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  • From ‘Robot Jetten’ to prime minister: The rise of the Netherlands’ youngest leader

    From ‘Robot Jetten’ to prime minister: The rise of the Netherlands’ youngest leader

    THE HAGUE, Netherlands — In a landmark moment for Dutch politics, Rob Jetten has been sworn in as Prime Minister of the Netherlands, becoming both the youngest leader in the nation’s history and the first openly gay individual to hold the office. The 38-year-old politician took his oath on Monday to lead a minority three-party coalition government, breaking the previous age record set by Christian Democrat Ruud Lubbers, who assumed office at age 43 in 1982.

    Jetten’s ascent to the pinnacle of Dutch politics represents the culmination of a nearly decade-long parliamentary career that began in 2017 when he first won a seat for the centrist, pro-European D66 party, which he now leads. Initially known for his overly rehearsed responses that earned him the nickname ‘Robot’ Jetten, the new prime minister has since developed a more relaxed public persona that has resonated with voters. His popularity received a significant boost after he reached the finals of the prime-time television quiz ‘The Smartest Person.’

    The historic nature of Jetten’s appointment is particularly noteworthy given the Netherlands’ pioneering role in LGBTQ+ rights, having become the first country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001. Jetten regularly shares aspects of his personal life on social media, including photos with his partner Nicolás Keenan, an Argentine field hockey star who won bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Following his election victory in late October, Jetten posted a heartfelt message combining Dutch and Spanish, thanking Keenan for his ‘unconditional support.’

    However, Jetten faces significant governing challenges as he leads a coalition holding only 66 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives without a majority in the upper house either. His political career has been marked by environmental advocacy, earning him the nickname ‘climate pusher’ during his time as climate spokesman. As a Cabinet minister under former Prime Minister Mark Rutte, now NATO chief, Jetten championed comprehensive climate legislation involving 120 measures costing 28 billion euros aimed at reducing Dutch carbon emissions by 60% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.

    Born in the southeastern town of Uden, Jetten studied business administration and worked at government-owned railway infrastructure company ProRail before entering politics. His background also includes athletic pursuits—he once served as a pace setter for future Olympic long-distance champion Sifan Hassan, demonstrating the diverse experiences he brings to his new role as the Netherlands’ youngest-ever prime minister.

  • Iran says would respond ‘ferociously’ to any US attack, even limited strikes

    Iran says would respond ‘ferociously’ to any US attack, even limited strikes

    Tehran has issued a stark warning that any form of US military aggression, including limited strikes, would trigger a fierce retaliatory response from Iran. This declaration comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations as they approach crucial negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program scheduled to resume Thursday.

    Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei emphasized during a Tehran briefing that any attack would be considered “an act of aggression” and that Iran would exercise its inherent right to self-defense with ferocity. The statement directly responds to President Donald Trump’s reported consideration of limited military strikes should diplomatic efforts fail.

    The United States has significantly bolstered its military presence throughout the Middle East, applying substantial pressure on Iran to concede to terms during the upcoming negotiations. These talks, mediated by Oman, have proceeded indirectly between the two adversaries, with a second round concluding Tuesday in Switzerland.

    The European Union has voiced strong opposition to military escalation, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas asserting, “We don’t need another war in this region. We already have a lot.” Kallas urged diplomatic resolution, noting Iran’s current vulnerability due to multiple challenges including mass protests, recent conflict with Israel, and diminished influence among regional proxies.

    Despite international calls for de-escalation, concerns about potential conflict have prompted several nations including India, Sweden, Serbia, Poland, and Australia to advise their citizens to depart Iran immediately. The Indian government specifically cited approximately 10,000 of its nationals currently in the country.

    Iran maintains that discussions are strictly limited to its nuclear program, which Western powers believe aims to develop atomic weapons—a claim Tehran consistently denies. The negotiations are led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, with the US represented by envoy Steve Witkoff and Presidential advisor Jared Kushner.

  • Robert Mugabe’s son charged with attempted murder in South Africa

    Robert Mugabe’s son charged with attempted murder in South Africa

    Bellarmine Mugabe, the 28-year-old youngest son of Zimbabwe’s late former leader Robert Mugabe, has been formally indicted on attempted murder charges in a South African court. The arrest occurred last week following a shooting incident that left a 23-year-old man critically wounded at an upscale Johannesburg residence.

    Mugabe appeared alongside his personal bodyguard, who faces identical charges, with both defendants remaining silent regarding the allegations. Judicial authorities have postponed proceedings until March 3rd, when legal representatives are expected to submit a formal bail application.

    Investigators conducting forensic examination of the crime scene recovered multiple bullet cartridges but have yet to locate the alleged firearm. This absence has prompted additional charges of ‘defeating the ends of justice’ against both defendants, according to prosecutorial statements.

    The case has drawn significant attention due to Bellarmine’s political lineage. His father, Robert Mugabe, governed Zimbabwe for 37 years until his 2017 ousting at age 93, passing away two years later. The Mugabe family maintains considerable influence in southern African political circles despite the patriarch’s death.

    Medical authorities confirm the shooting victim remains hospitalized in critical condition. The incident represents the latest legal challenge for the Mugabe family, whose members have faced various international legal proceedings since their departure from power.

  • Briton among 19 killed in Nepal bus crash

    Briton among 19 killed in Nepal bus crash

    A tragic bus accident in Nepal’s central Dhading district has resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals, including a 24-year-old British national, according to local authorities. The devastating incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning when the tourist vehicle lost control while en route to Kathmandu from the popular resort town of Pokhara.

    The vehicle plummeted approximately 200 meters onto the banks of the Trishuli River, carrying 44 people including the driver. Twenty-five passengers sustained various injuries and were transported to medical facilities in the capital for treatment. Among the injured were citizens of China and New Zealand, highlighting the international scope of the tragedy.

    Police spokesperson Abinarayan Kafle confirmed through BBC Nepali that 17 fatalities occurred at the accident scene, with two additional passengers succumbing to their injuries during emergency treatment efforts. Identification procedures remain ongoing, with only nine victims formally identified thus far.

    Nepalese authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading to the catastrophic accident. The UK Foreign Office has been notified and is expected to provide consular assistance to affected British nationals.

    This incident underscores the persistent transportation safety challenges in Nepal’s mountainous regions, where inadequate road maintenance and narrow passageways contribute to frequent accidents. The tragedy bears grim resemblance to a similar 2024 incident in Tanahun district, where 14 passengers died when a bus traveling the same Pokhara-Kathmandu route fell into the Marsyangdi River.

  • Pandas blending into daily life

    Pandas blending into daily life

    Across Chinese cities, the iconic panda has transcended its status as merely a national symbol to become an integral part of contemporary urban culture. Recent photographic documentation reveals how panda-themed elements have seamlessly integrated into the daily lives of citizens, creating a unique fusion of cultural identity and modern living.

    In Dujiangyan, Sichuan province—a region synonymous with panda conservation—a striking selfie panda sculpture installed at Yangtianwo Square in February 2025 exemplifies this trend. The artistic installation has become a popular gathering point where residents and tourists interact with the beloved symbol in innovative ways.

    The phenomenon extends beyond standalone sculptures to encompass various aspects of urban design. Panda motifs now appear on public infrastructure, consumer products, and architectural elements, creating unexpected moments of joy and cultural connection in ordinary settings. This integration represents a conscious effort to maintain cultural identity amid rapid urbanization.

    Urban planners and cultural experts note that this blending of wildlife symbolism with urban environments reflects a broader philosophical approach to city development. The presence of panda elements in public spaces serves as a constant reminder of nature conservation values while creating aesthetically pleasing environments that resonate with local cultural identity.

    The trend demonstrates how traditional symbols can adapt to contemporary contexts without losing their cultural significance, offering a model for other cities seeking to balance modernization with cultural preservation.

  • Sowing the seeds of shared farming

    Sowing the seeds of shared farming

    Amidst Beijing’s heaviest December snowfall, while most residents remained sheltered in heated apartments, Dai Wanli and her family embarked on their weekly pilgrimage to their suburban sanctuary. An hour’s drive from the urban core in Changping district, the family tends to their 1,000-square-meter greenhouse and surrounding plots—a growing phenomenon among Chinese city dwellers becoming ‘weekend farmers.’

    This urban exodus represents more than agricultural hobbyism; it’s a multifaceted response to modern urban pressures. Professionals like Dai, a human resources manager, and her media executive husband find solace kneeling in soil harvesting celery, radishes and broccoli while their eight-year-old son participates with his own miniature basket. ‘During weekdays, we confront complex, intangible problems in office environments,’ Dai reflects. ‘Despite the physical exertion, we achieve genuine relaxation and peace in the green, tranquil countryside.’

    The shared farming movement has gained remarkable momentum across China’s peri-urban areas, driven by triple motivations: pursuit of organic produce, escape from professional stress, and nostalgic yearning for rural connections. Commercial farms have responded by developing integrated agricultural experiences that combine gardening with educational tours and leisure activities, creating comprehensive rural retreats.

    Financial investment mirrors the trend’s significance. Families typically commit approximately 16,000 yuan ($2,300) annually for land access—a substantial sum indicating serious commitment to the lifestyle. The model has proven particularly successful in areas like Daxing (south of Beijing) and Lianyungang, Jiangsu province, where urban farming projects successfully merge food production with recreational and educational components.

    Beyond individual benefits, these shared farms foster unexpected community bonds among participants who share gardening techniques, harvest exchanges, and collective environmental stewardship. The movement represents a sophisticated urban-rural synthesis where technology professionals, executives, and service workers equally find common ground—literally and metaphorically—in their shared patches of earth.

  • Ancient crafts dance to Spring Festival beat

    Ancient crafts dance to Spring Festival beat

    Across China’s Hebei province, master artisans are captivating both visitors and local residents by preserving ancient cultural traditions during the Spring Festival period. In Zhangjiakou’s Xuanhua district, the distinctive aroma of burned wood fills a sunlit studio where Guo Chunlei practices the intricate art of gourd pyrography—an ancient technique using heat to create detailed artworks on gourd surfaces.

    Guo, whose artistic journey began in 1993 after a transformative encounter with pyrography in Beijing, now skillfully manipulates a hot-tip soldering iron to bring powerful equine imagery to life on golden gourds. This year holds special significance as it coincides with the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac cycle. “The artistry lies entirely in the shading techniques,” Guo explained. “Through careful heat adjustment, we create dimension, emotion, and narrative within each piece.

    The craftsman’s initiation into this specialized art form started with unconventional tools—a heavy soldering iron originally designed for sealing cooking woks. This modest beginning evolved into a three-decade passion that has become both his livelihood and artistic calling.

    Throughout the Spring Festival season, cultural inheritors like Guo are participating in nationwide celebrations that allow public engagement with traditional craftsmanship. These interactions provide hands-on experiences that bridge generational divides and foster appreciation for China’s intangible cultural heritage. The resurgence of interest in such ancient arts demonstrates how traditional practices continue to find relevance within contemporary festival celebrations, offering both educational value and cultural continuity.

  • Playful innovations upgrade vacation fun

    Playful innovations upgrade vacation fun

    Across China’s Hebei province, technological innovations are fundamentally reshaping traditional Spring Festival celebrations, creating immersive experiences that blend cultural heritage with cutting-edge technology. In Tangshan’s Nanhu Lake Park, AI-powered Caishen lanterns representing the god of wealth have evolved beyond static displays to engage visitors in real-time conversations through artificial intelligence interfaces.

    Project head Gao Yuan explained the integration of character-based dialogue systems rooted in folk traditions and auspicious sayings. The installation additionally incorporates facial recognition technology to superimpose futuristic neon makeup on visitors’ images against digital backdrops, creating instant social media content. This represents a strategic shift from traditional celebrations toward future-oriented cultural experiences, according to Xing Jianfeng, executive general manager of the cultural tourism development company behind the ‘Playful Encounter’ initiative.

    Simultaneously, Beidaihe district has elevated its nighttime displays through synchronized drone performances. Approximately 1,000 drones execute precision formations while traditional datiehua artisans create fiery sparks by striking molten iron, complemented by the release of Kongming sky lanterns. Tourism director Li Weijie described the concept as ‘tradition as the base and technology as the wings,’ delivering an immersive festival experience that honors cultural roots while embracing modernity.

    The technological transformation extends to Handan’s Guangfu Ancient City, where 3D wall-mapping projections directly onto historical structures have increased nighttime visitation by 180% since their 2024 debut. The ‘Dream Back to Handan’ production incorporates local cultural elements like ‘Tai Chi Elegance,’ using light as a narrative medium to communicate historical heritage.

    These innovations demonstrate tangible economic impacts. Cultural gift shop owner Yang Lin reported triple the evening foot traffic and over 200% sales increases during holiday periods. Professor Sun Zhenjie of Hebei University of Economics and Business emphasized that technologies including VR, AR, MR and AI are driving tourism quality improvements and supply model optimization, creating new experiences through digital restorations and historical reenactments that blend virtual and physical realities.

  • Quiet diplomacy that never made headlines

    Quiet diplomacy that never made headlines

    WASHINGTON – While geopolitical tensions frequently dominate headlines, a less visible diplomatic channel has been steadily strengthening ties between the United States and China for over four decades. Luca Berrone, a key architect of these grassroots efforts, has witnessed firsthand how personal connections established in the 1980s evolved into robust people-to-people exchanges that continue to shape bilateral relations.

    Berrone’s cross-cultural journey commenced in 1985 when he facilitated a two-week agricultural study tour for a Chinese delegation from Hebei province to Iowa. During this early period of China’s modernization, the delegation exhibited particular interest in American agricultural techniques, manufacturing capabilities, and educational systems. “Our objective was to demonstrate Iowa’s agricultural advancements,” Berrone recalled. “We believed such cooperation would support China’s modernization while creating opportunities for American businesses and communities.”

    The delegation included a particularly memorable figure – a young, charismatic Chinese official named Xi Jinping, then serving as Party secretary of Zhengding county. This initial encounter planted seeds for a lasting relationship that would later influence diplomatic channels. When Xi revisited Iowa in 2012 as China’s vice-president, the two men reconnected, with Berrone expressing humility that “one of the world’s most important leaders maintains friendship with me and other Iowans.”

    This personal connection catalyzed sustained exchanges between Iowa and Hebei, generating numerous cultural, educational, and agricultural programs over four decades. Berrone, having visited China dozens of times, observed remarkable transformations in environmental quality, public health systems, food safety protocols, and urban infrastructure. “The resilience and determination of the Chinese people are truly commendable,” he noted, particularly praising the government’s capacity to identify and address challenges effectively.

    Music has emerged as a particularly powerful medium for cross-cultural connection. In July 2025, Berrone facilitated the Iowa high school choir “Bridges 2 Harmony” performing at the China-US Youth Choir Festival in Beijing, where they shared the stage with nearly 80 choirs from both nations. The performance was attended by Peng Liyuan, wife of President Xi Jinping. Subsequent interactions in Hebei demonstrated music’s unique ability to transcend language barriers, with American and Chinese students spontaneously collaborating in joint performances.

    “When verbal communication reaches limitations, music becomes our universal language,” Berrone observed, emphasizing its particular value during periods of official diplomatic silence between the two nations.

    The initiative inviting 50,000 American youth to visit China over five years, announced by President Xi in November 2023, has yielded extraordinary results. More than 40,000 US students have visited China within just over two years, significantly exceeding initial projections. From Iowa alone, over 1,000 youths have participated in these exchange programs, with many experiencing international travel for the first time.

    Berrone emphasized that firsthand experiences effectively counter misconceptions and stereotypes. “Digital content cannot substitute for actual experience,” he asserted. “These personal encounters foster cultural appreciation and understanding that will ultimately contribute to lasting peace.”

    Despite current geopolitical challenges, Berrone remains convinced that decoupling represents an inadequate response. He advocates for continued cooperation through diversified exchanges incorporating digital culture and other youth-oriented interests. “Engaging younger generations through creative methods is our responsibility,” he concluded. “Once they participate, friendship develops organically.”

  • Watch: Winter storm covers parts north-east US in snow

    Watch: Winter storm covers parts north-east US in snow

    A significant winter storm system has descended upon the northeastern United States, blanketing the region in a thick layer of snow and unleashing a cascade of operational disruptions. Meteorological agencies have issued a series of severe weather warnings, emphasizing hazardous conditions and near-zero visibility in many areas. In a decisive response to ensure public safety, state and local authorities have enacted preemptive travel bans, urging residents to avoid all non-essential journeys.

    The storm’s impact has been immediately felt beyond the transportation sector, with utility companies reporting scattered power outages as heavy, wet snow strains electrical infrastructure and brings down tree limbs onto power lines. Emergency services are on high alert, coordinating efforts to address downed wires and assist stranded motorists. The severe weather has also prompted the closure of numerous public facilities, including schools and government offices, bringing daily life to a temporary standstill for millions of residents from coastal areas to inland communities.

    Meteorologists are closely monitoring the storm’s trajectory, which is expected to continue delivering a potent mix of heavy snowfall and strong winds throughout the day. Residents are advised to stay indoors, check on vulnerable neighbors, and prepare for potential prolonged power disruptions. This event marks one of the first major winter tests for the region’s emergency preparedness protocols this season.