Global Pulse

分类： society

  • China records over 6.61m cross-border trips during New Year holiday

    China records over 6.61m cross-border trips during New Year holiday

    China’s National Immigration Administration reported a substantial resurgence in cross-border mobility during the recent three-day New Year holiday period, with total trips exceeding 6.61 million. The data, released on Sunday, reveals a remarkable 28.6 percent year-on-year increase in average daily cross-border movements compared to the previous year’s holiday period.

    The statistics demonstrate particularly robust growth in international visitor traffic, with foreign national entries climbing to 828,000—a significant 29.8 percent increase from the 2025 New Year holiday figures. Notably, China’s visa-free policy facilitated 292,000 of these international arrivals, representing a substantial 35.8 percent surge in visa-exempt admissions compared to the same period last year.

    This upward trajectory in cross-border mobility signals a continuing recovery in international travel and cultural exchange following global pandemic restrictions. The pronounced increase in visa-free entries highlights the effectiveness of China’s streamlined entry policies for foreign nationals, potentially reflecting improved diplomatic relations and enhanced global connectivity. The data provides encouraging indicators for the tourism and hospitality sectors as China continues to normalize international travel protocols and foster people-to-people exchanges across its borders.

  • China’s railways handle over 48 million passenger trips in New Year holiday

    China’s railways handle over 48 million passenger trips in New Year holiday

    China’s national railway system demonstrated remarkable operational capacity during the recent New Year holiday period, transporting approximately 48.09 million passengers across the three-day celebration concluding Saturday. According to official data released by China State Railway Group Co., Ltd., the travel surge reached its zenith on the holiday’s opening day, with an impressive 18.56 million passenger trips recorded in a single day.

    The substantial passenger volume prompted railway authorities to implement comprehensive capacity enhancement measures. The national rail network deployed additional train services while optimizing utilization of recently inaugurated high-speed rail segments. This strategic approach effectively accommodated the seasonal travel demand while maintaining service quality and safety standards.

    The transportation milestone reflects China’s continuously evolving railway infrastructure and its critical role in facilitating mass mobility during peak travel periods. The successful management of such substantial passenger volumes underscores the operational expertise of China’s rail authorities and their preparedness for seasonal travel fluctuations.

  • Schools to start reopening after Nigeria mass abduction

    Schools to start reopening after Nigeria mass abduction

    Educational institutions in Nigeria’s Niger State are preparing to resume operations starting January 12th, following their closure in November after one of the country’s most severe school abductions. The state’s education ministry has authorized the reopening of both public and private schools located in areas deemed “safe and secure” after conducting comprehensive security evaluations and consulting with law enforcement agencies.

    The decision comes weeks after gunmen kidnapped more than 250 students and staff members from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, central Nigeria. In a positive development, officials confirmed that all missing individuals were successfully rescued just before Christmas, though details surrounding their release remain undisclosed. Nigerian law prohibits ransom payments, but compliance with this regulation is frequently questioned.

    This incident reflects a disturbing pattern of violence targeting educational institutions and places of worship, particularly in Nigeria’s north-central region. Armed criminal factions, locally designated as “bandits” and recently classified as terrorist organizations by the government, have intensified their operations. Since the infamous 2014 Chibok abduction of 276 schoolgirls, over 1,500 children have been taken from Nigerian schools.

    The education ministry will publish a list of approved reopening locations, while schools in “unsafe or insecure areas” will remain closed pending further security assessment. For those reopening, stringent measures include mandatory student registration within one week of resumption and enhanced security protocols around school premises.

    However, the security situation remains precarious. Mere days after the reopening announcement, armed assailants attacked Kasuwan-Daji village in Niger State, resulting in at least 30 fatalities and multiple kidnappings. Witnesses described horrific scenes where attackers emerged from nearby forests, burned the local market, looted shops, and restrained residents before assaulting them with knives. Community members now live in terror, fearful of reprisal for speaking out about the violence.

  • Crans-Montana’s ski tourism continues, in shadow of Swiss tragedy

    Crans-Montana’s ski tourism continues, in shadow of Swiss tragedy

    The Alpine resort of Crans-Montana faces a delicate equilibrium between collective grief and economic necessity following a devastating fire that claimed 40 lives and injured 119 revelers during New Year’s celebrations. While the community remains immersed in profound sorrow, tourism officials and visitors alike emphasize the importance of maintaining normal operations for the survival of this tourism-dependent region.

    In response to the tragedy at Le Constellation bar, the resort has implemented subdued entertainment protocols—canceling concerts, muting music, and eliminating DJ performances at slope-side establishments. This conscious modulation of atmosphere reflects the community’s desire to honor victims while preserving essential social spaces for human connection during difficult times.

    Tourism CEO Bruno Huggler articulated the challenge of striking appropriate tonal balance, noting that while the resort remains fully operational, the ambiance has shifted toward respectful solemnity. ‘Especially in such hard times, personal contact exchange is crucial,’ Huggler explained. ‘We provide gathering places without party atmosphere—slower and respectful toward all victims.’

    International visitors demonstrated nuanced responses to the tragedy. Australian tourist Mark, 39, visiting from London, argued that mass cancellations would create a ‘double whammy’ for the local economy. Swiss-American Isabelle Herstine, 58, emphasized the universal nature of such accidents while reaffirming her lifelong connection to the resort. Canadian visitor Sofiane, 31, described the disaster scene as ‘heartbreaking’ but noted the importance of following the local community’s lead in continuing daily life.

    The geographical distribution of emotions within the resort reveals contrasting realities: while main tourist areas maintain functional normalcy, the vicinity of Le Constellation remains immersed in palpable grief. Some visitors, like an anonymous first-time traveler from the Dominican Republic, consciously avoid the tragedy site, describing the atmosphere as ‘eerie.’

    Despite the catastrophe, booking cancellations remain minimal according to tourism officials, indicating visitors’ collective decision to support the community through both presence and respectful behavior during its period of mourning and recovery.

  • UAE: Can insurance deny car repair coverage after heavy rain damage?

    UAE: Can insurance deny car repair coverage after heavy rain damage?

    Recent heavy rainfall across the United Arab Emirates has prompted numerous vehicle insurance inquiries, particularly regarding claim denials for rain-related damages. Under UAE insurance regulations, the legality of such denials depends entirely on policy specifications and established legal frameworks.

    The insurance landscape for motor vehicles operates under the Unified Motor Vehicle Insurance Policy Against Loss and Damage, implemented through the Insurance Authority Board of Directors’ Decision No. (25) of 2016 and currently administered by the Central Bank of the UAE. This comprehensive regulatory structure defines insurer obligations and permissible exclusions.

    Policy type constitutes the primary determinant of coverage eligibility. Comprehensive motor insurance typically covers damage resulting from external causes, including weather incidents, while third-party liability policies exclusively address damages to other vehicles and property, offering no protection for the policyholder’s own vehicle.

    Article 1026 of the Federal Law No. (5) of 1985 Concerning the Civil Transactions Law establishes that insurance represents a binding contractual agreement wherein the insurer assumes obligation to compensate losses according to expressly agreed risks, terms, and conditions upon premium payment.

    Chapter Four of the Unified Policy outlines specific circumstances permitting legitimate claim denial. Exclusions include deliberate acts by the insured, intentional damage, unauthorized vehicle usage (such as racing or testing), operation by unlicensed drivers, usage beyond geographical limits, and failure to implement reasonable preventive measures against damage.

    While rainfall damage isn’t explicitly enumerated among exclusions, insurers may deny claims if policy documents contain specific clauses excluding weather-related incidents, flooding, or natural disasters. Additionally, demonstrated negligence during the incident could justify refusal.

    Policyholders possessing comprehensive coverage without applicable exclusions should typically receive compensation for rain damage claims. Those facing unjustified denials may escalate matters through the Insurance Dispute Resolution Committee of the Central Bank of the UAE, accessible via the Sanad/Sandak platform.

    The fundamental principle remains that insurance claim validity hinges on policy specifications rather than blanket acceptance or rejection of weather-related damages. Consumers should thoroughly review policy documents and understand coverage limitations before filing claims.

  • A taste of Hainan: From dawn to midnight

    A taste of Hainan: From dawn to midnight

    Beyond its tropical beaches and resort landscapes, China’s Hainan Island reveals its true cultural essence through a distinctive culinary tapestry that unfolds across the day. From the break of dawn to midnight hours, the island’s food culture represents more than mere sustenance—it embodies a complete lifestyle philosophy deeply interwoven with local traditions.

    The culinary journey begins at sunrise with Hainan’s signature breakfast: a bowl of authentic Hainan rice noodles. This morning staple, known locally as ‘Hainan fen,’ features delicate rice noodles served in a complex broth derived from hours of simmering pork bones and seafood, typically accompanied by slices of tender meat, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables.

    As the day progresses, residents and visitors alike gravitate toward the island’s characteristic ‘laobacha’ teahouses. These establishments represent the heart of Hainan’s social fabric, where people gather to enjoy strong, locally-grown tea alongside casual conversation. These teahouses function as community hubs where news is exchanged, business connections are made, and the pace of life deliberately slows to match the island’s tropical rhythm.

    When night falls, Hainan’s food scene transforms yet again with the emergence of ‘qingbuliang’ as the preferred evening refreshment. This colorful dessert soup combines an assortment of fresh tropical fruits, chewy tapioca pearls, jelly cubes, and coconut milk served over shaved ice—creating a refreshing counterpoint to the island’s humid evenings.

    What distinguishes Hainan’s culinary landscape is its seamless integration of food with cultural identity. Each meal reflects the island’s geographical advantages—abundant seafood from the surrounding waters, tropical fruits from inland orchards, and agricultural products grown in the volcanic soil of the island’s interior. The food culture demonstrates how Hainan has developed its unique gastronomic traditions while maintaining Chinese culinary fundamentals.

    This daily culinary rhythm has become increasingly attractive to tourists seeking authentic experiences beyond conventional beach activities. Food tourism now represents a significant aspect of Hainan’s appeal, with visitors specifically planning their itineraries around these distinctive eating experiences that showcase the island’s cultural heritage and relaxed approach to living.

  • From sunrise to starlight: A day in Hainan

    From sunrise to starlight: A day in Hainan

    The tropical island province of Hainan unveils a daily spectacle of natural beauty that transforms ordinary hours into extraordinary experiences. From the first golden rays illuminating the eastern coastline to the celestial tapestry that emerges over palm-fringed shores after dusk, this island paradise offers a continuous visual symphony that engages both senses and spirit.

    At daybreak, the sun emerges from the South China Sea, casting shimmering pathways across the waters while local fishermen begin their daily routines against this breathtaking backdrop. As morning progresses, the island’s diverse landscapes awaken—dense coconut groves sway in gentle breezes, mountainous rainforests echo with wildlife, and pristine beaches await the day’s first footprints.

    Noon brings vibrant intensity to Hainan’s scenery, with sunlight highlighting the vivid greens of tropical vegetation and the azure clarity of coastal waters. Throughout the afternoon, visitors discover the island’s varied attractions from volcanic formations to cultural sites, all set within a lush natural panorama.

    As evening approaches, Hainan undergoes its most dramatic transformation. Sunset paints the western shores in fiery hues, gradually giving way to one of the island’s most remarkable features—exceptionally clear night skies. With minimal light pollution, countless stars become visible, creating astronomical displays that captivate both amateur stargazers and professional photographers.

    This daily cycle of natural wonders has established Hainan as more than just a tropical destination; it represents a sanctuary where time seems to slow, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in moments of tranquil beauty and profound natural connection.

  • Swiss identify 24 victims of New Year fire at ski resort

    Swiss identify 24 victims of New Year fire at ski resort

    Swiss authorities have made significant progress in identifying victims of the catastrophic New Year’s Eve fire that ravaged a popular bar in the luxury ski resort of Crans-Montana, with 24 of the 40 deceased individuals now formally identified. The devastating blaze, which also left 119 people injured with severe burns, has plunged Switzerland into a state of collective mourning.

    Among the confirmed victims are 11 minors and six foreign nationals, including two 16-year-old Italians, a 39-year-old French citizen, and teenagers holding dual Italian-Emirati, Romanian, and Turkish citizenship. Swiss nationals accounted for the majority of those identified, with victims ranging from 14 to 31 years old. The international scope of the tragedy became evident as injured parties included citizens from France, Italy, Serbia, Belgium, Bosnia, Luxembourg, Poland, and Portugal.

    Investigative authorities have launched a criminal probe against the bar’s French owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, charging them with negligent manslaughter, negligent bodily harm, and negligent arson. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire originated from sparklers attached to champagne bottles that ignited highly flammable soundproofing foam on the ceiling, potentially causing a flashover that rapidly engulfed the crowded basement venue.

    The resort community has been enveloped in grief as hundreds of mourners participated in memorial services, braving subzero temperatures to pay respects at a chapel near the disaster site. Religious leaders including Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey of Sion and Pastor Gilles Cavin emphasized the need for compassion and solidarity with affected families, many of whom lost young apprentices, students, and children in their prime.

    Switzerland has declared January 9 a national day of mourning, with church bells scheduled to ring across the country followed by a moment of silence. The tragedy has raised serious questions about safety compliance in entertainment venues, with video evidence showing partygoers desperately attempting to escape through windows as flames spread with alarming speed. Despite the owners’ claims of adhering to safety norms, the investigation will thoroughly examine whether proper safety standards were maintained at the establishment, which reportedly had a capacity of 300 people plus additional terrace seating.

  • French owners of Swiss bar under scrutiny after New Year blaze

    French owners of Swiss bar under scrutiny after New Year blaze

    A devastating fire that erupted during New Year’s celebrations at Le Constellation bar in the Swiss alpine resort of Crans-Montana has resulted in 40 fatalities and 119 injuries, prompting a criminal investigation into the French proprietors. Jacques and Jessica Moretti, initially questioned as witnesses, now face formal scrutiny for alleged negligence following the catastrophic incident.

    Preliminary findings suggest the blaze originated in the establishment’s basement where smoldering candles affixed to champagne bottles were positioned dangerously close to the ceiling. The rapid ignition of acoustic insulating foam covering the basement ceiling exacerbated the tragedy, while chaotic scenes of crowding and pushing on stairwells hampered evacuation efforts.

    The Valais cantonal prosecutor has launched a criminal inquiry for negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm, and negligent arson. Investigators will examine renovation work conducted in 2015, materials used throughout the property, operational permits, and compliance with Swiss safety regulations requiring clearly marked exit routes and doors that open outward.

    The Morettis, who acquired Le Constellation in 2015 after previously operating a bar in Corsica’s port town of Bonifacio, expanded their business portfolio with two additional establishments in the region. Despite character references describing Jacques Moretti as a ‘hard worker’ and ‘friend of the resort,’ the couple now confronts intense legal examination.

    Prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud emphasized that while suspicions warranted investigation, the presumption of innocence remains paramount until conclusive evidence emerges. The investigation will determine whether the case proceeds to trial or is dismissed, with no pretrial detention currently imposed on the owners.

  • National railways carry 4.255 billion passenger trips in 2025

    National railways carry 4.255 billion passenger trips in 2025

    China’s national railway system demonstrated remarkable operational capacity throughout 2025 by transporting approximately 4.255 billion passenger trips, according to official data released in early January 2026. This substantial volume represents a significant 4.2 percent increase compared to the previous year’s passenger traffic, underscoring the continued expansion and modernization of the country’s transportation infrastructure.

    The consistent growth in railway patronage reflects several key developments within China’s transit network, including the ongoing expansion of high-speed rail services, improved connectivity between urban and rural areas, and enhanced service quality across conventional rail lines. The railway administration has implemented numerous technological upgrades and operational improvements to accommodate the growing demand for rail travel among both domestic commuters and long-distance travelers.

    This upward trajectory in passenger numbers occurs alongside China’s broader initiatives to develop comprehensive, environmentally sustainable transportation systems. Railway transportation remains a cornerstone of the country’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions from the transportation sector while providing efficient mobility solutions for its massive population.

    The 2025 performance data indicates a strong recovery and expansion of travel and economic activities following previous years of global transportation challenges. The reliable and extensive rail network continues to serve as a critical component of China’s economic infrastructure, facilitating business travel, tourism, and interregional connectivity across the nation.