A Multi-Paragraph Overview
India's national elections kick off on Friday, with over 970 million people eligible to vote in the world's largest democracy. This multi-stage general election process will determine the members of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term. Official results are expected in early June.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz heads to Beijing for a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This visit aims to recalibrate ties between the two countries amidst growing European concerns about Chinese exports and a desire for an end to the ban on German pork exports.
China announces its first-quarter gross domestic product and other economic data. Economists predict a growth rate of 4.6%, slower than the previous quarter, as the country grapples with stimulating demand and a property slump.
South Korea marks the 10th anniversary of the Sewol ferry disaster, which claimed over 300 lives. This tragic event continues to spark discussions on public safety in the country.
Voters in the Solomon Islands head to the polls amidst questions about the nation's political future and its ties with China.
Japan publishes its March trade statistics and inflation data. The national figures are expected to show a slight moderation in the core consumer price index compared to February.
Japanese furniture retailer Nitori Holdings opens its first store in Manila, targeting Asia as its key growth market. The company plans to expand further into Indonesia and India, aiming to open over 200 overseas stores annually.