作者: admin

  • Portuguese-speaking media visit Mixue headquarters in Zhengzhou

    Portuguese-speaking media visit Mixue headquarters in Zhengzhou

    In a significant cultural and economic exchange, media representatives from Portuguese-speaking countries visited the global headquarters of Mixue Ice Cream & Tea in Zhengzhou, Henan province, on Wednesday. This visit was part of the Global Mayors Dialogue Zhengzhou & 2025 International Mayor’s Forum on Tourism, highlighting the growing international interest in China’s business innovations. Helio Robalo, president of the National News Agency of Cabo Verde, expressed his admiration, stating, ‘Coming from afar to China, everything here feels refreshingly new. The visit provided a clear look into the company’s operations.’ As of June 30, Mixue boasts a global network of over 53,000 stores, with approximately 4,700 located outside mainland China, showcasing its expansive reach and influence in the global market.

  • RTA announces auction of 3, 4, 5-digit exclusive licence plates

    RTA announces auction of 3, 4, 5-digit exclusive licence plates

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced its 81st online auction, offering 300 exclusive three, four, and five-digit licence plate codes for private and classic vehicles. The available codes will include letters from A, B, I, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, and Z. Registration for the auction will commence on Monday, October 27, with the bidding process set to begin on Monday, November 3, and run for five days. A 5% Value Added Tax (VAT) will apply to all sales, and participants must possess an active traffic file in Dubai. To participate, bidders must submit a security cheque of Dh5,000 payable to RTA, along with a non-refundable participation fee of Dh120. Payments can be made at RTA’s Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Al Barsha, and Deira, or online via credit card on the RTA website (www.rta.ae). Winning bidders must complete payment within 10 working days post-auction, with options including cash (up to Dh50,000), certified cheque, or credit card for higher amounts.

  • Duo fined for damaging grassland at Xinjiang landmark

    Duo fined for damaging grassland at Xinjiang landmark

    In a recent development, authorities in Hami, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, have imposed fines on two individuals for causing significant damage to grassland at a prominent landmark. The site, which bears the phrase ‘Serve the People,’ was compromised when Zhang and Li, the individuals involved, drove an off-road vehicle into a restricted area without permission in 2024. Their reckless drifting maneuvers resulted in substantial harm to the grassland, an act that was later shared online, drawing widespread public attention and concern. The Yizhou District Forestry and Grassland Bureau disclosed the incident in a statement on Thursday, detailing the penalties. Zhang was fined 12,000 yuan ($1,683), while Li was fined 8,000 yuan. Both individuals accepted the fines without contesting the charges. This incident underscores the importance of preserving natural and cultural landmarks, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of regulations to protect such sites from vandalism and unauthorized activities.

  • Chinese biotech firms unveil advanced human-centric genomic  model

    Chinese biotech firms unveil advanced human-centric genomic model

    In a landmark development at the 20th Annual Meeting of the International Conference on Genomics (ICG-20) in Hangzhou, BGI-Research and Zhejiang Lab unveiled Genos, an open-source Human-Centric genomic foundation model. This cutting-edge innovation, designed to operate at single-nucleotide precision across ultra-long DNA sequences, leverages high-quality human genomes from diverse global ancestries. Genos promises transformative applications across multiple domains, including public health, developmental biology, and scientific research. In public health, it enhances disease monitoring and informs targeted preventive measures. In developmental biology, it sheds light on gene regulation in tissue and organ formation. For scientific research, it predicts RNA expression from DNA sequences in seconds, a process that previously took weeks or months. Integrated into BGI’s DCS Cloud and the CNGB database, Genos empowers researchers to forecast cell expression levels, identify key candidate genes, and accelerate discoveries. Clinically, it collaborates with BGI’s GeneT deep reasoning model to diagnose genetic diseases, while in personal health, it generates personalized genomic reports via BGI’s BGE platform. The development of Genos was spearheaded by a cross-disciplinary team from the Foundation Model Training Program, a joint initiative by BGI-Research and Zhejiang Lab. This program united bioinformatics experts and computing specialists, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration that is driving life science research from data mining toward emergent intelligence.

  • Ivory Coast candidates hold final rallies ahead of Saturday’s election

    Ivory Coast candidates hold final rallies ahead of Saturday’s election

    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast — The campaign for Ivory Coast’s presidential election reached its climax on Thursday as candidates held their final rallies ahead of Saturday’s vote. The West African nation, home to 30 million people, is poised to decide whether incumbent President Alassane Ouattara will secure a fourth term, extending his leadership to nearly two decades. Ouattara, 83, is running under the banner of the ruling party, Rassemblement des Houphouetistes pour la Paix, with the slogan “For a Great Nation.” His campaign has been marked by confidence, as evidenced by his rally in Abidjan, where he addressed supporters overlooking the city’s new bridges, declaring, “The dogs are barking but the caravan has moved already.” The election has drawn 8.7 million registered voters, with four opposition parties challenging Ouattara, though analysts deem their chances slim. Key opposition figures, including former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam and ex-President Laurent Gbagbo, were disqualified, sparking nationwide protests and hundreds of arrests. As the election approaches, Abidjan has slowed down, with shops closing in anticipation of potential violence, a recurring issue in Ivorian elections. Streets are adorned with Ouattara’s campaign posters, while those of his opponents are scarce, reflecting his strong position. “Ouattara will win in the first round,” said Ange Ouattara, a 25-year-old supporter, dismissing the opposition as inconsequential. The election’s outcome will shape the future of this cocoa-rich nation, with tensions high and the stakes even higher.

  • China delivers 1st dual-fuel luxury Ro-Ro vessel GNV·VIRGO

    China delivers 1st dual-fuel luxury Ro-Ro vessel GNV·VIRGO

    In a significant milestone for the maritime industry, China has unveiled its first dual-fuel luxury roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) passenger vessel, the GNV·VIRGO. The vessel was officially delivered during a naming ceremony held in Guangzhou’s Nansha district, Guangdong province, on Thursday, October 23, 2025. Constructed by Guangzhou Shipyard International, a subsidiary of the state-owned China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), the GNV·VIRGO represents a leap forward in sustainable and luxurious maritime travel. Designed specifically for Italian ferry operator Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), a key player under the MSC Group, the vessel combines cutting-edge green technology with opulent amenities. The dual-fuel capability allows the ship to operate on both traditional marine fuels and cleaner alternatives, significantly reducing its environmental footprint. This delivery underscores China’s growing prowess in advanced shipbuilding and its commitment to fostering international partnerships in the global shipping industry. The GNV·VIRGO is expected to set new standards for eco-friendly and high-end passenger vessels, catering to the increasing demand for sustainable travel solutions.

  • Nyingchi’s breathtaking autumn charm

    Nyingchi’s breathtaking autumn charm

    As autumn descends upon Nyingchi in Xizang, the region transforms into a mesmerizing highland spectacle. Mount Namjagbarwa, towering at 7,782 meters, stands majestically under the clear autumn sun, its snow-capped peak glistening like a silent sentinel. Below, the valleys come alive with a vibrant tapestry of red maples, golden poplars, and green firs, interspersed with clusters of red and purple wild fruits. The gentle rustle of autumn leaves, stirred by the breeze, harmonizes with the serene peaks, creating a breathtaking seasonal panorama that captivates visitors and locals alike. This natural masterpiece in southeastern Xizang is a testament to the region’s unparalleled beauty, drawing tourists from around the globe to witness its splendor.

  • Saudi Arabia bans employers from charging domestic workers recruitment, permit fees

    Saudi Arabia bans employers from charging domestic workers recruitment, permit fees

    Saudi Arabia has introduced stringent regulations to safeguard the rights of domestic workers, prohibiting employers from imposing recruitment, work permit, or transfer fees. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) issued the ‘Guide to the Rights and Obligations of Domestic Workers,’ which outlines comprehensive protections aimed at ensuring fair treatment and dignity for workers across the Kingdom. Employers found violating these rules face fines of up to SR20,000, a three-year ban on hiring domestic workers, and potentially permanent bans with doubled penalties for repeat offenses. The guide mandates timely wage payments, weekly rest days, eight hours of daily rest, and one month of paid leave after two years of service. Workers are also entitled to free return tickets home every two years, end-of-service bonuses, and up to 30 days of sick leave annually. Additionally, employers are barred from confiscating workers’ passports or iqamas, reinforcing their independence. The regulations cover a wide range of domestic roles, including housekeepers, drivers, nurses, and cooks, with provisions to expand the list as needed. Employers must provide suitable housing, healthcare, and a safe work environment, while workers are expected to maintain professionalism, respect household property, and adhere to Saudi laws and customs. The MHRSD emphasized that these measures reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to justice, equality, and human dignity in employment relationships, fostering a stable and ethical work environment.

  • Watersports, brunches, and more: Top things to do in the UAE from October 24-26

    Watersports, brunches, and more: Top things to do in the UAE from October 24-26

    The UAE is set to offer an exhilarating array of activities this weekend, blending culture, adventure, and culinary delights. From October 24 to 26, residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in world-class events, vibrant performances, and unique experiences across the Emirates. Highlights include the Kite World Cup in Abu Dhabi, the Middle East debut of *Grease The Musical* in Dubai, and the return of *Cosmic Glow 2025* in Al Ain. Additionally, live music at ALAYA in DIFC and family-friendly brunches like Toshi Brunch & Beyond ensure there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking sun-soaked afternoons or after-dark entertainment, this weekend promises unforgettable moments. The Kite World Cup, part of the Fahid Island Watersports Festival, will feature over 150 international athletes competing in kitesurfing, wing foiling, and more. Meanwhile, *Grease The Musical* brings its iconic hits to Dubai Opera, and *Cosmic Glow 2025* offers a celestial celebration of astronomy and art. For foodies, Toshi Brunch & Beyond and Hidden Beach Brunch provide indulgent culinary experiences, making this weekend a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.

  • Awards, games: RAK to launch employee welfare app across tourism, hospitality sectors

    Awards, games: RAK to launch employee welfare app across tourism, hospitality sectors

    Ras Al Khaimah is set to launch a groundbreaking digital platform, ‘BeRAK,’ aimed at enhancing employee engagement and wellbeing across its tourism and hospitality sectors. The app, developed over a year with input from industry experts and wellbeing specialists, integrates four core pillars: engagement, wellbeing, communication, and development. It provides a unified space for hotel employees, tour operators, guides, and attraction staff to connect, share updates, access professional learning opportunities, and celebrate achievements.

    BeRAK offers a blend of social and professional features, including spaces for celebrating milestones, dedicated channels for internal communication, and team recognition. It also introduces a playful, community-driven element where employees can participate in games, create cross-hotel challenges, and earn rewards for engagement. Points accumulated through app activity can be redeemed for vouchers, discounts, or gifts, providing tangible incentives for participation.

    Beyond engagement, the app emphasizes employee wellbeing by offering access to psychologists, nutritionists, and personal development coaches. Employees can book up to five private sessions annually with certified experts and access on-demand training videos covering topics like stress management and healthy living.

    Dr. Mira Zakharia, Senior Director of Human Resources at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, highlighted the app’s role in fostering a sense of belonging and support among employees. ‘Healthy people are happier and perform better, and when employees feel supported, that positivity extends naturally to guests and the workplace,’ she said.

    The initiative is expected to set a new benchmark for employee engagement and wellbeing in the tourism and hospitality sectors, starting in Ras Al Khaimah. The app will be gradually introduced across all hotels and tourism establishments in the emirate, reflecting the region’s commitment to nurturing a connected and thriving workforce.