Global Pulse

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  • K2, WeRide sign agreement to operate autonomous buses in Abu Dhabi

    K2, WeRide sign agreement to operate autonomous buses in Abu Dhabi

    In a significant advancement for autonomous transportation, UAE-based mobility solutions provider K2 and global autonomous driving technology firm WeRide have formalized a strategic partnership to deploy and operate self-driving buses across Abu Dhabi. The landmark agreement was signed during the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX) 2026 with official endorsement from both the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) and the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC).

    This collaboration represents a concrete step toward realizing Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive smart mobility strategy, facilitating the practical implementation of autonomous public transportation systems. The initiative aims to solidify the emirate’s standing as an international center for intelligent, sustainable transit solutions.

    K2 brings substantial regional operational expertise to the partnership, with subsidiaries having previously conducted extensive testing of robotic taxis and last-mile delivery solutions across tens of thousands of kilometers. WeRide contributes its advanced Level 4 autonomous driving technology and global deployment experience to the venture.

    Waleed Alblooshi, Vice President of Strategy at K2, emphasized the synergistic nature of the partnership: “K2 leverages its local expertise, fleet management capabilities, and experience in deploying real-world mobility solutions, while WeRide contributes its global AV expertise and extensive deployment experience.”

    Ryan Zhan, Regional General Manager for Middle East and Africa at WeRide, characterized the agreement as marking “the next phase of our growth” in the region. “By combining our proven L4 autonomous driving technology with K2’s deep local expertise,” Zhan noted, “we are accelerating safer, smarter, and more sustainable autonomous public transport across the UAE and the wider Middle East.”

    The autonomous bus initiative aligns with broader regional transportation modernization efforts, including Ras Al Khaimah’s recent consolidation of autonomous vehicle operations under a single transport authority and previous successful trials of fully driverless ride-hailing services in the Abu Dhabi metropolitan area.

  • Cornell students and faculty explore agricultural development in China during cultural exchange program

    Cornell students and faculty explore agricultural development in China during cultural exchange program

    A distinguished delegation of students and faculty from Cornell University recently concluded an extensive two-week cultural and educational exchange program across China, gaining firsthand insights into the nation’s agricultural modernization and rural revitalization initiatives. Organized by China Agricultural University, the program ran from January 4th to 16th, 2026, featuring immersive visits to multiple regions including Beijing, Hebei Province, and Sichuan Province.

    The comprehensive itinerary enabled participants to engage directly with local farming communities, rural residents, and leading agricultural experts. In Yixian County, Hebei Province, the Cornell delegation examined innovative farming techniques and sustainable practices that have contributed to China’s food security goals. The exchange facilitated meaningful dialogue about comparative agricultural systems and development strategies between American and Chinese academic perspectives.

    This program represents a significant step in academic diplomacy and cross-cultural knowledge sharing in the field of agricultural science. Participants gained practical understanding of China’s rural development policies while establishing professional connections that could foster future research collaborations. The initiative demonstrates how educational exchanges can build bridges between academic institutions despite different agricultural traditions and economic systems.

    The successful program highlights the growing importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as food security, sustainable farming, and rural economic development. Such exchanges contribute to mutual understanding and create platforms for sharing best practices in agricultural innovation and policy implementation.

  • Neil Young’s gift to Greenland: Free access to his entire music catalog

    Neil Young’s gift to Greenland: Free access to his entire music catalog

    In a striking musical diplomacy move, legendary rock musician Neil Young has announced the provision of complimentary access to his complete discography for all residents of Greenland. The unexpected gesture, revealed Tuesday through the artist’s official blog, directly addresses the geopolitical tensions surrounding Denmark’s semi-autonomous territory, which has recently emerged as a focal point in U.S.-NATO relations.

    Young framed his offering as an antidote to political strain, explicitly stating: “I hope my music and music films will ease some of the unwarranted stress and threats you are experiencing from our unpopular and hopefully temporary government.” The Canadian-born artist emphasized his desire for Greenlanders to experience his work in highest-quality audio within their “beautiful Greenland home.”

    The initiative requires applicants to possess a Greenland-registered mobile phone for verification purposes. While initially structured as a one-year arrangement, Young indicated openness to potential renewal.

    This benevolent act stands in stark opposition to Young’s recent stance toward Amazon Music, where he withdrew his catalog in protest of founder Jeff Bezos’s support for President Donald Trump. Young previously articulated his position, noting: “The president’s international policies and his support of ICE make it impossible for me to ignore his actions.”

    The rock veteran maintains a complex history with streaming platforms, having previously removed his music from Spotify in objection to COVID-19 vaccine misinformation disseminated by podcaster Joe Rogan. Though that boycott eventually concluded, it represents just one chapter in Young’s longstanding critique of audio quality and ethical standards within digital music services. His catalog remains available on most major platforms including Apple Music, notwithstanding his periodic protests.

    Neither Amazon Music representatives nor Young’s management team provided immediate commentary regarding these latest developments.

  • EU says India to slash tariffs on import of autos, wine and pasta

    EU says India to slash tariffs on import of autos, wine and pasta

    In a landmark move set to redefine bilateral trade, India and the European Union have officially unveiled a comprehensive free trade agreement. The pact, announced on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, will dramatically reduce or eliminate import duties on an unprecedented 97 percent of goods exported from the EU to India, creating an estimated annual duty savings of up to €4 billion ($4.75 billion).

    The agreement specifically targets several high-tariff sectors, signaling a new era of market access for European producers. The automotive industry will witness a profound transformation, with India’s notoriously high import duties on cars being systematically reduced from a peak of 110 percent down to a new low of 10 percent. Similarly, the wine sector is poised for a breakthrough as tariffs, previously as high as 150 percent, will be progressively lowered to a base rate of 20 percent.

    Furthermore, the EU confirmed that India will completely eliminate its current 50 percent tariff on a range of processed food products. This elimination will apply to key European exports including pasta, chocolate, and other gourmet food items, granting them unprecedented price competitiveness in the vast Indian consumer market.

    This agreement is widely regarded as one of the most significant trade deals negotiated by the EU, marking a decisive step in strengthening economic ties between the world’s largest trading bloc and one of its fastest-growing major economies. The tariff reductions are structured to be implemented progressively, allowing industries in both regions to adapt to the new competitive landscape.

  • Ranbir Kapoor thinks Rani Mukerji is ‘one of the greatest ever’ actors

    Ranbir Kapoor thinks Rani Mukerji is ‘one of the greatest ever’ actors

    Bollywood luminary Ranbir Kapoor has publicly acclaimed veteran actress Rani Mukerji as “one of the greatest ever actors in India” during recent conversations with Variety magazine. This heartfelt tribute coincides with Mukerji’s monumental 30-year anniversary in the Indian film industry and the impending release of her latest cinematic venture, Mardaani 3.

    Kapoor, who first collaborated with Mukerji in his 2007 debut film Saawariya, reflected on their shared professional history with profound admiration. He characterized Mukerji as “one for the ages” whose selective approach to roles and projects has fundamentally transformed the portrayal of women in Indian cinema. The Animal star specifically recalled Mukerji’s encouragement during his inaugural filming experience, noting how her early confidence in his abilities provided crucial reassurance at a pivotal career juncture.

    Beyond professional respect, Kapoor expressed personal admiration for Mukerji’s enduring grace and artistic dedication, describing her as an entertainer who has devoted her life to audience satisfaction. His comments arrive as the industry collectively celebrates Mukerji’s enduring legacy, particularly through her upcoming reprisal of the fearless police inspector role in Mardaani 3.

    The third installment of the successful crime thriller franchise, directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films, promises another gripping narrative centered on child abduction cases. Scheduled for theatrical release on January 30, 2026, the film marks Mukerji’s latest contribution to a career that has consistently redefined artistic excellence in Indian cinema.

  • What is Nipah virus? Outbreak in India; some airports increase precautions

    What is Nipah virus? Outbreak in India; some airports increase precautions

    Health authorities in India have confirmed an outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus in West Bengal, with five documented cases prompting immediate containment protocols. Local media reports indicate approximately 100 individuals have been placed under quarantine as precautionary measures intensify.

    The zoonotic pathogen, which transmits from animals to humans through contaminated food sources and subsequently between humans via bodily fluids, presents significant public health challenges due to the absence of approved vaccines or targeted treatments. Current medical intervention is limited to supportive care for symptomatic patients.

    In response to the outbreak, several Asian nations have implemented enhanced screening procedures at international airports. Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan have notably strengthened border health security protocols to prevent potential cross-border transmission.

    Nipah virus infection manifests through a spectrum of symptoms including fever, respiratory distress, muscular pain, and neurological complications such as encephalitis (brain inflammation), disorientation, and seizures. Severe cases may progress to coma within 24-48 hours of symptom onset.

    Transmission occurs primarily through:
    – Direct contact with infected bats or animal carriers
    – Consumption of contaminated animal products
    – Human-to-human transmission via respiratory secretions, saliva, urine, or blood
    – Caregiving activities without adequate protective equipment

    The current outbreak underscores the persistent threat of zoonotic diseases and the critical importance of international health surveillance systems.

  • Indian, Pakistani expats win Dh50,000 each in Abu Dhabi’s Big Ticket draw

    Indian, Pakistani expats win Dh50,000 each in Abu Dhabi’s Big Ticket draw

    In a heartwarming display of perseverance paying off, four expatriates from India and Pakistan have each been awarded Dh50,000 in Abu Dhabi’s renowned Big Ticket weekly electronic draw. Their stories, united by years of participation and a focus on family, highlight the life-changing potential of the lottery for the UAE’s long-term resident community.

    Anwar Hussain Spin Gul, a Pakistani driving instructor and 30-year UAE resident, finally saw his 15-year dedication to the draw rewarded. Initially skeptical of the winning notification, his disbelief turned to pure elation upon confirmation. While his specific plans for the prize are still under consideration, he affirmed his intention to continue participating.

    From Oman, Indian national Manikandan Balagopal, a 55-year-old automotive executive, discovered Big Ticket during his frequent transits through Abu Dhabi Airport. After three to four years of consistent play, his victory brought an ‘overwhelming sense of happiness.’ He has earmarked the entire winnings to fund his son’s master’s degree, viewing the win as validation to keep trying his luck.

    For Kaverappa Kiekereyanda, an Indian professional in Dubai’s oil and gas sector, victory came through a collaborative effort. After a decade of participation, he and five friends pooled their resources for a winning ticket. The group plans to share the prize, with portions allocated for their families and charitable donations.

    Completing the quartet is Murtuza Ali Hayat Khan, a Gujarati business owner residing in Qatar for 29 years. A seven-year veteran of the draw, he almost dismissed the life-changing call as a modern-day scam. His skepticism vanished with the official email, and he now plans to support his daughter’s education in the UK, vowing to purchase even more tickets in the future.

    The January draw series continues to build anticipation toward its climax: a colossal Dh20 million grand prize and five consolation awards of Dh1 million each. Furthermore, the Dream Car Series offers participants additional chances to win luxury vehicles, including a BMW X5 and a Range Rover Velar, with draws extending into early February.

  • Setback for Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ release as India court stays order granting censor certificate

    Setback for Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ release as India court stays order granting censor certificate

    In a significant judicial reversal, the Madras High Court has suspended the censorship clearance for Tamil superstar Vijay’s highly anticipated film ‘Jana Nayagan,’ creating substantial obstacles for the political drama’s theatrical release. A division bench led by Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G Arul Murugan overturned a previous single-judge ruling that had mandated India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a ‘U/A 16+’ certificate for the project.

    The judicial panel determined that the lower court had acted prematurely by not allowing adequate time for the CBFC to present its counter-affidavit regarding certification concerns. The case has now been remanded back to the single judge for renewed proceedings, with permission for the producers to modify their legal petition.

    This development represents the latest chapter in an ongoing censorship battle that has delayed the film’s scheduled January 9 release during the lucrative Pongal festival season. The CBFC had initially withheld certification, citing concerns that specific scenes might offend religious sensibilities and referring the matter to a Revising Committee for additional evaluation.

    The production team, led by producer K Venkat Narayana, had previously sought urgent judicial intervention to compel certification after the CBFC declined clearance. While the single judge initially provided temporary relief by ordering certification, the division bench subsequently stayed this order on January 9, effectively halting the release process.

    The significance of ‘Jana Nayagan’ extends beyond entertainment circles, as industry observers note this marks Vijay’s final cinematic project before his full transition into politics through his recently established Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party. The continued postponement represents both commercial and symbolic setbacks for the actor-politician’s carefully orchestrated career transition.

  • ‘Doomsday Clock’ moves closer to midnight, a year into Trump term

    ‘Doomsday Clock’ moves closer to midnight, a year into Trump term

    In a sobering announcement marking heightened global instability, the symbolic Doomsday Clock has been adjusted to 85 seconds before midnight—the closest it has ever been to representing total planetary catastrophe. The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, the organization behind the clock, cited escalating nuclear threats, climate inaction, and the corrosive spread of disinformation as primary drivers of this alarming shift.

    The decision, made following consultations with experts including eight Nobel laureates, reflects a world where major powers like Russia, China, and the United States have grown increasingly adversarial and nationalistic. A statement released with the update warned that ‘hard-won global understandings are collapsing,’ accelerating great-power competition and undermining international cooperation on critical risks including nuclear war, climate change, and the misuse of emerging technologies.

    Key factors influencing the move include the impending expiration of the New START nuclear arms treaty between the U.S. and Russia, alongside the Trump administration’s push for a space-based missile defense system dubbed ‘Golden Dome.’ The board also highlighted record-breaking carbon emissions following a sharp reversal of U.S. climate policy and backtracking by other nations.

    Adding to the crisis, the bulletin pointed to an ‘information Armageddon’—a collapse of public trust fueled by predatory technology that spreads falsehoods and profits from societal division, as noted by Nobel Prize-winning journalist Maria Ressa.

    Founded in 1947 by Albert Einstein and J. Robert Oppenheimer, the Doomsday Clock began at seven minutes to midnight. This year’s four-second advance follows a one-second move last year, erasing earlier guarded optimism about diplomatic engagement under Trump’s second term.

  • Digipos crosses Dh20 billion in transactions in 8 years as founder Sunil Rangwani advances multi-sector expansion

    Digipos crosses Dh20 billion in transactions in 8 years as founder Sunil Rangwani advances multi-sector expansion

    Dubai-based digital payments provider Digipos has achieved a remarkable financial milestone, processing over Dh20 billion ($5.45 billion) in cumulative transactions since its establishment in 2016. This achievement underscores the company’s evolution from a specialized payment solution to a comprehensive digital infrastructure partner within the UAE’s rapidly transforming economy.

    The company’s growth trajectory has accelerated significantly, with 2025 alone accounting for Dh5 billion ($1.36 billion) in processed transactions. This performance demonstrates robust merchant confidence and consistent platform reliability across more than 15,000 Point of Sale terminals deployed throughout the UAE.

    Founder and CEO Sunil Rangwani attributes this success to strategic execution and operational discipline rather than short-term market opportunism. “Expanding to over 15,000 terminals across the UAE represents a defining moment for our organization,” Rangwani stated. “This achievement reflects the collective efforts of our entire team and our commitment to ongoing pursuit of excellence.”

    Rangwani specifically acknowledged the contributions of Co-Founder and Business Director Mirza Hussain, whose operational expertise has been instrumental in strengthening platform reliability and scaling capabilities within the competitive fintech landscape.

    Building upon this success, Digipos has initiated a structured multi-sector expansion strategy across the UAE and India. The company has launched five new ventures in 2025, applying the same principles of governance and scalability that defined its payment solutions success.

    The expansion portfolio includes Henox IT and Datacenters LLC in Dubai and India, focusing on scalable digital infrastructure; La Opulence Real Estate LLC for premium property development; and Henox Insurance Broker Services along with Henox Capital and Finserv Pvt Ltd for financial services. Across all ventures, Rangwani maintains founder-level and board leadership roles, guiding strategic direction and governance frameworks.

    “Each venture is being built with the scale, structure, and discipline required to compete at an institutional level,” Rangwani emphasized. “Our objective is to create durable, category-defining businesses that deliver long-term value across infrastructure, finance, and real assets.”

    This expansion aligns with the UAE’s national digital transformation agenda, positioning Digipos as a dependable partner for merchants seeking payment solutions that combine reliability, scalability, and operational continuity in an increasingly cashless economic environment.