News in Brief
UAE, China to hold first joint air drill
AA – China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will conduct their first joint military drill next month in China’s northwestern Xinjiang province, the Chinese Defense Ministry said on Monday.
“This is the first joint training between both air forces, aiming to deepen pragmatic exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries and enhance mutual understanding and trust,” it added.
Death toll from Pakistan’s suicide bombing rises
AL JAZEERA – The death toll from a massive suicide bombing that targeted an election rally for a pro-Taliban Muslim leader has risen to 54, as Pakistan held funerals and the government promised to hunt down those behind the attack. While no one immediately claimed responsibility for Sunday’s bombing, which also wounded nearly 200 people, police said their initial investigation suggested that the ISIL (ISIS) regional affiliate could be responsible.
China curbs exports of drone equipment
REUTERS – China on Monday announced export controls on some drones and drone-related equipment, saying it wanted to safeguard “national security and interests” amid escalating tension with the United States over access to technology.
The restrictions on equipment including some drone engines, lasers, communication equipment, and anti-drone systems would take effect on September 1, the commerce ministry said. The controls would also affect some consumer drones.