A group of Japanese students who participated in an exchange program to China shared their transformative experiences at an event in Tokyo on Tuesday. The program, titled ‘100 Japanese University Students Visiting China,’ provided participants with a unique opportunity to explore China’s cultural heritage, technological advancements, and urban modernization. Koharu Hayakawa, a student from Chuo University, spent a year studying in Tianjin and was particularly struck by China’s ability to balance modernization with the preservation of its cultural identity. During visits to Hongcun and Xidi villages in Anhui province, Hayakawa observed that these popular tourist destinations maintained a strong sense of everyday life, dispelling his earlier assumptions of over-commercialization. He also noted regional differences in lifestyle, cuisine, and technology use, which deepened his appreciation for China’s diversity. The program included trips to Anhui and Henan provinces, where students explored Mount Huangshan, Huizhou culture, and innovative companies like Mixue Ice Cream and Tea. Reiji Nomachi, a student at Nihon University, was impressed by China’s rapid technological advancements, particularly in the electric vehicle sector. He highlighted the affordability, fast-charging capabilities, and longevity of Chinese EVs, noting that China’s adoption of this technology far surpasses that of Japan. Both Hayakawa and Nomachi emphasized the importance of firsthand experience in understanding China, encouraging others to share their experiences to foster friendly relations between Japan and China. Otohiko Endo, head of the Japan-China New Century Association, stressed the need for fresh and creative perspectives in youth exchanges, urging young people to face differences bravely and turn brief encounters into lasting relationships. Zhao Baogang, minister counselor at the Chinese embassy in Tokyo, underscored the significance of firsthand experience, especially in light of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Despite media speculation about ‘anti-Japanese sentiment,’ students encountered genuine warmth and friendliness from the Chinese people. Sun Ran, editor-in-chief of Live Japan and head of the visiting delegation, announced the establishment of a youth friendship association to provide a long-term platform for continued exchange and mutual understanding.
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Suicide bombing in Pakistan kills 12
A devastating suicide bombing outside the District Judicial Complex in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday afternoon resulted in the deaths of at least 12 individuals, according to Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. The attack occurred at 12:39 pm when the assailant, unable to breach the court premises, detonated explosives outside the building. Initial investigations suggest a possible connection to a recent incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. Naqvi emphasized that identifying the perpetrator, whether local or foreign, is a top priority, vowing that those responsible will face justice. The banned militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for the attack, threatening further violence, though conflicting reports emerged as a breakaway faction, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, also claimed involvement before retracting the statement. The blast caused significant damage to nearby vehicles and instilled widespread panic among bystanders. Forensic teams and police have cordoned off the area to gather evidence, while grieving families mourned their loved ones at an Islamabad hospital. The Islamabad Bar Council condemned the attack, declaring a three-day strike and urging enhanced security measures for the legal community and citizens. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denounced the act as a cowardly terrorist attack, extending condolences to the victims’ families and demanding a swift investigation. Pakistan has accused the Pakistani Taliban and other militants of operating from Afghanistan with Indian support, allegations both Kabul and New Delhi have denied. The Taliban administration in Kabul expressed sorrow over the incident but refuted claims of harboring attackers.
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Summit offers Africa chance to redefine role
The upcoming G20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, marks a pivotal moment for Africa to redefine its role in the global economy. Analysts emphasize that the continent must leverage this platform to advocate for fair trade, industrial transformation, and stable market access. Amid a turbulent global trade system, Africa faces challenges such as rising protectionism and uncertainty over the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which has historically granted tariff-free access to the US market for sub-Saharan countries since 2000. The US’s recent imposition of reciprocal tariffs on key African exports, including South Africa’s auto, wine, and citrus industries, has further exacerbated concerns. Trade experts warn that these tariffs, ranging from 10 to 50 percent, threaten industries, jobs, and rural incomes across the continent. Despite these challenges, African leaders remain optimistic about constructive engagement with the US to safeguard historical trade ties. South Africa’s Minister of International Relations, Ronald Lamola, has described ongoing trade talks as ‘very positive,’ with hopes for AGOA’s renewal by year-end. The G20 summit also offers Africa a unique opportunity to advocate for stable, rules-based economic agreements and to strengthen regional integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Experts urge African leaders to use this platform to demand fair competition, discourage unilateral tariff actions, and promote long-term trade stability. As Africa hosts its first G20 summit, the continent stands at a crossroads, with the potential to shape the global economic agenda and secure its rightful place at the decision-making table.
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Retired medical workers urged to support seniors
In response to the escalating demands of an aging population, Chinese authorities have introduced a nationwide initiative to engage retired medical workers in integrated medical and elderly care institutions. This program, spearheaded by the National Health Commission and four other government bodies, aims to leverage the expertise of retired professionals to enhance the quality of care for seniors. Ten provincial-level regions, including Beijing, Chongqing, Hebei, Jilin, and Jiangsu, have been selected as pilot zones to develop scalable models for nationwide implementation. The initiative operates on a voluntary basis, allowing retired doctors, nurses, pharmacists, technicians, and administrative staff to contribute their skills in areas such as diagnosis, rehabilitation, nursing, and mental health support. With China’s elderly population surpassing 310 million in 2024, accounting for 22% of the total population, the integration of medical and elderly care has become a critical strategy. The program also encourages partnerships between care facilities and local hospitals, particularly those specializing in geriatric medicine, rehabilitation, and hospice care. Retired professionals will be offered flexible working hours, competitive remuneration, and additional benefits, ensuring their rights and well-being are protected. The initiative not only addresses the growing care needs but also provides retirees with meaningful opportunities to remain active in their field. Wei Qingzhuo, a retired medical professional from Shandong province, shared his positive experience working at a private elderly care center in Beijing, highlighting the convenience and harmonious work environment. By 2027, authorities aim to establish at least one integrated medical and elderly care institution in every county-level region, marking a significant step forward in addressing China’s demographic challenges.
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US calls for international action to cut weapons supply to Sudan paramilitaries
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urgently called for international intervention to sever weapons supplies to Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), following reports of widespread atrocities in el-Fasher. Speaking at the conclusion of a G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Canada, Rubio detailed systematic crimes committed by the RSF, including murder, rape, and sexual violence against civilians. Sudan’s military has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of arming the RSF and sending mercenaries through African nations, allegations the UAE has consistently denied. The RSF, engaged in a civil war with Sudan’s army since April 2023, recently captured el-Fasher after an 18-month siege, gaining control over all major cities in the western Darfur region. Rubio emphasized that women and children have been primary targets of the RSF’s brutal actions, describing the atrocities as ‘horrifying’ and demanding an immediate end to the violence. He urged partner nations to join the US in addressing the crisis and dismissed the RSF’s claims that rogue elements were responsible for the killings, asserting that the attacks were systematic. Rubio also expressed concerns that thousands of civilians expected to flee el-Fasher may have perished or are too malnourished to escape. Highlighting the RSF’s reliance on external arms supplies, he called on weapon-providing countries to cease their support. The G7 joint statement condemned the escalating violence in Sudan, labeling the conflict as the ‘world’s largest humanitarian crisis.’
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Framework seeks to keep AI in line
In response to the unprecedented advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), China has introduced its upgraded AI Safety Governance Framework 2.0, marking a significant evolution in its approach to AI regulation. Released on September 15, 2025, by the National Technical Committee 260 on Cybersecurity, the framework shifts from a static risk management model to a comprehensive life cycle governance methodology. This update reflects the rapid technological breakthroughs, including the development of high-performance reasoning models and the open-sourcing of lightweight AI systems, which have lowered deployment barriers while raising new security concerns. The framework emphasizes the need to ensure AI remains under human control, safeguarding national security, social stability, and humanity’s long-term survival. It introduces new governance principles, such as trustworthy AI applications and the prevention of AI systems’ loss of control. Additionally, the framework highlights emerging risks, including AI’s potential to disrupt labor markets, exacerbate resource imbalances, and even develop self-awareness. By aligning with international governance practices, such as AI-generated content labeling and traceability, China aims to contribute to global AI safety efforts and foster international cooperation.
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Games mascots steal the spotlight with their athletic fin-esse
The 15th National Games has witnessed an unexpected phenomenon as the mascots, Xi Yangyang and Le Rongrong, inspired by the Chinese white dolphin, have captured the hearts of audiences across the three host regions. Designed by Liu Pingyun, the creative mind behind the Beijing Winter Olympics’ Bing Dwen Dwen, these mascots showcase a significant evolution in athletic expressiveness. Unlike Bing Dwen Dwen’s limited mobility, Xi Yangyang and Le Rongrong feature a two-heads-tall proportion, enabling smoother and more dynamic movements. This design enhancement not only allows for versatile graphic depictions of various sports but also provides live performers inside the costumes with greater flexibility. Their energetic performances, including break dancing, rapid tail spins, and headstands, have electrified venues like the Dongguan Basketball Center, driving the crowd into a frenzy of cheers. Social media has been ablaze with viral videos and memes of their antics, with many hailing them as the most energetic mascots ever seen. The performers, a group of 23 martial artists from the Foshan Huangfeihong International Martial Arts School, were selected for their physical prowess, discipline, and teamwork. Their rigorous training since late July has paid off, bringing the mascots to life with natural and lively portrayals. The Chinese white dolphin, the mascots’ biological inspiration, carries profound symbolic meaning. Known as the ‘giant panda of the sea,’ it represents the maritime culture of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and embodies unity, perseverance, and endeavor. The dolphins’ annual return to the Pearl River Estuary symbolizes a deep connection to their homeland, reflecting the strong bonds among the people of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. This symbolism is particularly relevant given the Games’ historic joint hosting, marking a new era of regional cooperation. Liu Pingyun emphasized the challenge of transforming the unfamiliar marine creature into approachable, engaging characters. The final design features rounded bodies, human-like limbs, and distinctive blue, green, and yellow adornments atop their heads, representing water spraying from their blowholes. Despite their design, the mascots have sparked a wave of online humor, with many affectionately dubbing them the ‘great bay chickens,’ a nod to Cantonese cuisine and culture. This grassroots rebranding has made the mascots more approachable, drawing people in and helping them connect more deeply with the cultural and athletic spirit they represent.
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Japan blasted over remarks on Taiwan
China has issued a stern rebuke to Japan over recent comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan, demanding strict adherence to the one-China principle. Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, expressed ‘strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition’ to Takaichi’s statements during a press conference on Wednesday. He labeled her remarks in the Japanese Diet as ‘malicious’ and a ‘blatant interference in China’s internal affairs,’ emphasizing that they ‘seriously violate the one-China principle.’ Takaichi had suggested that any Chinese military action against Taiwan could pose a ‘survival-threatening situation’ for Japan, implying potential involvement of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces. Chen reiterated that Beijing ‘will not tolerate any actions that challenge its core interests,’ warning that such attempts would be met with unwavering resistance from the Chinese government, people, and military. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has also formally protested Takaichi’s repeated statements since her October appointment. In a related development, Japan’s decision to award the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun to Hsieh Chang-ting, former representative of the ‘Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office’ in Japan, drew further condemnation. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun described the move as ‘yet another mistaken action by Japan on Taiwan-related issues,’ reiterating that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and a critical foundation for China-Japan relations. Chen Binhua urged Japan to ‘reflect on history and learn from it,’ referencing Japan’s colonial rule over Taiwan, and to handle Taiwan-related matters with ‘utmost prudence.’ He also warned Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party authorities against pursuing ‘independence’ through external support, dismissing their participation in the ‘Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China’ as a ‘farce’ that would only bring disgrace.
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South Sudan leader sacks powerful Vice-President Bol Mel
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has taken decisive action by dismissing Vice-President Benjamin Bol Mel, a move that has sent ripples through the nation’s political landscape. Bol Mel, who was seen as a potential successor to Kiir, was stripped of his military rank of general and removed from his position in the national security service. Additionally, Kiir sacked the central bank governor and the head of the revenue authority, both of whom were considered close allies of Bol Mel. The dismissals were announced in a decree broadcast on state television, with no official explanation provided. This development comes at a time of heightened fears of political instability and the potential resurgence of civil war, following the collapse of a fragile power-sharing agreement between Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar. Bol Mel, 47, was appointed vice-president in February, replacing veteran politician and general James Wani Igga. He was also elevated to the position of first deputy chairman of the ruling SPLM party, a move that analysts believe positioned him as a potential successor to the 74-year-old Kiir. Despite being under US sanctions since 2017 for alleged corruption, Bol Mel’s rise within the government continued, with Kiir promoting him to the full rank of general in the National Security Service (NSS). Bol Mel has never directly responded to the corruption allegations and has remained silent on his dismissal. The president has yet to announce replacements for the positions held by Bol Mel. His dismissal has fueled speculation on social media about an internal power struggle within the SPLM. A government source, who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons, described Bol Mel as a ‘divisive figure’ in government, stating, ‘It’s good that he has gone.’ South Sudan, an oil-rich nation that gained independence in 2011, has been plagued by civil war and political instability. The 2018 power-sharing agreement that ended the conflict has been fraught with challenges, with tensions persisting and sporadic violence continuing to erupt. Planned elections have been postponed twice in the past three years, and recent escalations in fighting between forces loyal to Kiir and armed groups have further exacerbated the situation. Earlier this year, Machar was dismissed as vice-president and arrested, facing charges of murder, treason, and crimes against humanity. His spokesperson has dismissed the charges as a ‘political witch-hunt.’ The charges followed an attack by a militia allegedly linked to Machar, which the government claims resulted in the deaths of 250 soldiers and a general. The case against Machar is ongoing, adding to the growing concerns of renewed civil unrest in the region.
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Powerful Philippine politicians will be in jail by Christmas for corruption scandal, president says
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on Thursday that numerous high-profile figures implicated in a massive corruption scandal involving flood control projects would face imprisonment by Christmas. The scandal, which has sparked widespread public outrage and street protests, involves at least 37 powerful senators, members of Congress, and wealthy businesspeople. Marcos revealed that an independent fact-finding commission has filed criminal complaints for graft, corruption, and plunder—a non-bailable offense—against these individuals. Additionally, 86 construction company executives and nine government officials face charges for allegedly evading taxes totaling nearly 9 billion pesos ($152 million). The corruption has been linked to substandard or non-existent flood control projects, a critical issue in a country frequently devastated by typhoons and flooding. Recent storms, including Typhoon Kalmaegi and Super Typhoon Fung-wong, have claimed hundreds of lives and displaced millions, further intensifying public anger. Marcos emphasized that the legal cases are robust and aimed at recovering stolen funds, stating, “We don’t file cases for optics. We file cases to put people in jail.” The government’s Anti-Money Laundering Council has frozen assets worth 6.3 billion pesos ($107 million), including bank accounts, real estate, and luxury vehicles. A new jail in Quezon City has been prepared to hold up to 800 detainees, with officials vowing no VIP treatment for powerful politicians. The investigation spans 9,855 flood control projects worth over 545 billion pesos ($9 billion) since Marcos took office in mid-2022. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto estimated that up to 118.5 billion pesos ($2 billion) may have been lost to corruption in 2023 alone. Among those implicated are lawmakers from both opposition and allied factions, including Marcos’s cousin and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who denies wrongdoing. Marcos assured that no one would be exempt from the investigations, signaling a determined crackdown on corruption.