Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • Welcome to TÜRKİYE – A Global Hub for Health Tourism

    Welcome to TÜRKİYE – A Global Hub for Health Tourism

    Türkiye has strategically positioned itself as a global leader in health tourism, leveraging its unique geographical and cultural assets to create a comprehensive medical and wellness destination. The nation’s emergence in this sector is characterized by an innovative fusion of ancient therapeutic traditions and cutting-edge medical technology.

    Medical Infrastructure and Accreditation:
    The foundation of Türkiye’s health tourism success lies in its advanced medical infrastructure. The country boasts numerous Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited hospitals, including massive health campuses capable of accommodating up to 4,000 patients. These facilities employ AI-assisted diagnostics and robotic surgery systems, ensuring clinical precision that meets international standards.

    Comprehensive Patient Services:
    International patients benefit from significantly reduced waiting periods and all-inclusive treatment packages that streamline the healthcare experience. Türkiye’s visa-free entry policy for numerous nationalities, coupled with extensive flight connectivity, eliminates traditional travel barriers. Multilingual International Patient Units provide personalized support throughout the entire treatment journey.

    Wellness and Thermal Therapy:
    Beyond conventional medical treatments, Türkiye offers unique wellness experiences drawn from its natural resources. As one of the world’s most geothermal-rich regions, the country hosts over 1,500 therapeutic thermal springs. These natural assets are complemented by immersive wellness retreats set amidst forests, mineral-rich mud baths, and oxygen-rich highlands that promote holistic rejuvenation.

    Official HealthTürkiye® Platform:
    The Republic of Türkiye has officially launched HealthTürkiye® as the nation’s primary digital gateway for international healthcare access. Developed by USHAŞ in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Culture and Tourism, this comprehensive platform provides:
    – A verified database of accredited healthcare institutions and specialist physicians
    – Step-by-step guidance covering treatment planning, admission, accommodation, and follow-up care
    – Multilingual 24/7 call center support in English, Arabic, Russian, French, German, and Persian
    – Integrated visa assistance and flight planning tools
    – Transparent pricing guaranteed under the authority of the Ministry of Health

    Bursa: Model Health Tourism Destination:
    The city of Bursa exemplifies Türkiye’s integrated approach to health tourism, blending ancient thermal heritage with modern medical infrastructure. Recognized since antiquity for its therapeutic hot springs, Bursa now offers mineral-rich thermal waters containing sodium, calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate that are scientifically recognized for managing rheumatic conditions, dermatological disorders, and musculoskeletal ailments.

    The city’s medical infrastructure includes 42 hospitals (21 public), 8 medical centers, 33 dental and specialist clinics, and 15 facilitator institutions accredited to serve medical tourists. Under Türkiye’s Health Tourism Strategy, Bursa’s hospitals and wellness facilities collaborate to provide combined medical and thermal therapy packages across rehabilitation, orthopedics, dermatology, rheumatology, and weight management.

    Cultural and Tourism Integration:
    Bursa’s appeal extends beyond healthcare, offering visitors a rich cultural experience as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Ulu Mosque, Green Mosque, and Cumalıkızık Village provide historical context, while Uludağ National Park offers year-round recreational opportunities from skiing to eco-tourism.

    The city’s coastline along the Marmara Sea features peaceful seaside towns like Mudanya and Tirilye, known for their olive groves and historic architecture. Bursa’s culinary reputation, highlighted by signature dishes like İskender Kebab, and its annual cultural festivals further enhance its position as a multifaceted destination.

    Türkiye’s comprehensive approach to health tourism—combining medical excellence, wellness traditions, cultural richness, and official government support through the HealthTürkiye® platform—establishes the nation as a preferred choice for international patients seeking high-quality, accessible, and holistic care.

  • New Year’s Eve terror plot across southern California foiled by FBI

    New Year’s Eve terror plot across southern California foiled by FBI

    Federal law enforcement agencies have successfully disrupted a sophisticated terror plot planned for New Year’s Eve in Southern California, according to official statements released Monday. The FBI, in coordination with Los Angeles Police Department, apprehended four individuals allegedly belonging to the Turtle Island Liberation Front—an offshoot of a pro-Palestinian anti-government organization—while they were en route to test improvised explosive devices in desert areas east of Los Angeles.

    The suspects, identified as Audrey Illeene Carroll (30), Zachary Aaron Page (32), Dante Gaffield (24), and Tina Lai (41), now face multiple federal charges including conspiracy and possession of unregistered destructive devices. Court documents reveal the group had transported precursor chemicals to remote locations with the alleged intention of constructing explosive ordnance.

    Advanced surveillance operations captured the group’s movements, enabling FBI SWAT teams to execute flawless apprehensions without incident. The planned attacks targeted logistical centers operated by two American corporations at midnight on December 31st across the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Additional intelligence suggests the group had discussed subsequent operations against Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel and vehicles using pipe bombs in early 2025.

    U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi characterized the prevented attack as ‘a massive and horrific terror plot’ orchestrated by far-left extremists. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized that interagency collaboration proved instrumental in averting potential catastrophe: ‘The successful disruption of this plot is a powerful testament to the strength of our unified response.’

    The FBI confirms that while the immediate threat has been neutralized, investigations continue to identify any additional individuals potentially connected to the planning.

  • Verdict on Jimmy Lai is reached strictly in accordance with law and evidence: HKSAR govt

    Verdict on Jimmy Lai is reached strictly in accordance with law and evidence: HKSAR govt

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has formally affirmed that the judicial verdict in the national security case against media proprietor Jimmy Lai was determined exclusively through strict legal procedures and evidentiary standards. In an official statement released Monday, a government spokesperson emphasized that the court’s decision demonstrates rigorous adherence to judicial independence, completely free from external interference or political considerations.

    Lai, identified by authorities as a key instigator of anti-China disturbances in Hong Kong, was convicted on three distinct charges: two counts of conspiring to collude with external forces and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. The court specifically clarified that the conviction was not influenced by Lai’s political perspectives or beliefs, but rather by his unlawful actions.

    HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee characterized the verdict as a clear manifestation of legal justice and the reinforcement of Hong Kong’s core values. He asserted that national security laws cannot be violated under the pretext of human rights, democracy, or freedom, emphasizing that the government remains steadfast in its constitutional duty to combat all activities that endanger national security.

    The government statement addressed what it described as deliberate misinformation campaigns from Western powers, particularly the United States, regarding Lai’s case. Officials specifically rejected attempts to frame the prosecution as an attack on press freedom, noting that Hong Kong’s legal framework—including the Basic Law and Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance—continues to protect journalistic and speech freedoms. The spokesperson clarified that Lai’s activities involved using media operations as camouflage for actions damaging to both national and Hong Kong interests.

    Regarding Lai’s treatment during detention, authorities confirmed he received comprehensive medical care and appropriate religious accommodations. The government concluded by acknowledging persistent national security risks and reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty through the continued implementation of Hong Kong’s national security legal framework.

  • Global South storytelling takes centre stage at Abu Dhabi’s Bridge Summit

    Global South storytelling takes centre stage at Abu Dhabi’s Bridge Summit

    Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a pivotal media nexus was prominently showcased during the inaugural Global South Video News Awards, a cornerstone event of the Bridge Summit. Organized by Viory, a UAE-based video news agency, the ceremony served as a transformative platform for journalists who are fundamentally reshaping international perceptions of the Global South.

    The gathering attracted major media institutions from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, signaling a paradigm shift in how the global industry regards this increasingly influential media sector. The event balanced celebratory recognition with profound purpose, highlighted by opening remarks from media personality Mai Maxwell and an impactful address from Alex Kobia, Viory’s African Distribution Lead.

    Kobia’s declaration that “The Global South is not emerging – it has arrived” resonated throughout the summit, emphasizing the critical importance of verified, ground-level visual journalism. He detailed Viory’s extensive network of over 3,000 video journalists worldwide committed to bringing clarity and human depth to underrepresented stories.

    The awards gained substantial credibility through a distinguished judging panel comprising senior media representatives from Clarín (Argentina), Hindustan Times (India), Korean Broadcasting System (South Korea), TeleSUR (Venezuela), and the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation.

    Recipients of the inaugural honors included Maximiliano Jonas (Best Camerawork), Enrique Ortiz (Most Creative Shot), Masoud Al Jarousha (Exclusive Lens), and Ernest Dela Aglanu (Vital Footage Award). Their work was celebrated for its courageous impact and ability to capture defining moments that strengthen global storytelling.

    The ceremony also featured poignant reflections from UAE youth representative Shahd Alabdouli, who shared insights from her humanitarian work in conflict zones, reminding attendees of the human experiences behind every journalistic piece and the responsibility to preserve truth.

    Viory concluded the event by reaffirming its commitment to supporting journalist communities and ensuring essential Global South stories receive deserved visibility. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s strategic investments in media innovation and its positioning as a bridge between global markets, marking a significant step toward more authentic and inclusive global narratives.

  • First IVF Dubai and Abu Dhabi earn JCI accreditation

    First IVF Dubai and Abu Dhabi earn JCI accreditation

    First IVF, a prominent fertility treatment provider in the United Arab Emirates, has achieved a significant healthcare milestone by securing Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation for both its Dubai and Abu Dhabi facilities. This prestigious recognition represents the global gold standard for patient safety and clinical quality in healthcare institutions worldwide.

    The accreditation process involved comprehensive on-site evaluations conducted by international JCI surveyors who meticulously examined all operational aspects. The assessment covered clinical protocols, laboratory processes, infection control measures, patient identification systems, communication pathways, governance structures, and staff competency standards.

    Dr. Michael Fakih, Founder and Chairman of First IVF and a recognized pioneer in reproductive medicine, emphasized the significance of this achievement: “This dual accreditation reaffirms our unwavering commitment to delivering safe, ethical, and world-class fertility treatments. Patients seeking reproductive care in the UAE rightfully expect the highest medical standards, and this recognition validates our consistent delivery of such excellence.”

    The clinics offer a comprehensive suite of fertility services including in vitro fertilization (IVF), genetic testing, family balancing options, male and female infertility treatments, and fertility preservation through egg and embryo freezing. These services are supported by advanced laboratory facilities and a multidisciplinary team of reproductive specialists.

    For prospective patients evaluating fertility clinics in the UAE, the JCI accreditation serves as a significant quality assurance marker, indicating adherence to international best practices with emphasis on safety protocols, personalized treatment approaches, and enhanced patient reassurance throughout the fertility journey.

    Dr. Fakih further noted: “Whether patients require IVF procedures, fertility assessments, or preservation services, our objective remains to provide scientifically advanced care within an emotionally supportive environment. This accreditation reinforces our dedication to maintaining leadership in UAE reproductive medicine.”

  • Healthcare, AI, education and space set to lead Japan and UAE bilateral ties

    Healthcare, AI, education and space set to lead Japan and UAE bilateral ties

    Japan and the United Arab Emirates are embarking on a transformative bilateral partnership, with advanced negotiations underway for a comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). This strategic alignment aims to deepen cooperation across cutting-edge sectors including artificial intelligence, healthcare innovation, space exploration, and education reform.

    Jun Imanishi, Consul-General of Japan in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, revealed that both nations are leveraging their unique strengths under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Initiative (CSPI). “Japan represents a global hub for technological development offering exceptional investment opportunities within a secure environment,” Imanishi stated, emphasizing the country’s skilled, process-driven workforce and stable political landscape.

    The partnership architecture extends beyond traditional economic ties. In healthcare, collaboration focuses on addressing shared challenges through advanced medical technologies and Japanese expertise in disease prevention. The AI partnership targets societal issues including aging populations and physical disabilities, with joint research initiatives already underway between the Japan Science and Technology Agency and Dubai Future Foundation in cybernetic avatars.

    Space exploration emerges as another critical dimension, building upon existing cooperation in renewable energy and sustainability. The upcoming International Horticultural Exposition (GREEN×EXPO 2027) in Yokohama will further showcase joint environmental initiatives.

    Investment flows are receiving significant impetus through Japan’s Programme for Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment, which targets 120 trillion yen ($810 billion) by 2030. The UAE’s extensive network of over 40 free zones—30 in Dubai alone—provides ideal infrastructure for Japanese companies seeking Middle Eastern market access. Currently, more than 300 Japanese corporations maintain regional headquarters in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

    Cultural and educational exchanges form the foundation for long-term relationship building. Youth exchange programs between Tokyo and UAE schools continue to expand, while relaxed visa regulations now permit UAE citizens 90-day stays in Japan. Artistic collaborations include innovative exhibitions blending traditional Japanese arts like ikebana, koto performances, and calligraphy with modern technologies.

    The partnership demonstrates how nations with complementary strengths can create synergistic growth models while addressing global challenges through technological innovation and cultural exchange.

  • Indian expat honoured by UAE President for making donations despite modest income

    Indian expat honoured by UAE President for making donations despite modest income

    In a remarkable ceremony at Qasr Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan presented honors to Sheikh Shakil, an Indian expatriate residing in Al Ain for 21 years, for his exceptional philanthropic contributions. Despite his limited financial resources, Shakil made 42 separate donations to the Life Endowment campaign, both in his name and on behalf of family members.

    The recognition ceremony, organized by the Authority of Awqaf and Minors’ Funds Affairs in Abu Dhabi (Awqaf Abu Dhabi), highlighted Shakil’s story to demonstrate that the endowment initiative receives support from donors across all socioeconomic backgrounds. ‘When Awqaf Abu Dhabi first contacted me about the recognition, I was truly surprised,’ Shakil expressed. ‘I never imagined that my contributions would lead to being honored by the President of the UAE. Attending the ceremony was an unforgettable moment that reminded me of the values this country was built upon—generosity, compassion and caring for one another.’

    Established in May 2023, Awqaf Abu Dhabi serves as the central authority promoting and developing the endowment sector through strategic investments and partnerships aligned with sustainability values. The organization manages endowment processes while also overseeing financial guardianship and wealth development for minors and other vulnerable groups, contributing to greater financial and social inclusion.

    The Life Endowment campaign specifically focuses on creating sustainable funding for medical treatment of chronic illness patients who cannot afford care costs. Beyond immediate medical support, the initiative works to enhance long-term healthcare services, improve community wellbeing, and build more resilient societies through endowment practices that transcend traditional charitable giving.

  • Emirati, Indian winners take home Dh500,000 in weekly Big Ticket draw

    Emirati, Indian winners take home Dh500,000 in weekly Big Ticket draw

    In the second weekly electronic draw of December, Big Ticket has distributed Dh500,000 among five fortunate winners comprising one Emirati national and four Indian expatriates. Each recipient secured Dh100,000, sparking celebrations across the UAE and beyond.

    The winners’ circle includes Ali Alkaabi from Abu Dhabi, who expressed sheer delight during the live announcement call, though he hasn’t finalized plans for his windfall. Among the Indian winners, computer educator Ritesh Dhanak revealed he initially suspected the winning notification was fraudulent after 15 years of consistent participation. The Dubai resident of three decades intends to allocate his prize toward family vacations and his daughter’s educational expenses.

    Finance analyst Ajay Kumar, another winner from Kerala, recognized the distinctive voice of Big Ticket’s representative Richard during the fateful call while driving. Kumar’s winning ticket was part of a ten-person syndicate, meaning each member will receive Dh10,000. Meanwhile, civil engineer Shakil Ahmad Nazrul Haque, residing in Fujairah, plans to immediately transfer his winnings to family in Bihar, India, to commence construction of a new home.

    The December series continues with three additional weekly e-draws, maintaining the Dh100,000 per winner structure and accumulating a total prize pool of Dh1.5 million. The organization has also announced its flagship January 3 live draw featuring a monumental Dh30 million grand prize alongside consolation awards of Dh50,000 for five runners-up.

    A special ‘Big Win Contest’ offers additional opportunities for participants purchasing multiple tickets between December 1-24, with four selected entrants guaranteed prizes ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh150,000 during the January live event. Luxury vehicles including a BMW 430i (January) and BMW X5 (February) complement the substantial cash prizes.

    Ticket acquisition remains available through Big Ticket’s official website and physical counters at Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport, maintaining accessibility for international participants and UAE residents alike.

  • How Bondi’s Hanukkah festival turned from joy to horror within minutes

    How Bondi’s Hanukkah festival turned from joy to horror within minutes

    A festive Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach descended into chaos and tragedy when two gunmen opened fire on crowds gathered for the Jewish festival of lights. What began as an evening of joy and community spirit on a scorching summer afternoon rapidly transformed into a scene of horror that left at least 15 dead and dozens injured.

    The attack commenced around 17:00 local time as Jewish families gathered in a beachside park for the traditional celebration. Witnesses describe how festive music was abruptly replaced by screams and gunshot echoes, with the first emergency call to police logged at 18:47. Verified video footage captures the surreal juxtaposition of upbeat Hanukkah music playing while panicked attendees crouched for cover as shots rang out at one-second intervals.

    Two identified perpetrators—50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son Naveed—allegedly positioned themselves on an elevated pedestrian bridge overlooking the celebration. From this vantage point, they employed what firearms experts identified as sporting shotguns to target the crowd below. The attackers maintained coordinated fire, with one remaining on the bridge while the other advanced toward the park on foot.

    The violence sparked mass panic that spread from the park to the beach itself, with terrified sunbathers and swimmers fleeing in all directions. The ensuing chaos witnessed vehicle collisions as people desperately attempted to escape the area, while emergency sirens and car horns filled the air.

    A critical turning point occurred when a bystander, later identified as Ahmed al Ahmed, successfully disarmed Sajid Akram after catching him off guard near parked cars. Despite being shot twice during the confrontation, Ahmed wrestled the firearm away and was subsequently hailed by New South Wales Premier Chris Minns for saving ‘countless lives’ through his heroic intervention.

    The attack concluded approximately seven-and-a-half minutes after initiation when police neutralized both suspects. Sajid Akram was pronounced dead at the scene, while his critically injured son was transported to a medical facility under guard. Subsequent investigations revealed the elder Akram legally owned six registered firearms under a recreational license, while reports emerged of authorities previously examining Naveed’s connections to a Sydney-based Islamic State cell in 2019—though no ongoing threat had been identified.

    In the aftermath, police raided the perpetrators’ Bonnyrigg residence, approximately one hour from Bondi Beach, arresting three individuals who were later released without charge. The investigation continues to examine the attackers’ motivations and the provenance of their weapons as the community grapples with the trauma of Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in recent history.

  • ‘It’s outrageous’ – JetBlue pilot decries near collision with US military aircraft

    ‘It’s outrageous’ – JetBlue pilot decries near collision with US military aircraft

    A potentially catastrophic aviation incident involving a US Air Force refueling tanker and a JetBlue commercial flight is under formal investigation after the aircraft came dangerously close to colliding near Venezuelan airspace. The event occurred when the passenger jet, en route from Curaçao to New York’s JFK International Airport, was forced to abruptly halt its ascent to avoid the military aircraft.

    According to audio recordings from the cockpit, the JetBlue pilot reported the military aircraft passed directly through their flight path at identical altitude with an estimated separation of just two to five miles. The situation was critically exacerbated by the Air Force tanker’s transponder being deactivated, preventing air traffic control from tracking its position accurately. “We almost had a midair collision up here,” the pilot stated. “They passed directly in our flight path… They don’t have their transponder turned on, it’s outrageous.”

    The incident has prompted responses from multiple agencies. US Southern Command confirmed the near-miss is under review, while JetBlue acknowledged in an official statement that their crew reported the incident to airline leadership and pledged full cooperation with any investigation. An Air Force spokesperson told CBS News that while they are aware of the incident, military aircrews are “highly trained professionals who operate in accordance with established procedures and applicable airspace requirements.”

    This alarming encounter occurs against a backdrop of heightened aviation security concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration issued an official warning last month urging US aircraft to “exercise caution” in Venezuelan airspace due to “worsening security situation and heightened military activity” in the region. The incident raises significant questions about military-civilian airspace coordination and protocol compliance during operations in sensitive geopolitical zones.