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  • Verdict on Jimmy Lai is reached strictly in accordance with law and evidence: HKSAR govt

    Verdict on Jimmy Lai is reached strictly in accordance with law and evidence: HKSAR govt

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has formally affirmed that the judicial verdict in the national security case against media proprietor Jimmy Lai was determined exclusively through strict legal procedures and evidentiary standards. In an official statement released Monday, a government spokesperson emphasized that the court’s decision demonstrates rigorous adherence to judicial independence, completely free from external interference or political considerations.

    Lai, identified by authorities as a key instigator of anti-China disturbances in Hong Kong, was convicted on three distinct charges: two counts of conspiring to collude with external forces and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. The court specifically clarified that the conviction was not influenced by Lai’s political perspectives or beliefs, but rather by his unlawful actions.

    HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee characterized the verdict as a clear manifestation of legal justice and the reinforcement of Hong Kong’s core values. He asserted that national security laws cannot be violated under the pretext of human rights, democracy, or freedom, emphasizing that the government remains steadfast in its constitutional duty to combat all activities that endanger national security.

    The government statement addressed what it described as deliberate misinformation campaigns from Western powers, particularly the United States, regarding Lai’s case. Officials specifically rejected attempts to frame the prosecution as an attack on press freedom, noting that Hong Kong’s legal framework—including the Basic Law and Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance—continues to protect journalistic and speech freedoms. The spokesperson clarified that Lai’s activities involved using media operations as camouflage for actions damaging to both national and Hong Kong interests.

    Regarding Lai’s treatment during detention, authorities confirmed he received comprehensive medical care and appropriate religious accommodations. The government concluded by acknowledging persistent national security risks and reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty through the continued implementation of Hong Kong’s national security legal framework.

  • Global South storytelling takes centre stage at Abu Dhabi’s Bridge Summit

    Global South storytelling takes centre stage at Abu Dhabi’s Bridge Summit

    Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a pivotal media nexus was prominently showcased during the inaugural Global South Video News Awards, a cornerstone event of the Bridge Summit. Organized by Viory, a UAE-based video news agency, the ceremony served as a transformative platform for journalists who are fundamentally reshaping international perceptions of the Global South.

    The gathering attracted major media institutions from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, signaling a paradigm shift in how the global industry regards this increasingly influential media sector. The event balanced celebratory recognition with profound purpose, highlighted by opening remarks from media personality Mai Maxwell and an impactful address from Alex Kobia, Viory’s African Distribution Lead.

    Kobia’s declaration that “The Global South is not emerging – it has arrived” resonated throughout the summit, emphasizing the critical importance of verified, ground-level visual journalism. He detailed Viory’s extensive network of over 3,000 video journalists worldwide committed to bringing clarity and human depth to underrepresented stories.

    The awards gained substantial credibility through a distinguished judging panel comprising senior media representatives from Clarín (Argentina), Hindustan Times (India), Korean Broadcasting System (South Korea), TeleSUR (Venezuela), and the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation.

    Recipients of the inaugural honors included Maximiliano Jonas (Best Camerawork), Enrique Ortiz (Most Creative Shot), Masoud Al Jarousha (Exclusive Lens), and Ernest Dela Aglanu (Vital Footage Award). Their work was celebrated for its courageous impact and ability to capture defining moments that strengthen global storytelling.

    The ceremony also featured poignant reflections from UAE youth representative Shahd Alabdouli, who shared insights from her humanitarian work in conflict zones, reminding attendees of the human experiences behind every journalistic piece and the responsibility to preserve truth.

    Viory concluded the event by reaffirming its commitment to supporting journalist communities and ensuring essential Global South stories receive deserved visibility. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s strategic investments in media innovation and its positioning as a bridge between global markets, marking a significant step toward more authentic and inclusive global narratives.

  • First IVF Dubai and Abu Dhabi earn JCI accreditation

    First IVF Dubai and Abu Dhabi earn JCI accreditation

    First IVF, a prominent fertility treatment provider in the United Arab Emirates, has achieved a significant healthcare milestone by securing Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation for both its Dubai and Abu Dhabi facilities. This prestigious recognition represents the global gold standard for patient safety and clinical quality in healthcare institutions worldwide.

    The accreditation process involved comprehensive on-site evaluations conducted by international JCI surveyors who meticulously examined all operational aspects. The assessment covered clinical protocols, laboratory processes, infection control measures, patient identification systems, communication pathways, governance structures, and staff competency standards.

    Dr. Michael Fakih, Founder and Chairman of First IVF and a recognized pioneer in reproductive medicine, emphasized the significance of this achievement: “This dual accreditation reaffirms our unwavering commitment to delivering safe, ethical, and world-class fertility treatments. Patients seeking reproductive care in the UAE rightfully expect the highest medical standards, and this recognition validates our consistent delivery of such excellence.”

    The clinics offer a comprehensive suite of fertility services including in vitro fertilization (IVF), genetic testing, family balancing options, male and female infertility treatments, and fertility preservation through egg and embryo freezing. These services are supported by advanced laboratory facilities and a multidisciplinary team of reproductive specialists.

    For prospective patients evaluating fertility clinics in the UAE, the JCI accreditation serves as a significant quality assurance marker, indicating adherence to international best practices with emphasis on safety protocols, personalized treatment approaches, and enhanced patient reassurance throughout the fertility journey.

    Dr. Fakih further noted: “Whether patients require IVF procedures, fertility assessments, or preservation services, our objective remains to provide scientifically advanced care within an emotionally supportive environment. This accreditation reinforces our dedication to maintaining leadership in UAE reproductive medicine.”

  • Healthcare, AI, education and space set to lead Japan and UAE bilateral ties

    Healthcare, AI, education and space set to lead Japan and UAE bilateral ties

    Japan and the United Arab Emirates are embarking on a transformative bilateral partnership, with advanced negotiations underway for a comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). This strategic alignment aims to deepen cooperation across cutting-edge sectors including artificial intelligence, healthcare innovation, space exploration, and education reform.

    Jun Imanishi, Consul-General of Japan in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, revealed that both nations are leveraging their unique strengths under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Initiative (CSPI). “Japan represents a global hub for technological development offering exceptional investment opportunities within a secure environment,” Imanishi stated, emphasizing the country’s skilled, process-driven workforce and stable political landscape.

    The partnership architecture extends beyond traditional economic ties. In healthcare, collaboration focuses on addressing shared challenges through advanced medical technologies and Japanese expertise in disease prevention. The AI partnership targets societal issues including aging populations and physical disabilities, with joint research initiatives already underway between the Japan Science and Technology Agency and Dubai Future Foundation in cybernetic avatars.

    Space exploration emerges as another critical dimension, building upon existing cooperation in renewable energy and sustainability. The upcoming International Horticultural Exposition (GREEN×EXPO 2027) in Yokohama will further showcase joint environmental initiatives.

    Investment flows are receiving significant impetus through Japan’s Programme for Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment, which targets 120 trillion yen ($810 billion) by 2030. The UAE’s extensive network of over 40 free zones—30 in Dubai alone—provides ideal infrastructure for Japanese companies seeking Middle Eastern market access. Currently, more than 300 Japanese corporations maintain regional headquarters in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

    Cultural and educational exchanges form the foundation for long-term relationship building. Youth exchange programs between Tokyo and UAE schools continue to expand, while relaxed visa regulations now permit UAE citizens 90-day stays in Japan. Artistic collaborations include innovative exhibitions blending traditional Japanese arts like ikebana, koto performances, and calligraphy with modern technologies.

    The partnership demonstrates how nations with complementary strengths can create synergistic growth models while addressing global challenges through technological innovation and cultural exchange.

  • Indian expat honoured by UAE President for making donations despite modest income

    Indian expat honoured by UAE President for making donations despite modest income

    In a remarkable ceremony at Qasr Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan presented honors to Sheikh Shakil, an Indian expatriate residing in Al Ain for 21 years, for his exceptional philanthropic contributions. Despite his limited financial resources, Shakil made 42 separate donations to the Life Endowment campaign, both in his name and on behalf of family members.

    The recognition ceremony, organized by the Authority of Awqaf and Minors’ Funds Affairs in Abu Dhabi (Awqaf Abu Dhabi), highlighted Shakil’s story to demonstrate that the endowment initiative receives support from donors across all socioeconomic backgrounds. ‘When Awqaf Abu Dhabi first contacted me about the recognition, I was truly surprised,’ Shakil expressed. ‘I never imagined that my contributions would lead to being honored by the President of the UAE. Attending the ceremony was an unforgettable moment that reminded me of the values this country was built upon—generosity, compassion and caring for one another.’

    Established in May 2023, Awqaf Abu Dhabi serves as the central authority promoting and developing the endowment sector through strategic investments and partnerships aligned with sustainability values. The organization manages endowment processes while also overseeing financial guardianship and wealth development for minors and other vulnerable groups, contributing to greater financial and social inclusion.

    The Life Endowment campaign specifically focuses on creating sustainable funding for medical treatment of chronic illness patients who cannot afford care costs. Beyond immediate medical support, the initiative works to enhance long-term healthcare services, improve community wellbeing, and build more resilient societies through endowment practices that transcend traditional charitable giving.

  • Emirati, Indian winners take home Dh500,000 in weekly Big Ticket draw

    Emirati, Indian winners take home Dh500,000 in weekly Big Ticket draw

    In the second weekly electronic draw of December, Big Ticket has distributed Dh500,000 among five fortunate winners comprising one Emirati national and four Indian expatriates. Each recipient secured Dh100,000, sparking celebrations across the UAE and beyond.

    The winners’ circle includes Ali Alkaabi from Abu Dhabi, who expressed sheer delight during the live announcement call, though he hasn’t finalized plans for his windfall. Among the Indian winners, computer educator Ritesh Dhanak revealed he initially suspected the winning notification was fraudulent after 15 years of consistent participation. The Dubai resident of three decades intends to allocate his prize toward family vacations and his daughter’s educational expenses.

    Finance analyst Ajay Kumar, another winner from Kerala, recognized the distinctive voice of Big Ticket’s representative Richard during the fateful call while driving. Kumar’s winning ticket was part of a ten-person syndicate, meaning each member will receive Dh10,000. Meanwhile, civil engineer Shakil Ahmad Nazrul Haque, residing in Fujairah, plans to immediately transfer his winnings to family in Bihar, India, to commence construction of a new home.

    The December series continues with three additional weekly e-draws, maintaining the Dh100,000 per winner structure and accumulating a total prize pool of Dh1.5 million. The organization has also announced its flagship January 3 live draw featuring a monumental Dh30 million grand prize alongside consolation awards of Dh50,000 for five runners-up.

    A special ‘Big Win Contest’ offers additional opportunities for participants purchasing multiple tickets between December 1-24, with four selected entrants guaranteed prizes ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh150,000 during the January live event. Luxury vehicles including a BMW 430i (January) and BMW X5 (February) complement the substantial cash prizes.

    Ticket acquisition remains available through Big Ticket’s official website and physical counters at Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport, maintaining accessibility for international participants and UAE residents alike.

  • How Bondi’s Hanukkah festival turned from joy to horror within minutes

    How Bondi’s Hanukkah festival turned from joy to horror within minutes

    A festive Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach descended into chaos and tragedy when two gunmen opened fire on crowds gathered for the Jewish festival of lights. What began as an evening of joy and community spirit on a scorching summer afternoon rapidly transformed into a scene of horror that left at least 15 dead and dozens injured.

    The attack commenced around 17:00 local time as Jewish families gathered in a beachside park for the traditional celebration. Witnesses describe how festive music was abruptly replaced by screams and gunshot echoes, with the first emergency call to police logged at 18:47. Verified video footage captures the surreal juxtaposition of upbeat Hanukkah music playing while panicked attendees crouched for cover as shots rang out at one-second intervals.

    Two identified perpetrators—50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son Naveed—allegedly positioned themselves on an elevated pedestrian bridge overlooking the celebration. From this vantage point, they employed what firearms experts identified as sporting shotguns to target the crowd below. The attackers maintained coordinated fire, with one remaining on the bridge while the other advanced toward the park on foot.

    The violence sparked mass panic that spread from the park to the beach itself, with terrified sunbathers and swimmers fleeing in all directions. The ensuing chaos witnessed vehicle collisions as people desperately attempted to escape the area, while emergency sirens and car horns filled the air.

    A critical turning point occurred when a bystander, later identified as Ahmed al Ahmed, successfully disarmed Sajid Akram after catching him off guard near parked cars. Despite being shot twice during the confrontation, Ahmed wrestled the firearm away and was subsequently hailed by New South Wales Premier Chris Minns for saving ‘countless lives’ through his heroic intervention.

    The attack concluded approximately seven-and-a-half minutes after initiation when police neutralized both suspects. Sajid Akram was pronounced dead at the scene, while his critically injured son was transported to a medical facility under guard. Subsequent investigations revealed the elder Akram legally owned six registered firearms under a recreational license, while reports emerged of authorities previously examining Naveed’s connections to a Sydney-based Islamic State cell in 2019—though no ongoing threat had been identified.

    In the aftermath, police raided the perpetrators’ Bonnyrigg residence, approximately one hour from Bondi Beach, arresting three individuals who were later released without charge. The investigation continues to examine the attackers’ motivations and the provenance of their weapons as the community grapples with the trauma of Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in recent history.

  • ‘It’s outrageous’ – JetBlue pilot decries near collision with US military aircraft

    ‘It’s outrageous’ – JetBlue pilot decries near collision with US military aircraft

    A potentially catastrophic aviation incident involving a US Air Force refueling tanker and a JetBlue commercial flight is under formal investigation after the aircraft came dangerously close to colliding near Venezuelan airspace. The event occurred when the passenger jet, en route from Curaçao to New York’s JFK International Airport, was forced to abruptly halt its ascent to avoid the military aircraft.

    According to audio recordings from the cockpit, the JetBlue pilot reported the military aircraft passed directly through their flight path at identical altitude with an estimated separation of just two to five miles. The situation was critically exacerbated by the Air Force tanker’s transponder being deactivated, preventing air traffic control from tracking its position accurately. “We almost had a midair collision up here,” the pilot stated. “They passed directly in our flight path… They don’t have their transponder turned on, it’s outrageous.”

    The incident has prompted responses from multiple agencies. US Southern Command confirmed the near-miss is under review, while JetBlue acknowledged in an official statement that their crew reported the incident to airline leadership and pledged full cooperation with any investigation. An Air Force spokesperson told CBS News that while they are aware of the incident, military aircrews are “highly trained professionals who operate in accordance with established procedures and applicable airspace requirements.”

    This alarming encounter occurs against a backdrop of heightened aviation security concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration issued an official warning last month urging US aircraft to “exercise caution” in Venezuelan airspace due to “worsening security situation and heightened military activity” in the region. The incident raises significant questions about military-civilian airspace coordination and protocol compliance during operations in sensitive geopolitical zones.

  • Brazilians protest against bill to reduce Bolsonaro’s jail time

    Brazilians protest against bill to reduce Bolsonaro’s jail time

    Major Brazilian cities witnessed massive demonstrations on Sunday as tens of thousands of citizens mobilized against legislative efforts to substantially reduce former President Jair Bolsonaro’s prison term. The controversial bill, which cleared the lower house of Congress last week amid chaotic proceedings, would potentially slash Bolsonaro’s 27-year sentence for coup plotting to just over two years.

    The protests spanned multiple urban centers including Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, and Salvador, with particularly significant gatherings at Rio’s iconic Copacabana Beach. The demonstration there attracted approximately 19,000 participants, including prominent cultural figures such as Oscar-winning actress Fernanda Torres and legendary 83-year-old singer Caetano Veloso, who performed at the rally. São Paulo saw around 13,700 protesters marching through its streets.

    Protesters displayed signs with strong political messages, including some that labeled members of Congress as ‘enemies of the people,’ reflecting the deep polarization surrounding the legislation. This represents the latest in a series of anti-Bolsonaro demonstrations, following similar gatherings in September that opposed calls for his official pardon.

    The legislative proposal has ignited intense debate as it would not only affect Bolsonaro’s sentence but could also reduce penalties for thousands detained for their involvement in the January 2023 assault on government buildings in Brasília. The violent attack occurred after Bolsonaro’s electoral defeat to left-wing rival Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, whom the former president was convicted of plotting to assassinate.

    The bill now advances to the Senate, where its fate remains uncertain. Even if approved by both legislative chambers, President Lula is expected to exercise his veto power, though Congress could potentially override such a veto given the conservative majority in the Chamber of Deputies.

  • Economic milestone:Japan-UAE relations set to hit new peak

    Economic milestone:Japan-UAE relations set to hit new peak

    Japan and the United Arab Emirates are poised to elevate their bilateral relations to unprecedented heights as they approach the finalization of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This groundbreaking pact represents a strategic evolution from traditional energy-based cooperation to a multifaceted economic alliance encompassing technology, clean energy, and innovation.

    The impending agreement aligns with the UAE’s ambitious target of achieving $1.1 trillion in foreign trade by 2031 while supporting Japan’s economic diversification objectives. By eliminating trade barriers and enhancing market access, the CEPA is expected to generate substantial opportunities across multiple sectors, potentially driving bilateral non-oil trade beyond Dh200 billion.

    Diplomatic engagement has intensified through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Initiative (CSPI), with both nations recently concluding their third subcommittee meeting in Tokyo. UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi confirmed that negotiations with Japan and the EU have reached advanced stages, signaling strong momentum toward finalization.

    Jun Imanishi, Consul-General of Japan in Dubai, emphasized the agreement’s significance: “The Japan-UAE Economic Partnership Agreement serves as crucial framework for enhancing our economic ties and unlocking new collaborative potentials.”

    Economic analysts identify several promising sectors for deepened cooperation, including hydrogen energy, artificial intelligence, robotics, and logistics. The partnership builds upon existing strong trade foundations—the UAE remains Japan’s primary Arab trading partner—while leveraging cultural connections through anime, arts, and growing tourism exchanges.

    Investment flows are expanding bilaterally, with Japan targeting ¥120 trillion in direct foreign investment by 2030. Nobuyuki Nakajima of JETRO Dubai noted: “UAE investors are increasingly attracted to Japan’s stable, innovation-driven economy, particularly in digital transformation, green growth, and healthcare innovation—sectors that mirror Emirati diversification goals.”

    The relationship has evolved significantly since its energy-focused beginnings in the 1970s. Today, collaboration extends into space exploration—exemplified by Japan’s launch of the UAE’s ‘Hope Probe’ and ‘KhalifaSat’—along with advanced technology, financial services, and cultural exchange.

    Tourism represents another growing dimension, with Japan National Tourism Organization reporting anticipated doubling of GCC visitors compared to pre-pandemic levels. Executive Director Daisuke Kobayashi highlighted efforts to promote Japan’s rural destinations, distributing tourist traffic while supporting sustainable development.

    Despite global economic volatility and yen fluctuations, bilateral trade has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Recent data reveals Japan’s exports to the UAE grew 24.8% year-on-year to ¥177 billion by September 2025, primarily driven by automobiles and commodities. Although imports declined 8.83% to ¥385 billion due to reduced raw aluminum and petroleum gas shipments, the overall trade relationship has expanded at an annualized rate of 33.2% over five years.

    The impending CEPA ratification establishes Japan and the UAE as a model of strategic international cooperation—anchored in shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for sustainable economic transformation that benefits both nations and the global economy.