The UAE continues to solidify its position as a global maritime hub with the upcoming 7th Tristar Safety at Sea Conference, set to take place on November 10 at the One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai. Under the theme ‘Get Safety Right, Get Everything Right,’ the event will bring together key stakeholders to address critical issues in maritime safety and foster collaborative solutions. This gathering follows the UAE’s successful hosting of the World Maritime Day Parallel Event 2025, organized by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) in September, which focused on the theme ‘Our Ocean – Our Obligation – Our Opportunity.’ The MOEI will once again play a prominent role at the Safety at Sea Conference, with Eng. Hessa Al Malek, adviser to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, attending as an Honour Guest for the third consecutive year. Eugene Mayne, CEO of Tristar Group, emphasized the UAE’s leadership in maritime safety and the event’s evolution since its inception in 2019. Originally aimed at addressing the emotional and mental well-being of seafarers, the conference has grown into a vital platform for dialogue among professionals in the maritime industry. Tristar’s active participation in the World Maritime Day Parallel Event, including showcasing its hybrid electric bunkering barge and engaging in panel discussions, further underscores its commitment to advancing maritime safety and innovation. The Safety at Sea Conference, supported by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), will continue to highlight the UAE’s dedication to fostering global maritime collaboration and progress.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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Family of British journalist detained in US say UK has failed to help him
The family of Sami Hamdi, a British Muslim journalist detained by US authorities, has urgently called for the UK government to secure his immediate release, expressing frustration over its perceived inaction. Hamdi, the editor-in-chief of The International Interest, was detained by the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at San Francisco International Airport during a speaking tour in the US. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has labeled his detention as retaliation for his criticism of Israel, describing it as an ‘abduction.’
Hamdi’s wife, Soumaya, voiced her distress, stating that her husband was ‘abducted’ for advocating Palestinian rights. She emphasized his role as a devoted family man and urged the UK government to provide full consular support, which she claims has not yet been extended. ‘Sami is now being held captive thousands of miles away from our children, who miss their father dearly,’ she said. ‘We are increasingly concerned by the lack of action and communication from the UK government.’
Hamdi had recently spoken at a CAIR gala in Sacramento, where he condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, and was scheduled to speak at another event in Florida. CAIR condemned his detention as a blatant attack on free speech, asserting that it was motivated by his criticism of Israeli policies. Meanwhile, Israel activist Amy Mekelburg, who claimed responsibility for Hamdi’s arrest, accused him of ‘legitimizing Jihadi networks,’ a claim echoed by Tricia McLaughlin of the Department of Homeland Security.
This incident occurs amid broader accusations of efforts to silence critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Human Rights Watch reported that over 3,000 students have been arrested in the US in 2024 for protesting against Israel’s military operations, labeling the Trump administration’s crackdown as ‘illegitimate and false.’ Hamdi’s case has reignited debates about free speech and the treatment of dissenting voices in the US and beyond.
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Sylvester Stallone calls ‘Demolition Man’ a ‘great movie’ that still holds up
Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone has expressed his admiration for the 1993 science-fiction action film ‘Demolition Man,’ calling it a ‘great movie’ that remains relevant even decades after its release. In a recent video shared on October 25, the 79-year-old actor reflected on his illustrious career and iconic roles, highlighting the enduring appeal of the dystopian thriller. Stallone described the film as ‘very contemporary’ and ‘really well done,’ noting that its portrayal of a gentrified society feels ‘almost close to happening.’ In the movie, Stallone stars as Detective John Spartan, who is revived from suspended animation in 2032 to apprehend his nemesis, Simon Phoenix, played by Wesley Snipes. Stallone praised Snipes as ‘a wild man, very energetic, good fighter,’ recalling their intense fight scenes. He also revealed that ‘Demolition Man’ featured two of the most dangerous stunts of his career, including a cryogenic freezing sequence in a sealed plexiglass chamber filled with oil. Directed by Marco Brambilla, the film debuted at No. 1 at the box office and has since become a cult favorite for its blend of humor, action, and social commentary. Stallone hinted at a potential sequel in 2020, but no updates have been provided since. Brambilla, however, noted that the film’s unique tone might make it difficult to produce in today’s cinematic landscape.
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Report: China retains crown in global scientific papers published
China has once again solidified its position as the global leader in scientific research publications, according to the latest annual report titled ‘Statistical Data of Chinese Science and Technology Papers.’ The report, published by the Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China, reveals that the country accounted for 35.2% of the world’s top-tier scientific papers in 2024, maintaining its dominance for the second consecutive year. This achievement underscores China’s growing influence in the global scientific community and its commitment to advancing research across diverse disciplines. In 2024, China published over 15,000 papers in 163 high-impact journals spanning 178 disciplines, further cementing its status as a powerhouse in scientific innovation. Additionally, China led in both the number of publications and citation counts in 377 top international scientific journals, with 154,900 papers and over 1 million citations. The report highlights China’s decade-long leadership in citation counts across nine key scientific fields, including materials science, chemistry, and computer science. Notably, the average citation count of Chinese international papers reached 17.24, surpassing the global average for the second year in a row. Zhang Mingming, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, attributed this success to China’s investment in advanced research facilities, efficient experimental methods, and the dedication of its researchers. As of August 2024, China also accounted for more than half of the world’s ‘hot papers’—recently published studies with high citation rates—with 2,342 papers, a 4.6% increase from the previous year. The United States followed with 1,511 hot papers. This remarkable progress reflects China’s strategic focus on fundamental research and its ambition to shape the future of global science and technology.
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Clear skies unveil autumn splendor at Zhangjiajie’s Baofeng Lake
Following days of persistent autumn rain, the skies above Baofeng Lake in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area of Zhangjiajie, Hunan province, finally cleared on Tuesday, revealing a mesmerizing autumn landscape. Situated in the heart of this renowned tourist city, the lake’s unique seasonal beauty attracted a surge of visitors eager to witness its splendor. Many opted to explore the waters by boat, gliding through mist-covered peaks that resembled scenes from a living painting. The iconic stone cliffs, partially veiled by lingering clouds and mist, were mirrored in the lake’s vivid turquoise waters, creating a spectacle that left photographers and nature enthusiasts in awe. This stunning display of nature’s artistry underscored why Zhangjiajie remains a must-visit destination for travelers seeking breathtaking vistas.
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Shui communities celebrate Gua Festival in Guizhou
In late October, the Shui ethnic communities in Rongjiang county, Guizhou province, came alive with vibrant celebrations as they observed the annual Gua Festival. This traditional event, which signifies the conclusion of the autumn harvest, saw locals adorned in colorful festive attire, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere. The festival is deeply rooted in the Shui culture and serves as a time for gratitude and communal bonding. In Yayong village, the celebrations were particularly spirited, with residents extending invitations to their Miao ethnic neighbors to partake in the festivities. The event featured traditional music played on lusheng pipes and a unique pumpkin-eating contest, adding a playful touch to the cultural proceedings. Gua Festival holds immense significance for the Shui people, as it is their largest traditional celebration. Each year, after the harvest, communities select an auspicious day to express gratitude for the season’s bounty and to offer prayers for favorable weather, good health, and prosperity in the coming year. The festival not only strengthens cultural identity but also fosters unity and harmony among diverse ethnic groups in the region.
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Cradle of civilisation at risk of erosion in Iraq due to climate change
Iraq, often referred to as the cradle of civilisation, is facing a dire threat to its archaeological heritage due to the escalating impacts of climate change. Rising soil salinity, exacerbated by harsh and dry weather conditions, is accelerating the deterioration of ancient sites such as Ur, the birthplace of the Biblical patriarch Abraham, and Babylon, once the magnificent capital of empires. Experts warn that these historical treasures, which have stood for thousands of years, are now at risk of disappearing. The majestic Ziggurat of Ur, a 4,000-year-old stepped pyramid temple dedicated to the moon god Nanna, is particularly vulnerable. Sand dunes and wind are eroding its northern sections, while salt deposits are eating away at the mud bricks of the Royal Cemetery of Ur, discovered in the 1920s. Nearby, the ancient city of Babylon is also in peril, with high salinity levels threatening its clay-based structures adorned with Sumerian drawings. Improper restoration practices in previous decades have made these structures more susceptible to damage. Iraq’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism has highlighted the urgent need for restoration, but a lack of funding remains a significant challenge. The country, already scarred by decades of warfare, now faces a new battle against climate change, which is altering its ecosystem and endangering its historical footprint. Without immediate intervention, these ancient cities, which offer invaluable insights into the Sumerian empire and the world’s first civilisations, may be lost forever.
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China’s rare earth export delay offers US a chance to weaken Beijing’s grip on the market
In a significant development within the ongoing U.S.-China trade negotiations, China has agreed to postpone its latest restrictions on rare earth exports for one year. This decision, part of a broader trade agreement brokered by President Donald Trump, provides the U.S. and its allies with a critical opportunity to enhance their own production and processing capabilities. However, experts caution that breaking China’s dominant position in the global rare earth market remains a formidable challenge.
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Gaza patients dying as medical supplies remain low, hospital chief warns
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to a catastrophic health crisis, with over 1,000 Palestinians in need of medical treatment having died since the war began, according to Dr. Mohammed Abu Salmiya, director of al-Shifa Hospital. The dire situation is exacerbated by Israel’s stringent restrictions on essential medical supplies entering the Gaza Strip, leaving the already collapsing health system in ruins. Since the ceasefire began on October 11, only 10 percent of the required medical supplies have reached the besieged enclave, leaving more than 350,000 patients with chronic conditions without access to vital medication. Hospitals are overwhelmed, receiving the bodies of patients who succumb to their illnesses daily due to the lack of medicine. ‘Without treatment, their fate is death,’ Abu Salmiya warned. Additionally, 22,000 Palestinians, including 18,000 who have completed the necessary paperwork, are unable to travel abroad for treatment due to the continued closure of crossings by Israel. Women and children are among the most vulnerable, with newborn mortality rates skyrocketing from 10 percent before the war to over 40 percent now. Pregnancy-related mortality rates have also risen drastically. The crisis worsened after Israel launched a wave of heavy air strikes across Gaza, killing 104 people, including 46 children, and wounding hundreds more. Abu Salmiya described the situation as a ‘massacre,’ with the wounded dying before their eyes due to the lack of medical attention. Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for the Palestinian Civil Defence search-and-rescue team, highlighted the severe lack of equipment, which has drastically limited their ability to carry out rescue operations. ‘Thousands of people in Gaza have died because civil defence teams were unable to reach them immediately and efficiently to rescue them,’ he explained. Israel has yet to allow heavy equipment into Gaza for use by the civil defence, with any machinery entering the enclave being used solely to retrieve the bodies of Israeli captives killed in Gaza. Since October 7, 2023, Israeli forces have killed at least 68,643 Palestinians and wounded over 170,000, with most of those killed being civilians. Around 10,000 are missing and believed to be dead and buried under rubble.
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Dubai’s ‘Outstanding’ schools: Here are total fees for all 23 institutions
Dubai’s educational landscape is renowned for its diversity and excellence, with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) playing a pivotal role in guiding parents through their school selection process. The 2023-24 KHDA report highlights 23 schools in the emirate that have achieved the prestigious ‘outstanding’ rating, alongside 48 rated as ‘very good’. These evaluations extend beyond academic performance, encompassing student wellbeing, inclusivity, and alignment with international benchmarks. External assessments in key subjects further enhance the comprehensive evaluation of each institution.