In a significant move to address ongoing economic tensions, China and the United States initiated a new round of trade negotiations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Saturday. The discussions are being spearheaded by Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng, who is leading a high-level delegation to engage with US representatives. This meeting marks a pivotal effort to stabilize the economic relationship between the two global superpowers, whose trade disputes have had far-reaching implications for the global economy. The talks aim to identify common ground and explore solutions to longstanding issues that have strained bilateral ties. Both nations have expressed cautious optimism about the potential outcomes, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue in fostering mutual economic growth and stability.
作者： admin
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UAE fuel rates: Will petrol prices drop in November?
The UAE is set to announce revised petrol and diesel rates for November on October 31, 2025, with indications pointing toward a possible decrease in fuel prices. This adjustment aligns with the downward trend in global crude oil prices observed throughout October. The average closing price of Brent crude stood at $65.22 per barrel this month, a decline from $67 in September, signaling a potential reduction in retail fuel costs. However, recent geopolitical developments, including US sanctions on Russian oil companies, have caused a temporary rebound in oil prices, with WTI and Brent trading at $61.61 and $66.05 per barrel, respectively, as of Friday night. In October, the UAE’s Fuel Price Committee increased petrol rates by seven fils per litre, setting Super 98, Special 95, and E-Plus 91 at Dh2.77, Dh2.58, and Dh2.71 per litre, respectively. Analysts remain divided on future price trends. While Bank of America maintains a $55 price forecast, citing steady Asian demand and OPEC+ supply discipline, Citigroup predicts further declines, potentially to $50, if economic momentum and geopolitical risks diminish. Nadir Belbarka, an analyst at XMArabia, highlighted the bearish outlook driven by projected supply increases of over three million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025 and 2.4 million bpd in 2026, coupled with slowing demand growth of just 700,000 bpd annually. Despite this, geopolitical tensions, including concerns over Russian exports and Iranian output, continue to provide some price support.
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Ousted Madagascan president stripped of citizenship
Madagascar’s political landscape has been thrown into disarray following the ousting of former President Andry Rajoelina in a military coup last week. The new regime, led by Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, has taken the unprecedented step of revoking Rajoelina’s Malagasy citizenship, citing local laws that mandate the loss of nationality for individuals who acquire foreign citizenship. Rajoelina, 51, obtained French citizenship a decade ago, a move that had previously sparked controversy during the 2023 presidential election, which he ultimately won despite calls for his disqualification. The former president fled the country after weeks of escalating protests over chronic power and water shortages, which culminated in a military takeover led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina. Rajoelina has since gone into hiding, citing concerns for his safety, and his current whereabouts remain unknown. The protests, initially organized by the youth movement Gen Z Mada and inspired by similar anti-government demonstrations in Nepal, intensified after Rajoelina’s government responded with violence. Despite sacking his energy minister and later his entire government, Rajoelina’s efforts to quell the unrest proved futile. Protesters had hoped for his resignation to facilitate a democratic transition, but his refusal to step down led to the military’s intervention. Colonel Randrianirina has now been sworn in as the new leader, promising to hold elections within two years.
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China, US start economic, trade talks in Kuala Lumpur
In a significant move to strengthen bilateral economic relations, delegations from China and the United States commenced high-level economic and trade talks in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday. The discussions, led by Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, aim to address key issues in the economic and trade relationship between the two nations. The talks are based on the important consensus reached by the heads of state of China and the US during their phone conversations earlier this year, as stated by a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce. This meeting underscores the ongoing efforts by both countries to navigate complex economic challenges and foster mutual cooperation in trade and commerce. The outcome of these talks is anticipated to have a profound impact on global economic stability and the future trajectory of Sino-US relations.
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China, US to start trade talks in Kuala Lumpur
In a significant development for global trade relations, China and the United States are set to initiate a new round of trade discussions in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this Saturday. The talks come at a crucial juncture as both nations seek to address longstanding trade disputes and explore avenues for economic collaboration. Journalists are stationed at the venue to provide real-time updates as the negotiations unfold. This meeting is expected to build on previous dialogues, with a focus on reducing tariffs, enhancing market access, and fostering mutual economic growth. The choice of Kuala Lumpur as the venue underscores Malaysia’s growing role as a neutral and strategic hub for international diplomacy. The outcome of these talks could have far-reaching implications for global trade dynamics, particularly in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.
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Early tallies suggest Catherine Connolly is leading candidate in Ireland’s presidential election
Ireland’s presidential election reached a pivotal moment on Saturday as vote counting commenced, with early indications pointing to a substantial lead for independent left-wing candidate Catherine Connolly. The election, which saw voters choosing between Connolly and center-right contender Heather Humphreys, is set to determine the country’s next president—a role that, while largely ceremonial, holds significant constitutional importance within the European Union member state. The race narrowed to these two candidates after Jim Gavin, the nominee from Prime Minister Micheál Martin’s Fianna Fáil party, withdrew three weeks prior due to a past financial dispute. Despite Gavin’s exit, his name remained on the ballot due to the timing of his withdrawal. Connolly, a 68-year-old former barrister and independent lawmaker since 2016, has gained support from several left-leaning parties, including Sinn Féin, the Labour Party, and the Social Democrats. Known for her vocal criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, Connolly has emerged as the frontrunner, outpacing Humphreys, a 64-year-old former cabinet minister from the center-right Fine Gael party, who has positioned herself as a pro-business, pro-EU unity candidate. The election also saw potential candidacies from figures like musician Bob Geldof and former mixed martial arts champion Conor McGregor, though neither secured sufficient backing to enter the race. The winner will succeed Michael D. Higgins, who has served the maximum two seven-year terms since 2011, becoming Ireland’s 10th president and the third woman to hold the office. As votes were counted manually across the country’s 43 electoral constituencies, the final result was expected to be announced later on Saturday.
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American cardinal celebrates old Latin Mass in St. Peter’s in a sign of change
In a significant move that has reignited hope among traditionalist Catholics, Cardinal Raymond Burke celebrated a traditional Latin Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, with explicit permission from Pope Leo XIV. The event, attended by thousands of pilgrims, marked a stark contrast to the restrictions imposed by Pope Francis in 2021, which had left many traditionalists feeling marginalized. The Mass, rich in hymn, incense, and ritual, lasted over two hours and was presided over by Cardinal Burke, a prominent conservative figure in the Catholic Church. The ceremony, held in the heart of Vatican City, was seen as a tangible sign of Pope Leo’s potential openness to dialogue with traditionalist factions. This development comes after years of tension over the Latin Mass, which has been a point of contention since the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s. Pope Benedict XVI had relaxed restrictions on the ancient liturgy in 2007, but Francis reversed this decision, citing concerns over division within the Church. However, leaked Vatican documents in July 2025 suggested that most bishops had expressed satisfaction with the old Latin Mass, undermining Francis’ justification for the restrictions. Pope Leo, the first American pope, has emphasized unity and reconciliation since his election, raising hopes among traditionalists for a more inclusive approach. The event in St. Peter’s Basilica, attended by young families and pilgrims from around the world, underscored the enduring appeal of the ancient liturgy and its role in the spiritual lives of many Catholics.
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Japanese tourist falls to death at Pantheon in Italy
A tragic incident unfolded in Rome as a 69-year-old Japanese tourist, Morimasa Hibino, lost his life after falling from the perimeter wall of the historic Pantheon. The accident occurred at approximately 21:50 local time (19:50 GMT) on Friday evening. According to reports from local newspaper la Repubblica, Hibino fell from a height of around seven meters (22.9 feet) after losing his balance while sitting on the edge of the wall. A passing priest immediately alerted the authorities upon discovering the man lying motionless in a nearby ditch. Emergency responders and firefighters were forced to break open a gate to access the site, where they confirmed Hibino’s death. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, with surveillance footage from the area being reviewed to determine the exact circumstances of the fall. The Pantheon, a renowned ancient Roman temple and one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks, attracts millions of visitors annually. This unfortunate event has raised concerns about safety measures at popular tourist sites.
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Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit passes away at age 93
Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, a revered figure in the nation’s history, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 25, 2025, at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok. The Bureau of the Royal Household confirmed her death in an official statement, marking the end of a life dedicated to the service of the Thai people. Queen Mother Sirikit had been under continuous medical care since September 7, 2019, due to multiple health complications affecting various bodily systems. Her condition worsened following a bloodstream infection on October 17, 2025, leading to her peaceful passing at 9:21 pm. She was 93 years old. King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua has ordered the Bureau of the Royal Household to organize a royal funeral with the highest honors, adhering to traditional protocols. Her remains will be enshrined at the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall within the Grand Palace. Additionally, the king has declared a one-year mourning period for the Royal Family and officials of the Royal Court, effective immediately. Queen Mother Sirikit’s legacy as a symbol of grace, compassion, and dedication to Thailand’s cultural and social development will be remembered by the nation and beyond.
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Dubai: Meet father who taught kids carpentry, metalwork from age 5
In a heartwarming tale of family and tradition, Ghanem Abdullah Al Muhairi, an Emirati father of five, has been teaching his children carpentry and metalwork since they were just five years old. Al Muhairi, who learned these skills from his own father, believes in nurturing curiosity and self-reliance in his children from a young age. Instead of conventional toys, his children were introduced to tools like hammers, nails, and wood carving machines, crafting their first chairs from iron and wood. This early exposure not only taught them patience, focus, and precision but also instilled a sense of accomplishment and creativity. Al Muhairi emphasized that his approach is not merely for entertainment but to impart essential life skills and values such as teamwork and discipline. He also prioritizes safety, guiding his children through every step and ensuring they understand potential risks. Al Muhairi’s initiative extends beyond his family. Through his Instagram account ‘klna rban’ (We Are All Captains), he shares videos of practical activities like assembling sinks, repairing furniture, and car maintenance, aiming to inspire other families. The account has garnered positive feedback, with many praising the focus on productive tasks over screen time. Al Muhairi has also expanded his efforts by conducting workshops for children aged 10 to 18, teaching skills like plumbing, agriculture, and electricity. He now plans to establish a permanent center to teach traditional Emirati crafts in a modern way, ensuring these valuable skills are passed on to future generations.