The 12th Ginkgo Culture Festival at Liaodong University in Dandong, Liaoning province, recently commenced with a vibrant celebration of culture and creativity. The event transformed the university’s iconic ginkgo avenue into a dazzling runway, where international students showcased their unique styles in a fashion show. This highlight of the festival not only celebrated the beauty of the ginkgo trees but also highlighted the cultural diversity of the student body. Alongside the fashion show, the festival featured traditional song and dance performances, hanfu (traditional Han ethnic clothing) parades, and craft-making stalls, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. The festival, a blend of nature and tradition, continues to be a cherished annual event that fosters cultural exchange and community spirit.
作者： admin
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Inside the UAE’s new coffee renaissance: Would you pay Dh3,600 for a cup?
The UAE’s coffee culture has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a simple caffeine stop to a thriving ecosystem of artisan roasters, boutique cafés, and high-tech home brewing setups. With the market projected to grow at 8.4% annually through 2029 and over 8,800 cafés across the Emirates, coffee has become more than a trend—it’s a defining aspect of UAE identity. Consumers are no longer seeking mere convenience; they are chasing community, craftsmanship, and authenticity, driving a renaissance in the coffee industry. This shift is fueled by a growing obsession with home brewing, as residents invest in premium machines and small-batch beans to recreate café-quality experiences at home. Brands like Black Sheep Coffee are leading the charge, emphasizing boldness and authenticity. Their 100% Robusta beans challenge the Arabica-dominated market, offering a unique flavor profile that resonates with UAE’s diverse population. The coffee scene is also being shaped by innovation, with technology playing a pivotal role in enhancing the brewing process. From smart home machines to traceable sourcing, the industry is embracing sustainability and precision. The rise of specialty coffee has further elevated the culture, with consumers now knowledgeable about bean origins, roast profiles, and brewing techniques. This demand for quality has led to the emergence of functional blends, such as those targeting brain, gut, and beauty wellness. The pandemic accelerated the home-brewing boom, with the GCC market growing over 20% since 2020. This trend reflects a broader ‘slow life’ movement, where people value daily rituals and quality over speed. The UAE’s coffee renaissance is also marked by its global appeal, with Dubai welcoming 18.72 million international visitors in 2024. This influx has bolstered the café culture, making it a cornerstone of the city’s identity. However, the future of coffee in the UAE is hybrid, with cafés inspiring home setups and vice versa. Brands that succeed will be those that educate, connect, and stay authentic, meeting consumers wherever they choose to brew. The pinnacle of this renaissance is exemplified by Julith’s offering of the world’s most valuable coffee, Nido 7 Geisha, priced at Dh3,600 per cup. This rare coffee, acquired at a record Dh2.22 million, represents decades of elite craftsmanship and is a testament to the UAE’s position as a global coffee destination.
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UAE: X to partner with Bridge Summit through sessions, experiences
In a groundbreaking announcement, Bridge Summit 2025 has revealed a strategic partnership with X, a leading technology innovator, ahead of the event scheduled for December 8-10, 2025. This collaboration will see X actively participate in the Summit through thought leadership sessions, interactive workshops, and immersive on-site experiences. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore X’s cutting-edge technologies firsthand, including its suite of products and real-time global conversation tools, which are reshaping media landscapes. X’s technology will also be integrated into the Summit’s navigation screens, offering a tailored guide for participants. Abdulla Al Hamed, Chairman of Bridge, emphasized that this partnership underscores the UAE’s commitment to innovation and responsible AI, fostering connections across media, policy, finance, and technology sectors. Reem Sadek, Director of Government Affairs and Partnerships for MENA at X, highlighted the company’s role in empowering creators and storytellers through its global platform. This alliance builds on recent discussions between Bridge and X leadership, solidifying the Summit’s reputation as a hub for transforming ideas into impactful partnerships and driving cross-industry growth.
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‘One of us’: Ugandan pride in New York mayor with roots in their country
Ugandans are brimming with pride as Zohran Mamdani, a Ugandan-born dual national, ascends to the role of New York City’s mayor. Many view him as one of their own, a beacon of inspiration for the nation’s youth. Mamdani’s rise has sparked widespread excitement, particularly given Uganda’s youthful demographic, with a median age of just 16.2, the second-lowest globally according to the CIA World Factbook. At 34, Mamdani is the son of Mahmood Mamdani, a renowned Ugandan academic, and Mira Nair, an acclaimed filmmaker. His family’s deep roots in Uganda, particularly in Kampala, where his father taught at Makerere University, have further endeared him to the nation. Journalist Angelo Izama, who mentored Mamdani during his teenage internship, recalls his determination and fondness for Kampala, which he frequently mentions. Makerere University professor Okello Ogwang expressed pride in Mamdani’s success, calling him a “son of a colleague” and a testament to the potential of African youth. Students like Abno Collins Kuloba and Chemtai Zamzam see Mamdani as proof that ambition and determination can transcend one’s background. Beyond Uganda, Mamdani’s victory resonates across Africa. Abdul Mohamed, a former senior UN and African Union official, highlights Mamdani’s symbolic significance, emphasizing his commitment to pan-Africanism and the power of multi-ethnic identity. As Uganda prepares for its upcoming elections, Mamdani’s story serves as a reminder of the transformative potential of youth and the importance of political engagement. His historic win has also been celebrated in South Africa, where his family lived for three years. Mamdani’s journey underscores the global impact of African talent and the enduring hope it inspires.
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UAE residents wake up to dusty skies, reduced visibility on roads
On the morning of November 5, 2025, residents across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) awoke to hazy skies and significantly reduced visibility due to a widespread dust storm. The phenomenon, which began overnight, has impacted daily life, particularly for commuters navigating the roads. Authorities have issued warnings urging drivers to exercise caution and adhere to safety measures, including reducing speed and using headlights. The dusty conditions are attributed to strong winds carrying sand particles from desert regions, a common occurrence in the UAE during certain weather patterns. Meteorologists predict that the situation may persist for the next 24 to 48 hours, with potential improvements as wind speeds decrease. Meanwhile, health officials have advised residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, to stay indoors and use protective masks if venturing outside. This event highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the region’s arid climate and the importance of preparedness for such environmental occurrences.
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Salman Khan in legal trouble over misleading pan masala ads
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has found himself embroiled in a legal controversy following a complaint filed against him in a consumer court in Rajasthan. The complaint, lodged by senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader and Rajasthan High Court advocate Inder Mohan Singh Honey, alleges that advertisements for Rajshree Pan Masala, endorsed by Khan, are misleading. The court has issued a notice to the actor, seeking his formal response, and has scheduled a hearing for November 27, 2025. The petitioner has called for a ban on such advertisements, citing their potential to influence young people to consume pan masala, a product linked to an increasing number of cancer cases. The complaint specifically challenges the credibility of claims that the product contains saffron, given the exorbitant cost of the spice. Honey emphasized the responsibility of celebrities to avoid promoting harmful products, noting that such endorsements are uncommon in other countries. The case highlights the broader issue of misleading advertising and its impact on public health.
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Fostering future cooperation: China-US educational exchange
The 6th China-US Provincial/State University Presidents’ Forum, a pivotal event within the 26th China Annual Conference & Expo for International Education, brought together leading educational figures from both nations to deliberate on enhancing bilateral educational partnerships. Held on November 5, 2025, the forum served as a platform for reviewing past collaborative efforts and charting a course for future initiatives. Discussions spanned a wide array of topics, from assessing the historical trajectory of academic exchanges to formulating strategies for fostering deeper educational connections. The event underscored the mutual commitment of China and the United States to advancing educational collaboration, recognizing its critical role in strengthening global ties and fostering mutual understanding. Attendees shared insights and perspectives, emphasizing the importance of sustained dialogue and cooperation in addressing shared educational challenges. The forum also featured a video presentation, offering a glimpse into the discussions and key takeaways from the event.
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William follows in mother Diana’s footsteps with statue photo
Prince William, the Prince of Wales, recently paid tribute to his late mother, Princess Diana, during his visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro. Standing in the exact spot where Diana was photographed 34 years ago, William reflected on her legacy while continuing his own mission to combat climate change. The visit marks the third day of his five-day trip to Brazil, where he is set to present the Earthshot Prize, an annual award established by his charity to recognize innovative environmental projects. The star-studded ceremony, featuring performances by Kylie Minogue and Shawn Mendes, will take place at Rio’s Museum of Tomorrow, with five winning projects each receiving £1 million in funding. The prince also plans to address global leaders at COP30, the UN’s annual climate conference, emphasizing the urgency of environmental action. Throughout his trip, William has engaged with locals, many of whom fondly recalled Princess Diana’s 1991 visit to Brazil. Security measures were heightened during his visit to Christ the Redeemer, temporarily suspending public access to the site. The Earthshot Prize shortlist includes notable projects such as Guangzhou’s electric public transport network, Lagos Fashion Week’s sustainable initiatives, and Barbados’ environmental leadership. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will join William for the awards ceremony before both head to the Amazon rainforest for COP30. Earlier in his trip, William participated in football at Maracana Stadium and barefoot beach volleyball on Copacabana Beach, while also addressing deforestation at the United for Wildlife conference and planting tree saplings on the island of Paqueta.
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‘Badhai!’ In India, a celebration for Zohran Mamdani’s New York mayoral win and his roots
In a historic turn of events, Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Ugandan-born politician, has been elected as New York City’s youngest mayor in over a century and the first Muslim to hold the position. His victory has ignited widespread celebration, particularly among Indians and Ugandans, who took to social media to express their pride and joy. Mamdani’s win was marked by a vibrant Bollywood-style street party, where he paid homage to his Indian heritage by quoting Jawaharlal Nehru’s iconic “Tryst with Destiny” speech from India’s independence era. His maternal uncle, Vikram Nair, expressed immense pride in Mamdani’s achievement, noting the overwhelming requests for celebratory gatherings. Mamdani’s mother, Mira Nair, an acclaimed Indian filmmaker, and his father, Mahmood Mamdani, a Columbia University professor, were visibly emotional during the victory rally. The event concluded with the title track of the Bollywood blockbuster “Dhoom,” symbolizing the fusion of cultures in Mamdani’s campaign. While his multi-racial outreach and embrace of his Indian and Muslim identity garnered significant support, his past criticism of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “war criminal” has sparked controversy. Despite this, Mamdani’s victory has been hailed as a milestone for diversity and youth in politics, inspiring hope and debate across the globe.
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‘Australia not a bunch of old-timers – they’re an outstanding team’
As the Ashes series approaches, Australia’s cricket team is under the spotlight for its reliance on seasoned veterans, raising questions about the future of its squad. With just 16 days until the first Test, the anticipation is palpable, and the narrative is dominated by the age and experience of the Australian players. The team, led by chief selector George Bailey, boasts a wealth of talent, including Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, who collectively have over 1,200 Test wickets. However, the squad’s average age is a point of concern, with only all-rounder Cameron Green under 30.