标签： Asia

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.

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.

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.

The Eduscan Institute, a pioneer in holistic education and empowerment for children of determination, is set to host a transformative event titled ‘Inner Peace, Outer Health: The Path to Healing’ on November 8 and 9, 2025, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, respectively. The event, held at the Iranian Club in Dubai and the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, will feature a Walk of Confidence, symbolizing inclusion, courage, and collaboration. Students from Eduscan Institute will walk alongside peers from Amity University, Symbiosis University, and other institutions, showcasing a united spirit of empowerment.

The event will also honor 12 Cancer Victors, women who have triumphed over cancer and now inspire others with their resilience. A highlight will be a soulful dance performance, ‘Healing Through Movement,’ by Vishaka Verma and her troupe, blending art and rhythm to emphasize the restorative power of music and movement. Ruby Ahluwalia, a senior Indian bureaucrat and founder of Sanjeevani… Life Beyond Cancer, will deliver a keynote address. Ahluwalia, a Stage 3 metastatic breast cancer survivor, has impacted millions through her organization, providing free holistic care to over 1.3 million underprivileged cancer patients.

Dr. Alka Kalra, founder and director of Eduscan Institute, emphasized the event’s broader purpose: ‘This is about rediscovering the strength within every individual. Our students, cancer victors, and the community embody resilience, compassion, and unity—the true spirit of the UAE Year of Community.’ Established in 1994, Eduscan Institute has empowered over 30,000 children through education, emotional development, and leadership training, guided by Dr. Kalra’s philosophy, ‘Leaders are not born, but made.’

In celebration of the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad, Dubai’s toll operator, Salik, has introduced an exciting weekly contest offering participants the chance to win recharge cards. From now until December 2, 2025, Salik will pose a question each week, with five lucky winners awarded two recharge cards worth Dh400 each. The initiative is part of Dubai’s broader National Month campaign, which runs from Flag Day on November 3 to Eid Al Etihad on December 2, 2025. This campaign aims to honor national occasions, foster pride in the nation’s journey, and engage all segments of society through a variety of national, community, and cultural events. Salik has encouraged residents to participate in the contest via a post on X, though details about the weekly questions remain undisclosed. This initiative not only celebrates the UAE’s unity but also provides an opportunity for residents to engage in a fun and rewarding activity during the festive period.