Iran to boost missile program: Parliament Speaker

Here is a round-up of global news developments:

• Iran's parliament speaker says Tehran will continue to boost its missile program. Ali Larijani added that Iran’s defense establishment is a key factor in ensuring national security and stability. He added that the West’s criticism of Iran’s missile tests stems from its opposition to Iran's major role in regional security.
• Iraqi troops have freed hundreds of citizens and security forces imprisoned by Daesh in the western Anbar province. Officials say 1,500 inmates were released from a prison in the city of Heet. Government forces also liberated several regions of the city and opened up humanitarian corridors for civilians trapped inside.
• Greece is to deport over 700 refugees to Turkey under a deal reached between the European Union and Ankara. The failed asylum seekers will be sent to the Turkish port of Dikili between Monday and Wednesday. Under the deal, Ankara should receive the refugees who cross the Aegean Sea for Greece.
• Nearly 130 unaccompanied refugee children have gone missing after a camp in the French city of Calais was demolished last month. About 300 lone minors are still living in the camp, which is known as Jungle. Activists have urged France to immediately register and protect the remaining children.
• Brussels Airport will partially reopen today with three symbolic flights and tighter security checks. The airport is expected to resume its normal schedule from late June or early July. The Zaventem Airport has remained closed since it was hit by deadly bomb explosions on March 22.
• Two Japanese warships and a submarine have arrived at a Philippine port amid tensions with China over the South China Sea. The Philippines says the vessels’ visit shows the enhancement of maritime cooperation between the two countries and a sustained promotion of regional peace and stability.
• Niger’s President Mahamadou Issoufou has been sworn in for his second term in office. Issoufou won over 92 percent of the vote in last month’s presidential run-off. The opposition boycotted the election after its candidate was jailed on baby-trafficking charges. Issoufou has promised economic and social development.
• Thousands of Colombians march nationwide to oppose the government’s approach to a peace deal with FARC rebels. They believe President Juan Manuel Santos has made unnecessary concessions to the rebels. The protesters called on Santos to resign and reject the impending peace deal.

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