Delhi and its neighbouring regions are battling a toxic smog crisis as air quality has plummeted to “severe” levels, far exceeding WHO safety standards. AQI readings in several areas of Delhi, Noida, and Gurgaon have hit the maximum 500 mark, with pollution levels 30-35 times the WHO’s recommended limits.

VW has partnered with Rivian in a $5.8 billion joint venture aimed at accelerating EV innovation. The move will see both companies sharing advanced technologies to address slowing global EV demand and increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers.

Azerbaijan’s President defended the country’s oil and gas resources, calling them a “gift of god” and arguing that nations should not be blamed for having fossil fuel reserves. He criticised “Western fake news” about Azerbaijan’s emissions, saying the country’s share of global gas emissions was just 0.1%.

The US front pages continue to be dominated by American politics as the country prepares for Donald Trump to return to office in January. Trump has been busy making high-profile Cabinet appointments as the GOP looks on course to take control of both chambers of Congress.

Beyond politics in Washington, the papers report on local state news.

Florida Senator Marco Rubio is reportedly in talks to become secretary of state whilst Florida congressman Michael Waltz is being lined up as national security advisor, according to sources, and other Trump loyalists have been put in key positions.

PM Christopher Luxon issued a formal apology in Parliament to survivors of abuse in state, foster, and faith-based care. His apology acknowledged the widespread abuse, neglect, and exploitation endured by hundreds of thousands of children and vulnerable adults over seven decades.