The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) hosted a pivotal news conference on October 24, 2025, to outline the guiding principles derived from the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. The event, held in Beijing, highlighted key strategic goals and initiatives aimed at shaping China’s development trajectory over the next five years. Among the most significant announcements was the projection of a $1.4 trillion expansion in market space, as revealed by Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission. This anticipated growth is expected to catalyze economic momentum and enhance the quality of life for Chinese citizens. Additionally, Health Minister Lei Haichao announced an ambitious target to raise the average life expectancy in China to 80 years, up from 79 in 2024, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving public health and well-being. These initiatives reflect the CPC’s focus on sustainable development and long-term prosperity, aligning with its broader vision for national rejuvenation.
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Chinese hospital achieves breakthrough in quadriplegia treatment
A groundbreaking advancement in the treatment of quadriplegia has been achieved at the Rehabilitation Medicine Center of the Second Norman Bethune Hospital at Jilin University in Changchun, Jilin province. Liu Boqi, a 35-year-old traffic officer who suffered severe injuries in a car accident in December 2024, is now relearning how to walk thanks to an innovative spinal cord interface technology. Initially, Liu was diagnosed with severe lung damage, fluid in his chest, and a fracture and dislocation of the third cervical vertebra. Although surgery saved his life, he was left paralyzed with no movement in his limbs. Professor Wu Minfei, a spinal surgery specialist, introduced Liu’s family to an experimental technology involving an implanted device that reconnects damaged nerve pathways and provides precise electrical stimulation to restore communication between the brain and the body. The device was implanted in January 2025, and within six hours, Liu’s fingers and toes began to twitch. Over the following months, his muscle strength and sensation gradually improved. By combining the interface therapy with an exoskeleton robot, Liu was able to take his first steps. After three months of intensive rehabilitation, he achieved the remarkable milestone of walking independently with a walker. This case represents a significant breakthrough in treating high-level quadriplegia, and the hospital has since applied the method to other patients with promising results. Professor Wu expressed optimism, stating, ‘I believe more paralyzed patients will have a chance of standing up and walking again in the future.’
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Core Nutritionals and Unmatched strengthen UAE presence with Vivandi distribution partnership
Two leading U.S. sports nutrition brands, Core Nutritionals and Unmatched, are poised to make a significant impact at the Dubai Muscle Show 2025, scheduled for October 24-26 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City. This event marks a strategic milestone for both brands as they strengthen their presence in the UAE through an exclusive distribution partnership with Vivandi Distribution, a move aimed at capitalizing on the region’s booming health and fitness industry.
Core Nutritionals, founded by natural bodybuilding champion Doug Miller and professional figure competitor Stephanie Miller, has gained global acclaim for its commitment to transparency and integrity in performance nutrition. The brand’s philosophy of ‘no shortcuts’ emphasizes scientifically validated ingredients, ensuring effective and flavorful products tailored for athletes. Its product lineup has become a staple for those seeking research-backed formulations that deliver both performance and taste.
Unmatched, created by fitness authority Kris Gethin, focuses on bridging the gap between sports performance and long-term wellness. Its advanced nutrient technology supports recovery, endurance, and cellular health, offering clean and naturally flavored products that cater to athletes and biohackers alike.
The Dubai Muscle Show, the Middle East’s premier fitness exhibition, will serve as a platform for both brands to engage directly with fitness professionals and consumers. Doug Miller highlighted the UAE’s role as a hub for athletic excellence, stating, ‘Core Nutritionals and Unmatched embody the same spirit of performance and passion that defines the country’s growing fitness community. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to quality and long-term growth in the region.’
Attendees can look forward to the CORE Nutritionals x Transformers Flavor Series, an officially licensed collaboration with Hasbro, featuring products like Energon Pre-Workout, Allspark Hydration + EAA, and Proton Protein Blend. Additionally, IFBB Pro Farouk Al Ketbi, a prominent UAE Men’s Physique athlete, will make appearances at the Vivandi Distribution booth, offering fans insights into his training and nutrition strategies.
With Vivandi Distribution spearheading brand visibility and market expansion, the Dubai Muscle Show represents a pivotal moment for Core Nutritionals and Unmatched as they solidify their foothold in the Middle East, bringing science-driven, athlete-approved formulations to one of the world’s most dynamic fitness markets.
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Spectacular downfall of Georgia’s ex-PM accused of having $6.5m in his flat
In a dramatic turn of events, former Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili has appeared in court on charges of large-scale money laundering, marking a significant fall from grace for one of the most loyal allies of billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, Georgia’s de facto leader. Prosecutors revealed that during a raid on Garibashvili’s home earlier this month, investigators discovered $6.5 million in cash. Garibashvili, who served as prime minister twice under Ivanishvili’s influence—first from 2013 to 2015 and then from 2021 to January 2023—has pleaded guilty to corruption charges that could result in a 12-year prison sentence. He has been granted bail set at one million Georgian lari ($368,000).
The case against Garibashvili is part of a broader crackdown on former government officials, but it stands out as the first prosecution of a senior member of Georgia’s ruling elite. This development comes as the ruling Georgian Dream party shifts towards an authoritarian stance, distancing itself from the West. Garibashvili is accused of secretly engaging in illicit business activities and laundering substantial sums of money, which he allegedly declared as gifts from family members.
Garibashvili’s lawyer, Amiran Giguashvili, confirmed that his client is cooperating with authorities, a factor that influenced the court’s decision to grant bail. The former prime minister’s downfall is seen as a reflection of Ivanishvili’s growing mistrust of his inner circle, including other high-profile figures like ex-security chief Liluashvili.
Meanwhile, Georgia’s political landscape remains turbulent. Since the government announced in November 2024 that it would halt EU membership talks, daily protests have erupted, and most opposition leaders have been imprisoned. New legislation has targeted civil society and pro-opposition media, further intensifying the crackdown. Political analyst Ghia Nodia suggests that Ivanishvili feels besieged, believing in deep state conspiracies that the West aims to destabilize his rule through ongoing protests.
Garibashvili’s case underscores the deepening political crisis in Georgia, as the country moves further away from its pro-Western aspirations and towards a more authoritarian governance model.
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Trump terminates all Canada trade talks
In a dramatic turn of events, US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday the immediate termination of all trade negotiations with Canada. The decision came in response to a controversial advertisement created by the government of Ontario, which Trump labeled as ‘FAKE’ and accused of attempting to influence the US Supreme Court’s upcoming ruling on the legality of his global tariffs. Trump made the announcement via his Truth Social platform, stating, ‘Based on their egregious behavior, ALL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH CANADA ARE HEREBY TERMINATED.’ The advertisement in question allegedly used edited excerpts from a 1987 national radio address by former US President Ronald Reagan, prompting the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation to issue a statement condemning the unauthorized use and editing of Reagan’s remarks. The foundation also indicated it is exploring legal recourse. The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on Trump’s tariffs early next month, with a ruling expected to follow. Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney reiterated Canada’s stance, asserting that the country would not permit unfair US access to Canadian markets should the trade talks collapse. The abrupt end to negotiations marks a significant escalation in US-Canada trade tensions, with potential repercussions for both economies.
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Ski season opens early in Zhangjiakou
The 2025-2026 ski season has officially begun in Chongli district, Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, marking the earliest start in the region’s history. The Wanlong ski resort opened its slopes to the public on Tuesday, setting the stage for an exciting winter sports season. This development comes after Zhangjiakou co-hosted the 2022 Winter Olympic Games, which significantly boosted its reputation as a premier skiing destination. Local officials announced the early opening during a press conference on Thursday, attributing the timely start to favorable weather conditions and advanced snowmaking technologies. Ski enthusiasts are already flocking to the slopes, eager to take advantage of the extended season. The early opening is expected to attract both domestic and international tourists, further solidifying Zhangjiakou’s status as a global winter sports hub. The district has invested heavily in infrastructure and facilities to enhance the skiing experience, ensuring safety and convenience for all visitors. This milestone underscores the growing popularity of winter sports in China and the lasting legacy of the 2022 Winter Olympics.
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Frost scenery transforms Hebei mountains into silvery world
The Wuyuezhai scenic area in Lingshou county, Shijiazhuang, Hebei province, has recently been transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland following a significant drop in temperature. The frosty phenomenon, captured by photographers Liu Weigang and Bai Yunfei, has turned the mountainous landscape into a silvery spectacle. With ample moisture in the air, trees across the region have been enveloped in icy, crystal-like frost, creating a scene reminiscent of delicate ice sculptures. Willow and pine branches, in particular, have taken on an ethereal appearance, enhancing the area’s natural beauty. This stunning transformation has drawn attention to the region’s unique winter charm, offering visitors a rare and enchanting visual experience. The frost-covered scenery not only highlights the area’s natural splendor but also serves as a reminder of the seasonal wonders that can emerge in colder climates.
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Picasso portrait of muse Dora Maar in vivid hat, long hidden from view, sells for 27 million euros
A vibrant and long-hidden portrait by Pablo Picasso, titled ‘Bust of a Woman with a Flowered Hat (Dora Maar)’, was auctioned in Paris for a staggering €27 million ($31.3 million) on Friday. Painted in July 1943, the artwork captures Dora Maar, Picasso’s muse and partner for nearly seven years, during a tumultuous period in their relationship. The painting, part of Picasso’s ‘Woman in a Hat’ series, had been privately held since its purchase in 1944 and had never before been publicly displayed. The auction took place at the prestigious Drouot auction house, which hailed the event as a moment of rare significance, unveiling the full brilliance of a masterpiece kept secret for over eight decades. Picasso specialist Agnes Sevestre-Barbé praised the portrait’s vividness, noting its raw, unvarnished state preserved the artist’s original chromatic range and expressive genius. Previously, the work was only known through a black-and-white photograph, leaving its vibrant colors a mystery. Auctioneer Christophe Lucien highlighted the global interest in the piece, with art markets from the United States to Asia and Europe eagerly anticipating its sale.
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GMU hosts 19th annual MASE 2025 with record participation from schools, students and visitors
Gulf Medical University (GMU) in Ajman successfully hosted the 19th Annual Inter-School Medical, Science, Arts & Humanities Exhibition and Contest (MASE 2025), marking a milestone in the UAE’s academic calendar. This year’s event saw unprecedented participation, with 123 schools from across the UAE and over 10,000 students, teachers, and visitors converging on the GMU campus. The exhibition, inaugurated by Professor Manda Venkatramana, Chancellor of GMU, celebrated the creativity and innovation of young minds. Prof. Venkatramana emphasized the importance of fostering curiosity and interdisciplinary thinking, stating, ‘MASE reflects our belief that education must ignite curiosity and innovation. This platform showcases how the next generation is shaping the future of science, art, and humanity.’ Since its inception nearly two decades ago by Dr. Thumbay Moideen, MASE has evolved into a flagship event, encouraging students to explore real-world applications of science, medicine, and the arts. The 2025 edition featured interactive projects, live experiments, digital art showcases, health awareness campaigns, and robotics challenges. GMU’s specialized colleges, including Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Health Sciences, Nursing, and AI in Health Informatics, hosted hands-on workshops, offering students a glimpse into modern healthcare education. The event also saw active participation from teachers, mentors, and parents, who supported students competing in categories such as ‘Best Scientific Innovation,’ ‘Health Awareness Campaign,’ ‘Creative Art Display,’ and ‘Social Impact Projects.’ MASE has grown into a national platform recognized for fostering innovation, interdisciplinary thinking, and community engagement among UAE students. Gulf Medical University, a leading private medical university in the region, continues to shape the next generation of healthcare leaders from over 111 nationalities, living up to its motto, ‘Where the World Comes to Learn.’
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US says six killed in new strike on alleged drug boat in Caribbean
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed on Friday that the United States has executed another targeted strike against a vessel allegedly linked to drug traffickers. The operation, conducted in the Caribbean Sea, targeted the Tren de Aragua criminal organization, resulting in the deaths of six individuals described as ‘narco-terrorists.’ This marks the tenth such strike since early September, as part of President Donald Trump’s broader campaign to combat drug trafficking. Hegseth shared a video on X, showcasing the operation, which depicts a boat being destroyed in a fiery explosion. While the Trump administration asserts its legal authority to conduct these strikes, concerns have been raised by members of Congress, including 25 Democratic senators who questioned the evidence justifying the attacks. Senator Rand Paul, a Republican, has argued that congressional approval is necessary for such actions. Trump, however, maintains that he has the authority to designate Tren de Aragua as a terrorist organization and order these strikes. The administration’s actions have also been interpreted as a strategic move to exert military pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a long-time adversary of Trump. The latest strike brings the total death toll from these operations to at least 43.