Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Hangzhou selected as a ‘Zero-Waste Cities’ by the UN

    Hangzhou selected as a ‘Zero-Waste Cities’ by the UN

    Hangzhou has achieved international acclaim by securing a place among the world’s top 20 ‘Zero-Waste Cities,’ as designated by the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste. This prestigious recognition, announced by the Hangzhou Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau, celebrates the city’s groundbreaking waste management system that dramatically reduces waste generation while achieving near-total recycling rates.

    The United Nations organization specifically highlighted Hangzhou’s ‘unwavering commitment to zero waste’ and its significant contributions to ‘advancing inclusive, sustainable, and innovative waste management solutions’ as the primary rationale for this selection. The city’s successful case study is scheduled for formal release on UN platforms on March 30, 2026, strategically coinciding with the International Day of Zero Waste observances.

    Despite being a major economic hub in Eastern China with an annual GDP exceeding 2 trillion yuan ($286.8 billion) and a resident population surpassing 12.6 million, Hangzhou has demonstrated exceptional capability in balancing solid waste management with substantial economic and demographic pressures. Official statistics reveal a remarkable turnaround in waste metrics: total domestic waste volume has shifted from historical increases to measurable decreases, with daily per capita production dropping from 1.06 kilograms to 0.99 kg between 2021 and 2024.

    The city’s environmental achievements extend beyond household waste, maintaining an industrial solid waste utilization rate exceeding 98 percent while keeping hazardous waste landfill rates below 3.5 percent. Most impressively, Hangzhou accomplished complete ‘zero landfill’ status for municipal solid waste across its entire jurisdiction by late 2020, establishing an unprecedented benchmark for megacities worldwide in sustainable waste management practices.

  • Save in Gold launches platform to make gold ownership easy, secure, and accessible

    Save in Gold launches platform to make gold ownership easy, secure, and accessible

    Dubai-based gold investment firm Save in Gold has unveiled a comprehensive upgrade to its digital platform and mobile application, fundamentally transforming how consumers acquire and manage physical gold assets. The innovative system eliminates traditional packaging fees, creating a more transparent and economically viable purchasing process for investors of all levels.

    The enhanced platform provides real-time international gold pricing data, enabling users to make informed investment decisions aligned with global market standards. Beyond straightforward transactions, the service incorporates unique features including digital gifting options for special occasions and corporate incentives, blending traditional gold value with modern convenience.

    Customers benefit from multiple fulfillment methods, choosing between branch collection or secure 24-hour home delivery services. The Click & Collect mechanism offers complete transactional control from initial purchase to final collection, ensuring a seamless end-to-end experience.

    As an established member of the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group, Save in Gold operates under the UAE’s stringent gold industry regulations, providing additional assurance of transactional integrity and professional standards. The company’s expansion across the Emirates increases accessibility through numerous physical touchpoints while maintaining personalized customer support.

    The platform represents a significant advancement in democratizing gold ownership, merging centuries-old investment traditions with contemporary digital convenience. This approach caters equally to novice investors and experienced collectors, transforming gold acquisition from mere transaction to meaningful financial experience.

  • China leads renewable energy jobs growth as Africa seeks green partners

    China leads renewable energy jobs growth as Africa seeks green partners

    China has emerged as the undisputed leader in renewable energy employment, accounting for nearly half of all global jobs in the sector according to the latest international data. The Renewable Energy and Jobs – Annual Review 2025, jointly published by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), reveals that China maintained approximately 7.3 million positions within the renewable energy workforce in 2024—representing a commanding 44% share of the worldwide total.

    The comprehensive report indicates that global renewable employment experienced modest growth of just 2.3% last year, reaching 16.6 million jobs. This slowdown occurs amid increasing geographic disparities in clean energy job distribution, with China’s dominance particularly evident in solar photovoltaic manufacturing and large-scale deployment. Solar PV technology remains the largest employment sector within renewables, generating 7.3 million positions globally, of which China contributes approximately 4.2 million.

    IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera emphasized that while clean energy deployment continues to expand rapidly, policy frameworks must increasingly focus on human capital development alongside technological advancement. “Governments must put people at the centre of their energy and climate objectives through trade and industrial policies that drive investment, build domestic capacity, and develop a skilled workforce along the supply chain,” he stated.

    The report highlights Africa’s particular situation as a region with both tremendous renewable energy potential and pressing developmental needs. With the world’s fastest-growing population and urgent demand for reliable electricity, African nations view renewable energy expansion as both an economic opportunity and development imperative. Although Africa’s current share of renewable jobs remains modest compared to Asia and Europe, the continent recognizes the critical importance of building domestic capabilities—from specialized skills training to local component assembly.

    International cooperation frameworks, particularly the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), are identified as potential catalysts for accelerating technology transfer and workforce readiness across African economies. Such partnerships could help harness Africa’s abundant renewable resources and youthful labor force while addressing the geographic imbalances highlighted in the global employment data.

  • Jilin—1 GF07 satellite transmits high-resolution photo of Harbin’s winter wonderland

    Jilin—1 GF07 satellite transmits high-resolution photo of Harbin’s winter wonderland

    In a groundbreaking technological achievement, China’s Jilin-1 GF07 satellite has successfully captured the nation’s first ultra-high-resolution color nighttime remote sensing image, featuring the spectacular Harbin Ice and Snow World Park during New Year’s Eve celebrations. This remarkable image provides unprecedented clarity of the winter wonderland illuminated against the night sky.

    The Jilin-1 GF07 represents the cutting edge of China’s commercial space technology, developed by Changguang Satellite Technology based in Changchun, Jilin province. As part of China’s first domestically developed commercial remote-sensing satellite constellation, this advanced technology demonstrates exceptional capabilities in environmental monitoring and data collection.

    Beyond capturing stunning imagery, the satellite system serves critical practical functions including forest fire detection, desertification monitoring, offshore rescue operations, and ocean conservation efforts. Its sophisticated sensors can detect artificial light sources across the Earth’s surface during nighttime hours while simultaneously imaging low-light areas, generating valuable data for socioeconomic and environmental analysis.

    This technological milestone underscores China’s growing capabilities in space-based observation systems and their practical applications for both commercial and environmental purposes. The successful imaging of Harbin’s iconic winter festival demonstrates the satellite’s precision and the expanding potential of commercial space technology in documenting and monitoring planetary phenomena.

  • UAE removing its military from Bosaso after angry Somalia ends agreement

    UAE removing its military from Bosaso after angry Somalia ends agreement

    The port city of Bosaso in Somalia’s Puntland region has witnessed an unprecedented surge in military air traffic, with an average of six IL-76 cargo aircraft arriving and departing daily in what appears to be a hurried evacuation operation. According to flight-tracking data and eyewitness accounts, these massive transport planes have been exclusively focused on removing United Arab Emirates security personnel and heavy military equipment from Somali territory.

    The accelerated airlift operation represents a dramatic escalation in the ongoing diplomatic crisis between Somalia and the UAE. This development follows Somalia’s federal government revoking agreements that permitted Emirati use of Bosaso airbase and other facilities. The decision came after Mogadishu accused the UAE of secretly facilitating the transit of Aidarous al-Zubaidi, head of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council in Yemen, who was wanted by Saudi Arabia for peace talks.

    This incident has exposed the complex geopolitical tensions playing out in the Horn of Africa. The UAE has cultivated close ties with regional administrations in Puntland and Somaliland, often bypassing the federal government in Mogadishu. These relationships have drawn controversy, particularly after Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state in December—a move seen as bolstered by Emirati influence.

    Analysts suggest the evacuation indicates UAE compliance with Somalia’s suspension order, but warn of potential retaliation. Khalif Abdullahi, a researcher at the London School of Economics, predicts the UAE will likely cut funding to Mogadishu, support opposition figures, and encourage formation of a parallel government when President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s mandate expires in May.

    The situation has prompted Somalia to move closer to Saudi Arabia, which has actively supported Somalia’s territorial integrity. Saudi Arabia recently flexed its diplomatic muscles by hosting an Organisation of Islamic Cooperation conference on Somalia and rallying Arab League support for Mogadishu following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.

    Despite the military withdrawal, the UAE maintains significant economic influence in Somalia through strategic investments including the nearly $500 million Berbera port project. However, researchers note that Mogadishu retains jurisdictional leverage to potentially suspend Emirati operations in these strategic assets.

    The escalating Saudi-UAE rivalry in the region now presents both challenges and opportunities for Somalia’s fragile government as it navigates complex international alliances and domestic political tensions ahead of upcoming elections.

  • AMIS GPD Development partners with Jacob & Co to create ultra-luxury villa community in Meydan

    AMIS GPD Development partners with Jacob & Co to create ultra-luxury villa community in Meydan

    In a landmark fusion of haute horology and architectural excellence, AMIS GPD Development has announced a strategic partnership with iconic luxury brand Jacob & Co. to conceive an exclusive villa community within Dubai’s prestigious Meydan district. The collaboration was formally cemented during a signing ceremony at the AMIS Sales Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road, attended by key figures including Jacob Arabo, Founder of Jacob & Co., and Neeraj Mishra, CEO of AMIS GPD Development.

    This venture aims to establish a new paradigm for luxury living by integrating the meticulous artistry synonymous with high watchmaking into residential design. The development promises to deliver an unparalleled standard of sophistication through the utilization of premium materials, refined aesthetic principles, and cutting-edge technology. Each villa is envisioned as a testament to exclusivity and contemporary elegance, designed to cater to the most discerning global clientele.

    Jacob Arabo emphasized the shared philosophy driving the project, stating the collaboration represents a fusion of two brands united by a passion for excellence, destined to create a beacon of sophistication in Dubai. Neeraj Mishra highlighted the partnership as a critical milestone in amplifying AMIS’s footprint within the emirate’s high-end real estate landscape, ensuring an offering unmatched in design and innovation. Shareholder Shah Azim Hameed echoed this sentiment, framing the initiative as a reflection of long-term confidence in Dubai’s property market, combining robust development fundamentals with world-class design excellence to create a future-focused residential legacy.

  • Dubai businessman decries ‘language of war’, says world does not need ‘new battles’

    Dubai businessman decries ‘language of war’, says world does not need ‘new battles’

    Prominent Dubai billionaire and philanthropist Khalaf Al Habtoor has issued a stern critique of U.S. President Donald Trump’s escalating international tactics, denouncing what he describes as a dangerous reliance on “exaggeration and the language of force” in global diplomacy. The comments come in direct response to a recent unprecedented U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, an event that has ignited intense global political debate.

    Al Habtoor expressed profound concern over Trump’s subsequent threats toward multiple sovereign nations and territories, including Mexico, Colombia, Cuba, Iran, and Greenland. The Emirati business magnate questioned the strategic wisdom of creating international enmities, particularly with traditional NATO allies, arguing that such aggressive posturing prioritizes populism over sustainable peace. He emphasized that while the “language of war and escalation may seem more populist, peace is the best option.”

    The billionaire advocated strenuously for diplomatic solutions, stating that legitimate U.S. security concerns should be addressed through negotiation and joint action with international partners rather than military confrontation. He warned that current approaches risk “opening doors to military confrontations that the world does not need today” and could sow “the seeds of conflict in more than one region.”

    Al Habtoor specifically referenced Trump’s assertion that the U.S. would “run” Venezuela and his claim of being “not afraid of boots on the ground” as particularly destabilizing rhetoric. He further highlighted the concerning declaration by Trump on January 12th that he was the “acting president of Venezuela,” despite the absence of any legal framework or official documentation supporting such a role.

    Calling for European nations to act as “an impregnable barrier against any rush that could lead to dangerous escalation,” Al Habtoor framed true leadership as the ability to manage differences and build consensus rather than ignite crises. The noted philanthropist, who has frequently provided aid to conflict zones, concluded that while peace may not be the easiest path, it remains the safest route to a stable and just global future, urging for “reason, wisdom, and self-control in addressing sensitive issues.”

  • Israel’s recently appointed UK ambassador banned from leaving state

    Israel’s recently appointed UK ambassador banned from leaving state

    Israel’s newly appointed ambassador to Britain, Tzachi Braverman, finds himself unable to assume his diplomatic post after being detained and questioned by Israeli police regarding allegations of obstructing an investigation into a classified military document leak. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has triggered significant political repercussions and legal challenges.

    Braverman, who also serves as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s chief of staff, faces accusations related to the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information during the September 2024 Gaza conflict. The leaked document, purportedly from Hamas, suggested the group’s reluctance to release Israeli captives and end hostilities. Critics allege the leak was strategically timed to bolster public support for Netanyahu’s negotiation stance.

    The investigation took a dramatic turn when former Netanyahu spokesman Eliezer Feldstein publicly claimed that Braverman had offered to ‘shut down’ the leak inquiry in 2024. Both Braverman and the Prime Minister’s office have vehemently denied these allegations, counter-accusing Feldstein of fabrication.

    Following his release after a day of interrogation, Braverman was subjected to stringent restrictions including a 30-day travel ban preventing his departure to Britain and prohibitions on contacting officials at the Prime Minister’s office. His legal team has filed an appeal against these conditions, describing them as ‘extreme and exceptional’ given his imminent ambassadorial assignment.

    The political fallout has been immediate and divisive. Netanyahu’s Likud party decried the police action as a ‘persecution campaign’ against the prime minister and his associates. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has called for suspending Braverman’s diplomatic appointment, while Foreign Minister Gideon Saar cautioned against prejudicial actions that might violate fundamental rights to fair trial.

    This incident marks the second time Braverman has faced police questioning, having been investigated previously for allegedly altering timestamps related to Netanyahu’s initial response instructions during the October 2023 Hamas attack. The ambassador-designate’s predicament leaves Israel without representation in London following the conclusion of Tzipi Hotovely’s term in September.

  • UK: Starmer asked to sit on Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ by Trump administration

    UK: Starmer asked to sit on Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ by Trump administration

    British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been formally invited to participate in a Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ initiative spearheaded by U.S. President Donald Trump, according to reports from The Times. This development signals strengthening diplomatic relations between the newly elected UK leader and the American administration.

    The proposed board, which Trump described as ‘being formed’ during recent press remarks, aims to oversee reconstruction efforts in the conflict-devastated Gaza Strip. The President characterized the body as comprising ‘the most important leaders of the most important nations,’ with approximately fifteen world leaders expected to participate, including those from the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.

    Notably, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, initially considered for a leadership role on the board, was reportedly removed from consideration late last year following pressure from several Arab and Muslim states. Blair’s legacy remains controversial due to his role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq alongside the United States.

    According to Financial Times reports, the board’s structure will include a smaller executive committee featuring Blair alongside Jared Kushner, the President’s son-in-law, and Trump adviser Steve Witkoff, though membership will be restricted to serving world leaders for the primary board.

    Substantial uncertainties surround the board’s operational framework and priorities, particularly regarding post-war governance structures for Gaza and the composition of an international security force. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s opposition to Turkish participation in such a force has reportedly discouraged several potential partner nations, including Azerbaijan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia, from contributing troops.

    The initiative emerges against a backdrop of continued violence. Israeli forces have reportedly violated ceasefire agreements nearly 1,200 times over three months, resulting in 439 Palestinian fatalities through airstrikes, shelling, and home demolitions. A stringent blockade persists on Gaza, with closed border crossings severely restricting humanitarian aid access.

    According to Palestinian health authorities, the conflict has claimed over 71,400 Palestinian lives in Gaza since October 2023, including at least 20,000 children, highlighting the urgent humanitarian crisis confronting the region.

  • Photo showcase puts Sino-Thai student ties in focus

    Photo showcase puts Sino-Thai student ties in focus

    Bangkok’s prestigious Iconsiam shopping complex is currently hosting a remarkable photography exhibition that underscores the strengthening educational partnership between Thailand and China. The showcase, which opened on January 10th, features 43 compelling photographic works created by 50 Thai students who participated in an innovative summer program at China’s Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST).

    The exhibition represents the culmination of the Outstanding Development Opportunity Scholarship (ODOS) Summer Camp, a six-week educational initiative that took place in October and November 2025. This timing held special significance as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The program emerged from a collaborative effort between HUST and Thailand’s Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa), focusing on cutting-edge technological research in artificial intelligence and metaverse development.

    Beyond technical education, the curriculum incorporated immersive cultural experiences including traditional Chinese calligraphy and tea ceremonies. Participants also visited multiple research institutions and technology companies, providing comprehensive exposure to both China’s technological advancements and rich cultural heritage.

    The opening ceremony attracted distinguished guests including Ni Yang, Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Thailand, who remarked that the photographs ‘vividly reflect the deep friendship between China and Thailand that is as close as one family.’ Representatives from Thailand’s Ministry of Education, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunication Commission, and several Thai educational institutions also attended the event.

    Hatsadin Kampiranond, Director of Depa’s Asset Management Office, emphasized the exhibition’s significance beyond academic achievement: ‘Each work embodies the voice of the students, documenting their transformation from program participants to cultural ambassadors.’

    The exhibition’s opening day strategically aligned with Thailand’s Children’s Day, highlighting the program’s focus on youth development. Student representative Natrada Promnak, who received an award at the exhibition, attended with her family and expressed how the photographs transported her back to her educational experience in China: ‘The summer camp, combining technology and humanity experience, has built a bridge of friendship for the students through imagery.’

    The exhibition, collaboratively organized by HUST, Depa, and Chinese technology company Vivo with support from the Hubei Youth Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, remains open to the public free of charge at Iconsiam’s Napalai Terrace until January 18th.