At Shanxi University in Taiyuan, Shanxi province, over 20 international students from countries including Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, and Yemen engaged in a hands-on mural restoration workshop on Friday. The session focused on the Yongle Palace murals, a masterpiece of Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) art. Participants worked on restoring a detailed close-up of the White Tiger Deity’s hand from the renowned Chaoyuan Tu (The Assembly of the Gods). Instructor Lan Fang explained that the workshop emphasized coloring, outlining, antiquing, and mounting techniques, aiming to make mural art more accessible to a wider audience. Students used specialized brushes to trace contours, mix traditional pigments, and replicate the texture and hues of historical artifacts. Ahmed Muhannad Abduljalil Abdullah, a 21-year-old Yemeni student, shared his fascination with the unique art form, noting the challenge of achieving the perfect shade with just three colors. Meechai Chanitsara from Thailand, who had previously visited the Yongle Palace, expressed deep admiration for the artisans’ craftsmanship, emphasizing the patience and precision required. Liu Xiaohui, a teacher at the university’s School of International Education and Exchange, highlighted that the workshop is part of the Understanding Contemporary China course launched in September 2023. The course employs immersive teaching methods, seminars, and field visits to help international students gain insights into China’s energy transition, sci-tech innovation, and cultural heritage protection.
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Sinner-less Italy see off Spain to complete Davis Cup hat trick
Italy achieved a remarkable feat in the world of tennis by securing their third consecutive Davis Cup title, defeating Spain 2-0 in a thrilling final held in Bologna. The victory was particularly notable as the Italian team managed to retain their crown without the presence of their star player, Jannik Sinner, and other top-ranked athletes. The match saw Flavio Cobolli deliver a stunning comeback against Jaume Munar, winning 1-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5, which ignited jubilant celebrations among the home crowd. Earlier, Matteo Berrettini had set the tone with a decisive 6-3, 6-4 victory over Pablo Carreno Busta, ensuring Italy’s dominance throughout the tournament. The Italian team’s unity and depth were on full display, as they triumphed without needing to play the doubles match. Spain, despite missing their top player Carlos Alcaraz due to injury, put up a valiant effort but fell short in their quest for a seventh Davis Cup title. The International Tennis Federation also addressed concerns about top players skipping the competition, emphasizing the participation of many high-ranked athletes in earlier rounds. Italy’s historic hat trick cements their status as a powerhouse in international tennis.
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Carney says trade talks with Trump to resume ‘when it matters’
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has downplayed the urgency of resuming trade negotiations with the United States, stating that discussions with President Donald Trump will resume “when it’s appropriate.” Carney dismissed questions about his recent communication with Trump, remarking, “Who cares? It’s a detail. I’ll speak to him again when it matters.” His comments follow a breakdown in trade talks last month, triggered by Trump’s reaction to an anti-tariff advertisement aired by Ontario featuring former U.S. President Ronald Reagan. The ad, which included Reagan’s 1987 radio address criticizing tariffs, was perceived by Trump as a direct challenge to his policies. Despite the tensions, Trump has yet to impose an additional 10% tariff on Canadian imports, as previously threatened. The U.S. has already levied a 35% tariff on most Canadian goods, with sector-specific tariffs reaching 50% on metals and 25% on automobiles. Ottawa is actively seeking to reduce these tariffs. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Carney’s approach, arguing that it neglects the urgency for sectors heavily impacted by the levies. With three-quarters of Canada’s exports destined for the U.S., the Canadian economy remains highly vulnerable. In response, Carney has prioritized diversifying Canada’s trade partnerships. Over the weekend, he announced a new agreement with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to begin negotiations on a long-awaited trade deal, signaling a shift in focus. Carney also met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, announcing progress on a critical minerals deal. Both sides expressed optimism about expanding trade in the coming years. However, Carney’s efforts to strengthen ties with countries like India and the UAE have drawn criticism, particularly given allegations of Indian interference in Canadian affairs and the UAE’s alleged involvement in Sudan’s civil war. Carney acknowledged potential friction with India but emphasized its reliability as a trading partner. He also highlighted the UAE’s role in delivering aid to Gaza, though the Sudan conflict remains a point of discussion.
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Dubai’s Harmonious Model: Tourism That Builds for Tomorrow
Dubai’s transformation into a global hub for tourism and urban excellence is a testament to its forward-thinking strategies and unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents and visitors alike. Guided by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and continued under His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s development has always been rooted in long-term planning, ambition, and a people-centric approach. Today, the city stands as a model of harmonious growth, where tourism is not merely an economic driver but a cornerstone of collective prosperity and sustainability.
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Australia hopeful of Cummins return in Brisbane Test
Australia’s cricket team remains hopeful that captain Pat Cummins will recover in time to participate in the second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane, commencing December 4. Cummins, who recently described his chances of playing as a “half chance,” has been undergoing rehabilitation after missing the first Test. Head coach Andrew McDonald expressed cautious optimism, stating that Cummins’ return is nearing completion and could be confirmed closer to the match date. Meanwhile, fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who sustained a hamstring injury, is unlikely to feature in the entire series but is expected to return at some point. Mitchell Starc, another key member of Australia’s pace attack, delivered a standout performance in the first Test, claiming 10 wickets. McDonald also addressed concerns about opener Usman Khawaja, who experienced back spasms during the Perth Test. While Khawaja has returned home for further evaluation, his availability for Brisbane remains uncertain. Travis Head, who stepped in as an opener and scored a match-winning century, may continue in that role in future matches. McDonald emphasized the importance of spinner Nathan Lyon, particularly in the middle sessions of pink-ball Tests, dismissing any notion of excluding him from the lineup.
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Colombia detains Lev Tahor sect members and takes 17 children into protective custody
Colombian immigration authorities have intervened to protect 17 children allegedly rescued from the ultra-Orthodox Jewish sect Lev Tahor, which has faced accusations of sexual abuse and kidnapping across multiple countries. Gloria Esperanza Arriero, director of Colombia’s national immigration service, confirmed that nine sect members were detained during a hotel inspection in Yarumal, a small northwestern city. The group, consisting of 17 children and nine adults, arrived in Colombia in late October, reportedly seeking a rural property to establish a new base. Arriero stated that deportation is likely for the detained members, as there are no active arrest orders against them in Colombia. Interpol yellow notices were issued for five children in the group, who hold American and Guatemalan passports, indicating they were reported missing or at risk of abduction. The intervention followed tips from local residents, preventing the sect from establishing a compound, which would have necessitated a search warrant. Lev Tahor has a history of legal troubles, including raids in Guatemala, arrests in Mexico, and convictions of its leaders in New York for kidnapping and child exploitation. The sect operates in several countries, including Canada, the U.S., Mexico, Guatemala, and Israel.
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US presses Europe on rules for big tech companies
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has emphasized the necessity for Europe to ‘reconsider’ its digital regulations if it seeks reduced tariff rates on its steel and aluminium exports to the United States. This statement was made during ongoing discussions between US and European Union officials in Brussels, aimed at reviewing the trade framework established in July. The initial agreement had set US tariffs on European products at 15%, a reduction from previously threatened rates, in exchange for European investment commitments and increased access for American agricultural products. However, disagreements persist over certain aspects of the deal. European officials had anticipated tariff relief for their metals exports, but the US continues to impose a 50% duty and has expanded the range of affected products. Additionally, Europe is seeking exemptions for items like wine, cheese, and pasta, similar to recent concessions granted for tropical fruit and coffee by the Trump administration. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer highlighted that the US expects Europe to fulfill its promises of lowering tariffs on American goods before considering further exemptions. Both Greer and Lutnick stressed that US concessions on metals tariffs are contingent upon European adjustments to its digital regulations. Lutnick, in an interview with Bloomberg Television, underscored the importance of Europe understanding US digital companies and revising its regulations to be more accommodating. The US has consistently argued that Europe’s digital service taxes unfairly target American firms. US companies have also expressed dissatisfaction with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which aims to enhance competition by imposing rules such as requiring Apple to ensure iPhone compatibility with third-party devices. While many tech firms had hoped for stronger advocacy from the Trump administration against these regulations, the Biden administration has largely left such disputes to the companies involved. European officials, including Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, have maintained that their digital rules are non-negotiable and not discriminatory against American companies.
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Explainer: How will China peak coal, oil use in its climate push
As China advances towards its 2030 carbon-peaking goal, the next five years are pivotal in shaping its energy transition. With coal and oil remaining central to its energy system, the country is focusing on reducing their consumption while ensuring energy security. This strategy is embedded in the Communist Party of China Central Committee’s recommendations for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), unveiled last month. The world’s largest energy consumer aims to balance its climate ambitions with the need for a stable energy supply. Since 2020, China has accelerated its shift toward clean energy, aligning with its pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The share of non-fossil fuels in total energy consumption has steadily increased, supported by the rapid expansion of renewable energy systems. Over the next five years, China plans to build a new-type energy system, where non-fossil sources will replace fossil fuels in a secure and orderly manner. Coal consumption will be gradually reduced, with remaining usage made cleaner and more efficient. Simultaneously, China will fast-track the development of major clean energy bases, including wind, solar, hydropower, offshore wind farms, and coastal nuclear projects. New energy sources like biogas, sustainable aviation fuel, and geothermal energy will be advanced based on local conditions. As coal and oil consumption peak, related industries may face challenges. China plans to optimize industrial layouts, expanding advanced capacity while phasing out inefficient coal mining and oil refining. Official projections suggest that by 2030, fossil fuels will account for less than 75 percent of total energy consumption. Coal consumption is expected to peak around 2027, with demand from steel and building materials declining. Oil consumption will likely peak around 2026, as refined oil product usage has already peaked, and petrochemical feedstock demand will grow moderately. Achieving carbon peaking is just the beginning. In September 2025, China unveiled its new Nationally Determined Contributions, setting ambitious goals for 2035, including reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by 7-10 percent from peak levels, increasing the share of non-fossil fuels to over 30 percent, and expanding wind and solar capacity to over six times 2020 levels. Experts believe these commitments mark China’s entry into a more comprehensive phase of low-carbon development, strengthening its role in global climate governance.
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Man found guilty of murdering his 75-year-old mother
A 55-year-old man, Billy Burns, has been convicted of murdering his 75-year-old mother, Miriam Burns, in a tragic case that unfolded in County Kerry. The incident occurred on August 15, 2022, at their home in the Ardshanavooly housing estate in Killarney. Despite pleading not guilty by reason of insanity, a jury at the Central Criminal Court unanimously found Burns guilty after six hours of deliberation. Sentencing is scheduled for Friday, where victim impact statements are expected to be presented. Miriam Burns died from asphyxia due to manual strangulation and blunt force trauma to her head. The trial revealed that Burns had been living rough in Killarney at the time of the murder. He had returned home on August 12, 2022, leading to a heated argument witnessed by neighbors. Burns later returned to the house, where he stayed overnight. Miriam was last seen alive between 20:00 and 22:30 local time. She stopped responding to calls and texts later that night, and it is believed she was killed after 22:00. Burns was seen leaving the next morning and later returned to remove items from the house in an attempt to destroy evidence. When family members became concerned, they asked neighbors to check on Miriam, who was found dead in her living room on August 15. Burns was arrested the following day and re-arrested in February 2023 after further investigations. The defense called psychiatrist Dr. Eugene Morgan, who argued that Burns met the criteria for a not guilty verdict by reason of insanity. However, Dr. Stephen Monks, a consultant psychiatrist at the Central Mental Hospital, testified that Burns understood the nature of his actions despite his mental illness. State Pathologist Dr. Margaret Bolster confirmed that Miriam’s injuries were consistent with multiple blows, manual strangulation, and possible suffocation. In closing arguments, prosecuting Counsel Sean Guerin emphasized Burns’s history of aggressive behavior towards his mother, attributing it to his abuse of drugs and alcohol rather than psychiatric illness. Burns’s denial of involvement and false statements to police further demonstrated his understanding of the crime. Judge Karen O’Connor adjourned sentencing until Friday.
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Dharmendra dies: Celebrities offer tribute to their beloved icon
The Indian film industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. A towering presence in Bollywood, Dharmendra was celebrated for his roles in timeless classics such as ‘Sholay’, ‘Phool Aur Patthar’, ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’, and ‘Yaadon Ki Baraat’. His death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, leaving fans and colleagues heartbroken. Filmmaker Karan Johar, who directed Dharmendra in the 2023 romantic drama ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’, expressed his grief on social media, calling him ‘the embodiment of a hero in mainstream cinema’ and ‘an enigmatic screen presence’. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute, describing Dharmendra as ‘an iconic film personality’ whose diverse roles resonated with millions. Modi highlighted the actor’s humility and warmth, extending condolences to his family and fans. Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan shared nostalgic photos of Dharmendra with her grandfather, Raj Kapoor, while Shilpa Shetty praised his kindness and originality. Sanjay Dutt and Akshay Kumar also shared heartfelt messages, with Kumar referring to Dharmendra as ‘the industry’s original He-Man’. Dharmendra’s legacy as a versatile actor and a beloved figure in Indian cinema will continue to inspire generations.