标签: Asia

亚洲

  • Former Philippine president Duterte to remain in detention at the Hague

    Former Philippine president Duterte to remain in detention at the Hague

    THE HAGUE – The International Criminal Court (ICC) has decisively rejected former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s petition for provisional release, ensuring his continued detention at the Scheveningen facility near The Hague. The ruling came Friday from the ICC Chamber of Appeal, presided over by Peruvian Judge Luz del Carmen Ibáñez Carranza.

    Duterte’s legal team had vigorously argued for his release based on humanitarian grounds, citing the former leader’s advanced age of 80 and allegedly deteriorating health condition. However, Judge Carranza dismissed these arguments, stating that the proposed release conditions “were not sufficient to mitigate the risks” associated with interim freedom for the accused.

    The court further rejected defense claims that Duterte should be released for humanitarian reasons, maintaining that the seriousness of the charges warranted continued detention. According to court documents, Duterte stands accused of authorizing “violent acts including murder to be committed against alleged criminals, including alleged drug dealers and users” during his presidency from 2016 to 2022.

    Duterte was apprehended in Manila on March 11 and transferred to ICC custody, where he appeared visibly frail during his initial video court appearance. The charges against him stem from his controversial anti-drug campaign that human rights organizations claim resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.

    The ICC has yet to determine whether Duterte is medically fit to stand trial. This latest ruling follows an October decision that rejected defense arguments challenging the court’s jurisdiction over three separate charges of crimes against humanity. These charges encompass:

    – 19 murders occurring between 2013-2016 during Duterte’s tenure as Davao City mayor
    – 14 killings of alleged drug bosses in 2016-2017 during his presidency
    – 43 killings of suspected low-level drug offenders

    Official Philippine National Police estimates place the death toll during Duterte’s drug war at over 6,000, while independent human rights organizations suggest the actual figure may reach 30,000. The case continues to draw international attention as victims’ families and human rights advocates closely monitor proceedings.

  • Al Safadi marks 25 years of shaping Lebanese dining in the UAE and officially launches Al Safadi Hospitality

    Al Safadi marks 25 years of shaping Lebanese dining in the UAE and officially launches Al Safadi Hospitality

    DUBAI – Celebrating a quarter-century of defining Lebanese culinary excellence in the UAE, Al Safadi has formally established Al Safadi Hospitality as a unified corporate umbrella to oversee its expanding portfolio. This strategic restructuring preserves the original ownership and leadership while creating an integrated framework for future growth, new brand development, and sustained quality across all operations.

    The journey began in 2000 with a single family-operated restaurant that evolved into one of the nation’s most recognized Lebanese dining destinations. Known for its unwavering consistency and traditional recipes—including an unchanging family Muhammara formula and annual service of approximately 57 tonnes of hummus—the brand has become embedded in UAE daily life. Its multicultural team of over 18 nationalities, including staff with nearly three decades of service, remains central to the group’s identity.

    Al Safadi Hospitality now encompasses the flagship restaurant brand, recently launched concepts Oventine and Table 25 catering, Al Safadi Food Production, and all future ventures. The consolidation enables strengthened quality control, operational excellence, and strategic planning while maintaining the brand’s heritage and people-focused culture.

    A cornerstone of this expansion is the new 5,000-square-meter Central Production Unit in Dubai Production City. This state-of-the-art facility features advanced European kitchen technology and hygienic preparation areas, capable of producing 45,000 meals daily to support existing restaurants, catering services, and upcoming retail lines. Currently pursuing HACCP and FSSC certifications, the facility incorporates sustainable technologies including Demand Control Ventilation and Empower District Cooling integration.

    The group’s expansion pipeline includes retail launches of sauces, spices, and ready-to-cook items between 2026-2027, alongside new restaurant openings across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. Oventine, the oven-led quick service concept inspired by Levantine flavors, will expand across Dubai through 2026, while Table 25 continues evolving as a premium catering brand offering international cuisine and custom menus.

    The anniversary was commemorated with a private gathering at the new production facility, featuring virtual tours, documentary presentations, and a performance by Guy Manoukian. CEO Fadi Al Safadi emphasized that the milestone recognizes the collective achievement of staff and patrons alike, stating: ‘We are building for the next 25 years, expanding with care while staying true to who we are.’

  • UAE: Will it rain during Eid Al Etihad long weekend?

    UAE: Will it rain during Eid Al Etihad long weekend?

    As the UAE approaches the final long weekend of the year marking Eid Al Etihad, residents can anticipate predominantly agreeable weather conditions characterized by cool mornings and partially overcast skies. According to the National Centre of Meteorology, certain northern, coastal, and island regions may experience intermittent cloud cover with possibilities of scattered rainfall throughout the holiday period.

    Temperatures continue their seasonal decline across the nation, with maximum readings forecasted between 24°C–30°C in coastal and inland areas, while mountainous regions will see cooler ranges of 12°C–20°C. Nighttime and early morning humidity will increase, creating potential for mist or fog formation in interior zones.

    Wind patterns are expected to remain light to moderate, shifting between southeasterly and northwesterly directions at speeds reaching 25-40 km/h, occasionally stirring dust clouds in open areas. Maritime conditions in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea will generally be slight to moderate throughout the extended weekend.

    The detailed forecast indicates variable cloud coverage across different days:
    – November 29: Partly cloudy with rainfall potential in coastal and eastern areas
    – November 30: Generally fair skies with possible low clouds in western regions
    – December 1-2: Partly cloudy conditions prevailing with increased humidity overnight

    Residents planning outdoor activities during the holiday period are advised to monitor weather updates for potential rainfall in northern districts while enjoying the seasonably cool temperatures.

  • Cultural adventures in Confucius’ hometown

    Cultural adventures in Confucius’ hometown

    China Daily Information Co (CDIC) has issued a definitive copyright notice establishing strict protections for all content published through its platforms. The comprehensive policy applies to all textual, photographic, and multimedia materials appearing on CDIC-affiliated sites.

    According to the published guidelines, republication or utilization of any protected content in any form requires prior written authorization from CDIC. The company explicitly prohibits unauthorized use of its intellectual property, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding digital assets.

    The notice additionally provides technical recommendations for optimal user experience, suggesting browsers with 1024*768 resolution or higher for best viewing performance. This specification indicates CDIC’s dedication to maintaining high presentation standards for its digital content.

    Beyond copyright matters, the communication references several organizational aspects including registration details (Registration Number: 130349) and multimedia publishing licenses (License 0108263). The notice also directs readers to various sections of the China Daily ecosystem including advertising opportunities, contact information, employment resources, and expatriate employment services.

    The copyright statement concludes with an invitation to follow the organization’s digital channels, emphasizing ongoing engagement with its audience through various media platforms. This multifaceted approach demonstrates CDIC’s comprehensive strategy toward content protection, user experience, and audience development.

  • Dubai Police ask public for help in identifying dead body

    Dubai Police ask public for help in identifying dead body

    Dubai Police have launched a public appeal for information regarding an unidentified male individual discovered deceased in the Al Qusais area. The case presents investigative challenges as the man was found without any personal identification documents, and no missing persons reports matching his description have been filed with authorities.

    According to official statements released on Friday, November 28, 2025, the discovery was made within the operational jurisdiction of the Al Qusais Police Station. The absence of identifying materials and the lack of missing person reports have complicated standard identification procedures.

    The remains have been transferred to the Forensic Science and Criminology Department’s specialized facilities for comprehensive examination. Forensic experts will conduct detailed analysis to establish both the individual’s identity and the precise circumstances surrounding his death.

    Authorities have established dedicated communication channels for information submission. Dubai residents can contact the police call center at 901, while callers from outside the emirate should dial 04 901. Police officials emphasize that any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could prove valuable in resolving this case and providing closure to potential family members.

    The public appeal represents standard procedure in cases involving unidentified persons, demonstrating the Dubai Police’s comprehensive approach to investigation through community engagement and advanced forensic capabilities.

  • Fact check: Thai police post AI-modified relief image as flood kills 145

    Fact check: Thai police post AI-modified relief image as flood kills 145

    Thailand’s border patrol police have issued a formal apology after publishing a digitally altered image depicting flood rescuers armed with automatic rifles and combat gear in the flood-ravaged city of Hat Yai. The incident occurred amid catastrophic flooding in southern Thailand that has claimed at least 145 lives according to official government reports.

    The controversial image, shared on the 437th Border Patrol Police unit’s Facebook page, showed personnel in full tactical equipment with the caption “Border patrol ready to enter zone 8 today” accompanied by a laughing emoji. The post was shared over 12,000 times before being removed from social media platforms.

    Fact-checkers from AFP identified digital watermarks in the image using Google’s AI identification tool SynthID, including a distinctive star-shaped Gemini watermark confirming the image was generated using Google’s AI software. This marks another instance of AI-generated imagery circulating in Thailand during the disaster response period.

    Following exposure of the manipulation, the police unit published the original photograph showing unarmed officers in orange life vests operating a rescue boat with visible relief supplies. “This is a real image before it was made into an AI image,” the unit stated. “We apologize for any misunderstanding.”

    An unnamed officer explained to AFP that the altered image was intended to “show the public our readiness to enter the area,” while clarifying that no personnel involved in flood relief operations actually carried firearms. No disciplinary actions have been taken regarding the incident.

    The manipulation occurred despite warnings from Thailand’s government-run anti-fake news center, which had previously advised against sharing AI images that “mislead people and become obstacles to relief efforts.”

    Public reaction revealed divided opinions, with some netizens condemning the digital deception during a humanitarian crisis while others expressed desire for such armed protection to be reality. Critics emphasized the importance of transparent communication during emergency operations, with one comment noting, “The first place in the world where flood relief officials must be armed.”

  • Xiong’an prioritizes aerospace information and satellite internet

    Xiong’an prioritizes aerospace information and satellite internet

    Xiong’an New Area has positioned itself at the forefront of China’s aerospace technology revolution, hosting a landmark conference that signals transformative advancements in satellite internet and aerospace information systems. The 2025 Innovation Development Conference of China Aerospace Information and Satellite Internet Innovation Alliance, convened on November 27th, unveiled groundbreaking technological products and application scenarios that promise to reshape the nation’s aerospace capabilities.

    The conference showcased dual inventories of cutting-edge technological products and implementation frameworks, featuring satellite payloads and terminal equipment designed to bolster China’s competitive edge in the global aerospace sector. These innovations establish a comprehensive operational system spanning underground, ground, low-altitude, and space applications, including specialized communication support for polar research expeditions.

    Strategic partnership agreements were formalized during the event, focusing on innovation collaboration and technology transformation initiatives. This development aligns with Xiong’an’s strategic prioritization of aerospace information and satellite internet as primary innovation chains, which has already attracted 63 companies and seven specialized innovation platforms to establish operations within the new area.

    The convergence of technological assets in Xiong’an represents a significant milestone in China’s broader strategy to develop integrated space-ground information infrastructure. This initiative not only enhances national capabilities in satellite communications and remote sensing but also positions Xiong’an as a crucible for technological innovation with far-reaching implications for both commercial and scientific applications.

  • Huairou science cluster strengthens global research cooperation in Beijing

    Huairou science cluster strengthens global research cooperation in Beijing

    The Huairou district of Beijing has formally opened its extensive network of major scientific research facilities to international partners, marking a significant advancement in global scientific cooperation. District officials announced on Thursday that this strategic initiative aims to bolster Beijing’s standing as a central hub for international research collaboration.

    According to Liang Shuang, District Head, 16 major scientific installations have been specifically designated for international partnership within a broader network totaling 37 research facilities. The majority of these facilities are already operational and conducting cutting-edge research across multiple disciplines including materials science, space exploration, earth sciences, and ecological studies.

    Huairou has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from isolated scientific developments into an integrated cluster of research excellence. This evolution has established the district as a powerhouse for national strategic scientific innovation. A landmark achievement this year was the commissioning of a high-energy synchrotron radiation light source, positioning China at the forefront of this critical technological field globally.

    The district’s innovative approach includes creating an “innovation matrix” that integrates national laboratories, specialized research institutions, leading technology corporations, and premier research universities. This collaborative ecosystem has already yielded substantial results, with 63 breakthroughs in key technologies and 430 significant scientific outcomes. Many of these achievements have received recognition through national and municipal science and technology awards, demonstrating the district’s growing influence in the global scientific community.

  • Union earmarks 8 million yuan for Hong Kong fire relief

    Union earmarks 8 million yuan for Hong Kong fire relief

    In a swift response to Wednesday’s devastating residential fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, the All-China Federation of Trade Unions has activated emergency relief protocols by allocating 8 million yuan (approximately $1.13 million) for immediate disaster response. The substantial funding initiative aims to address critical needs arising from the Wang Fuk Court residential complex blaze that emergency crews have been battling since November 26, 2025.

    The national labor organization confirmed the emergency funds will be strategically deployed to provide comprehensive support for displaced residents, including emergency housing solutions, essential living supplies, and temporary resettlement assistance. The federation’s emergency response team is coordinating with local authorities in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to ensure efficient distribution of resources to affected families.

    Beyond immediate financial assistance, the trade union federation has committed to maintaining continuous oversight of rescue operations and implementing additional supportive measures as the situation evolves. This institutional response demonstrates organized labor’s capacity for rapid mobilization in urban emergency situations, particularly in high-density residential areas where fire incidents can have catastrophic consequences.

    The funding announcement follows earlier expressions of concern from national leadership regarding the Tai Po incident, highlighting the significance of cross-jurisdictional disaster response mechanisms within China’s administrative framework.

  • ‘Sky-high ambition’: Meet Dubai Police officer who defied orphanhood, loss

    ‘Sky-high ambition’: Meet Dubai Police officer who defied orphanhood, loss

    In an inspiring demonstration of human resilience, Dubai Police Officer Doha Ahmed has transformed profound personal tragedy into remarkable professional achievement. Born an orphan and later widowed, Ahmed’s journey stands as a testament to extraordinary perseverance against life’s most challenging circumstances.

    Ahmed’s early years were marked by the absence of parental figures, yet she credits her siblings with providing unwavering support and love that shaped her character. “I never felt there was something missing in my life,” Ahmed reflects, acknowledging her brothers and sisters as “the greatest people in my eyes.”

    Her childhood presented significant social challenges, particularly during middle school when she faced bullying and intrusive questions about her orphan status. Rather than succumbing to these pressures, Ahmed channeled her energy into academic excellence and personal development, regularly volunteering for Quran recitation during her elementary school years.

    The trajectory of Ahmed’s life took another devastating turn when, one year after university graduation and the birth of her first child, she received news that her husband had been killed in an accident. “My whole life was turned upside down,” she recalls of the moment that left her son Younis facing the same orphanhood she had experienced.

    This personal catastrophe became what Ahmed describes as “the turning point in my life.” Determined to create stability for her child and herself, she heeded her sister’s advice to join Dubai Police in December 2014. “I said to myself: this is my glimmer of hope,” Ahmed remembers of her decision to pursue a law enforcement career.

    Her commitment to excellence quickly became apparent during military training, where her perseverance earned her the position of platoon leader. Subsequent challenges, including preparing a graduation group with only two days’ notice, further demonstrated her capability under pressure.

    Ahmed’s career progression continued as she became the sole woman selected for specialized coach preparation training, eventually achieving the rank of Coach Doha Ahmed. Her professional philosophy reflects an ever-expanding vision: “I don’t know where my ambition ends, nor where I want to go. After every ambition I achieve, a bigger ambition is born. My ambition is sky-high.”

    Today, Ahmed has rebuilt her personal life through remarriage and the addition of two daughters, completing a journey from profound loss to professional accomplishment and personal fulfillment.