The Dubai T100 Triathlon men’s race concluded in disarray on Saturday due to a technical glitch in lap counting, leaving athletes and organizers scrambling for clarity. The event, featuring an 80km bike ride and an 18km run, saw several participants inadvertently complete extra laps, prompting the organizers to temporarily remove the results while investigating the issue. A joint statement from the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) and World Triathlon attributed the confusion to a malfunction in the lap counting board and timing system. The official results were ultimately determined based on the 7th lap, adhering to World Triathlon guidelines. Morgan Pierson was declared the winner with 35 points, followed by Mika Noodt and Gregory Barnaby. The confusion primarily involved athletes Hayden Wilde, Marten Van Riel, and Mathis Margirier, who completed an extra bike lap, while Pierson appeared to run an additional lap. The T100 event, known for attracting elite professional racers and community participants, reinforced Dubai’s status as a global hub for endurance sports. In contrast, the women’s race proceeded smoothly, with Switzerland’s Julie Derron claiming victory, followed by Britain’s Kate Waugh and Jessica Learmonth. The incident has raised questions about the reliability of race management systems, especially with high stakes as athletes vie for positions in the Race to Qatar finale in December.
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The US will help South Korea build nuclear ‘attack’ submarines – here’s what that means
In a landmark move to bolster regional security, South Korea and the United States have finalized an agreement to jointly develop nuclear-powered submarines. The White House confirmed the partnership on Thursday, highlighting that the US has approved the construction of ‘attack submarines’ and will collaborate on sourcing nuclear fuel. This agreement signifies a deepening of the strategic alliance between the two nations, particularly as tensions escalate on the Korean Peninsula with North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and China’s expanding influence in the region. The deal follows a broader trade agreement reached last month, which reduced reciprocal tariffs between the two countries from 25% to 15%. US President Donald Trump had initially imposed a 25% tariff on South Korea earlier this year, but negotiations led by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung resulted in a reduction, contingent on Seoul’s commitment to invest $350 billion in the US, including $200 billion in cash and $150 billion in shipbuilding. The White House statement emphasized that the US would work closely with South Korea to advance the submarine project, including securing fuel sources. Trump also revealed on his social media platform, Truth Social, that the submarines would be constructed at a Philadelphia shipyard owned by South Korean conglomerate Hanwha. Currently, only six nations—the US, China, Russia, the UK, France, and India—possess nuclear-powered submarines. South Korea, which already operates a fleet of 20 diesel-powered submarines, views this development as a significant upgrade in its defense capabilities. Nuclear submarines offer greater speed, range, and stealth, enabling South Korea to counter North Korea’s growing nuclear threat more effectively. South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back described the submarines as a ‘proud achievement’ and a critical step in strengthening national defense. However, experts caution that while the submarines enhance South Korea’s military posture, they may not drastically alter the balance of power on the Korean Peninsula. Dr. Yang Uk of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies noted that the submarines primarily serve to reassure South Korean voters of their government’s response to North Korea’s nuclear arsenal. Meanwhile, China has expressed concern over the agreement, with Ambassador Dai Bing urging Seoul to handle the matter ‘prudently.’ The deal also underscores the ongoing strategic competition between the US and China in the region, with South Korea navigating a delicate geopolitical balance. As the agreement moves forward, the next step involves revising the nuclear cooperation framework between the US and South Korea to facilitate the transfer of nuclear fuel and establish military usage guidelines.
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South Africa accepts plane of Palestinians ‘flushed out’ of Gaza
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed to investigate the circumstances surrounding a mysterious charter flight that transported 153 Palestinians from Gaza to Johannesburg. The passengers, including men, women, and children, arrived on a flight from Nairobi but were detained for over 12 hours by South African border police due to missing exit stamps from Israel on their passports. After receiving assurances from the NGO Gift of the Givers, the Department of Home Affairs authorized their entry later that evening. Ramaphosa described the situation as ‘mysterious’ and emphasized that while the passengers would be welcomed ‘out of compassion,’ a thorough investigation would be conducted. Reports from Al Jazeera suggest the flight was facilitated by Al-Majd, a controversial organization allegedly collaborating with the Israeli military. Al-Majd had advertised safe passage out of Gaza, but its operations have been questioned, with claims of impersonation and fraudulent activities. The Palestinian embassy in South Africa condemned the flight as ‘irresponsible’ and accused the organizers of exploiting vulnerable families. Since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, concerns have grown over Israel’s alleged intentions to displace Gaza’s population, with the UN warning of such plans as early as December 2023.
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Irish Labour leader calls for border poll timeline
In a significant political move, Ivana Bacik, the leader of the Republic of Ireland’s Labour Party, has called for the Irish and British governments to establish a definitive timeline for a border poll on Northern Ireland. Speaking at the party’s annual conference on Saturday, Bacik emphasized the importance of a ‘unity referendum,’ while cautioning against hasty execution. She stressed the necessity of setting a ‘clear time frame’ to ensure a structured and thoughtful process. The Good Friday Agreement (GFA) stipulates that a referendum must be conducted if the Northern Ireland secretary believes a majority would favor Irish unification. However, the criteria for such a determination remain undefined. Bacik’s appeal adds to a growing chorus of political voices advocating for preparations for a border poll. Earlier this year, Irish President Catherine Connolly pledged to leverage her influence for a united Ireland. Similarly, Alliance Party leader Naomi Long recently urged the Northern Ireland secretary to outline the conditions for initiating a referendum. Former Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar also highlighted the need for Dublin to commence planning for such a pivotal event. The discourse surrounding a potential unity referendum underscores the complex and evolving dynamics of Ireland–UK relations.
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Lula’s former human rights minister formally accused of sexual misconduct
In a significant development, Brazil’s federal police have formally accused Silvio Almeida, the former human rights minister under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, of sexual misconduct. The allegations, which led to Almeida’s dismissal last September, have now escalated into a formal investigation. A police official, speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization, confirmed the accusations on Saturday. Prosecutors are currently reviewing the case to determine whether to press charges. If charges are filed, the Supreme Court will decide whether to proceed to trial. Almeida, a prominent Black law professor and anti-racism advocate in Lula’s administration, has previously denied the allegations but has remained silent since the formal accusation was reported by local media on Friday. The accusations have cast a shadow over Lula’s government, particularly given Almeida’s vocal stance against racism alongside Anielle Franco, the Minister for Racial Equality, who was named as one of the alleged victims. Franco, who entered politics following the murder of her sister Marielle Franco, a Rio de Janeiro councilwoman, publicly supported Lula’s decision to dismiss Almeida. The case has reignited discussions about violence against women in Brazil, where over one in three women has experienced sexual or gender-based violence, according to a 2025 report by the Brazilian Forum on Public Safety. Isabel Rodrigues, a professor in São Paulo, has accused Almeida of sexual assault and emphasized the need for justice and support for victims.
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Tunpu culture: A collision of civilizations
The unique Tunpu culture of Guizhou Province stands as a remarkable example of cultural exchange and adaptation, according to Professor Ge Jianxiong of Fudan University. Originating during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Tunpu, which translates to ‘fortified villages,’ was established by soldiers sent to guard and cultivate the region. These settlements, largely isolated from external influences, preserved their traditions while evolving through interactions with Guizhou’s diverse ethnic groups. Over time, the culture adapted to local conditions, resulting in the distinctive Tunpu culture observed today. Professor Ge emphasized that this cultural fusion highlights the resilience and adaptability of human societies, making Tunpu a living relic of historical and cultural significance. The preservation of Tunpu culture offers valuable insights into the dynamics of cultural exchange and the enduring legacy of ancient practices in modern times.
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New teaching materials to aid international Chinese language education released
In a significant stride for international Chinese language education, the first series of teaching materials based on the ‘expression-driven’ teaching theory, alongside a case study series for international Chinese education degrees, were unveiled on Friday. These resources aim to address practical challenges faced by educators worldwide and offer actionable insights for teachers and researchers. The release took place at the 2025 World Chinese Language Conference, where Zhong Yinghua, President of the World Chinese Bridge Teaching Society, introduced the two new works: ‘Expressing in Chinese’ and ‘The Case Study of International Chinese Education Degree.’ These publications mark a pivotal development in the field, providing innovative tools to enhance the teaching and learning of Chinese as a global language. The materials are designed to bridge gaps in current educational practices, fostering a more effective and engaging learning experience for students and educators alike.
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Policy allowing Guangdong vehicles to travel to Hong Kong takes effect
A landmark policy permitting vehicles registered in Guangdong province to travel to Hong Kong officially took effect at midnight on Saturday, November 15, 2025. The first private car with a Guangdong license plate entered the outbound lane at the Zhuhai highway port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, marking a significant milestone in cross-border mobility. The ‘Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles’ policy, issued by Guangdong’s provincial department of public security, comprises two key components: a parking plan at Hong Kong border checkpoints and a plan allowing vehicles to enter Hong Kong’s urban areas. Eligible private car owners in Guangdong can now apply to travel to Hong Kong via the mega cross-sea bridge. Approved vehicles can park in automated border-area lots starting November 15 and access Hong Kong’s urban areas from December 23. This initiative mirrors earlier policies implemented in 2023, which allowed single-license plate vehicles from Hong Kong and Macao to travel north into Guangdong. Over the past two years, Gongbei Customs in Zhuhai has overseen more than 7.69 million northbound trips by such vehicles. The new policy is expected to enhance two-way connectivity and foster a one-hour living circle within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. To streamline the process, Customs authorities have established five dedicated inspection lanes at the Zhuhai highway port. ‘Once a vehicle enters the lane, the system automatically verifies and matches registration information, significantly improving clearance efficiency,’ said Wang Peiyang, deputy director of the bridge Customs under Gongbei Customs. This development underscores the region’s commitment to deepening integration and facilitating seamless cross-border travel.
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HK and Shenzhen jointly host the first cross-border marathon of National Games
In a landmark event, Shenzhen and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region jointly hosted the first-ever cross-border marathon as part of the 15th National Games on Saturday morning. The race commenced in Shenzhen, with participants seamlessly crossing into Hong Kong via Shenzhen Bay Port without the need for documentation or stops. This innovative arrangement highlights the seamless integration and cooperation between Guangdong province and the Hong Kong and Macao SARs. The marathon not only showcased the athletic prowess of competitors from across the nation but also symbolized the collaborative spirit and unity of the region. The organizing committee emphasized that this event underscores the vibrancy of the athletes and the shared commitment to celebrating this grand occasion. For more details, viewers can watch the accompanying video.
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Tianjin aid officials oversee quality of life upgrades for Tibetan village
Rishugma village, located in the Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai Province, has witnessed remarkable improvements in its quality of life, thanks to the dedicated efforts of aid officials from Tianjin. Since 2010, these officials have been instrumental in implementing key infrastructure projects that have significantly enhanced the living conditions of the local population. One of the most notable achievements is the construction of a 41.7-kilometer cement road in 2022, which now connects the entire township, facilitating better transportation and access to essential services. Additionally, in 2019, a stable water source was discovered at an altitude of 3,800 meters on Xiaqiong Mountain, providing 644 households with reliable access to tap water. The aid initiative began in 2010 when Tianjin officials arrived in Hornasha town and invested 15 million yuan ($211,000) in the road construction project, benefiting four administrative villages including Rishugma, Chunu, Auhu, and Yangdrung. These developments underscore the commitment of Tianjin officials to fostering sustainable growth and improving the livelihoods of Tibetan communities.