A growing asbestos contamination scare has led to widespread school closures in New Zealand and Australia, raising concerns over the safety of children’s play sand imported from China. The New Zealand Ministry of Education confirmed on Tuesday that 40 schools and daycare centers have been shut down as authorities work to identify and remove the contaminated products. Similarly, over 70 schools in Australia were closed earlier this week amid the ongoing investigation. The tainted sand, reportedly used for classroom activities and decorative purposes, has been found to contain chrysotile asbestos, a hazardous mineral fiber linked to lung cancer. WorkSafe New Zealand issued a statement highlighting that the product was imported from China and widely used in educational and domestic settings. Asbestos, once a popular construction material due to its heat-resistant properties, has been banned in many countries following studies that established its carcinogenic effects. In response to the crisis, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that Beijing had taken note of the reports and emphasized that Australian businesses were in communication with suppliers to address the issue. Meanwhile, Australia’s product safety regulator downplayed immediate health risks, noting that tests had not detected breathable asbestos fibers. The agency explained that the risk of inhalation is low unless the sand is mechanically processed, such as through crushing or pulverizing. Despite these assurances, the incident has sparked widespread concern among parents and educators, prompting urgent reviews of imported materials in schools across both countries.
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China CDC urges precaution against peak season for acute infectious diarrhea
As China enters the annual peak season for acute infectious diarrhea, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) has issued a public health advisory emphasizing the need for heightened precautions. The surge in cases, primarily driven by pathogens such as norovirus and rotavirus, poses significant risks, particularly to vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. Norovirus, which remains highly active from October through March, thrives in crowded environments such as schools, childcare centers, elderly care facilities, and hospitals. Symptoms of norovirus infection include nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. While most patients recover within two to three days without specialized treatment, infants and elderly individuals with chronic conditions are at greater risk of severe complications. Rotavirus, which peaks around September, predominantly affects young children, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. To mitigate these seasonal threats, health authorities recommend vaccinating children against rotavirus and maintaining rigorous hand hygiene practices. Additionally, nurseries and schools are advised to enforce strict health protocols for kitchen staff and caregivers, including wearing masks, practicing proper hand hygiene, and immediately stepping away from their duties if symptoms arise. These measures aim to curb the spread of these highly contagious viruses and protect public health during this critical period.
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Zelensky to meet Trump envoy in Turkey in bid to ‘intensify’ peace talks
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to participate in high-level discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Wednesday. The meeting aims to accelerate peace negotiations as Ukraine seeks to end the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky emphasized that ‘bringing the war to a close with all our might is Ukraine’s top priority,’ while also highlighting efforts to resume prisoner exchanges. Turkey, which has maintained diplomatic ties with both Kyiv and Moscow, has previously facilitated talks between the two nations. However, no Russian representatives will attend the Ankara meeting, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Peskov noted that while there are ‘no concrete plans’ for President Vladimir Putin to engage with either Erdogan or Witkoff, Putin remains ‘open to a conversation.’ The Ankara meeting marks Zelensky’s fourth stop in a whirlwind diplomatic tour, following visits to Athens, Paris, and Madrid, where he secured energy deals, fighter jet agreements, and arms manufacturing collaborations, respectively. These efforts are part of Zelensky’s broader strategy to bolster European support for Ukraine as Russian forces intensify their offensive, particularly around the strategic eastern city of Pokrovsk. Domestically, Zelensky faces mounting challenges, including corruption investigations involving his inner circle and the resignation of two ministers. The scandal threatens to undermine Ukraine’s credibility as EU leaders prepare to decide on unblocking a €140 billion loan tied to frozen Russian assets. Meanwhile, the fundamental disagreements between Moscow and Kyiv persist, with Russia demanding Ukraine renounce NATO ambitions and withdraw from contested regions, including Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Zelensky has consistently rejected these terms, arguing that such concessions would leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks. Despite earlier diplomatic efforts, including a meeting between Witkoff and Putin in April, progress toward a ceasefire has stalled. Recent behind-the-scenes talks between US and Russian officials, including a reported meeting in Washington between Witkoff and Putin’s envoy Kirill Dmitriev, suggest ongoing, albeit discreet, engagement.
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Bankruptcy tribunal saves 27 high-tech firms, 2,000 jobs since 2024
Since 2024, the Beijing Bankruptcy Tribunal has successfully rescued 27 small and medium-sized high-tech enterprises, safeguarding over 2,000 jobs and injecting 2.4 billion yuan ($337 million) in investments. These companies, operating in cutting-edge sectors such as artificial intelligence, big data, intelligent healthcare, digital culture, and computing power infrastructure, faced operational challenges due to rapid market changes and short technology lifecycles. The tribunal, under the Beijing No. 1 Intermediate People’s Court, employed judicial measures like restructuring and settlements to resolve over 10 billion yuan in debts. Vice-President Li Zhongyong highlighted the tribunal’s streamlined case-handling procedures and tailored debt settlement plans, which ensured the continuity of technological research during restructuring. The tribunal also relaxed legal standards for case reviews, enabling swift bankruptcy protection for distressed firms. Moving forward, the tribunal plans to refine rules for assisting high-tech enterprises and enhance legal talent education to professionalize case handling.
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Ex-UN official decries resolution backing Gaza force as ‘colonial outrage’
A former senior UN human rights official has vehemently criticized the UN Security Council’s adoption of a US-backed resolution concerning foreign governance and military presence in Gaza, labeling it a “colonial outrage.” Craig Mokhiber, former director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), described the vote as a “day of shame” for the UN, accusing global governments of capitulating to the “US empire and its violent Israeli client.” Mokhiber condemned the resolution as a blatant violation of international law, stating that it had been rejected by Palestinian civil society, factions, and human rights defenders worldwide. He emphasized that the struggle for Palestinian freedom would persist despite the resolution. The US-drafted resolution, passed on Monday with 13 votes in favor and abstentions from Russia and China, outlines a transitional authority for Gaza, chaired by a “Board of Peace” led by former US President Donald Trump. It also authorizes an “international stabilization force” to oversee the demilitarization of Gaza. Hamas and other Palestinian factions have denounced the resolution, calling it an imposition of “international guardianship” and a continuation of Israeli objectives. The Palestinian Authority, however, welcomed the resolution, expressing readiness to collaborate with the Trump administration. Critics argue that the resolution normalizes Israeli actions and establishes a parallel governance structure outside recognized international legal frameworks, effectively amounting to a new form of colonialism.
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Max McGreevy gives up title defense in Japan to make sure he gets PGA Tour card
Max McGreevy, a rising star in professional golf, has had an impressive fall season, culminating in securing his PGA Tour card for 2026. McGreevy, who left Oklahoma with five wins under his belt, has been a consistent performer despite the challenges of defending his titles. Last year, he secured his PGA Tour card with two victories on the Korn Ferry Tour and followed it up with a win at the Dunlop Phoenix in Japan, where he triumphed over a field that included Hideki Matsuyama. However, with his FedEx Cup ranking at No. 100 and only two tournaments left to secure his card, McGreevy faced a nail-biting finish to the season. His performance at the Bermuda Championship, where he tied for third, propelled him to No. 89 in the FedEx Cup standings, ensuring his place on the PGA Tour for the next season. McGreevy’s strategy of continuous play has paid off, as he believes he performs better when he keeps competing. This fall, he played six tournaments in seven weeks, traveling from Japan to Utah, Mexico, Bermuda, and Georgia, showcasing his resilience and determination. McGreevy’s journey is a testament to his grit and passion for the game, as he continues to make waves in the world of professional golf.
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Anurag Kashyap on why he left Bollywood and grew roots in south Indian cinema
Renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has openly expressed his disillusionment with Bollywood, citing its focus on formulaic commercial films and lack of support for independent cinema as key reasons for his departure. In a candid interview with City Times, Kashyap revealed that he has found a new creative haven in South Indian cinema, particularly in Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Kannada industries, where he feels nurtured and appreciated. He highlighted the release of the Tamil film ‘Kaantha,’ produced by its lead actors, as an example of the artistic integrity he admires. Kashyap also praised Dulquer Salmaan’s production ‘Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra,’ which incorporates Yakshi lore, showcasing the depth and creativity he seeks in filmmaking. Kashyap’s recent film ‘Nishaanchi,’ available on Amazon Prime, deliberately features longer scenes, reflecting his commitment to storytelling that resonates emotionally with audiences. He emphasized that entertainment should engage and provoke, not just amuse. Kashyap also shared insights into his creative process, stating that writing is therapeutic and essential for his well-being. His film ‘Kennedy,’ which includes a poem by William Wordsworth and features the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, exemplifies his innovative approach to cinema. Kashyap’s commitment to independent cinema is unwavering, as he believes in the importance of preserving art and culture in a world increasingly dominated by corporate interests. He will be participating in Saanjh’s ‘Beyond the Lens Series’ and Mitti-the Indian Independent Film Festival in Dubai, furthering his mission to support and promote independent cinema.
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Driving French business growth in Dubai: The Clemenceau Group strategy
Dubai has emerged as a magnet for global entrepreneurs, with French founders, professionals, and investors increasingly choosing the UAE as their base. Over 40,000 French citizens now reside in Dubai, forming one of the most robust Francophone business networks outside Europe and significantly contributing to the city’s economic vitality. This trend is driven not only by lifestyle and tax advantages but also by Dubai’s efficient business ecosystem, characterized by swift decision-making, transparent administrative processes, and supportive frameworks for ambitious ventures. The city’s strategic connectivity to Europe, Africa, and Asia further enhances its appeal. French entrepreneurship in Dubai has diversified beyond hospitality and retail to encompass e-commerce, consulting, real estate, logistics, and digital platforms. Entrepreneurs are drawn to Dubai’s streamlined business setup, manageable banking processes, and straightforward corporate tax rules. However, navigating the complexities of free zones, visas, and compliance can be daunting. Enter the Clemenceau Group, founded by Nouria Mamèche in 2018, which has become a pivotal advisor for French-speaking entrepreneurs. The group supports over 500 companies, offering expertise in business formation, visas, banking, and compliance. Its unique strength lies in its deep understanding of both the UAE’s administrative systems and cultural nuances, facilitated by its multilingual team. The Clemenceau Group’s step-by-step guidance helps entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes and integrate smoothly into Dubai’s business environment. As the French community in Dubai matures, it has developed robust networks and collaborations, creating a structured ecosystem for sustained growth. With clearer regulations, stronger community ties, and a maturing advisory landscape, Dubai is now a natural extension of France’s global business footprint, offering speed, access, and stability for French entrepreneurs.
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Over 10,000 wild geese gather at Jingxin Wetland in Jilin
The Jingxin Wetland in Hunchun, located within the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture of Jilin Province, has recently become a temporary home to over 10,000 wild geese. This early winter spectacle has drawn bird enthusiasts and photographers eager to document the migratory birds as they rest and forage. Spanning more than 5,800 hectares, the wetland offers a rich food supply and a thriving ecosystem, making it a crucial stopover for hundreds of thousands of migratory birds each spring and autumn. The sight of these magnificent birds taking flight against the backdrop of the wetland has become a symbol of the region’s ecological health and natural beauty. The event underscores the importance of preserving such habitats to support biodiversity and sustain migratory patterns.
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Dozens of pregnant women flee from Sudan’s el-Fasher, risking their lives and babies
In the midst of Sudan’s ongoing conflict, pregnant women like Nadra Mohamed Ahmed are enduring unimaginable hardships. Ahmed, seven months pregnant, fled her hometown of el-Fasher in West Darfur, trekking nearly 40 kilometers with her two children to reach a displacement camp in al-Dabbah. Her journey was fraught with danger and exhaustion, culminating in severe health complications that required intensive medical care. Ahmed’s story is emblematic of the broader crisis facing Sudanese women, as the country’s healthcare system collapses under the weight of war. According to the Sudan Doctors Network, over 140 pregnant women have arrived at al-Dabbah camps since el-Fasher’s fall, many suffering from severe complications such as hemorrhaging and miscarriages. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group, have exacerbated the crisis by targeting civilians and healthcare facilities, leaving thousands of pregnant women without access to life-saving maternal care. The conflict, which began in 2023, has displaced 12 million people and claimed at least 40,000 lives, according to the World Health Organization. Pregnant and lactating women are particularly vulnerable, facing malnutrition and the risk of violence as they forage for food. The international community has called for urgent action to address the humanitarian crisis, but the situation remains dire for women like Ahmed, who continue to struggle for survival in a war-torn nation.