2: Pope Francis has appointed two new bishops in China, signaling reconciliation after years of conflict with the Chinese government. The Chinese government has tried to control the appointment of clergy in the country (just wait for the big firestorm when the Dalai Lama dies and the Chinese government tries to name his reincarnation), and in 2018 jointly with the Vatican appointed bishops. They agreed to a compromise to appoint him, only to violate it. Those are 2022 and 2023. Pope Francis’ appointment shows he is ready to turn the other cheek.
67: The Iranian government appears determined to maintain its status as one of the world’s top executioners. Iran on Monday executed four people it accused of spying for Israel, amid historic tensions between Tehran and the Jewish state. However, Iranian human rights groups disputed the government’s claim, saying the men were Kurdish political prisoners and had been “denied their basic right to a fair trial.” According to human rights groups, 67 executions have been carried out in Iran so far in 2024.
27.2: Finland will hold a run-off election in February after no candidate won at least 50% of the votes in the first round on Sunday. In the first round, former Prime Minister Alexander Stubb won with 27.2% of the votes, and will face former Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto, who got 25.2% of the votes. Finland’s president serves as commander-in-chief and plays a major role in the country’s foreign policy, which is especially important for the Nordic country as a new member of NATO.
Four: If there was a competition to determine the “world’s coolest dog,” there’s a good chance a 4-year-old Jack Russell Terrier named Effles would win. Head to San Bartolo, Peru, and you might spot a pup in a yellow vest wowing beachgoers while surfing with his owner. Yes, Efruz, you rule!