China has reaffirmed its commitment to landing astronauts on the moon by 2030, marking a significant milestone in its ambitious space exploration agenda. Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson for the China Manned Space Program, announced on Thursday that all preparatory efforts, including the development of the Long March 10 rocket, lunar landing suits, and exploration vehicles, are progressing smoothly. ‘Our goal of achieving a manned moon landing by 2030 remains steadfast,’ Zhang emphasized. This announcement underscores China’s determination to establish itself as a global leader in space exploration. In parallel, China is preparing to launch its latest crew to the Tiangong space station, a critical component of its broader space strategy. The new crew, consisting of Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang, is scheduled to depart from the Jiuquan launch center on Friday at 11:44 p.m. local time. While Zhang Lu has prior experience from the Shenzhou 15 mission, Wu Fei and Zhang Hongzhang will be venturing into space for the first time. The astronauts will also conduct experiments on four mice—two male and two female—to study the effects of weightlessness and confinement. The Tiangong space station, meaning ‘Heavenly Palace,’ was developed after China was excluded from the International Space Station due to U.S. national security concerns, highlighting the country’s independent advancements in space technology.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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Borouge surges in Q3 with record production and 52% profit growth
Borouge Plc has reported an exceptional third quarter in 2025, achieving a remarkable 52% quarter-on-quarter increase in net profit, reaching $295 million. This stellar performance was driven by record production levels, robust sales, and stringent cost management, surpassing market expectations and solidifying the company’s leadership in the global polyolefins industry. The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange-listed petrochemicals giant also posted an adjusted EBITDA of $565 million, reflecting a best-in-class margin of 39%, up from 34% in Q2. Despite a decline in benchmark prices, Borouge maintained premium pricing for its differentiated polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) products, averaging $233 and $142 per tonne, respectively, over the first nine months of 2025. CEO Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi credited the company’s resilient business model and operational excellence for the outstanding results. Following the successful and ahead-of-schedule turnaround of its Borouge 3 plant in Q2, the company increased utilization rates to 110% for PE and 112% for PP, resulting in a 19% rise in quarterly sales volumes to 1.4 million tonnes. The Asia Pacific region emerged as a key growth driver, accounting for 61% of total sales, up from 57% in the previous quarter. For the nine-month period ending September 2025, Borouge reported revenues of $4.17 billion, slightly lower than the $4.41 billion recorded in the same period last year due to reduced average selling prices. However, net profit rose to $769 million, supported by operational efficiency and cost control. The company reaffirmed its full-year dividend intention of 16.2 fils per share, with the second-half payout expected in April 2026. Additionally, Borouge continued its share buyback program, repurchasing over 157.5 million shares by the end of Q3, reflecting strong confidence in its long-term growth prospects. Looking ahead, Borouge is nearing completion of its Borouge 4 expansion project, which is over 90% complete. The first plant is expected to commence operations by year-end, adding 1.4 million tonnes of annual capacity and significantly boosting earnings potential. The project will become a core asset of the proposed Borouge Group International (BGI), set for launch in Q1 2026. Innovation remains central to Borouge’s strategy, with the reintroduction of its enhanced BorSafe PE100-RC pipe grade, which won ‘New Product of the Year’ at the Asian Oil and Gas awards. In advanced packaging, Borouge unveiled a new Borstar PP grade supporting up to 50% post-consumer recycled content, reinforcing its commitment to circular and sustainable solutions. The company’s AI, Digitalisation and Technology (AIDT) program has already delivered $477 million in value this year, with a target of $575 million for 2025. Borouge is also pioneering AI-powered autonomous control room operations at its Ruwais facility in collaboration with Yokogawa and Honeywell. With strong fundamentals, expanding capacity, and a focus on innovation, Borouge is well-positioned to capitalize on improving market dynamics and deliver sustained value to shareholders.
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Overwhelming majority of Palestinians oppose Hamas disarmament, poll finds
A recent poll conducted by the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research (PCPSR) reveals that a significant majority of Palestinians are against the disarmament of Hamas and remain skeptical of U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza. The survey, conducted between October 22 and 25, 2023, involved 1,200 respondents from the occupied West Bank and Gaza, with a margin of error of 3.5 percent. Approximately 70 percent of Palestinians oppose Hamas’s disarmament, even if it means a return to Israeli attacks. Opposition is particularly strong in the West Bank, where 80 percent of respondents support Hamas retaining its weapons, compared to 55 percent in Gaza. The poll also highlights widespread pessimism about Trump’s peace plan, with 62 percent of Palestinians doubting its ability to end the conflict permanently. This skepticism is more pronounced in the West Bank (67 percent) than in Gaza (54 percent). Despite the ongoing violence, 53 percent of Palestinians believe the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on southern Israel was justified, with higher support in the West Bank (59 percent) than in Gaza (44 percent). Hamas continues to enjoy greater popularity than Fatah, with 35 percent of Palestinians supporting Hamas compared to 24 percent for Fatah. The poll also reveals dissatisfaction with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, with 85 percent of respondents calling for his resignation. Trump’s peace plan proposes a committee of Palestinian technocrats to govern Gaza, overseen by a U.S.-led ‘Board of Peace.’ While 45 percent of Palestinians support this idea, opposition remains strong in the West Bank. The plan also includes deploying Arab and Muslim peacekeepers to Gaza, which faces mixed reactions, with 78 percent opposition in the West Bank and 52 percent in Gaza. However, support increases when peacekeepers are tasked with securing Gaza’s borders without disarming Hamas. The ceasefire has been marred by Israeli violations, including a devastating attack on Gaza City and Khan Younis, resulting in over 100 Palestinian deaths, including 46 children.
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K-pop group NewJeans loses legal battle against agency
In a significant legal development, K-pop sensation NewJeans has been unsuccessful in its bid to terminate its contract with record label Ador. A South Korean court ruled on Tuesday that the group’s agreement with the agency, which extends until 2029, remains legally binding. The five-member group, consisting of Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji, had announced their unilateral departure from Ador last year, alleging mistreatment and manipulation by the label. Despite their claims, the court upheld the contract’s validity, prompting the group to plan an appeal, as reported by local media. This case has sent shockwaves through the Korean entertainment industry, marking a dramatic escalation in the year-long dispute between the chart-topping act and its agency. Earlier this year, the group rebranded as NJZ, released a new single, and performed in Hong Kong before their independent activities were halted by a court injunction. The ruling underscores the complexities of artist-label relationships in the highly competitive K-pop industry.
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Tokyo auto show highlights technology but Trump’s tariffs loom large
The Tokyo Mobility Show, currently underway at Tokyo Big Sight, is showcasing a dazzling array of futuristic transportation solutions, ranging from electric vehicles to cutting-edge personal mobility devices. Among the highlights is Honda Motor Co.’s Uni-One, a robotic chair designed for quick, quiet personal transport by 2035. Toyota Motor Corp. also unveiled a helicopter-like aircraft with six propellers, developed in collaboration with U.S. aviation firm Joby, though it remains in the experimental phase. The event, which opened to the public on November 9 after a media preview, emphasizes innovation in mobility while addressing broader industry challenges. A significant backdrop to the show is the looming impact of U.S. tariffs on Japanese automakers. President Donald Trump’s decision to raise auto tariffs from 2.5% to 15% is projected to slash over 2 trillion yen ($13 billion) from annual operating profits. Japanese automakers, including Mazda and Nissan, are responding with strategies to mitigate these effects. Mazda’s CEO, Masahiro Moro, highlighted efforts to develop emotionally intelligent vehicles and sustainable technologies. Nissan showcased its Sakura electric car prototype, featuring a solar-powered roof called the ‘Ao-Solar Extender,’ designed to generate electricity for household use and emergency power during disasters. Meanwhile, Toyota and Nissan are considering importing U.S.-made models back to Japan to address trade imbalances. The Japanese government has pledged to invest $550 billion in the U.S. and purchase Ford vehicles. Despite these challenges, Japanese automakers remain committed to innovation and market adaptation. Toyota’s CEO, Koji Sato, emphasized tailoring offerings to diverse customer preferences, while Nissan’s Ivan Espinosa underscored the importance of Japan as a core market. The show also featured Toyota’s Land Hopper, a collapsible electric bicycle designed to complement the upcoming Land Cruiser FJ. As automakers brace for the full impact of tariffs in 2024, analysts predict increased U.S. production and diversification into markets like Australia and Canada.
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Saudi’s Diriyah gigaproject eyes role rebuilding historic Syrian sites
Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Diriyah gigaproject, a cornerstone of the kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy and establish itself as a global tourism and cultural hub, is now eyeing a potential role in the reconstruction of historic sites in Syria. Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Gate Company, revealed during the Future Investment Initiative (FII) summit in Riyadh that discussions with Syrian officials have taken place regarding this collaboration. ‘Someone is going to rebuild Damascus and Aleppo at some point, and Beirut as well,’ Inzerillo stated, emphasizing that while the company is currently occupied with its primary project, it may consider contributing to Syria’s reconstruction in the future. The ongoing conflict in Syria has devastated many of its ancient cities and archaeological treasures, including the ancient city of Aleppo and the Roman temple sites at Palmyra, prompting international calls for restoration efforts. Challenges such as funding, security, and political coordination remain significant hurdles. Meanwhile, the Diriyah project, which includes luxury hotels, museums, and residential units centered around the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district, is progressing on schedule and within budget. The company is also exploring opportunities to develop six additional cultural heritage sites in Saudi Arabia and plans to pursue an initial public offering on the Saudi exchange after 2030, anticipating billions in foreign private investment.
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Qatari PM says Hamas ruled out role in Gaza governance, but disarmament talks ongoing
Qatar has disclosed that Hamas is prepared to relinquish its governance role in Gaza but remains uncommitted to unconditional disarmament. Speaking at a Council on Foreign Relations event in New York, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani emphasized that Hamas views disarmament as a collective obligation for all factions, not solely their own. He stressed the necessity of ensuring safety for both Palestinians and Israelis through decommissioning and disarmament efforts. Qatar, alongside the US, Turkey, and Egypt, is a key guarantor of the recent Gaza ceasefire, which has been plagued by violations, including Israel’s refusal to open the Rafah border crossing and continued air strikes. On Tuesday, Israel launched its most severe attacks since the ceasefire, resulting in over 100 Palestinian casualties, including 46 children. Israel accused Hamas of breaching the ceasefire, citing an alleged attack on troops in Rafah that killed one soldier. Hamas denied involvement, while US President Donald Trump supported Israel’s retaliatory actions, expressing confidence in the ceasefire’s durability. Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt played pivotal roles in brokering the ceasefire, with Trump exerting pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite Israel’s ongoing occupation of half the Gaza Strip, the US is drafting a UN resolution to deploy Arab and Muslim peacekeeping forces to Gaza, avoiding references to a two-state solution. The US is likely to rely on Gulf states, including Qatar, for Gaza’s reconstruction and peacekeeping costs. The recent Israeli attack on Hamas negotiators in Doha, which killed six people, including a Qatari security official, has further complicated regional dynamics. Trump’s administration responded by pledging to defend Qatar and signing a new military training agreement. Thani described the Doha attack as a turning point in ceasefire negotiations, highlighting the crossing of red lines. Middle East Eye continues to provide independent coverage of these developments.
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Former world leaders urge Israel to release Marwan Barghouti
The Elders, a distinguished group of former world leaders and officials, have issued a compelling appeal for the immediate release of Marwan Barghouti, a prominent Palestinian politician currently incarcerated in an Israeli prison. Barghouti, who has been detained since 2002 and is serving five life sentences, is regarded as the most high-profile Palestinian prisoner. The Elders, established by Nelson Mandela in 2007, argue that Barghouti’s release could be a pivotal step towards revitalizing the two-state solution. They emphasized his longstanding advocacy for peaceful means to achieve this goal and his consistent popularity in Palestinian opinion polls. The group includes notable figures such as Juan Manuel Santos, Helen Clark, Mary Robinson, and Gro Harlem Brundtland, among others. They condemned the alleged ill-treatment and torture of Barghouti and other Palestinian prisoners, urging Israeli authorities to adhere to international law. Barghouti, a former senior leader of Fatah and elected member of the Palestinian Legislative Council, was convicted in 2004 of multiple counts of murder, charges he has consistently denied. The Elders highlighted that his trial was marred by breaches of international law and lacked fairness. They also noted his role as a unifying figure, with opinion polls suggesting he would likely win the Palestinian presidency if elections were held. The group welcomed Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’s commitment to free and fair elections within the next year, emphasizing Barghouti’s potential role in this process. They recalled Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s 2013 call for Barghouti’s release, stating that freeing him would signal Israel’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Some Israeli figures, including a former Shin Bet leader, have also called for his release. Barghouti’s wife, Fadwa, recently appealed to US President Donald Trump to secure her husband’s release, emphasizing his potential as a partner for peace. Trump has indicated he is considering the matter. The Elders urged global leaders to seize this opportunity to enhance the prospects of lasting peace and security in the region.
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Should K-beauty products have to come from South Korea?
The global skincare market has been captivated by the allure of Korean beauty products, commonly referred to as K-beauty. These products, known for their intricate multi-step routines and innovative formulations, have seen exponential growth in international markets. Last year, South Korea’s K-beauty exports soared to an impressive $10.3 billion, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s expansion. However, this success has also led to a proliferation of non-Korean brands capitalizing on the K-beauty trend, raising questions about authenticity and definition. K-beauty first gained international recognition in the 2010s, riding the wave of Korean cultural exports like K-pop and K-drama. The elaborate skincare regimens, often involving up to 10 steps, captured the imagination of consumers worldwide, driving sales from $650 million in 2011 to $4 billion in 2017. Recognizing this surge, companies like Seoul Ceuticals emerged in 2017, offering ‘authentic Korean skincare’ despite being a U.S.-based manufacturer. The brand emphasizes its use of Korean-sourced ingredients to justify its K-beauty label. However, not all industry players agree with this approach. Seung Gu Kim, co-founder of Hwarangpoom, insists that true K-beauty products must be manufactured in Korea, reflecting a Korean perspective in their design and ingredients. The lack of an official definition or protected designation of origin for K-beauty complicates matters further. The K-beauty Industry Association, the sector’s sole government-approved trade body, has no plans to establish such a definition, focusing instead on promoting the industry’s global growth. Despite the absence of formal regulations, the association mandates that member companies be registered in South Korea and obtain approval from the Korea Food & Drug Administration (KFDA). This approval ensures products are tailored to Korea’s climate and market standards. The booming K-beauty market has also attracted counterfeiters, with MarqVision identifying $280 million worth of fake products in the U.S. alone in 2024. This rampant counterfeiting has frustrated consumers like Gracie Tulio, founder of PureSeoul, who launched her London-based retail business in 2019 to provide authentic K-beauty products directly sourced from Korean manufacturers. As the K-beauty industry continues to thrive, the debate over authenticity and the battle against counterfeits remain pressing challenges.
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Pakistan threatens to ‘obliterate’ Taliban after peace talks fail
Pakistan has issued a stark warning to the Taliban regime in Afghanistan following the collapse of peace talks mediated by Turkey and Qatar. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declared that Pakistan could ‘completely obliterate the Taliban regime’ with just a fraction of its military capabilities. This escalation in rhetoric comes after negotiations in Istanbul failed to produce a viable solution to the ongoing conflict between the two nations. The talks, aimed at preventing further violence, ended in disagreement over the presence of militant groups in Afghanistan that Pakistan claims are targeting its security forces. Despite a ceasefire brokered in Doha on October 19, weekend clashes near the border resulted in the deaths of 30 individuals, including five Pakistani soldiers and 25 militants. Both sides have accused each other of derailing the peace process, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of deflecting from core issues and engaging in a ‘blame game.’ The Taliban, however, has yet to respond to these accusations. The situation remains tense, with fears of an ‘open war’ if a resolution is not reached.