the squad while recovering from syndesmosis surgery. The three-time Olympian and 2016 rugby sevens gold medallist was ruled out after revealing she'd fractured her leg and medics declared she was no chance of featuring in Australia's first two pool games against Samoa and the USA. "In sport, sometimes the toughest opponent is time," Caslick posted on Instagram. "I am saddddd and disappointed to share that I won't be joining the girls in England for the RWC. "Four weeks ago I fractured my fibula and ruptured my syndesmosis. "We set our sights on pushing a 10-12 week recovery into six, but we decided on Friday it's best for myself and the team to make the call now as I won't be available for the opening rounds." Caslick was initially included in the squad, before the tough call was made to leave her in Australia. "I really feel for Charlotte because we know what a brave decision it was. She fully embraced the 15 (a side game)," Yapp said at Sydney airport. "She threw herself into it wholeheartedly and I have so much respect for her for that, and I hope that this isn't actually the end of her 15s career." With the Wallaroos needing two wins from their three pool games against Samoa, USA and title favourites England to make the quarter-finals, Yapp says Caslick could still feature if they make the knockout stages starting on September 13. "That's what we're hoping for," the coach said. "She continues on an accelerated return. She's not within the 32, so it would require an injury for Charlotte to join us, but if she continues the way she is, then yeah." The 30-year-old had paused her sevens career, making a full-time switch to the 15-a-side code this year to add clout to the Wallaroos' Cup charge. Caslick had played five Tests and was beginning to find her feet in the centres, scoring with her first touch against New Zealand before suffering the injury late in that same game last month. But the backline talent, who last week said rehabilitation was on track, has been replaced by uncapped teenage centre Manu'a Moleka, who joins sister Faitala in the Wallaroos' squad. "We're really fortunate and excited that Manu'a can join us for the World Cup," Yapp said. "Manu'a has been part of the touring squad since the start of the international Test season and thoroughly deserves her opportunity." Australia, whose best result is third in seven Cup appearances, begin their campaign against Samoa in Manchester on August 23. The Wallaroos then face the USA in York on August 30 and the tournament hosts in Brighton on September 6. Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp is clinging to the hope Charlotte Caslick will rejoin the Wallaroos for the business end of the Women's Rugby World Cup after a broken ankle denied the attacking trump a seat on the plane to England. The Wallaroos flew out of Sydney on Monday for the global showpiece starting on August 22, but Caslick was a conspicuous absentee from the squad while recovering from syndesmosis surgery. The three-time Olympian and 2016 rugby sevens gold medallist was ruled out after revealing she'd fractured her leg and medics declared she was no chance of featuring in Australia's first two pool games against Samoa and the USA. "In sport, sometimes the toughest opponent is time," Caslick posted on Instagram. "I am saddddd and disappointed to share that I won't be joining the girls in England for the RWC. "Four weeks ago I fractured my fibula and ruptured my syndesmosis. "We set our sights on pushing a 10-12 week recovery into six, but we decided on Friday it's best for myself and the team to make the call now as I won't be available for the opening rounds." Caslick was initially included in the squad, before the tough call was made to leave her in Australia. "I really feel for Charlotte because we know what a brave decision it was. She fully embraced the 15 (a side game)," Yapp said at Sydney airport. "She threw herself into it wholeheartedly and I have so much respect for her for that, and I hope that this isn't actually the end of her 15s career." With the Wallaroos needing two wins from their three pool games against Samoa, USA and title favourites England to make the quarter-finals, Yapp says Caslick could still feature if they make the knockout stages starting on September 13. "That's what we're hoping for," the coach said. "She continues on an accelerated return. She's not within the 32, so it would require an injury for Charlotte to join us, but if she continues the way she is, then yeah." The 30-year-old had paused her sevens career, making a full-time switch to the 15-a-side code this year to add clout to the Wallaroos' Cup charge. Caslick had played five Tests and was beginning to find her feet in the centres, scoring with her first touch against New Zealand before suffering the injury late in that same game last month. But the backline talent, who last week said rehabilitation was on track, has been replaced by uncapped teenage centre Manu'a Moleka, who joins sister Faitala in the Wallaroos' squad. "We're really fortunate and excited that Manu'a can join us for the World Cup," Yapp said. "Manu'a has been part of the touring squad since the start of the international Test season and thoroughly deserves her opportunity." Australia, whose best result is third in seven Cup appearances, begin their campaign against Samoa in Manchester on August 23. The Wallaroos then face the USA in York on August 30 and the tournament hosts in Brighton on September 6. Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp is clinging to the hope Charlotte Caslick will rejoin the Wallaroos for the business end of the Women's Rugby World Cup after a broken ankle denied the attacking trump a seat on the plane to England. The Wallaroos flew out of Sydney on Monday for the global showpiece starting on August 22, but Caslick was a conspicuous absentee from the squad while recovering from syndesmosis surgery. The three-time Olympian and 2016 rugby sevens gold medallist was ruled out after revealing she'd fractured her leg and medics declared she was no chance of featuring in Australia's first two pool games against Samoa and the USA. "In sport, sometimes the toughest opponent is time," Caslick posted on Instagram. "I am saddddd and disappointed to share that I won't be joining the girls in England for the RWC. "Four weeks ago I fractured my fibula and ruptured my syndesmosis. "We set our sights on pushing a 10-12 week recovery into six, but we decided on Friday it's best for myself and the team to make the call now as I won't be available for the opening rounds." Caslick was initially included in the squad, before the tough call was made to leave her in Australia. "I really feel for Charlotte because we know what a brave decision it was. She fully embraced the 15 (a side game)," Yapp said at Sydney airport. "She threw herself into it wholeheartedly and I have so much respect for her for that, and I hope that this isn't actually the end of her 15s career." With the Wallaroos needing two wins from their three pool games against Samoa, USA and title favourites England to make the quarter-finals, Yapp says Caslick could still feature if they make the knockout stages starting on September 13. "That's what we're hoping for," the coach said. "She continues on an accelerated return. She's not within the 32, so it would require an injury for Charlotte to join us, but if she continues the way she is, then yeah." The 30-year-old had paused her sevens career, making a full-time switch to the 15-a-side code this year to add clout to the Wallaroos' Cup charge. Caslick had played five Tests and was beginning to find her feet in the centres, scoring with her first touch against New Zealand before suffering the injury late in that same game last month. But the backline talent, who last week said rehabilitation was on track, has been replaced by uncapped teenage centre Manu'a Moleka, who joins sister Faitala in the Wallaroos' squad. "We're really fortunate and excited that Manu'a can join us for the World Cup," Yapp said. "Manu'a has been part of the touring squad since the start of the international Test season and thoroughly deserves her opportunity." Australia, whose best result is third in seven Cup appearances, begin their campaign against Samoa in Manchester on August 23. The Wallaroos then face the USA in York on August 30 and the tournament hosts in Brighton on September 6.
Time of India
07-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Did you know Hrithik Roshan's iconic scene in 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai' was inspired by his real-life love story with Sussanne Khan?
Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne Khan's love story didn't start at a fancy Bollywood event, but at a simple traffic signal. Hrithik was just 12 years old when he turned to his left at a red light and saw a girl he thought was the most beautiful person he'd ever seen. That brief moment stayed with him. Years later, with the help of his close friend, actor Kunal Kapoor , Hrithik finally got the chance to meet her, and that girl turned out to be Sussanne Khan. At the time of his debut in 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai', Hrithik had just become a nationwide heartthrob, but he was already deeply committed to Sussanne. Interestingly, one iconic scene in the film, where the lead spots the girl at a traffic signal, was reportedly inspired by the moment Hrithik first saw Sussanne in real life. Sussanne on how she met Hrithik Roshan In a chat with Neha Dhupia on BFFs with Vogue, Sussanne shared her own version of how her love story with the actor began. She recalled, that she met Hrithik when she returned to Mumbai after studying in the US. 'I met a superstar boy who was not a superstar at that time, but was one in my eyes..." she said. After their unexpected first meeting, Hrithik and Sussanne started dating, despite their age gap. Hrithik's feelings for her kept growing, and he eventually decided to express his love through a heartfelt proposal. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 20 Pieces of Clothing you Can be Too Old for Learn More Undo On the show Rendezvous with Simi Garewal, Hrithik even shared a special letter he had once written to Sussanne. 'Dear Sussanne, Hi I hope this letter finds you in the pink of hunger. I just wanted you to know that I love you very, very much and that I'd want to live my entire life with you beside me. Will you? If yes then turn over, if no then eat your food.' The Proposal Sussanne also once shared a sweet memory of Hrithik proposing to her during a coffee date. He had cleverly placed a ring at the bottom of her coffee cup. It was his way of making a promise, and without thinking twice, she said "yes." Family Journey After dating for four years, the couple tied the knot on December 20, 2000. Their wedding was a beautiful blend of traditions from both families. Their first son, Hrehaan, was born in March 2006, followed by Hridaan in May 2008. Despite their busy lives, Hrithik and Sussanne always prioritised their children and focused on nurturing a happy family. Separation after 12 years Even though Hrithik and Sussanne shared a close and loving bond, they decided to part ways in 2013 after twelve years of marriage. Hrithik made a public statement about their separation. Their divorce was finalised in 2014, but their commitment to their sons never wavered. The two have continued to co-parent with love and respect, often going on family vacations together and staying united as parents. Hrithik Roshan calls Jr. NTR 'incredible' and his favorite co‑star for 'War 2'
Metro
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
I found the community I was craving on the streets of Washington DC
I'd just left a gay bar in Washington DC when news broke of the massacre at Pulse nightclub in Orlando. Forty-nine LGBT+ people were murdered, and, at the time, it was the deadliest mass shooting in US history. It happened on the same day as the 2016 Washington DC Pride Parade. We'd spent the day in queer celebration, only to have that joy ripped away in the early hours of the morning. All I could think was that with the USA's lax gun laws, it could have easily been any bar in the country. It could have easily been the bar that I was in. These thoughts resurface as I plan my trip to World Pride in Washington DC. Every few years, a different destination is chosen to hold the global queer gathering, with cities like Sydney, Toronto and Madrid hosting in previous years. Each place has been unmistakably LGBT+ friendly, and while the same is true of DC, when they were chosen as the host for 2025, we didn't yet know who would be residing in The White House. It felt like a tremendous gamble, and when the election was finally called, it made me nervous that something was going to happen. We'd already seen the violent uprising at the US Capitol in 2021, and with so much anti-LGBT+ sentiment being pushed by the Trump administration, it made me question whether it was safe or sensible to visit. Travel Proud research shows that 80% of LGBT+ travellers consider their safety before booking a trip, and in this instance, I was very much one of them. World Pride happening in America's capital – surely it would be a target for those filled with hatred for my community? But this year, on my journey to tell the story of Pride around the world, it felt crucial to put my fears aside and attend this significant event. Not in spite of who is in The White House, but because of it. With thousands of members from all over the world, our vibrant LGBTQ+ WhatsApp channel is a hub for all the latest news and important issues that face the LGBTQ+ community. Simply click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! Don't forget to turn on notifications! Having already travelled to Pride in many countries this year, I've picked up on consistent criticism of the US government. People chanted against the American president in India, people carried anti-Trump banners in Finland, and the drag queens in Canada called out audience members for wearing MAGA hats. It feels like the community is united in their distaste for the leader of the 'free world.' I knew this year's Pride would be punctuated by feelings of anger, defiance and protest, but the thing that surprised me most was that there was virtually nobody pushing back against it. In DC I expected counter-protests, anti-LGBT+ signs, and conflicts breaking out left, right and centre. Instead, I found a city united in support for the community. Although this came as a surprise, when you think about it, it makes a lot of sense. Despite the political climate in the USA, Washington DC still retains the highest percentage of LGBT+ residents in the country. Queer visibility is stitched into the fabric of the city. Pride flags may not fly from the White House like they had during the Biden or Obama administrations, but they still fly from every other building instead. The city is so loud and relentless in its support, that it's easy to forget that we're celebrating on his front lawn. That is until something snaps me back to reality. 'It's the president!' somebody calls from the crowd. I spin around to look to the stage, foolishly expecting to see a red cap approaching the microphone. But of course, the 47th president of the United States wasn't going to make an appearance. His track record of stoking hatred against us had made that abundantly clear. Instead, a sudden quiet falls over the crowd as Kamala Harris appears onscreen in his place. Silence at Pride is unheard of – we're a loud bunch when it comes to protest and celebration – but you could hear a penny drop as the crowd waited for their president to make her speech. 'In this moment, as you gather with friends and allies from across the world, let us be clear – no one should be made to fight alone. We are all in this together.' Calum McSwiggan, author of Eat Gay Love, is a man on a mission. He plans to spend 2025 exploring how the LGBT+ community is celebrated everywhere on Earth: 12 months, 7 continents, 20 Prides. In an exclusive Metro series, Calum will journey from the subzero climes of Antarctica to the jewel-toned streets of Mumbai, telling the story of Pride around the world. Follow his journey on Metro, in print and on our socials to learn how Pride is celebrated around the world. Next up? Ireland and Amsterdam. Those words feel healing, and it's this message of solidarity that defines the festivities. In speeches and chants and rallying cries of protest, there is a repeated call for standing together. Recently, division has been weaponised, with repeated attempts to sever the LGB from the T. World Pride is our moment to push back as a united international community. I was given the honour of leading the Pride parade with a group of passionate queer changemakers, so I swap out my rainbow flag for a trans pride flag instead. When I step out onto the route, the cacophony is deafening. They're not cheering for me – they're cheering for the flag and what it represents. I'm not the only cis person to raise the trans colours, either. It seems that, this year, a lot of people have had the same idea. Alongside signs that declare 'f*****s against fascism,' pastel pinks and baby blues fill the sky as we join the march on the US Capitol. It's the most trans pride flags I've seen in a traditional parade, and while many commentators try to argue that our community is more fractured than ever, I have never seen such a proud display of unity. Hope Giselle, a Black transgender activist, drives this message home. 'As we march, as we walk, as we galvanise, as we move, we will do so together . We will fight together , we will own this s**t together . ' She's stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, on the same spot where Dr. Martin Luther King once gave his famous speech. 'Because when they come for us – and they will come for us – they will come for us together .' This feeling carries from the Pride march right through to the celebrations. Sasha Colby, a transgender drag queen, is invited to throw out the ceremonial opening pitch at the Washington Nationals baseball game. While on stage at the World Pride music festival, Jennifer Lopez brings out the Gay Men's Chorus to sing a rendition of George Michael's Freedom against a backdrop of quotes from famous transgender activists. More Trending 'Shout out to all the trans people in the audience,' Troye Sivan calls to the cheering crowd during his set, while Doechii is more direct : 'Protect the dolls. F**k Trump.' It's a much needed reminder that we are still moving forwards. Washington DC is, and always will be, an inherently queer city. It doesn't matter which political power takes the White House, Pride will always live in these streets. Attacks on queer rights are at an all time high, but so is awareness and understanding that we need to protect the most vulnerable members of our community. World Pride is a reminder that the LGBT+ community is stronger than ever. You can attempt to divide us all you want, but attacking our community will only drive us closer together . Getting there Virgin Atlantic runs daily flights between London Heathrow and Washington DC, with return economy fares starting from £429. What to do beyond Pride DC Pride Walks: From historic gay cruising to Abraham Lincoln's allegedly gay past, take a guided walk through some of Washington DC's fascinating LGBT+ history. Little District Books: This LGBT+ bookstore is a celebration of everything queer, from banned titles to queer book clubs, they have something for just about everyone. Washington Nationals: Baseball is quintessentially American, and while their pride-themed game only happens in June, Nationals Park provides an inclusive environment year round. Where to stay Lyle DC (£) Viceroy Washington DC (££) The Fairmont Washington DC (£££) These hotels all proudly display the Travel Proud badge after completing LGBT+ inclusivity training. Inclusive eats Annie's Paramount Steakhouse: Loudly and proudly serving the LGBT+ community since 1948, this long-standing institution is a piece of the city's queer history. An absolute must for any first time visitor. Loudly and proudly serving the LGBT+ community since 1948, this long-standing institution is a piece of the city's queer history. An absolute must for any first time visitor. Ambar Capitol Hill: Situated in a historic queer neighbourhood, this eatery serves wholesome Balkan cuisine while being vocally supportive of the community. Situated in a historic queer neighbourhood, this eatery serves wholesome Balkan cuisine while being vocally supportive of the community. Mi Vida: Highly shareable and deeply morish Mexican food with multiple locations throughout the city. I come here on each and every visit. MORE: Three minutes cut from 'raw' prison footage of the night Epstein died MORE: Trump loved Epstein conspiracy theories – now he's at the heart of one MORE: Ragtag Zohran Mamdani protest likened to Netflix comedy sketch
Associated Press
15-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
American Express Opens New Centurion Lounge at Tokyo's Haneda Airport
NEW YORK, US - Media OutReach Newswire - 15 July 2025 - On July 16 American Express (NYSE: AXP) will open a new Centurion Lounge at Tokyo's Haneda Airport (HND), the busiest airport in Japan and one of the busiest airports in the world. The Centurion Lounge at HND marks the 30th to open worldwide and the 4th to open in Asia, joining lounges at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, Hong Kong international Airport (HKG) in Hong Kong, and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai. The new lounge in Tokyo features locally sourced decor and artwork that celebrates Japanese philosophy, craftsmanship, and artistry, a live, open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs cook, a buffet offering a variety of Japanese and Western food and beverages, a dedicated sweets bar nodding to Japan's snack culture, and private phone rooms that are also equipped with a curated audio program for meditation. Located in Haneda's Terminal 3 near Gate 114, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the airfield while they rest and refuel before their flights. Main seating area of the Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport 'The Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport celebrates Japanese culture, featuring custom artwork, an exciting menu that showcases the flavors of Tokyo, and my personal favorite – private meditation booths to help you recharge and find some calm before your flight,' said Audrey Hendley, President, American Express Travel. 'We've seen incredible demand for travel to Japan, it is one of the destinations where we've seen the highest growth recently. We look forward to showcasing the impeccable service Centurion Lounges are known for in a destination we know is so important to our Card Members.' 'Long awaited by our eligible Card Members, we are thrilled to open Japan's first Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport,' said Yasuhiro Sudo, Senior Vice President, Japan Country Manager at American Express. 'We look forward to providing a best-in-class experience with high-quality meals, a wonderful atmosphere, and local charm to eligible Japanese Card Members and eligible Card Members from all over the world. We are committed to delivering the exceptional customer experience American Express proudly offers and is known for.' Select Dishes by Chef Satoshi Ogino, Plus Specialty Drinks and Sweets Bar Acclaimed Chef Satoshi Ogino is known for his mastery of classic Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on seasonality and has helmed the kitchens of several Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo, including his own Akasaka Ogino. In addition to a special lounge menu by Chef Ogino showcasing local flavors in his signature style, the kitchen will also offer Japanese favorites including sushi and ramen, and a buffet will serve both local and global cuisine. A full bar will offer a premium menu of wine, locally inspired cocktails, and a selection of Japanese beers, sake, and shochu1, while a dedicated sweets bar will feature a selection of teas and traditional Japanese Wagashi sweets, plus a rotating menu of additional treats. Art and Design Inspired by Local Craftsmanship and 'Japan Blue' Designed by OnBrand, American Express' in-house creative agency, the lounge is inspired by the philosophy, craftmanship, and artistry of Japanese culture and 'Japan Blue.' Produced by the Japanese dyeing technique of Aizome, 'Japan Blue' is a deep indigo hue that represents tranquility and stability and is ubiquitous in Japanese art, architecture and fashion. The color is woven throughout the lounge and complemented by natural materials and textures, including slatted wood, stone, and subtle walnut and black ash accents. The bar features elegant Uroko ceramic tiles and a dramatic ceiling canopy, while an Edo-Kiriko-inspired custom chandelier hangs in the main seating area and locally inspired textiles and wall coverings can be found throughout the space. The lounge features commissioned artwork from several local artists, including a custom American Express-inspired mural by Shu Kuroki, and Saki Matsumoto's textile reimagining of the American Express bulldog, Sir Charles Frosty Blue, as Komainu - a guardian of Japanese shrines symbolizing trust and protection. The artwork also includes ceramics by Ryuji Iwasaki, ink paintings by Ryohei Sasaki, and a traditional Japanese Wajima Nuri lacquerware installation by Miho Yokoyama. The pieces for the installation were sourced from Ishikawa — home of the Wajima Nuri lacquerware tradition — to support recovery efforts following the 2024 earthquake that devastated the Noto Peninsula. At nearly 7,500 square feet, The Centurion Lounge at HND will feature luxury amenities and several areas for travelers to work, relax and recharge before boarding their flights, including: Meeting More Card Members in More Places With more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer2, the American Express Global Lounge Collection™ is just one of the many ways American Express supports Card Members while they travel. Eligible Card Members have access to more than 1,550 lounges worldwide, including 30 Centurion Lounges. American Express continues to expand and enhance the Centurion Lounge Network with plans announced to open new lounge locations at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in Salt Lake City in 2025 and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in Amsterdam in 2026. Hashtag: #Amex The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. ABOUT AMERICAN EXPRESS American Express (NYSE: AXP) is a global payments and premium lifestyle brand powered by technology. Our colleagues around the world back our customers with differentiated products, services and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Founded in 1850 and headquartered in New York, American Express' brand is built on trust, security, and service, and a rich history of delivering innovation and Membership value for our customers. With a hundred million merchant locations on our global network in around 200 countries and territories, we seek to provide the world's best customer experience every day to a broad range of consumers, small and medium-sized businesses, and large corporations. For more information about American Express, visit and ABOUT THE CENTURION LOUNGE The Centurion Lounge is the signature lounge program within the broader American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes complimentary access to American Express Centurion Lounges, Escape Lounges, Delta Sky Club® for Card Members flying on Delta, Priority Pass™ Select Lounges upon enrollment, Plaza Premium Lounges, select Lufthansa Lounges when flying Lufthansa Group, and Additional Global Lounge Collection Partner Lounges--a total of more than 1,550 lounges across 140 countries and counting. Eligible Card Members can find a lounge at the Global Lounge Collection website, or by using the American Express® App. They can also begin their check-in process for select Centurion Lounges through the mobile check-in tool within the American Express® App. ABOUT JAPAN AIRPORT TERMINAL CO., LTD. HANEDA AIRPORT OPERATING COMPANY Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd. was established in 1953 as a passenger terminal operator funded exclusively by private capital dedicated to the construction, management, and operation of airport terminal buildings, and under the founding philosophy of achieving harmony between business and society. Headquartered in Tokyo, the company has operated Haneda Airport's passenger terminal since it opened in 1955, consistently striving to enhance convenience, comfort, and functionality for all travelers. The company's business includes a wide range of airport-related operations, such as terminal facility management, retail and duty-free store operations, food and beverage services, and passenger support. Through these efforts, the company contributes to the growth and development of airport infrastructure both in Japan and internationally. For more information, please visit: [1] Must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly. [2] Based on comparison with other U.S. credit card programs, as of 10/2024.
Time of India
13-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
The rare-earth rush in Myanmar
Mine, but not for you (Picture credit: NYT) As the world scrambles for minerals known as heavy rare earth metals, crucial to run many of the advanced digital systems, the Chinese govt is reaping windfall gains from a civil war. In recent years, conflict-torn Myanmar has emerged as a leading source of the minerals for the Chinese. Miners working for Chinese companies have extracted metals worth billions of dollars and shipped them to China. The 2021 military coup prompted many Western nations to impose financial sanctions on Myanmar, leaving the junta with fewer trading partners. China has continued to do business with the generals, who need cash. Various armed groups fighting the military also want to fill their war chests. So do ethnic militias aligned with the army. This situation has allowed Chinese state-owned firms to control rare earth mining in Myanmar. While rare earths were being mined before the coup, some of the areas where it happens have since been fought over by competing forces in the civil war. And China has occasionally throttled rare earth imports from Myanmar to favour one side in the conflict. Much of Myanmar's mineral bounty is concentrated in the country's borderlands, such as in the northern states of Kachin and Shan, which neighbour China. Heavy rare earth metals, particularly terbium and dysprosium, are plentiful in this region. The frenzy of extraction has now spread to pockets of northeastern Myanmar that are controlled by the Wa ethnic group, which holds autonomous territory under unofficial Chinese patronage. The toxic byproducts of this mining are gushing out of Myanmar into neighbouring Thailand. A stretch of the Mekong River is being poisoned, along with some of its tributaries. Chinese companies send chemicals to Myanmar for use in the leaching and basic processing of mineral ores. The rare earths are then trucked across border to China for further refining.
