Affairs
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Build me Hong Kong
To counter competition from China, South Korea plans to build new cities to rival Hong Kong and Singapore as hubs for hi-tech services and tourism. But can the ambitious nation pull it off?
Into Africa
Once feared as a den of chaos, Tangier now lures European investors with cheap labour, tax breaks and proximity, transforming a hippie haunt into a thriving business gateway.
Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel
Once home to immigrants, students and punks, Hamburg’s Schanzen and Karolinen districts are now morphing into a destination of new business start-ups and buzzy bars and shops.
Letter from Tallinn
In 1991, Estonia broke free from the Soviet Union. Now Europe’s fastest-growing economy, its hi-tech boom continues under a re-elected government. But for how long can this extraordinary growth be sustained?
It’s fear that will unite us
Singapore has felt the wrath of its neighbours this year. Indonesia banned sand exports, and Thailand's junta accused it of spying. The city-state also remains cautious of China’s growing role in the region.
Accidental empire
The Pacific islands are a new diplomatic battleground for China, the US and Taiwan. But it is Australia running police forces and propping up governments, raising the question: is it running an accidental empire?
Turbulent times
To seal the bond between the leaders of Iran and Venezuela, a direct IranAir flight has launched between Tehran and Caracas. But residents of Tehran think it’s a flight of fancy.
