Chinese President Xi Jinping’s signature project, the Belt and Road Initiative, got a boost when Italy became the first major European country to join. What was behind Italy’s decision and what might it mean for allies in the United States and the EU?

In the aftermath of the New Zealand mosque attacks, public debate is mounting in Western democracies over the severity of the threat posed by far-right extremists.

With Emperor Akihito’s historic abdication approaching, here’s a look at his accomplishments and what to expect from the next emperor, Crown Prince Naruhito.