China has issued a stern warning to the Philippines, urging it to cease actions that could escalate tensions in the South China Sea. Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, emphasized that such provocations could lead to self-inflicted consequences for the Philippines. Jiang highlighted that defense and security cooperation between nations should not target third parties or undermine regional peace and stability. He criticized the Philippines for its frequent infringements and provocations, often in collaboration with external forces, which he identified as the primary cause of the current tensions. Jiang reiterated China’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights, rejecting any unfounded accusations or exaggerated claims. He called on the Philippines to stop undermining regional efforts for peace and development, warning that continued provocations would only result in greater repercussions.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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Kuwait Airways flight bound for Philippines faces technical glitch before takeoff
A Kuwait Airways flight scheduled to depart for the Philippines encountered a technical issue early Friday morning, delaying its takeoff. The incident occurred at 4:24 am at Kuwait International Airport when the aircraft experienced a sudden malfunction in its braking system while taxiing. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed the incident in a press release, assuring that no injuries were reported among the 284 passengers or crew members. DGCA spokesperson Abdullah Al-Rajhi stated that the minor damage was confined to the aircraft’s fuselage. Immediate action was taken by technical authorities to secure the plane and conduct thorough safety inspections. Passengers were accommodated on an alternative flight, which departed at 12:20 pm. Al-Rajhi emphasized that the safety of passengers and crew remains the top priority for both the DGCA and Kuwait Airways, and such incidents are managed with the highest air safety standards.
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Trump pardons ex-NYPD officer who was convicted of helping China stalk an expat
In a significant move, former President Donald Trump granted a pardon on Friday to Michael McMahon, a former New York police sergeant convicted for his involvement in a high-profile case tied to China’s alleged efforts to silence critics abroad. McMahon, 58, was sentenced to 18 months in prison earlier this year for acting as an illegal foreign agent and stalking, charges stemming from what federal authorities described as a ‘campaign of transnational repression.’ McMahon maintained his innocence, claiming he was misled into believing he was working for a Chinese construction company rather than the government. A White House official, speaking anonymously, supported McMahon’s assertion, highlighting his decorated 14-year NYPD career before a 2001 injury forced his retirement. McMahon’s attorney, Lawrence Lustberg, hailed the pardon as a correction of a ‘horrible injustice,’ emphasizing that McMahon was a ‘true hero cop’ who should have been celebrated, not prosecuted. The case, part of China’s ‘Operation Fox Hunt’ initiative, centered on Xu Jin, a former Chinese city official who fled to New Jersey in 2010. Xu and his wife were accused of bribery by Chinese authorities, which they denied, alleging political persecution. McMahon’s role included locating Xu through surveillance and database searches, though he claimed he was unaware his actions would be used to intimidate Xu. The campaign against Xu included disparaging messages to his daughter’s friends, letters to relatives, and a visit from his elderly father, culminating in a threatening note left at Xu’s home. The pardon has drawn mixed reactions, with supporters like U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler praising the decision, while federal prosecutors declined to comment.
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Fifa fines, suspends UAE, Qatar team officials over misconduct, unsporting behaviour
FIFA has taken decisive action against officials from both the UAE and Qatar national teams following a contentious 2026 World Cup qualifier held on October 14, 2025. The FIFA Disciplinary Committee announced suspensions and fines in response to incidents of misconduct and unsporting behavior during the match. Matar Obaid Saeed Mesfer Al Dhaheri, the UAE team supervisor, received a 16-match suspension and a fine of 10,000 Swiss francs (approximately Dh45,500) for assaulting the referee and displaying unsporting behavior toward an opponent. On the other hand, Tarek Salman of Qatar was handed a two-match suspension and a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs (around Dh22,750) for serious foul play. The disciplinary measures followed a heated encounter at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, where Qatar secured a narrow 2–1 victory over the UAE, advancing to the finals. The match, which lasted 105 minutes, sparked widespread debate among fans regarding officiating decisions and game management. Many supporters took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, with some accusing the referees of allowing time-wasting and unaccounted fouls. The UAE fans, in particular, were left disheartened as their team’s World Cup qualification hopes were dashed despite a spirited performance. This incident underscores the importance of maintaining discipline and sportsmanship in high-stakes international competitions.
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Newborn with congenital heart disease receives life-saving surgery in Yunnan
A newborn diagnosed with a severe congenital heart defect has been given a new lease on life following a high-risk surgical procedure at Fuwai Yunnan Cardiovascular Hospital in Kunming, Yunnan Province. The infant, weighing a mere 2.9 kilograms at birth, was found to have transposition of the great arteries (TGA), a rare condition where the heart’s two main arteries are reversed, severely impairing blood circulation and oxygen supply. Shortly after birth, the baby exhibited critically low blood oxygen levels, exacerbated by the near-closure of the foramen ovale, a vital passage for blood flow in newborns. A multidisciplinary medical team, led by Wang Xiaoqi, the hospital’s vice-president, and Dong Shuo, director of pediatric surgery, performed an arterial switch operation to correct the defect. Four days post-surgery, the infant was successfully weaned off the ventilator and showed signs of steady recovery. The baby has since been moved from intensive care to a general ward and is expected to be discharged soon. ‘This was an exceptionally high-risk procedure for a one-day-old baby weighing less than three kilograms,’ Wang remarked. ‘However, the team’s precision and collaboration ensured a successful outcome.’
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The Line: Saudi Arabia scales back megacity plans as crown prince’s ambitions falter
Saudi Arabia’s ambitious ‘The Line,’ a 170-kilometer-long linear city central to the futuristic Neom mega-project, is undergoing significant downsizing due to escalating costs, design impracticalities, and mounting controversies. A recent investigation by The Financial Times (FT) reveals that architects and developers are scaling back plans drastically, with the project now reduced to just three modules from an initial 20. Over $50 billion has already been spent, yet senior construction managers label the project as ‘uninvestible.’ The Line, envisioned as a high-tech urban marvel, has faced criticism for its unrealistic design, driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s fascination with science-fiction-inspired architecture. Despite warnings from engineers, the prince insisted on a 500-meter-high, 200-meter-wide structure, far exceeding feasible limits. The project has also drawn ire for its environmental impact, including threats to migratory species, and the displacement of local communities. Entire villages, such as Qayal and al-Khuraybah, have been demolished, leading to protests and arrests. Human rights organizations have condemned the harsh working conditions and exploitation of laborers, with reports of fatalities and inadequate investigations. Amid these challenges, Saudi Arabia is reportedly shifting focus from mega-projects like Neom to sectors such as logistics, minerals, and artificial intelligence, signaling a broader reevaluation of its economic priorities.
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Exclusive: JD Vance plans to join Pope Leo’s visit to Turkey’s Iznik
US Vice President JD Vance is reportedly planning to accompany Pope Leo on his visit to Turkey to mark the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye. The historic event will take place in Iznik, where the remains of an ancient basilica, believed to be the site of the First Council in 325 AD, are located. This council was one of early Christianity’s most pivotal gatherings, where bishops resolved theological disputes that shaped Christian doctrine. Vance, a devout Catholic, is expected to join the pope on November 28, though his participation has not yet been confirmed. Turkish officials anticipate his attendance and suggest he may also meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, following their previous encounter in September. The Iznik basilica, measuring 20 by 40 meters, is considered the town’s largest known church and is increasingly accepted by scholars as the long-lost Church of the Holy Fathers. Pope Leo’s visit is expected to elevate Iznik’s status as a center for Christian pilgrimage and faith tourism. Excavations at the site, led by Mustafa Sahin of Bursa Uludag University, have uncovered 37 graves, many of which have been restored to preserve their historical authenticity. A 38-member Vatican delegation has already arrived in Iznik to finalize preparations for the pope’s visit.
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Hong Kong charity signs diplomatic talent deal with Beijing university
In a significant move to strengthen civilian diplomacy and international talent development, the Hong Kong-based GX Foundation and China Foreign Affairs University in Beijing signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Friday. The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony at the university, attended by notable figures including Leung Chun-ying, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and chairman of the GX Foundation, and Wang Shiting, Party secretary of the China Foreign Affairs University. Representing their respective organizations, Chan Ying-yang, CEO of the GX Foundation, and Wang Fan, president of the China Foreign Affairs University, signed the MoU. The collaboration aims to merge the GX Foundation’s expertise in international humanitarian aid and public health with the university’s specialized training in diplomacy and global affairs. The partnership seeks to cultivate professionals with a global outlook and practical skills, encouraging their involvement in international humanitarian efforts and advancing the sustainable development of civilian diplomacy. During the ceremony, Leung shared insights from the foundation’s initiatives, while Wang emphasized the critical role of civilian foreign aid in China’s broader foreign affairs strategy, highlighting its importance in fostering international friendship, mutual development, and China’s image as a responsible global power.
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Post-pandemic travel: Why ultra-wealthy tourists are paying for ‘art holidays’
Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the world, its influence continues to ripple through various aspects of life, including travel. Among the most notable trends is the emergence of ‘art holidays,’ a luxurious and exclusive form of travel that combines cultural immersion with opulent experiences. Catering to the ultra-wealthy, these getaways offer unparalleled access to private art collections, after-hours museum tours, and intimate encounters with renowned artists.
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UK: Fifth Palestine Action prisoner joins rolling hunger strike over detention conditions
A fifth member of the proscribed direct action group Palestine Action has initiated a hunger strike, protesting her detention conditions and the UK government’s ban on the organization. T Hoxha, a 29-year-old activist, joins four other prisoners in a rolling hunger strike that began on November 2, 2024, citing ‘systematic abuse’ by prison authorities. Hoxha, part of the ‘Filton 24′ group arrested on terrorism charges, is currently held at HMP Peterborough awaiting trial in April 2026. The charges stem from an August 2024 incident where activists drove a modified van into the UK facility of Israeli arms company Elbit Systems in Filton, Bristol. This marks Hoxha’s second hunger strike in three months, following a three-week protest in August over worsening treatment after the group’s ban under terrorism legislation in July. The campaign group Prisoners for Palestine (PFP) announced the strike after Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood failed to respond to their demands, which include immediate bail, an end to interference with personal communications, and the de-proscription of Palestine Action. The prisoners have garnered widespread support from pro-Palestine activists, including former Lebanese political prisoner Georges Abdallah and US activist Jakhi McCray, who has pledged to join the strike in solidarity. PFP reports that the government has yet to respond to their letter or address the strikers’ grievances. ‘T’s resilience is astounding,’ said PFP’s Audrey Corno, highlighting Hoxha’s determination to persevere despite the challenges.