The business travel sector between China and the United States is showing signs of recovery, as evidenced by the bustling activity at IMEX America 2025 in Las Vegas. Despite lingering challenges such as visa processing delays, limited flight capacity, and high travel costs, companies from both nations are eager to reestablish in-person communication and business exchanges. China, as the world’s second-largest economy, continues to attract international visitors for business purposes, including participation in major exhibitions like the China International Import Expo and exploration of its expanding consumer market. Travelers are increasingly combining professional activities with cultural experiences, spending time in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. Alex Mortensen of HiSEAS International noted the growing momentum for US outbound travel to China, citing improvements in infrastructure and hospitality. However, he highlighted that visa policies remain a critical factor for sustaining this growth. Linda Wang of Asia Concierge pointed out the limited number of direct flights as a significant barrier, with only about 80 weekly flights compared to 300 pre-pandemic. Patrick Sudlow of American Express Global Business Travel echoed concerns about US visa processing delays for Chinese professionals. On a positive note, China has implemented measures to facilitate business visits, including visa-free policies for certain countries and a 240-hour visa-free transit policy. Industry professionals like G.V. Schloss of Maritz Global Events remain optimistic about expanding cooperation with China, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and understanding in navigating the current geopolitical climate.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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Experts see complementary strengths in AI development between US, China
Technology experts have observed that the United States and China are pursuing distinct yet complementary approaches in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), creating potential avenues for cooperation despite ongoing political tensions. Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Hong Kong Cyberport, emphasized that while the US has focused on foundational AI models, China has made significant strides in inference and reasoning, which drive practical applications. Chan highlighted China’s historical effectiveness in applying technology to enhance livelihoods and business operations, while also acknowledging the importance of foundational model investments. During a recent visit to Silicon Valley, Chan led a delegation of young entrepreneurs exploring AI-driven smart living solutions. Graham Webster, Editor-in-Chief of Stanford University’s DigiChina Project, echoed this sentiment, noting China’s focus on industrial applications of AI, such as manufacturing and power system optimization, contrasting with the US’s emphasis on large models and existential risks. China’s Global AI Governance Action Plan, unveiled at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, advocates for an inclusive, multi-stakeholder framework promoting cross-border data flows and open-source models. This contrasts with the US’s strategic rivalry-focused approach under the Trump administration. Webster dismissed concerns about Chinese-made AI as xenophobic, emphasizing the importance of functionality over origin. Both experts called for collaboration across the AI stack, from computing to applications, to build a comprehensive ecosystem. Chan also underscored the potential for innovation clusters like Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou and Silicon Valley to foster global cooperation, despite geopolitical uncertainties.
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Schauffele and Greyserman atop the leaderboard after three rounds of Japan PGA tournament
YOKOHAMA, Japan — Max Greyserman and Xander Schauffele are tied at the top of the leaderboard after the third round of the Baycurrent Classic, setting the stage for an exciting final day of competition. Both golfers finished with a total score of 12-under 201 at the Yokohama Country Club, despite challenging rainy conditions. Greyserman carded an even-par 71, while Schauffele posted an impressive 67. Greyserman, who has consistently held or shared the lead since the tournament began, is vying for his first PGA Tour title, having finished as the runner-up in this event last year. Schauffele, a seasoned champion with two major titles, an Olympic gold medal, and numerous PGA Tour victories, is aiming to add another accolade to his illustrious career. The tournament holds special significance for Schauffele, whose mother grew up in Japan. ‘It would be an incredible feeling,’ he remarked, reflecting on the possibility of winning in front of his family. Five players, including defending champion Nico Echavarria, trail by three strokes heading into the final round. The Baycurrent Classic, the PGA Tour’s sole event in Japan, moved to Yokohama this year after previously being held east of Tokyo. The tournament, which debuted in 2019 with Tiger Woods as its inaugural winner, continues to draw top talent and captivate golf enthusiasts worldwide.
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Gaza ceasefire brings calls for full implementation
A long-awaited ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has taken effect in the Gaza Strip, marking a significant step toward de-escalation in the region. The truce, which commenced at 12:00 noon local time (0900 GMT) on Friday, has been met with cautious optimism as both parties pledge to uphold the terms of the deal. The international community has emphasized the critical need for full implementation, urging all sides to avoid violations and ensure lasting peace. The agreement, brokered through intensive negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Turkiye, and the United States, outlines a phased approach to peace. The initial phase includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces from key areas such as Gaza City, the north, Rafah, and Khan Younis, alongside the opening of five crossings for humanitarian aid and the exchange of hostages and prisoners. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the government’s approval of the framework, which includes the release of all hostages, both living and deceased. As part of the deal, Israel will release 1,700 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 48 hostages held in Gaza. Despite the ceasefire, reports of Israeli fighter jets near the Nuseirat refugee camp have raised concerns about potential breaches. Hamas’ top negotiator, Khalil al-Hayya, assured in a televised speech that the US administration and mediators have guaranteed the end of the war, allowing Palestinian factions to focus on self-determination and statehood. Meanwhile, Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem called on mediators to pressure Israel to adhere to the agreed terms, warning that any violations could jeopardize international and regional efforts to end the conflict. The agreement follows US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, as the region grapples with the devastating toll of the conflict, which has claimed over 67,000 Palestinian lives.
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Trump: US will add extra 100% tariffs on China
In a significant escalation of trade tensions, former US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the United States will impose an additional 100% tariff on all imports from China starting November 1, 2025. The move, which could be implemented sooner depending on China’s actions, will apply on top of existing tariffs. Trump also revealed plans to enforce export controls on all critical US-made software from November. The announcement was made via his Truth Social account, where he emphasized that these measures are part of broader countermeasures under consideration. This decision comes despite recent trade talks between Chinese and US teams in Madrid, Spain, following earlier discussions in Switzerland, Britain, and Sweden. The announcement triggered a sharp decline in US stocks, marking the worst single-day performance since the height of the tariff war in April. Trump’s aggressive stance underscores the ongoing economic rivalry between the two nations, with potential ripple effects on global trade and markets.
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India 427-4 on 2nd day of 2nd test against West Indies despite loss of century maker Jaiswal
In a dramatic turn of events on the second day of the second cricket Test between India and West Indies, Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had scored a century on the opening day, was run out early in the morning session. Jaiswal, who had resumed his innings at 173 not out, was dismissed for 175 runs off 258 balls after a miscommunication with Shubman Gill. The young batsman had struck 22 fours in his impressive innings. Despite this setback, India continued to dominate, reaching 427-4 at lunch on Saturday. Gill remained unbeaten on 75 runs, with Dhruv Jurel (7 not out) providing support. Nitish Reddy also contributed with a quick 43 off 54 balls. India, leading the two-match series 1-0 after a comprehensive victory in the first Test in Ahmedabad, has maintained its dominance over West Indies, who have not won a Test against India since 2002. Jaiswal’s dismissal occurred on the eighth ball of the morning when he was sent back too late by Gill, and Tagenarine Chanderpaul’s accurate throw from mid-off caught him short of the crease. The pair had added 74 runs for the third wicket before the unfortunate run-out.
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Militant attack on Pakistani police station kills at least 7 officers and wounds 13
In a brazen assault on Friday night, gunmen attacked a police training center in Ratta Kulachi, near Dera Ismail Khan city in northwestern Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of at least seven police officers and six militants. The attack, which involved heavy weapons and a suicide bomber, triggered a prolonged firefight lasting nearly six hours. Officials reported that the assailants attempted to breach the compound after detonating an explosives-laden truck at the facility’s main gate, collapsing part of the boundary wall and killing one officer. Approximately 200 recruits and trainers were present during the assault. Police and paramilitary units eventually regained control, killing six militants and recovering suicide vests, explosives, and weapons. The banned group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan initially claimed responsibility but later denied involvement. Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the slain officers for their bravery. The attack underscores the worsening security situation in the region, which has seen a surge in terrorism since 2021, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province bordering Afghanistan. Pakistani security forces have conducted over 10,000 counterterrorism operations this year, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
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Cair calls on Nobel Prize winner to renounce support for far-right, racist and fascist parties
A prominent American civil rights organization has demanded that the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, renounce her affiliations with racism, fascism, and far-right ideologies. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (Cair) expressed strong disapproval of the Nobel Prize committee’s decision, citing Machado’s connections to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud Party and her participation in far-right European gatherings. Cair highlighted her appearance at the Patriots of Europe conference in Madrid, where she shared the stage with figures like Geert Wilders and Marine Le Pen, who advocated for a new ‘Reconquista,’ a term evoking the historical expulsion of Muslims and Jews from Spain. The group urged the Nobel committee to reconsider its choice, arguing that it tarnishes the award’s legacy. Machado, who has openly supported Netanyahu and pledged to relocate Venezuela’s embassy to Jerusalem if elected, dedicated her prize to former U.S. President Donald Trump and the Venezuelan people, praising Trump’s backing of her cause. Trump has previously deployed warships near Venezuela to combat drug cartels. Cair emphasized that the Nobel Peace Prize should honor individuals who champion justice universally, not those who endorse divisive and exclusionary ideologies.
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I was ready to die for the Taliban. Now I hope I can prevent others becoming radicalised
Maiwand Banayee, a 45-year-old NHS diabetes remission coach and postgraduate student in Coventry, leads a life far removed from his turbulent past as a Taliban fighter. Born in Afghanistan in 1980, Banayee’s early years were marked by vulnerability and bullying, which led him to seek validation through radical ideologies. At 14, he was radicalized in the Shamshato refugee camp in Pakistan, where he was exposed to intense religious propaganda and the glorification of martyrdom. The camp, dominated by the Hezb-e-Islami group, became a breeding ground for extremism, with mullahs promising heavenly rewards for those who sacrificed their lives. Banayee’s journey into the Taliban’s fold began in 1996, when he returned to Kabul and joined the group, enforcing their austere version of Sharia law. However, his faith in the Taliban began to waver after witnessing their cruelty and hypocrisy. A turning point came when he was forced to pray again by Taliban fighters, an act that deeply wounded his ego and sparked doubts about their true nature. Over time, Banayee distanced himself from extremism, eventually fleeing to the UK in 2001. After years of struggle, including failed asylum applications and homelessness, he found stability in Ireland, where he married and became a citizen. Today, Banayee is an advocate against radicalization, sharing his story in his book, *Delusions of Paradise: Escaping the Life of a Taliban Fighter*. He warns of the dangers of religious schools in Afghanistan, which he believes are radicalizing a new generation of children. Banayee’s message to young people is clear: question everything and seek truth beyond the myths of extremism.
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How hackers forced brewing giant Asahi back to pen and paper
Asahi Super Dry, Japan’s most popular beer, is facing severe supply shortages following a crippling cyber-attack on its production facilities. The incident, which forced Asahi to halt operations at most of its 30 factories across Japan, has left retailers, bars, and restaurants scrambling to meet customer demand. Although some facilities have partially reopened, the company’s computer systems remain offline, forcing manual processing of orders and shipments via pen, paper, and fax machines. This has drastically reduced output, with shipments now at just 10-20% of normal levels.
Asahi, which commands approximately 40% of Japan’s beer market, has apologized for the disruptions but has not provided a timeline for full recovery. The impact extends beyond beer, with shortages also affecting Asahi’s soft drinks, bottled teas, and other products. Major convenience store chains like FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, and Lawsons have warned customers of dwindling supplies.
The ransomware group Qilin has claimed responsibility for the attack, leveraging its platform to extort proceeds from cyber-attacks. While Asahi’s European operations, including brands like Peroni and Grolsch, remain unaffected, the incident highlights Japan’s vulnerability to cyber threats. Experts point to the country’s reliance on outdated systems and a lack of cybersecurity professionals as key weaknesses.
In response, the Japanese government has emphasized its commitment to improving cyber capabilities. The recent enactment of the Active Cyber Defense Law (ACD) grants authorities greater powers to combat cyber threats, including the ability to neutralize attackers’ servers. However, for small businesses like Ben Thai restaurant in Tokyo, the immediate challenge is navigating the ongoing supply disruptions. Owner Sakaolath Sugizaki remains uncertain about when normal operations will resume, echoing the concerns of many across Japan.