分类： world

A delegation of diplomats and business leaders from Hong Kong recently concluded a visit to China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, organized by the Commissioner’s Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The trip aimed to foster exchanges between Hong Kong and Xinjiang, offering participants a firsthand experience of the region’s cultural, economic, and natural allure. Delegates expressed surprise at Xinjiang’s vibrancy, describing it as more dynamic than anticipated. They emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two regions, particularly in trade, tourism, and clean energy. The delegation visited key cities, including Urumqi, Kashgar, and Yining, each offering unique cultural and economic characteristics. At Tianchi Lake, a glacial basin surrounded by snow-capped mountains, delegates marveled at the region’s natural beauty. In Kashgar’s ancient city, they immersed themselves in its rich history and lively atmosphere. The trip also highlighted Xinjiang’s strategic role as a transport and trade hub along the Silk Road Economic Belt, with the Horgos Port serving as a critical node for cross-border commerce. Delegates discussed potential collaborations, such as leveraging Hong Kong’s expertise in logistics and cold chain transportation to connect Xinjiang with global markets. The visit underscored the growing ties between Hong Kong and Xinjiang, with Cathay Pacific launching direct flights between the two regions in April 2025. Participants left with a deeper appreciation of Xinjiang’s opportunities and a commitment to fostering partnerships that benefit both regions.

With just four days remaining until a significant global event, Beijing is poised to share its unique charm with the world. The city, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and modern advancements, is preparing to host an international gathering that highlights its role as a bridge between tradition and innovation. The event, scheduled to commence on October 24, 2025, is expected to draw attention from across the globe, showcasing Beijing’s ability to blend historical significance with contemporary relevance. As the countdown continues, the city is abuzz with preparations, from cultural exhibitions to technological showcases, all aimed at presenting a comprehensive picture of Beijing’s global appeal. This event not only underscores Beijing’s position as a key player on the world stage but also emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and mutual understanding in today’s interconnected world.

Australia has lodged a formal complaint with China following an incident in the South China Sea, where a Chinese military aircraft allegedly released flares dangerously close to an Australian patrol jet. The Australian Department of Defence described the maneuver as ‘unsafe and unprofessional’ in a statement issued on Monday. Fortunately, the Australian P-8A aircraft and its crew emerged unscathed from the encounter, which occurred on Sunday. The Australian Defence Force emphasized its expectation that all nations, including China, adhere to safe and professional military conduct. When questioned by reporters, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry claimed to be unaware of the incident. This confrontation is the latest in a series of tense military interactions between the two countries in the region, where China’s expansive territorial claims conflict with those of neighboring nations. The incident coincided with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to the United States for discussions with President Donald Trump, focusing on the AUKUS submarine deal involving Australia, the US, and the UK. Australia has previously accused Chinese jets of similar actions, including a February incident where flares were allegedly dropped near an Australian aircraft. China defended its actions at the time, stating that the Australian jet had intruded into its airspace and that its response was ‘lawful and restrained.’ Although Australia does not claim territory in the South China Sea, it has aligned with the US and its allies in challenging the legal basis of China’s claims. Previous incidents include a May 2023 accusation that a Chinese fighter jet dropped flares near an Australian navy helicopter in the Yellow Sea, and a November 2023 claim that Chinese navy sonar pulses injured Australian divers in international waters off Japan.

In a significant development aimed at de-escalating tensions, Afghanistan and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following a week of intense border clashes that resulted in dozens of casualties and hundreds injured. The agreement was finalized during talks in Doha, Qatar, on Sunday, marking the worst violence since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021. The ceasefire was announced by Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif via a post on X, stating that both nations would reconvene in Istanbul on Saturday to discuss further details. Asif emphasized that terrorism originating from Afghan soil would cease immediately, and both countries would respect each other’s sovereignty. The Afghan delegation, led by Defense Minister Mullah Muhammad Yaqoob and intelligence chief Abdul Haq Wassiq, echoed this commitment to peace and mutual respect. The talks, mediated by Qatar and Turkey, focused on ending hostilities and establishing mechanisms for lasting peace and stability. Regional powers, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, have urged de-escalation, warning that the violence could destabilize a region already grappling with threats from groups like the Islamic State and al-Qaida. The clashes were triggered by Pakistan’s demand for Afghanistan to curb extremists operating from its territory, a claim the Taliban denies. While the ceasefire provides a temporary reprieve, experts warn that underlying issues, particularly cross-border terrorism, remain unresolved.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Sunday the resumption of ceasefire enforcement in Gaza, following a series of targeted strikes against Hamas earlier in the day. The military emphasized its commitment to maintaining the truce while warning of a robust response to any breaches. In an official statement, the IDF declared, ‘In accordance with the directive of the political echelon, and following a series of significant strikes in response to Hamas’ violations, the IDF has begun the renewed enforcement of the ceasefire.’ The statement further underscored the military’s resolve, stating, ‘The IDF will continue to uphold the ceasefire agreement and will respond firmly to any violation of it.’ This development comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, highlighting the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the potential for renewed conflict.

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Israel has suspended humanitarian aid to Gaza following a series of military strikes on Sunday. The Israeli military accused Hamas of violating a recent US-brokered ceasefire by launching attacks on its forces. The strikes, which targeted Hamas infrastructure including tunnels, weapons depots, and militants, resulted in at least 18 casualties, according to local health authorities and Gaza residents.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a forceful response to what he described as Hamas’ breach of the ceasefire agreement. The military reported that militants in Rafah fired an anti-tank missile and attacked Israeli soldiers. Despite these developments, Hamas’ armed wing claimed it remained committed to the ceasefire and denied knowledge of the clashes in Rafah.

The suspension of aid has raised concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of people were already facing famine as of August, according to the IPC global hunger monitor. The Rafah border crossing, a critical conduit for aid, remains closed, further exacerbating the situation. The UN has emphasized the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance, even as aid flows through other crossings had improved prior to the suspension.

The ceasefire, which took effect on October 11, had temporarily halted two years of conflict. However, both sides have accused each other of violations, casting doubt on the prospects for lasting peace. Key unresolved issues include Hamas’ disarmament, Gaza’s future governance, the composition of an international stabilization force, and steps toward Palestinian statehood.

Amid the uncertainty, some Palestinians have rushed to stockpile goods, fearing a collapse of the truce. The situation echoes Israel’s response to ceasefire violations by Hezbollah in late 2024, which initially threatened but ultimately maintained a fragile peace. As tensions persist, the path to a durable resolution remains fraught with challenges.

A tragic aviation incident unfolded at Hong Kong International Airport early Monday morning, resulting in the deaths of two ground staff members. The Emirates flight EK9788, a Boeing 747-481 operated by Turkish cargo airline Air ACT, skidded off the north runway and plunged into the sea shortly after arriving from Dubai at approximately 03:50 local time (19:50 GMT). The aircraft reportedly collided with a vehicle on the runway during the mishap. According to a statement from the Civil Aviation Department, the two ground staff fell into the water during the accident. Despite being rescued, they succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced dead at the hospital, as reported by local media outlets, including public broadcaster RTHK, citing police sources. The four crew members onboard the plane survived the crash and were transported to the hospital for treatment. The affected runway has been closed indefinitely, though the airport’s other two runways remain operational. The Airport Authority has announced a press conference scheduled for 10:00 local time (02:00 GMT) to address the incident. Rescue efforts were bolstered by the Hong Kong Government Flying Service, which deployed helicopters, and the Fire Services Department, which sent vessels to the scene. The accident has disrupted air traffic, with at least 11 cargo flights initially scheduled to arrive at the airport on Monday being canceled, as per the Airport Authority’s website. This incident marks a rare blemish on the safety record of Hong Kong International Airport, which has historically maintained a strong reputation for operational safety.

In a daring heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, thieves executed a meticulously planned break-in on Sunday morning, targeting the renowned Galerie d’Apollon. Using an extendable ladder, the intruders accessed an upper window overlooking the gallery, which houses some of France’s most priceless treasures. While authorities have yet to disclose the exact items stolen, the gallery is home to an array of historic jewels, including the world-famous Regent Diamond, the Hortensia Pink Diamond, and the crowns of Louis XV and Empress Eugenie. The Regent Diamond, weighing 140.64 carats, is considered one of the finest diamonds globally, valued at over $60 million. The Hortensia Diamond, with its storied past of theft and recovery, and the ornate tiaras of French royalty, including the Duchess of Angoulême’s emerald and diamond tiara, were also among the targeted exhibits. The Galerie d’Apollon, commissioned by Louis XIV in 1661, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, adorned with gold leaf and paintings, and served as the inspiration for Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors. The thieves reportedly dropped Empress Eugenie’s crown outside the museum during their escape, leaving behind a trail of clues. This audacious theft has raised concerns about the security of one of the world’s most iconic cultural institutions.

A tragic incident unfolded at Hong Kong International Airport early Monday when a cargo aircraft veered off the runway and plunged into the sea, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The Boeing 747 freighter, operated by Turkish air cargo carrier AirACT under the flight number EK9788 for Emirates SkyCargo, was arriving from Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The crash occurred around 3:50 a.m. during landing. Authorities confirmed that four crew members were rescued and hospitalized, while two individuals in an airport ground vehicle lost their lives. The north runway, one of three at the bustling airport, has been closed indefinitely, though the other two runways remain operational. Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department has initiated an investigation, collaborating with the airline and other relevant parties to determine the cause of the accident. The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols at one of Asia’s busiest aviation hubs.