In a significant development, Brazil’s federal police have formally accused Silvio Almeida, the former human rights minister under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, of sexual misconduct. The allegations, which led to Almeida’s dismissal last September, have now escalated into a formal investigation. A police official, speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization, confirmed the accusations on Saturday. Prosecutors are currently reviewing the case to determine whether to press charges. If charges are filed, the Supreme Court will decide whether to proceed to trial. Almeida, a prominent Black law professor and anti-racism advocate in Lula’s administration, has previously denied the allegations but has remained silent since the formal accusation was reported by local media on Friday. The accusations have cast a shadow over Lula’s government, particularly given Almeida’s vocal stance against racism alongside Anielle Franco, the Minister for Racial Equality, who was named as one of the alleged victims. Franco, who entered politics following the murder of her sister Marielle Franco, a Rio de Janeiro councilwoman, publicly supported Lula’s decision to dismiss Almeida. The case has reignited discussions about violence against women in Brazil, where over one in three women has experienced sexual or gender-based violence, according to a 2025 report by the Brazilian Forum on Public Safety. Isabel Rodrigues, a professor in São Paulo, has accused Almeida of sexual assault and emphasized the need for justice and support for victims.
作者： admin
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Tunpu culture: A collision of civilizations
The unique Tunpu culture of Guizhou Province stands as a remarkable example of cultural exchange and adaptation, according to Professor Ge Jianxiong of Fudan University. Originating during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Tunpu, which translates to ‘fortified villages,’ was established by soldiers sent to guard and cultivate the region. These settlements, largely isolated from external influences, preserved their traditions while evolving through interactions with Guizhou’s diverse ethnic groups. Over time, the culture adapted to local conditions, resulting in the distinctive Tunpu culture observed today. Professor Ge emphasized that this cultural fusion highlights the resilience and adaptability of human societies, making Tunpu a living relic of historical and cultural significance. The preservation of Tunpu culture offers valuable insights into the dynamics of cultural exchange and the enduring legacy of ancient practices in modern times.
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New teaching materials to aid international Chinese language education released
In a significant stride for international Chinese language education, the first series of teaching materials based on the ‘expression-driven’ teaching theory, alongside a case study series for international Chinese education degrees, were unveiled on Friday. These resources aim to address practical challenges faced by educators worldwide and offer actionable insights for teachers and researchers. The release took place at the 2025 World Chinese Language Conference, where Zhong Yinghua, President of the World Chinese Bridge Teaching Society, introduced the two new works: ‘Expressing in Chinese’ and ‘The Case Study of International Chinese Education Degree.’ These publications mark a pivotal development in the field, providing innovative tools to enhance the teaching and learning of Chinese as a global language. The materials are designed to bridge gaps in current educational practices, fostering a more effective and engaging learning experience for students and educators alike.
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Policy allowing Guangdong vehicles to travel to Hong Kong takes effect
A landmark policy permitting vehicles registered in Guangdong province to travel to Hong Kong officially took effect at midnight on Saturday, November 15, 2025. The first private car with a Guangdong license plate entered the outbound lane at the Zhuhai highway port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, marking a significant milestone in cross-border mobility. The ‘Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles’ policy, issued by Guangdong’s provincial department of public security, comprises two key components: a parking plan at Hong Kong border checkpoints and a plan allowing vehicles to enter Hong Kong’s urban areas. Eligible private car owners in Guangdong can now apply to travel to Hong Kong via the mega cross-sea bridge. Approved vehicles can park in automated border-area lots starting November 15 and access Hong Kong’s urban areas from December 23. This initiative mirrors earlier policies implemented in 2023, which allowed single-license plate vehicles from Hong Kong and Macao to travel north into Guangdong. Over the past two years, Gongbei Customs in Zhuhai has overseen more than 7.69 million northbound trips by such vehicles. The new policy is expected to enhance two-way connectivity and foster a one-hour living circle within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. To streamline the process, Customs authorities have established five dedicated inspection lanes at the Zhuhai highway port. ‘Once a vehicle enters the lane, the system automatically verifies and matches registration information, significantly improving clearance efficiency,’ said Wang Peiyang, deputy director of the bridge Customs under Gongbei Customs. This development underscores the region’s commitment to deepening integration and facilitating seamless cross-border travel.
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HK and Shenzhen jointly host the first cross-border marathon of National Games
In a landmark event, Shenzhen and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region jointly hosted the first-ever cross-border marathon as part of the 15th National Games on Saturday morning. The race commenced in Shenzhen, with participants seamlessly crossing into Hong Kong via Shenzhen Bay Port without the need for documentation or stops. This innovative arrangement highlights the seamless integration and cooperation between Guangdong province and the Hong Kong and Macao SARs. The marathon not only showcased the athletic prowess of competitors from across the nation but also symbolized the collaborative spirit and unity of the region. The organizing committee emphasized that this event underscores the vibrancy of the athletes and the shared commitment to celebrating this grand occasion. For more details, viewers can watch the accompanying video.
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Tianjin aid officials oversee quality of life upgrades for Tibetan village
Rishugma village, located in the Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai Province, has witnessed remarkable improvements in its quality of life, thanks to the dedicated efforts of aid officials from Tianjin. Since 2010, these officials have been instrumental in implementing key infrastructure projects that have significantly enhanced the living conditions of the local population. One of the most notable achievements is the construction of a 41.7-kilometer cement road in 2022, which now connects the entire township, facilitating better transportation and access to essential services. Additionally, in 2019, a stable water source was discovered at an altitude of 3,800 meters on Xiaqiong Mountain, providing 644 households with reliable access to tap water. The aid initiative began in 2010 when Tianjin officials arrived in Hornasha town and invested 15 million yuan ($211,000) in the road construction project, benefiting four administrative villages including Rishugma, Chunu, Auhu, and Yangdrung. These developments underscore the commitment of Tianjin officials to fostering sustainable growth and improving the livelihoods of Tibetan communities.
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Watch: Kuwait seizes over 100kg of narcotics hidden in car in foiled smuggling attempt
Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior announced on Saturday, November 15, 2025, the successful interception of a significant drug smuggling operation. Authorities seized over 100 kilograms of hashish and marijuana, which were meticulously concealed within a suspect’s vehicle. The individual, identified as a citizen, was apprehended upon arrival at Shuwaikh Port after intelligence indicated his involvement in transporting narcotics from Iran via ferry. The General Department for Drug Control, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Customs, executed the operation, ensuring the suspect and the illicit substances were handed over to the Drug Prosecution Authority for legal proceedings. To safely inspect the vehicle’s hidden compartments, the General Fire Force was called in, given the hazardous methods often employed by smugglers. This operation underscores Kuwait’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and maintaining national security.
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Shah Rukh Khan makes history as first star with Dubai skyscraper named after him
In a historic moment that bridges the worlds of cinema, real estate, and global stardom, Shah Rukh Khan, the iconic ‘Badshah of Bollywood,’ has become the first actor to have a skyscraper named after him in Dubai. The announcement was made at a grand event in Mumbai on Friday, hosted by his longtime friend, director-choreographer Farah Khan. The 55-storey commercial tower, named ‘Shahrukhz by Danube,’ will be constructed on Sheikh Zayed Road by the Danube Group. The project marks Shah Rukh’s entry into the real estate sector and symbolizes his enduring connection with Dubai, a city he considers his second home. The actor, who owns a luxurious villa named ‘Jannat’ in Palm Jumeirah, expressed his gratitude, stating, ‘It is humbling and deeply touching to have a landmark in Dubai carry my name and to be an integral part of the cityscape forever.’ The 1-million sqft tower, with prices starting from Dh1.7 million, is designed to attract entrepreneurs, innovators, and fast-growing businesses. It will also feature a statue of Shah Rukh in his iconic pose at the entrance, offering a photo opportunity for visitors. The project is expected to be completed by 2029.
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Zelensky vows energy sector overhaul after $100m corruption scandal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a comprehensive restructuring of state-owned energy companies following a significant corruption scandal that has rocked the nation’s energy sector. Anti-corruption investigators revealed that approximately $100 million (£76m) has been embezzled, sparking widespread outrage in a country already grappling with severe power outages caused by Russian attacks. In a post on X on Saturday, Zelensky outlined plans for a full audit of the financial activities of these companies and a renewal of their management. The state nuclear company, Energoatom, which is central to the scandal, will see a new supervisory board appointed within a week. Several individuals implicated in the scandal have close ties to Zelensky, adding complexity to the situation. The scandal emerges as Russian assaults on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, including substations supplying nuclear power plants, intensify. Zelensky has instructed government officials to maintain continuous communication with law enforcement and anti-corruption bodies. He also called for the swift appointment of a new head of Ukrhydroenergo, a hydropower company, and reforms for oil and gas giant Naftogaz and the Gas Transmission System Operator. The scandal has already led to the resignation of two ministers and sanctions against a former business partner of Zelensky. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (Sap) disclosed that a 15-month investigation has implicated several government members, including Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko, former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov, and businessman Timur Mindich, a co-owner of Zelensky’s former TV studio Kvartal95. Zelensky has reiterated his commitment to full cooperation with the anti-corruption investigation, emphasizing the importance of transparency and integrity in the energy sector. However, the scandal has cast doubt on Zelensky’s dedication to combating corruption, especially after he signed a law in July limiting the independence of Nabu and Sap. Although he later reversed this decision, the incident drew criticism from European allies, including France and Germany, and prompted G7 ambassadors to seek discussions with Ukrainian leadership.
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Evans’ last-second penalty against Japan ends Wales’ 10-match home losing streak
In a thrilling and nail-biting encounter at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, Wales clinched a dramatic 24-23 victory over Japan on Saturday, marking their first home win in more than two years. The decisive moment came in the dying seconds when replacement back Jarrod Evans coolly slotted a penalty from outside the 22-meter line, close to the left touchline, after Japan’s ill-discipline gifted Wales a final opportunity. The win ended Wales’ record 10-match losing streak at home, dating back to August 2023. New Wales coach Steve Tandy, overseeing only his second match, couldn’t bear to watch the crucial kick, instead waiting in the hallway behind the coaches’ box. When Evans’ attempt sailed through the posts, Tandy embraced his assistants in relief. The match, which saw the lead change hands six times in the second half, was a rollercoaster of emotions and had significant implications for the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw. Wales’ victory ensures they retain their No. 12 world ranking, while Japan remains at No. 13, potentially setting up a tougher pool for Japan in the upcoming tournament. Despite the win, the match highlighted Wales’ recent struggles, as they had previously dominated Japan in all five home encounters by an average of 50 points. The game also featured standout performances, including Louis Rees-Zammit’s 15th test try and Seungsin Lee’s accurate penalty kicks for Japan. However, Japan’s late-game unraveling, including a yellow card for debutant Harry Hockings, ultimately handed Wales the chance to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.