标签： Asia

In a historic turn of events, Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Ugandan-born politician, has been elected as New York City’s youngest mayor in over a century and the first Muslim to hold the position. His victory has ignited widespread celebration, particularly among Indians and Ugandans, who took to social media to express their pride and joy. Mamdani’s win was marked by a vibrant Bollywood-style street party, where he paid homage to his Indian heritage by quoting Jawaharlal Nehru’s iconic “Tryst with Destiny” speech from India’s independence era. His maternal uncle, Vikram Nair, expressed immense pride in Mamdani’s achievement, noting the overwhelming requests for celebratory gatherings. Mamdani’s mother, Mira Nair, an acclaimed Indian filmmaker, and his father, Mahmood Mamdani, a Columbia University professor, were visibly emotional during the victory rally. The event concluded with the title track of the Bollywood blockbuster “Dhoom,” symbolizing the fusion of cultures in Mamdani’s campaign. While his multi-racial outreach and embrace of his Indian and Muslim identity garnered significant support, his past criticism of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “war criminal” has sparked controversy. Despite this, Mamdani’s victory has been hailed as a milestone for diversity and youth in politics, inspiring hope and debate across the globe.

In a significant development amid escalating geopolitical tensions, Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed government officials to prepare proposals for the potential resumption of nuclear tests. This directive comes in response to recent statements by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who hinted at the possibility of the United States restarting its own nuclear testing program. Putin emphasized that Russia would only resume nuclear tests if the U.S. takes the first step, reiterating his stance during a meeting with the Russian Security Council on Wednesday. He tasked the defense and foreign ministries, along with other relevant agencies, to analyze Washington’s intentions and formulate strategic proposals. On October 30, Trump suggested that the U.S. might resume nuclear testing after a 30-year hiatus, aiming to maintain parity with Russia and China. However, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright clarified that the planned tests of the U.S. nuclear weapons system would not involve nuclear explosions. The U.S. military has consistently tested nuclear-capable weapons but has refrained from detonating them since 1992. The Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, signed but not ratified by the U.S., has been largely observed by nuclear-armed nations, with North Korea being the sole exception. Putin’s announcement follows his recent declaration of successful tests of advanced nuclear-powered cruise missiles and underwater drones, further intensifying the global arms race.

In a recent press conference, Zhang Han, the newly appointed spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, emphasized the profound significance of designating October 25 as the Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration. This year marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s return to China, and the national-level commemorative activities held to honor this milestone are seen as a reflection of the collective will of the people and the state. Zhang underscored that these efforts serve as a robust affirmation of the historical fact that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. He further stated that such commemorations aim to inspire compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait to uphold the patriotic tradition and work collectively towards national reunification and rejuvenation. Zhang also highlighted the importance of recognizing the historical and legal reality that both sides of the Strait belong to one China. He warned against the detrimental nature of ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces and stressed the inevitability of national reunification. The spokesperson reiterated the mainland’s commitment to the one-China principle, opposition to separatist activities, and dedication to fostering cross-Strait exchanges, cooperation, and integrated development. Zhang concluded by expressing the mainland’s resolve to work alongside Taiwanese compatriots to advance the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and contribute to the broader goal of national reunification and rejuvenation.

Zhang Han, the newly appointed spokeswoman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, held her inaugural press conference in Beijing on Wednesday. In addition to her role at the Taiwan Affairs Office, Zhang also oversees Taiwan-related matters in the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions. During her debut, she emphasized her dedication to advancing mainland policies on Taiwan and enhancing mutual understanding and trust between people across the Taiwan Strait. Notably, the office has increased the frequency of its press briefings from twice a month to weekly since October. Zhang joins a team of experienced spokespersons, including Chen Binhua, Zhu Fenglian, and Peng Qing’en, who recently made his first appearance at a regular press conference on October 29. This development underscores the office’s commitment to transparent communication and fostering cross-strait relations.