Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • Brazilians protest against bill to reduce Bolsonaro’s jail time

    Brazilians protest against bill to reduce Bolsonaro’s jail time

    Major Brazilian cities witnessed massive demonstrations on Sunday as tens of thousands of citizens mobilized against legislative efforts to substantially reduce former President Jair Bolsonaro’s prison term. The controversial bill, which cleared the lower house of Congress last week amid chaotic proceedings, would potentially slash Bolsonaro’s 27-year sentence for coup plotting to just over two years.

    The protests spanned multiple urban centers including Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, and Salvador, with particularly significant gatherings at Rio’s iconic Copacabana Beach. The demonstration there attracted approximately 19,000 participants, including prominent cultural figures such as Oscar-winning actress Fernanda Torres and legendary 83-year-old singer Caetano Veloso, who performed at the rally. São Paulo saw around 13,700 protesters marching through its streets.

    Protesters displayed signs with strong political messages, including some that labeled members of Congress as ‘enemies of the people,’ reflecting the deep polarization surrounding the legislation. This represents the latest in a series of anti-Bolsonaro demonstrations, following similar gatherings in September that opposed calls for his official pardon.

    The legislative proposal has ignited intense debate as it would not only affect Bolsonaro’s sentence but could also reduce penalties for thousands detained for their involvement in the January 2023 assault on government buildings in Brasília. The violent attack occurred after Bolsonaro’s electoral defeat to left-wing rival Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, whom the former president was convicted of plotting to assassinate.

    The bill now advances to the Senate, where its fate remains uncertain. Even if approved by both legislative chambers, President Lula is expected to exercise his veto power, though Congress could potentially override such a veto given the conservative majority in the Chamber of Deputies.

  • Economic milestone:Japan-UAE relations set to hit new peak

    Economic milestone:Japan-UAE relations set to hit new peak

    Japan and the United Arab Emirates are poised to elevate their bilateral relations to unprecedented heights as they approach the finalization of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This groundbreaking pact represents a strategic evolution from traditional energy-based cooperation to a multifaceted economic alliance encompassing technology, clean energy, and innovation.

    The impending agreement aligns with the UAE’s ambitious target of achieving $1.1 trillion in foreign trade by 2031 while supporting Japan’s economic diversification objectives. By eliminating trade barriers and enhancing market access, the CEPA is expected to generate substantial opportunities across multiple sectors, potentially driving bilateral non-oil trade beyond Dh200 billion.

    Diplomatic engagement has intensified through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Initiative (CSPI), with both nations recently concluding their third subcommittee meeting in Tokyo. UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi confirmed that negotiations with Japan and the EU have reached advanced stages, signaling strong momentum toward finalization.

    Jun Imanishi, Consul-General of Japan in Dubai, emphasized the agreement’s significance: “The Japan-UAE Economic Partnership Agreement serves as crucial framework for enhancing our economic ties and unlocking new collaborative potentials.”

    Economic analysts identify several promising sectors for deepened cooperation, including hydrogen energy, artificial intelligence, robotics, and logistics. The partnership builds upon existing strong trade foundations—the UAE remains Japan’s primary Arab trading partner—while leveraging cultural connections through anime, arts, and growing tourism exchanges.

    Investment flows are expanding bilaterally, with Japan targeting ¥120 trillion in direct foreign investment by 2030. Nobuyuki Nakajima of JETRO Dubai noted: “UAE investors are increasingly attracted to Japan’s stable, innovation-driven economy, particularly in digital transformation, green growth, and healthcare innovation—sectors that mirror Emirati diversification goals.”

    The relationship has evolved significantly since its energy-focused beginnings in the 1970s. Today, collaboration extends into space exploration—exemplified by Japan’s launch of the UAE’s ‘Hope Probe’ and ‘KhalifaSat’—along with advanced technology, financial services, and cultural exchange.

    Tourism represents another growing dimension, with Japan National Tourism Organization reporting anticipated doubling of GCC visitors compared to pre-pandemic levels. Executive Director Daisuke Kobayashi highlighted efforts to promote Japan’s rural destinations, distributing tourist traffic while supporting sustainable development.

    Despite global economic volatility and yen fluctuations, bilateral trade has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Recent data reveals Japan’s exports to the UAE grew 24.8% year-on-year to ¥177 billion by September 2025, primarily driven by automobiles and commodities. Although imports declined 8.83% to ¥385 billion due to reduced raw aluminum and petroleum gas shipments, the overall trade relationship has expanded at an annualized rate of 33.2% over five years.

    The impending CEPA ratification establishes Japan and the UAE as a model of strategic international cooperation—anchored in shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for sustainable economic transformation that benefits both nations and the global economy.

  • ‘Bandits’ kidnap worshippers during church service in Nigeria

    ‘Bandits’ kidnap worshippers during church service in Nigeria

    In a disturbing recurrence of violence targeting religious institutions, armed assailants have abducted at least 13 worshippers from Evangelical Church Winning All in Nigeria’s central Kogi state. The attack occurred during Sunday morning services in the rural farming community of Aaaaz-Kiri, marking the second church kidnapping in the region within a fortnight.

    According to Kogi State Information Commissioner Kingsley Fanwo, security forces engaged the perpetrators, resulting in five gunmen fatalities while others escaped with injuries. The official described the attackers as ‘bandits’—a local term for criminal organizations that routinely conduct kidnappings for ransom payments.

    This incident follows a nearly identical abduction two weeks prior in nearby Ejiba, where gunmen captured a pastor, his wife, and several congregants who remain in captivity despite security intervention efforts. Commissioner Fanwo attributed the escalating violence to displacement effects from security operations in neighboring Niger and Kwara states, suggesting intensified pressure there is pushing criminal elements toward Kogi.

    These events highlight Nigeria’s deepening security crisis, particularly across northwestern and central regions where armed groups have executed numerous mass abductions, village raids, and assaults on religious venues. The most significant recent incident involved the reported kidnapping of over 250 children and 12 staff members from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger state, during late November.

    While the Nigerian government frequently attributes such attacks to jihadist organizations like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), independent analysts contest this narrative, providing evidence to the BBC that criminal gangs are primarily responsible.

    President Bola Tinubu has recently directed security chiefs to enhance intelligence-led operations against kidnappings, authorizing additional troop and police deployments to identified hotspots. Authorities report some success through joint military-police task forces in dismantling certain armed groups. Nevertheless, attacks persist with alarming frequency, especially in rural areas where security presence remains limited and response capabilities are inadequate.

  • Former Congo rebel leader Lumbala sentenced to 30 years over wartime atrocities

    Former Congo rebel leader Lumbala sentenced to 30 years over wartime atrocities

    PARIS — In a landmark judicial decision with profound implications for international justice, former Congolese rebel commander Roger Lumbala received a 30-year prison sentence from a French criminal court on Monday for crimes against humanity committed during Congo’s devastating civil conflict two decades ago.

    The 67-year-old former leader of the Congolese Rally for National Democracy (RCD-N) was convicted under France’s universal jurisdiction legislation, which permits prosecution of severe international crimes regardless of where they occurred. The verdict represents the first successful prosecution of a Congolese military or political figure for mass atrocities in a national court under this legal principle.

    Evidence presented during the trial detailed systematic atrocities perpetrated by Lumbala’s rebel faction against civilian populations in eastern Congo between 2002-2003. United Nations documentation confirmed widespread patterns of torture, summary executions, sexual violence, forced labor, and sexual slavery targeting ethnic minorities including the Nande and Bambuti communities.

    Lumbala’s militia operated with substantial backing from neighboring Uganda during the Second Congo War, which claimed approximately five million lives through violence, disease, and starvation—making it the deadliest conflict since World War II.

    Following the war’s conclusion, Lumbala paradoxically integrated into Congo’s political establishment, serving as Foreign Trade Minister from 2003-2005 and later as a parliamentarian. His political career collapsed in 2011 when Congolese authorities issued an arrest warrant alleging his continued support for rebel factions, prompting his flight to France where he had previously resided.

    Daniele Perissi of TRIAL International, which represented victims in the case, hailed the verdict as “historic” noting that “for the first time, a national court has dared to confront the atrocities of the Second Congo War and show that justice can break through even after decades of impunity.”

    The sentencing occurs against the backdrop of renewed violence in Congo’s mineral-rich eastern regions, where over 100 armed groups continue operating. The Rwanda-backed M23 rebel faction recently captured strategic territory, underscoring the persistent instability that has plagued the region since the 1990s.

  • Dubai: Global Village to welcome New Year 7 times with 7 fireworks, drone shows

    Dubai: Global Village to welcome New Year 7 times with 7 fireworks, drone shows

    Dubai’s renowned cultural and entertainment destination, Global Village, is preparing to host an unprecedented New Year’s Eve celebration by welcoming 2026 not once, but seven distinct times throughout a single night. This innovative approach is designed to create a truly global festivity, allowing visitors to experience the transition into the new year alongside multiple nations.

    The meticulously planned schedule will feature countdowns synchronized with the new year’s arrival in seven different countries, each marked by its own breathtaking pyrotechnic and technological display. The celebrations will commence with China at 8:00 PM local time, followed by Thailand (9:00 PM), Bangladesh (10:00 PM), India (10:30 PM), Pakistan (11:00 PM), a grand midnight celebration for Dubai itself, and culminate with Turkey at 1:00 AM on January 1st. Each event will be highlighted by a unique, custom-designed fireworks show and a coordinated drone light performance.

    To accommodate this extraordinary marathon of festivities, Global Village will extend its operating hours on December 31st, opening its three main gates from 4:00 PM until 2:00 AM. The venue will be exclusively accessible to women and families for the occasion, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere.

    Beyond the sequential countdowns, the destination promises a full evening of immersive cultural and entertainment experiences. Guests can explore over 30 international pavilions representing more than 90 global cultures, shop from 3,500 retail outlets, and choose from a diverse array of over 250 dining options. Live entertainment will include a DJ performance on the Main Stage.

    Additional attractions such as the Floating Market, Happiness Street, and the Dessert District will be open for exploration. For thrill-seekers, the Carnaval area offers more than 200 rides and games. New installations for the season, including the Dragon Kingdom, Gardens of the World, and the child-focused Little Wonderers, will provide fresh experiences, ensuring the event offers a memorable night for visitors of all ages.

  • Rob Reiner dies: Paul Feig, Jon Cryer, Virginia Madsen offer condolences

    Rob Reiner dies: Paul Feig, Jon Cryer, Virginia Madsen offer condolences

    The entertainment industry is grappling with profound grief following the tragic discovery of acclaimed actor-director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer, deceased at their Brentwood residence on Sunday afternoon. The 78-year-old filmmaker, celebrated for his transformative contributions to cinema and television, leaves behind an indelible legacy that has shaped multiple generations of artists.

    Reiner’s extraordinary career trajectory began with his breakout role as Michael ‘Meathead’ Stivic in the groundbreaking sitcom ‘All in the Family,’ which established him as a formidable acting talent. His subsequent evolution into a directorial powerhouse produced some of Hollywood’s most enduring films, including the coming-of-age classic ‘Stand by Me,’ the mockumentary pioneer ‘This Is Spinal Tap,’ the iconic romantic comedy ‘When Harry Met Sally…,’ and the courtroom drama masterpiece ‘A Few Good Men.’

    The Norman Lear family, in an emotionally charged statement, expressed their devastation, emphasizing the profound familial bond between Lear and Reiner. They highlighted the couple’s relentless dedication to social betterment through artistic expression, activism, and philanthropy, noting that Lyn Lear characterized the world as ‘unmistakably darker’ following their passing.

    Across social media platforms, an outpouring of tributes from distinguished industry figures underscores Reiner’s dual legacy as both a creative visionary and exceptionally compassionate individual. Director Paul Feig memorialized him as ‘a true visionary titan and a lovely lovely person,’ while actor Paul Walter Hauser credited Reiner’s filmography as the primary inspiration for his own directorial ambitions.

    Actor Jon Cryer simply stated ‘Horrible,’ capturing the collective shock, while Josh Gad remembered the Reiners as ‘two of the most kind and caring souls’ who advocated tirelessly for marginalized voices. Actress Virginia Madsen offered gratitude for ‘so much joy,’ and filmmaker Joe Russo poignantly referenced Reiner’s own film, writing ‘We lost one of the few good men.’

    The couple is survived by their children Jake, Nick, and Romy, alongside Tracy Reiner, Rob’s adoptive daughter from his previous marriage to the late director Penny Marshall. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding their deaths, the global creative community reflects on the immense void left by this unparalleled artistic force.

  • Gentle Revolution: The new mood of Japanese animation

    Gentle Revolution: The new mood of Japanese animation

    A significant transformation is underway within the global anime landscape as audiences increasingly gravitate toward slower, more contemplative storytelling that celebrates the nuances of everyday life. This shift represents a notable departure from the high-energy, action-packed narratives that long defined Japanese animation’s international appeal.

    While iconic series featuring epic battles and dramatic confrontations remain popular, a new genre of anime has captured viewer attention through its deliberate pacing and emphasis on ordinary moments. Films like Hayao Miyazaki’s “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Spirited Away” have gained renewed appreciation from adult viewers who discover deeper thematic layers upon revisiting these classics. Contemporary series including “Yuru Camp,” “Mushishi,” “Natsume’s Book of Friends,” and the recently popular “Frieren” have cultivated dedicated followings by focusing on reflection, memory, and subtle emotional discovery rather than explosive plot developments.

    This preference for tranquil narratives reflects broader societal trends. In an era characterized by constant digital stimulation and relentless productivity demands, viewers find therapeutic value in stories that permit mental space and sensory appreciation. The appeal lies not in escapism but in reconnection with life’s simpler pleasures—enjoying a meal, walking through nature, or sharing quiet companionship.

    The influence of this cinematic movement extends beyond screen time, manifesting in offline activities that emphasize mindfulness and craftsmanship. Establishments like Dubai’s Otaku ME have evolved into community hubs where enthusiasts engage in model building and other hands-on pursuits that mirror the deliberate pace of their preferred entertainment. These spaces foster focused concentration and shared learning rather than competitive achievement.

    What makes this trend particularly noteworthy is its demonstration of anime’s remarkable adaptability across generations and cultures. The medium continues to evolve alongside its audience, offering both nostalgic comfort and fresh perspectives. This quieter genre has existed alongside mainstream anime for decades but has only recently gained international recognition, suggesting that global audiences have developed new appetites for content that values presence over plot, and meaning over action.

    As entertainment consumption becomes increasingly fragmented, anime’s enduring relevance appears rooted in its ability to provide both stimulation and solace, meeting viewers wherever they are emotionally. This gentle revolution in animation demonstrates that sometimes the most powerful stories are those that speak softly, inviting us to rediscover beauty in life’s ordinary moments.

  • Australia set for biggest overhaul of gun laws in decades

    Australia set for biggest overhaul of gun laws in decades

    In the wake of the devastating Sydney Bondi Beach massacre that claimed 15 lives, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the most significant firearms law overhaul in decades. The federal cabinet convened Monday afternoon to initiate immediate reforms following Sunday’s horrific shooting during Hanukkah celebrations.

    Prime Minister Albanese declared that “strong, decisive and focused action was needed on gun law reform as an immediate action” in response to the tragedy. The national government has mobilized a coordinated effort with state and territory leaders, tasking police ministers and attorneys-general with developing comprehensive policy options.

    The proposed measures include implementing strict limits on the number of firearms any individual may possess, eliminating open-ended firearms licensing, restricting legal firearm categories, and enhancing the use of criminal intelligence in administrative licensing decisions. These reforms aim to address critical gaps in the existing system, which failed to prevent the Bondi Beach attack despite Australia’s established National Firearms Register created after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre that killed 35 people.

    The urgency of these reforms is underscored by the revelation that the Bondi Beach shooter, Sajid Akram, had been deemed “fit and proper” to hold an A/B category gun license a decade earlier. Akram and his son subsequently used six legally owned firearms to carry out Sunday’s attack on beachgoers, exposing fatal flaws in the current regulatory framework.

  • International volunteers participate in blood donation event in Shanghai

    International volunteers participate in blood donation event in Shanghai

    Shanghai witnessed a remarkable display of international solidarity as 90 expatriate volunteers from diverse nations converged at the Shanghai Blood Center for a special blood donation event on Sunday. The initiative, jointly organized by the Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the Shanghai Blood Center in collaboration with Bloodline—a volunteer organization comprising foreign blood donors—transformed the medical facility into a vibrant multicultural celebration.

    The event featured an array of cultural performances including traditional dances and musical presentations, creating a festive atmosphere that underscored the universal importance of blood donation. This gathering not only promoted the critical need for life-saving donations but also exemplified Shanghai’s characteristic openness, inclusiveness, and humanitarian spirit.

    Among the participants was Ashish Maskay, a Nepalese surgeon and founder of Bloodline, who marked a significant personal milestone with his 60th blood donation in Shanghai. Having worked in the city for over twenty years, Maskay expressed profound honor in contributing to the community’s health infrastructure. His organization, established in 2017, has motivated thousands of expatriates to participate in similar life-saving initiatives.

    The diplomatic community also showed strong support, with Sri Lanka’s Consul General in Shanghai Pamoda Gooneratne and her team actively participating. They provided nutritional support including traditional Sri Lankan tea and biscuits for donors, while some staff members joined the donation drive. Gooneratne emphasized that blood donation is considered a noble act in Sri Lankan culture and expressed delight at seeing similar values embraced in Shanghai.

    German national Dennis Olschewski, a repeat donor and seven-year Shanghai resident, articulated the universal ethos behind blood donation: ‘I consider it the right thing to do and a perfect way to give back to the community. There are always people in need of blood, and perhaps someone around me or I myself might be the one who needs it someday.’ This sentiment echoed throughout the event, highlighting how humanitarian causes transcend national and cultural boundaries.

  • UAE announces amendments to corporate, business tax law

    UAE announces amendments to corporate, business tax law

    The United Arab Emirates has enacted significant amendments to its Federal Decree-Law on Corporate and Business Taxation, introducing substantial changes to tax credit utilization mechanisms and settlement procedures. These reforms, announced on December 15, 2025, establish a structured framework for calculating and settling corporate tax liabilities while enhancing clarity regarding incentive programs.

    The revised legislation grants taxable entities the right to claim payments for unutilized tax credits derived from approved incentives and reliefs, subject to specific conditions and procedural requirements. The new provisions establish a hierarchical settlement sequence that prioritizes withholding tax credit balances under Article 46, followed by available foreign tax credits pursuant to Article 47. Subsequent utilization involves other incentive balances determined by Cabinet decisions, with any remaining liabilities settled according to Article 48 provisions.

    Additionally, the amendments empower the Federal Tax Authority to withhold amounts from corporate tax revenues, including potential top-up tax collections, to facilitate approved claims settlement. This authority operates under directives issued by the Authority’s Board of Directors, creating a more streamlined and transparent tax administration system. These changes represent the UAE’s continued commitment to refining its business taxation environment while maintaining its competitive position as a global commercial hub.