Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara has been reelected for a fourth term, according to provisional results announced on Monday. The 83-year-old leader, who first assumed office in 2011, secured an overwhelming 89.7% of the vote in an election marked by low voter turnout and subdued activity in the economic hub of Abidjan. Jean-Louis Billon, a former commerce minister, trailed far behind with 3% of the vote, while Simone Gbagbo, a former first lady, garnered 2.4%. Final results are expected by early November, though they may be announced sooner. Approximately 8.5 million people were registered to vote, with turnout hovering around 50%. Billon had already congratulated Ouattara on Sunday evening based on early results. Ouattara’s initial rise to power in 2010 followed a contentious election against his predecessor, Laurent Gbagbo, which sparked deadly unrest claiming at least 3,000 lives. Backed by U.N. and French forces, Ouattara eventually took control. Since then, his supporters have lauded him for revitalizing the conflict-ravaged economy of the world’s largest cocoa producer, while critics accuse him of consolidating power. The 2023 election saw a weakened opposition, as major candidates like Tidjane Thiam and Laurent Gbagbo were excluded from the race. Analysts, including Mucahid Durmaz of Verisk Maplecroft, attribute Ouattara’s victory to his dominance over state institutions and his pivotal role in post-civil war reconstruction. Ouattara’s reelection has reignited debates about constitutional manipulation and democratic erosion in West Africa. His tenure has been marked by economic growth, with a 6% annual rate driven by cocoa exports, yet 37.5% of the population remains in poverty, and youth unemployment persists. Additionally, Ouattara has faced tensions with Sahelian nations like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso over his alleged support for France, which regional juntas blame for worsening security.
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GreatList sets out to spotlight Dubai as the world’s gastronomic capital
In a bold move to cement Dubai’s status as a global culinary powerhouse, GreatList, a renowned authority in the food and beverage industry, has launched the GreatList Sessions. This groundbreaking initiative aims to showcase Dubai’s vibrant dining scene on the international stage, highlighting its diverse culinary identity and fostering cross-cultural collaboration. The project kicked off with a grand showcase in Moscow, one of Dubai’s top tourist markets, featuring ten of the city’s most celebrated chefs. These chefs, recognized by prestigious culinary awards such as Michelin, Gault&Millau, and The World’s 50 Best MENA, brought Dubai’s culinary innovation to life through week-long, sold-out pop-up events. The initiative garnered unprecedented media attention, with coverage in over 400 publications and four national television features, reaching an audience of 45 million. This extensive exposure not only amplified Dubai’s reputation as a gastronomic hub but also underscored its role in connecting global culinary traditions. GreatList’s efforts extended beyond international showcases, as the company also launched the GreatList by Alexander Sysoev Scholarship in partnership with the Dubai College of Tourism. This annual scholarship supports aspiring chefs by providing financial aid to outstanding students pursuing a Certificate in Culinary Arts, thereby nurturing the next generation of culinary talent in the UAE. With Dubai’s gastronomy market projected to reach $50.21 billion by 2033, GreatList’s initiatives are poised to drive further growth and recognition. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its global presence to cities like Shanghai, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore, while continuing to bolster the UAE’s F&B ecosystem and elevate its culinary standards.
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Producers pay damages to settle libel suit over movie about search for King Richard III
The extraordinary tale of King Richard III’s remains being discovered beneath a Leicester parking lot, led by amateur historian Philippa Langley, has now taken a dramatic legal turn. The 2022 film ‘The Lost King,’ which chronicles Langley’s quest, has been accused of misrepresenting Richard Taylor, a former University of Leicester official, leading to a libel lawsuit. Taylor claimed the film caused him ‘enormous distress and embarrassment’ by portraying him as ‘smug, unduly dismissive, and patronizing.’ The case, which was set for trial, was settled on Monday, with the film’s producers agreeing to pay Taylor substantial damages and legal costs. The settlement includes an on-screen clarification stating that Taylor’s depiction is fictional. Taylor, now COO at Loughborough University, expressed relief after a ‘long and grueling battle,’ while co-writer and actor Steve Coogan defended the film as a true account of Langley’s story. The discovery of Richard III’s remains in 2012, after centuries of obscurity, was a historic moment, with Langley playing a pivotal role. Richard III, who died in 1485, has been a controversial figure, with some historians arguing he was unfairly vilified. His remains were reburied with royal honors in 2015.
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Tianjin events demonstrate international cooperation vitality
Tianjin has recently emerged as a hub of international cooperation and cultural exchange, hosting a series of high-profile events that underscore its growing global influence. The city’s 2025 marathon attracted a record number of participants from around the world, while vibrant cultural festivals showcased its rich heritage. The inaugural Ninghe Village Super League, a unique blend of grassroots soccer and local culture, further highlighted the region’s innovative approach to community engagement. Beyond sports and culture, Tianjin demonstrated its leadership in sustainable development and technology at the 27th China Mining Conference and Exhibition, where advancements in green mining were prominently featured. Additionally, the city strengthened international ties by launching a major Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) training program for members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). These events collectively illustrate Tianjin’s commitment to fostering global collaboration and cultural exchange, solidifying its position as a key player on the international stage.
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Zhongshan’s lighting hub launches AI platform to boost competitive edge
The lighting hub in Guzhen township, Zhongshan, Guangdong province, has launched a cutting-edge AI platform aimed at bolstering its competitive edge in the global market. The platform was unveiled during the recent four-day international lighting fair, which concluded on Saturday. Designed to streamline research, design, marketing, and service operations for local manufacturers, the platform is built on a self-developed vertical AI model. It integrates real-time data across the supply chain, offering a comprehensive solution to enhance efficiency and innovation. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Guzhen township government, telecom companies, and local lighting enterprises. Officials emphasized that the platform will serve as a catalyst for transforming the lighting industry, enabling businesses to adapt to evolving market demands and technological advancements.
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Ten people to stand trial over online harassment of French first lady
A landmark trial has commenced in Paris, where ten individuals face charges of cyber-harassment targeting French First Lady Brigitte Macron. The case stems from years of unfounded rumors and malicious online claims, including the false assertion that Brigitte Macron was assigned male at birth. The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are accused of perpetuating these harmful narratives, which have also included derogatory remarks about her age difference with President Emmanuel Macron, likening it to ‘paedophilia.’ If convicted, they could face up to two years in prison. The trial follows a defamation lawsuit filed by the Macrons in the United States in July 2025, aimed at combating the spread of these baseless allegations. Among the defendants is Aurelien Poirson-Atlan, a publicist known for his ties to conspiracy theory circles, and Delphine J., a self-proclaimed spiritual medium previously involved in a libel case against Brigitte Macron. The case highlights the broader issue of gender-based disinformation targeting prominent women in politics, including former US First Lady Michelle Obama and New Zealand ex-Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. The Macrons have vowed to present scientific evidence to refute the claims, underscoring their commitment to defending their integrity against persistent online harassment.
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Beidahu Ski Resort invites snow quality inspectors ahead of winter season
As the winter season approaches, Beidahu Ski Resort in Jilin city, Jilin province, has taken proactive steps to ensure an exceptional skiing experience for its visitors. On Saturday, the resort officially launched its new winter season, leveraging its status as home to Asia’s largest snowmaking system and recently upgraded ski trails. To maintain the highest standards, the resort has enlisted the expertise of 300 snow quality inspectors. These inspectors, who are also avid skiers, are tasked with evaluating the slopes and providing professional feedback to guarantee optimal snow conditions throughout the season. This initiative underscores Beidahu Ski Resort’s commitment to delivering top-tier winter sports experiences, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for skiing enthusiasts.
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Rasasi Imtiyaz Group announces the launch of I’mRasasi at Beautyworld Middle East 2025
The Rasasi Imtiyaz Group, renowned for its legacy in the fragrance industry, is set to introduce its latest venture, I’mRasasi, at Beautyworld Middle East 2025. This new fragrance house represents a bold evolution of the brand’s 40-year heritage, blending traditional Middle Eastern craftsmanship with modern, youthful sensibilities. I’mRasasi aims to redefine accessible luxury for a global audience, offering a collection of unique and innovative fragrances designed to appeal to diverse tastes. The launch marks the beginning of the brand’s international expansion, with plans to captivate markets in the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Imtiyaz Abdul Razak Kalsekar, CEO and owner of Rasasi Perfumes, emphasized that I’mRasasi is more than a fragrance brand—it’s a statement of individuality, creativity, and modern identity. The debut collection will be showcased at Beautyworld Middle East 2025 from October 27 to 29 at Za’abeel Hall, Booth Z5 C35, featuring immersive scent experiences and a contemporary aesthetic.
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Survey reveals Asia’s longest cave longer than previously thought
A recent scientific expedition has unveiled that Asia’s longest cave, the Shuanghe Cave in Suiyang county, Guizhou province, has grown by an additional 2.6 kilometers. This discovery, announced this month, brings the cave’s total surveyed length to an impressive 439.7 kilometers. The findings are the result of the 24th international scientific expedition conducted in the cave, which has been a focal point for researchers and explorers due to its vast and intricate network of passages. The Shuanghe Cave, renowned for its geological significance and biodiversity, continues to captivate scientists and adventurers alike. This latest measurement underscores the cave’s dynamic nature and the ongoing efforts to map its extensive system. The expedition team utilized advanced surveying techniques to accurately determine the new length, highlighting the importance of continuous exploration and research in understanding such natural wonders. The discovery not only enhances our knowledge of the cave’s structure but also reinforces its status as a key site for scientific study and conservation.
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Students trek across Serbia to campaign for station collapse victims ahead of anniversary
A group of nine students from southwestern Serbia has embarked on a nearly two-week-long trek across the country, aiming to draw attention to a tragic railway station disaster that occurred a year ago. The students, who set out from Novi Pazar on October 16, are determined to reach Novi Sad by November 1, the anniversary of the incident. On that day, a major rally is planned to commemorate the collapse of a canopy at the city’s train station, which claimed 16 lives. The students allege that government corruption led to substandard renovations, resulting in the tragedy. Along their journey, the group has been joined by additional supporters, and their efforts have garnered widespread public support. Chemistry student Emina Spahic expressed gratitude for the encouragement they’ve received, stating, ‘People have been honking their horns and coming out of their houses to greet us, which really means a lot.’ Over the past year, students have been at the forefront of protests demanding accountability for the disaster, challenging the populist government of President Aleksandar Vucic. Despite facing detentions and threats, the students remain resolute. Their march also aims to bridge ethnic divides in Serbia, particularly between Orthodox Christian Serbs and Muslim Bosniaks, stemming from the 1990s wars. Inas Hodzic, a biochemistry student from Novi Pazar, emphasized the unifying potential of their efforts, stating, ‘We now see we are all the same and should stand united.’ Tens of thousands are expected to gather in Novi Sad on November 1 to honor the victims and demand change.