The Chinese mainland has issued a stern rebuke against a recent statement by the Japanese government regarding the Taiwan issue. On Wednesday, Chinese officials called on Tokyo to provide a clear and honest explanation of its position, warning that ambiguous claims and attempts to obscure the matter would not be tolerated. The controversy stems from a written response prepared by the Japanese Cabinet on Tuesday, addressing a lawmaker’s inquiry about Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks on Taiwan. The response asserted that Takaichi’s comments ‘do not change the government’s consistent position,’ emphasizing that no review or reconsideration was necessary. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning reiterated China’s firm opposition to Takaichi’s statements, urging Japan to address Beijing’s concerns, correct its mistakes, and retract any erroneous remarks promptly. Mao stressed that Japan must clarify its ‘consistent position’ and confirm its adherence to the one-China principle. She emphasized that Taiwan is an integral part of China and that its reunification is a purely internal affair, warning Japan against making irresponsible comments or interfering in the matter.
作者： admin
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PBC Dubai hosts successful journalist meetup to strengthen media collaboration
The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai recently hosted a highly successful Journalist Meetup, bringing together prominent members of the local media community to foster collaboration and dialogue. The event, held in Dubai, underscored the importance of open communication and robust relationships between PBC and the media sector.
Shabbir Merchant, Chairman of PBC-Dubai, opened the event with a warm welcome address, expressing gratitude for the media’s unwavering support in spotlighting the council’s initiatives and advancing the interests of the Pakistani business community in the UAE. Merchant emphasized the critical role of transparent communication in building strong partnerships.
Iftikhar Ali Tatlah, Vice-Chairman for Events and Media at PBC-Dubai, delivered an insightful presentation highlighting the council’s key achievements over the past year, upcoming projects, and strategic goals. He also discussed the significance of adhering to media regulations and the role of responsible journalism in strengthening community institutions.
Kamran Ahmed Riaz, Senior Vice-Chairman at PBC-Dubai, extended a special note of appreciation, recognizing the media’s timely coverage and dedication to promoting PBC’s endeavors across various platforms. Noor Karim Afridi, Vice-Chairman for Finance and Member Engagement, shared valuable insights on enhancing member engagement and fostering professional growth within the council.
Khurram Khawaja, General Secretary of PBC-Dubai, introduced the upcoming PBC Mobile App, designed to streamline communication, improve accessibility for members, and provide real-time updates on council activities.
The event featured an interactive open discussion where media professionals offered constructive suggestions to enhance PBC’s outreach and communication strategies. The council welcomed the feedback and assured attendees that these recommendations would be integrated into future plans.
As a token of appreciation, PBC-Dubai presented certificates of recognition to journalists for their outstanding contributions to the council and the Pakistani business community in the UAE. The evening also included a cake-cutting ceremony to mark the upcoming UAE National Day, celebrating the enduring bond between Pakistan and the UAE.
The meetup concluded with a networking dinner, providing an excellent platform for meaningful exchanges between PBC leadership and media representatives. PBC-Dubai expressed heartfelt thanks to the media community for their participation and commitment to amplifying the voice of the Pakistani business community in the UAE.
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Dubai Duty Free draw: Indian man wins $1 million after entering for 15 years
After fifteen years of unwavering participation, Selvaraj Vijayananth, a 50-year-old Indian national from Chennai, has achieved his dream by winning $1 million in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw. The life-changing event occurred on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Dubai International Airport’s Concourse D.
Vijayananth, a senior engineering manager in the software industry and father of one, purchased his winning ticket (number 1346) online on November 13. His persistent participation in the promotional lottery for over a decade and a half finally yielded the monumental victory. “Winning has always been a dream of mine and now that it has finally come true, I am deeply grateful,” expressed the elated millionaire.
The celebration extended beyond Vijayananth as Atul Dinkar Rao, an Indian expatriate residing in Dubai, also claimed a $1 million prize in the Millennium Millionaire Series 522 with ticket number 2242. Rao, another long-time participant, received his ceremonial check from Dubai Duty Free senior management, stating, “I feel grateful and thankful for this win. I have always had faith and participated for a long time.
Following the millionaire announcements, the Finest Surprise draw awarded two luxury motorbikes to additional winners. Samer El Achkar, a 58-year-old Lebanese businessman and Dubai resident since 1991, won a BMW F 900 GS motorbike after twenty years of participation. Jaya Devan, a 38-year-old Indian storekeeper based in Ras Al Khaimah, secured a BMW S 1000 XR motorbike despite only participating for approximately one year. “I’m still in disbelief but feeling lucky,” Devan remarked.
Notably, Indian nationals represent the most significant demographic among ticket purchasers for these draws, with Vijayananth becoming the 266th Indian citizen to claim the $1 million prize in the promotion’s history.
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Former vice-education minister sentenced to 15 years for bribery
Du Yubo, the former vice-minister of education in China, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for accepting bribes exceeding 67 million yuan ($9.46 million). The verdict was delivered by the Linfen Intermediate People’s Court in Shanxi province on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. In addition to the prison term, Du was fined 6 million yuan, and his illicit gains, along with related interest, were ordered to be confiscated. The court highlighted that the bribery amount was ‘extremely large,’ justifying severe punishment. However, leniency was granted due to Du’s voluntary disclosure of previously unknown bribes, his confession, and his active efforts to return the illegal proceeds. Du, 70, a native of Hebei province, began his career in 1974 and joined the Communist Party of China in 1975. He held various significant positions, including vice-president of Beijing Institute of Technology and vice-minister of education, which he used to facilitate private college establishments, project contracts, and enrollment and employment arrangements in exchange for bribes from 2000 to August 2024. Du’s downfall began in September 2024 when he was investigated for severe violations of Party discipline and national laws. He was expelled from the Party in March 2025 and indicted three months later. His hearing in August 2025 was attended by over 30 individuals, including national legislators and political advisers.
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Mother sentenced to life in prison for New Zealand’s ‘suitcase murders’
A New Zealand court has sentenced Hakyung Lee, a 45-year-old mother, to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of her two young children in a case that has shocked the nation. The crime, referred to as the ‘suitcase murders,’ involved Lee poisoning her six-year-old son Minu Jo and eight-year-old daughter Yuna Jo in 2018 by lacing their fruit juice with an overdose of prescription medication. Following the deaths, Lee wrapped the children’s bodies in plastic bags and concealed them in suitcases, which were stored in a suburban warehouse on the outskirts of Auckland. The bodies remained undiscovered until 2022, when an unsuspecting family purchased the storage locker at an auction and made the grim discovery. Police used DNA and forensic evidence to identify the victims and trace the crime back to Lee, who had fled to her native South Korea after the murders. She was eventually extradited to New Zealand to face trial. During the sentencing hearing, High Court Judge Geoffrey Venning described the children as ‘particularly vulnerable’ and imposed a minimum non-parole period of 17 years. Lee showed little emotion in court, bowing her head as the sentence was delivered. The trial revealed that Lee, grieving the death of her husband from cancer, had initially planned to kill herself alongside her children but failed to do so. Her defense argued that she was not guilty by reason of insanity, citing severe depression and suicidal thoughts. However, the prosecution countered that her actions were calculated, pointing to her efforts to hide the bodies and flee the country. The case has left deep emotional scars on Lee’s family, with her mother and brother-in-law expressing profound grief and anger over the loss of the children.
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A Dubai Original Steps into Its Next Era: Inside BurJuman Mall’s Transformation
BurJuman Mall, one of Dubai’s pioneering retail landmarks, has unveiled the culmination of a comprehensive multi-year transformation that has fundamentally reimagined the 1991-established property. The reinvention, initiated in 2023, represents a strategic pivot from traditional retail to an experience-centric urban hub designed for contemporary consumers.
The metamorphosis extended beyond aesthetic enhancements to incorporate profound structural and operational improvements. Over 75,000 square meters of retail and public space underwent redevelopment, featuring optimized walkability, reconfigured escalators, modernized entrances, and the newly created Entrance 5 providing direct Level 1 access from Al Mankhool. These infrastructural upgrades have yielded measurable success, with double-digit growth in both foot traffic and sales performance compared to previous years.
At the core of the transformation lies a meticulously curated retail mix featuring approximately 70 new additions including Centrepoint, Puma, Steve Madden, and Rivoli Group, elevating occupancy rates to approximately 90%. The dining experience has been revolutionized through the redeveloped food court and The Deck—an outdoor terrace area designed to emulate urban social spaces with natural light and greenery.
Digital innovation permeates the visitor journey through ticketless parking systems, interactive directories, and digital gift cards. The mall has further strengthened its community appeal with B Hub and B Hive—repurposed spaces attracting thousands monthly and achieving a remarkable 72% Net Promoter Score through collaborative programming and events.
CEO Ghaith Shocair characterized the transformation as “a renewed chapter” for the mall, emphasizing enhanced accessibility through a new metro entrance and forthcoming elevator at Entrance 3. The mall’s rebranding campaign, “Right in the Heart,” serves as both geographic descriptor and philosophical statement, reflecting BurJuman’s commitment to connection, discovery, and elevated everyday experiences.
With its central Bur Dubai location, direct metro connectivity, and over 24 million annual visitors, the transformed BurJuman Mall positions itself as an inclusive, innovative destination ready for Dubai’s future retail landscape.
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Former Peruvian President Vizcarra gets 14 years in prison in corruption case
In a landmark ruling on Wednesday, a Peruvian court handed down a 14-year prison sentence to former President Martín Vizcarra for his involvement in a corruption scandal during his tenure as governor of Moquegua, a southern state in Peru. The court also imposed a nine-year ban on Vizcarra from holding any public office. The verdict stems from allegations that Vizcarra accepted illicit payments totaling approximately $611,000 from construction companies in exchange for awarding them lucrative contracts for two major infrastructure projects: an irrigation system and a hospital. Prosecutors had initially sought a 15-year sentence, but the court settled on 14 years, emphasizing the gravity of the offenses. This case underscores Peru’s ongoing struggle with political corruption and its efforts to hold high-ranking officials accountable for their actions.
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Czech president ready to swear in Babiš as prime minister if conflict of interest is resolved
In a pivotal development in Czech politics, President Petr Pavel announced on Wednesday that he is prepared to appoint populist billionaire Andrej Babiš as prime minister within a week, provided Babiš addresses concerns over potential conflicts of interest arising from his extensive business empire and political role. This follows Babiš’s ANO (YES) movement’s victory in the recent parliamentary elections, which paved the way for a coalition government with the Freedom and Direct Democracy party and the right-wing Motorists for Themselves. The coalition has agreed to form a 16-member Cabinet, with ANO holding eight positions, including the prime minister’s office. However, the president emphasized the need for Babiš to comply with the country’s stringent conflict-of-interest laws, which were amended in 2023 to prevent politicians from leveraging their wealth and power. Babiš, who owns around 200 companies under the Agrofert conglomerate and has significant investments in healthcare, must ensure his businesses remain eligible for state and EU subsidies. During a meeting with the president, Babiš presented his proposed Cabinet lineup and expressed his desire to have the new government in place by mid-December. However, the coalition’s nomination of Filip Turek, honorary president of the Motorists, sparked controversy due to his past racist, homophobic, and sexist remarks. President Pavel rejected Turek’s candidacy, deeming him unfit for a ministerial role. The coalition, known for its critical stance on EU policies, particularly regarding the environment and migration, is also expected to shift the country’s position on supporting Ukraine in its war against Russia.
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UAE: Girl returns money she found in public place; Ajman Police honour honesty
In a heartwarming display of integrity, a young girl named Shaimaa Ali has been honored by Ajman Police for her honesty after she returned a sum of money she found in a public place. The incident occurred when Shaimaa discovered the money and immediately requested her elder sister to accompany her to the Musherif Police Station to hand it over to the authorities. The police station hosted a special ceremony to recognize her commendable act, where officers posed with Shaimaa and her father, celebrating her positive attitude. At the event, Shaimaa was presented with a certificate of appreciation and a gift, acknowledging her honesty. Brigadier General Al Muhairi, who attended the ceremony, praised Shaimaa’s actions, emphasizing that such behavior reflects good upbringing and social awareness. He highlighted the importance of promoting a culture of returning lost items and protecting public property. This incident is not isolated in the UAE, as similar acts of honesty have been frequently reported. For instance, in September, Dubai Police honored a student for returning a lost wallet containing cash and a cheque valued at Dh200,000, and in April, a citizen was recognized for returning a lost passport and money. These acts underscore the UAE’s commitment to fostering values of honesty and community responsibility.
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Chelsea dominate Barca in Champions League, Man City lose
In a stunning display of dominance, Chelsea FC delivered a masterclass performance to defeat FC Barcelona 3-0 at Stamford Bridge in Tuesday’s Champions League fixture. The comprehensive victory was highlighted by teenage sensation Estevao’s spectacular individual effort, cementing Chelsea’s position among the tournament favorites.
The match turned decisively in Chelsea’s favor when Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo received his second yellow card just before halftime, reducing the Catalan giants to ten men. Chelsea had already taken the lead through a Jules Kounde own goal in the 27th minute, capitalizing on defensive confusion from a well-worked corner routine.
Estevao, the 18-year-old Brazilian prodigy, stole the spotlight from his much-hyped counterpart Lamine Yamal with a breathtaking solo goal in the 55th minute. Receiving the ball on the right flank, he danced past two defenders before unleashing an unstoppable strike into the roof of the net. Substitute Liam Delap completed the scoring in the 73rd minute to seal a memorable victory.
Meanwhile, Manchester City suffered their first Champions League defeat of the campaign after manager Pep Guardiola made sweeping changes to his starting lineup. Resting key players including Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, and Bernardo Silva, City fell 2-0 to Bayer Leverkusen at the Etihad Stadium. Alex Grimaldo and Patrik Schick found the net for the German visitors, exposing City’s rotated defense.
In other Champions League action, Marseille mounted a comeback victory against Newcastle United with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scoring twice after Ashley Barnes’ early opener. Juventus secured a dramatic 3-2 win against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt thanks to Jonathan David’s injury-time winner, while Borussia Dortmund cruised to a 4-0 victory over Villarreal despite missing two penalties.