First fall in Shanghai's population this century

SHANGHAI • The Chinese city of Shanghai has seen its population shrink for the first time this century. Its permanent population - those who have lived there for six months or more - was 24.15 million at the end of last year, marking a decline of 0.4 per cent year on year, its statistics bureau said on Tuesday.

XINHUA

S. Korean opposition ends record filibuster

SEOUL • South Korea's opposition members have ended a record-breaking filibuster to block an "anti-terrorism" Bill, more than a week after they began taking turns making marathon speeches. The filibuster began on Tuesday last week.

By the time it ended yesterday evening, 38 MPs had spoken for an average of five hours each, the longest for more than 121/2 hours without a break.

REUTERS

Vivian on two-day visit to Australia

Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan is on a two-day introductory visit to Australia today and tomorrow. He will meet his Australian counterpart Julie Bishop, among other ministers and officials, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement yesterday.

Dr Balakrishnan will also discuss various issues of mutual interest, including the Singapore-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, said the MFA.