China has expressed deep concern over Japan’s recent military and security developments, emphasizing the need for Japan to adhere to peaceful development. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian highlighted these concerns during a press conference on Friday, pointing to Japan’s ambiguous stance on its Three Non-Nuclear Principles and its consideration of acquiring nuclear-powered submarines. These actions, Lin argued, represent a significant and alarming shift in Japan’s defense policy, raising fears of a return to militarism. Lin also referenced Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent comments, which suggested potential military intervention in the Taiwan Strait, further escalating regional tensions. He urged Japan to reflect on its history of aggression, particularly as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Lin called on Japan to cease its military buildup and take concrete steps to rebuild trust with its neighbors and the international community.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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ASICS signs with Dubai Marathon in landmark multi-year partnership
ASICS has cemented its dedication to the global running community by entering into a groundbreaking multi-year partnership with the Dubai Marathon. Announced on November 14, 2025, the collaboration designates ASICS as the official footwear and apparel partner, as well as a presenting sponsor for the prestigious event from 2026 to 2028. This alliance underscores the brand’s mission to promote its founding philosophy, ‘A Sound Mind in a Sound Body,’ across the Middle East. The partnership coincides with the marathon’s 25th anniversary in 2026, marking a significant milestone in its history as one of the world’s fastest and most esteemed road races. ASICS brings its global expertise to enhance the experience for elite athletes and everyday runners alike. Innovations inspired by leading international events will be introduced, covering every aspect from pre-race preparation to post-race recovery. On race day, participants and spectators can explore the ASICS Experience Zone, showcasing the brand’s latest advancements in performance footwear, apparel, and technology. Beyond the event, ASICS plans to nurture the running culture in the UAE through year-round initiatives, including training workshops and wellness programs. These efforts aim to inspire movement at all levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes, while attracting top marathoners to Dubai. By fostering a culture that celebrates both performance and participation, ASICS seeks to strengthen Dubai’s reputation as a premier running destination. Nikola Djordjevic, Deputy GM of Marketing at ASICS Middle East, emphasized the brand’s belief in the transformative power of movement. ‘Through this partnership, we aim to inspire runners to move with purpose, connect through community, and experience the joy of running at its best,’ he said. This collaboration reaffirms ASICS’ leadership in promoting performance, innovation, and wellness in the Middle East, championing a running culture that values mental clarity and balance alongside physical endurance.
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Dh1.7 billion: Etihad Airways delivers record 9-month profit, up by 26% since last year
Etihad Airways, the flagship carrier of Abu Dhabi, has reported a historic nine-month profit of Dh1.7 billion ($463 million) for the first three quarters of 2025, marking a 26% increase compared to the same period last year. This remarkable performance has elevated the airline’s profit margin to 8%, up from 7% in 2024. The airline’s total revenue surged by 18% year-on-year to Dh21.7 billion ($5.9 billion), driven by robust growth in both passenger and cargo segments. Passenger revenue rose by 20% to Dh18.2 billion ($4.9 billion), while cargo revenue increased by 8% to Dh3.2 billion ($875 million). Etihad transported a record 16.1 million passengers during this period, an 18% year-on-year increase, supported by a 17% rise in capacity and an improved load factor of 88%. The airline’s operating performance remained strong, with EBITDA growing by 27% to Dh4.3 billion ($1.2 billion), and operating cash flow reaching nearly Dh6 billion ($1.5 billion), a 40% increase from the previous year. Customer satisfaction also reached new heights, with Net Promoter Scores (NPS) achieving record levels across all cabins, particularly in premium classes. The introduction of the A321LR fleet has been widely praised for its comfort and service. Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, attributed the airline’s success to its ability to outpace market growth and contribute significantly to the UAE’s passenger traffic expansion.
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British journalist Sami Hamdi reunited with family after release from Ice detention
British journalist and political commentator Sami Hamdi has been reunited with his family following his release from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. Hamdi arrived in London on Thursday, three weeks after being detained by ICE agents during a speaking tour in the United States. The detention occurred despite Hamdi entering the U.S. on a valid visitor visa on October 19. His visa was abruptly revoked on October 24 without prior notice, according to Zahraa Billo, executive director of the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA).
Hamdi was accused of overstaying his visa on October 26 while at San Francisco International Airport. He was subsequently transferred to the Golden State Annex in McFarland, California, where he was held in a cell with approximately 80 other detainees. Hamdi reported being denied medical care for severe abdominal pain until his condition gained media attention.
During a hearing on Monday, Hamdi and the U.S. government reached an agreement for his voluntary departure from the country. Upon his return to London, Hamdi stated, ‘What they want is to ensure that people like us don’t go to America. And we will defy them and we will exert our constitutional rights and speak truth against hatred.’
Hamdi’s detention is part of a broader pattern of ICE targeting individuals, particularly those involved in pro-Palestinian activism. Earlier this year, Tufts University student Rumeysa Ozturk, Columbia University graduate Mahmoud Khalil, and Georgetown University postdoctoral scholar Badar Khan Suri were all detained by ICE without criminal charges. Columbia University students Yunseo Chung and Ranjani Srinivasan were also targeted, with Srinivasan leaving the U.S. voluntarily after her student visa was revoked.
Hamdi’s case has sparked concerns about freedom of speech and the treatment of activists in the U.S. He alleged that the U.S. government is ‘trying to curb freedom of speech because there’s a concern among the extremist Israeli lobby that American public opinion is shifting.’ His detention highlights ongoing tensions surrounding activism and immigration enforcement in the United States.
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UK charity regulator opens case into right-wing Policy Exchange think-tank
The UK’s Charity Commission has initiated a compliance case into Policy Exchange, a prominent think-tank, following a detailed complaint by the Good Law Project. The 27-page complaint alleges that Policy Exchange, registered as a charity, has violated charity law by engaging in partisan activities rather than fulfilling its stated mission of non-partisan public education. The think-tank, founded in 2002 by Conservative MPs, is accused of lobbying, influencing government policy, and producing biased reports. The Good Law Project claims that Policy Exchange’s activities are primarily aimed at policymakers, politicians, and journalists, rather than educating the public in a balanced manner. The complaint also highlights the think-tank’s focus on right-wing politics, including a year-long festival celebrating Margaret Thatcher’s centenary and its controversial stance on transgender issues. Policy Exchange has been influential in shaping counter-terrorism policies and was a key promoter of the discredited ‘Trojan Horse’ narrative, which falsely accused Muslim teachers of plotting to Islamize Birmingham schools. Despite the controversy, Policy Exchange continues to produce reports on topics such as Islamophobia and Churchill’s legacy. The Good Law Project has urged the Charity Commission to take action, warning of potential legal challenges if the regulator fails to address the alleged breaches.
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Shanghai youth center evolves to mental health support network
The Shanghai Youth Online Public Service Center, initially established in 2005 as a local counseling service, has grown into a robust mental health support network, serving over 594,000 individuals and addressing critical emergencies. The center offers a wide range of services through multiple channels, including the 12355 hotline, online platforms, face-to-face consultations, and crisis intervention. Wu Zhihui, the center’s director general, emphasized the platform’s comprehensive approach, which includes mental health support, legal consultation, and youth rights protection. The center handles approximately 300 calls daily, with peaks reaching 500, reflecting a significant shift in public attitudes toward mental health. Wu noted that the increasing call volume, rather than being a cause for concern, indicates a growing awareness and willingness to seek help. The center has shifted its focus toward preventive measures and early intervention, maintaining rigorous professional standards. All volunteer counselors are required to hold certifications in psychological counseling or social work, pass strict examinations, and undergo background checks. The diverse volunteer team, ranging from individuals in their 20s to 70s, with an average age of 40, underscores the center’s broad appeal and expertise. A notable trend is the increasing number of direct calls from teenagers themselves, rather than their parents, with children as young as 13-14 and university students reaching out for support. The service has expanded beyond Shanghai, assisting callers from other provinces through both online chat services and offline counseling. The center has handled various critical situations, including rescuing a teenager trapped in Myanmar, addressing adolescent depression, and responding to domestic violence cases. Song Yaru, a 79-year-old psychological counseling expert with nearly two decades of experience at the center, shared a memorable case involving a suicidal 26-year-old. The young man later told her, ‘Seeing how you’re still helping others at your age makes me believe I too can live a good life.’ Song expressed her dedication to the center, motivated purely by her commitment to youth work. He Lingfeng, a psychology professor at Shanghai University of Sports and a counseling expert on 12355, highlighted the platform’s broader impact. With over 1,300 volunteer counselors and experts, the 12355 team has become increasingly professional, serving not only as a social service but also as a valuable platform for talent development and practical psychology training.
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China, Italy strengthen higher education exchanges
In a significant move to bolster educational and innovative synergies, China and Italy have pledged to enhance their cooperation in higher education. This commitment was formalized during the 2025 China-Italy University Presidents Forum held in Beijing, where over 60 universities and institutions from both nations convened. The event saw the signing of 16 memorandums and agreements, underscoring a mutual dedication to fostering talent and driving innovation. Chinese Minister of Education Huai Jinpeng and Italian Minister of University and Research Anna Maria Bernini inked a joint statement, marking a pivotal moment in the educational partnership between the two countries. Minister Huai highlighted the evolution of this partnership from individual exchanges to a structured framework emphasizing talent development, technological innovation, and cultural exchange. He urged universities to adapt to the latest technological and industrial transformations, advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration and industry-academia integration. Minister Bernini emphasized the integration of science with humanities and arts, expressing Italy’s eagerness to deepen cultural and artistic exchanges with China. This forum not only strengthens the educational ties but also sets a foundation for future collaborative ventures in various fields.
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Happy birthday, Sheikh Hamdan! How Dubai’s Crown Prince embraces life at 43
Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, celebrated his 43rd birthday on November 14, 2025, by continuing to inspire the emirate’s residents with his dynamic and active lifestyle. Known for his leadership as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Sheikh Hamdan defies the stereotype of slowing down in mid-life, instead embracing physical fitness and encouraging others to do the same. Through his social media presence, particularly on Instagram where he boasts over 17 million followers, he shares glimpses of his daily gym routines and promotes the benefits of an active lifestyle. His passion for sports has also led to Dubai hosting the World Sports Summit from December 29 to 30, 2025, which is expected to attract global sports stars, industry leaders, and policymakers. Beyond his personal fitness, Sheikh Hamdan actively participates in community events such as the Dubai Marathon and Mallathon, further engaging with residents and fostering a culture of health and vitality. From skydiving over The Palm to climbing the Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Hamdan’s adventurous spirit and commitment to wellness serve as a powerful example for Dubai and beyond.
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All Shenzhou-XX astronauts out of return capsule
In a historic moment for China’s space program, the three astronauts of the Shenzhou-XX mission—Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie—successfully exited their return capsule on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 5:21 pm Beijing Time. The crew had completed a remarkable 204-day mission in orbit, marking another milestone in China’s manned space exploration efforts. The China Manned Space Agency confirmed that all three astronauts are in excellent health following their return to Earth. Chen Dong, the mission commander, was the first to emerge from the capsule, solidifying his status as the first Chinese astronaut to accumulate over 400 days in space. This achievement underscores China’s growing capabilities in space technology and its commitment to advancing human spaceflight. The successful return of the Shenzhou-XX crew highlights the nation’s progress in long-duration space missions and paves the way for future endeavors, including the planned construction of a permanent space station.
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Pakistan says arrested 4 from Afghanistan-based group over Islamabad bombing
Pakistan announced on Friday the arrest of four individuals connected to a suicide bombing in Islamabad, an attack allegedly orchestrated by a group based in Afghanistan. The bombing, which occurred outside court buildings on Tuesday, was claimed by a faction of the Pakistani Taliban, known as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The attack resulted in 12 fatalities and left dozens injured. According to a government statement, the network responsible for the bombing was ‘handled and guided at every step by the high command based in Afghanistan.’ The arrested individuals include the cell’s alleged commander and three other members, though the specific locations of the arrests were not disclosed. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed the Senate that the bomber, identified as Usman alias Qari, was a resident of Nangarhar province in eastern Afghanistan. Investigations are ongoing, with more revelations and arrests anticipated. The Islamabad bombing marks a resurgence of militant violence in Pakistan, which officials attribute to armed groups allegedly sheltered in Afghanistan. This incident follows a recent attack on Cadet College Wana, a military-linked school in northwest Pakistan, in which Afghan nationals were reportedly involved. The Taliban government has not directly addressed Pakistan’s allegations but expressed ‘deep sorrow & condemnation’ over both attacks. The accusations have exacerbated the already strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul, leading to recent cross-border clashes that resulted in over 70 deaths, including dozens of Afghan civilians. Despite agreeing to a fragile ceasefire, negotiations to finalize its details have stalled, with each side blaming the other for the impasse. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing parliament, condemned the Islamabad bombing as a ‘horrific act of terrorism’ and emphasized Pakistan’s desire for peace, urging Afghanistan to be a partner in combating terrorism.