标签: Asia

亚洲

  • Dubai’s ‘Outstanding’ schools: Here are total fees for all 23 institutions

    Dubai’s ‘Outstanding’ schools: Here are total fees for all 23 institutions

    Dubai’s educational landscape is renowned for its diversity and excellence, with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) playing a pivotal role in guiding parents through their school selection process. The 2023-24 KHDA report highlights 23 schools in the emirate that have achieved the prestigious ‘outstanding’ rating, alongside 48 rated as ‘very good’. These evaluations extend beyond academic performance, encompassing student wellbeing, inclusivity, and alignment with international benchmarks. External assessments in key subjects further enhance the comprehensive evaluation of each institution.

  • Israel carries out deadly incursion in south Lebanon

    Israel carries out deadly incursion in south Lebanon

    In a significant escalation of tensions, Israeli forces conducted a deadly incursion into southern Lebanon on Thursday, resulting in the killing of a municipal worker. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun swiftly responded by ordering the armed forces to confront any future Israeli incursions, emphasizing the defense of Lebanese territory and citizen safety. The Israeli military confirmed the raid, stating it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and fired upon a ‘suspect’ deemed an immediate threat. The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who labeled it a ‘flagrant aggression against Lebanese sovereignty.’

    According to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA), Israeli troops stormed the Blida municipality building, where employee Ibrahim Salameh was sleeping, and fatally shot him. The health ministry confirmed his death, and an AFP journalist documented bullet holes and bloodstains at the scene. Blida’s mayor explained that Salameh was on duty, as most homes in the area were destroyed during last year’s conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

    The Israeli military defended its actions, claiming the building was used by Hezbollah for ‘terrorist activity under the guise of civilian infrastructure.’ Meanwhile, in the nearby village of Adaisseh, Israeli forces reportedly destroyed a religious ceremony hall at dawn. This raid comes despite a November 2024 ceasefire agreement, which has not halted Israel’s regular air strikes on Lebanon, often targeting Hezbollah positions.

    The UN rights commission reported that Israeli forces have killed 111 civilians in Lebanon since the ceasefire. Hezbollah, weakened by the war, faces increasing pressure from the US to disarm. During a recent meeting of ceasefire monitors, US envoy Morgan Ortagus urged the Lebanese army to fully implement its plan to bring all weapons under state control by year-end. The situation remains volatile, with fears of further escalation in the region.

  • Petrofac’s downfall, shock administration send ripples across Gulf energy sector

    Petrofac’s downfall, shock administration send ripples across Gulf energy sector

    The recent collapse of Petrofac, a once-renowned British engineering and construction giant, has sent ripples across the global energy sector, particularly in the Middle East. The company, which played a pivotal role in developing key infrastructure in the Gulf, is now under court-appointed administration following the cancellation of a €2 billion offshore wind contract in the Netherlands. This decision has left its parent company in financial turmoil, with its shares delisted from the London Stock Exchange and its future hanging in the balance.

  • Beijing completes over 60 Great Wall emergency reinforcement projects in five years

    Beijing completes over 60 Great Wall emergency reinforcement projects in five years

    Over the course of the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), Beijing has successfully completed more than 60 emergency reinforcement projects on the Great Wall, restoring over 20 kilometers of its historic structure. This significant achievement was announced by municipal authorities on Wednesday, highlighting the city’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Huo Zhijing, deputy director of the publicity department of the Beijing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China, emphasized the integration of the Great Wall’s protection with the conservation of the Central Axis and ancient capital structures, forming a comprehensive cultural heritage conservation system. Chu Jianhao, deputy director of the Beijing Municipal Cultural Heritage Bureau, noted that Beijing has pioneered a unique approach by embedding archaeological research throughout the restoration process. This method ensures that every phase of repair is informed by detailed research, enhancing the authenticity and historical accuracy of the restoration efforts. Additionally, adjustments to protection zones and improved monitoring mechanisms have been implemented to better manage both the Great Wall and its surrounding environment. To further enhance conservation efforts, an early warning platform is being developed for Great Wall resources management and real-time surveillance. This platform will utilize advanced technologies such as drones and quadruped robots for regular inspections, significantly improving efficiency and accuracy in monitoring the condition of the Great Wall.

  • Saudi Arabia removed as host of inaugural Esports Olympics in 2027

    Saudi Arabia removed as host of inaugural Esports Olympics in 2027

    In a groundbreaking effort to enhance early detection of breast cancer, Burjeel Cancer Institute has unveiled a mobile screening initiative aimed at making diagnostic services more accessible to all. The program, aptly named ‘Early Detection on Wheels,’ deploys state-of-the-art mobile units equipped with advanced screening technologies to reach underserved communities. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly for women in remote or economically disadvantaged areas, where early detection can significantly improve survival rates. The mobile units will offer mammograms, consultations, and educational resources, all free of charge, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder essential healthcare services. By bringing these critical services directly to communities, Burjeel Cancer Institute aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to combat breast cancer effectively. This innovative approach underscores the institute’s commitment to public health and its mission to reduce the burden of cancer through proactive measures.

  • Shenzhou XXI astronauts to embark on journey to space

    Shenzhou XXI astronauts to embark on journey to space

    China is poised to take another significant step in its space exploration endeavors with the upcoming launch of the Shenzhou XXI mission. The China Manned Space Agency has announced that astronauts Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang will embark on this historic journey. The mission is scheduled to lift off at 11:44 pm on Friday, Beijing Time, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Northwest China. This mission underscores China’s growing capabilities in space technology and its commitment to advancing human spaceflight. The Shenzhou XXI mission is expected to contribute valuable data and experience to China’s broader space exploration goals, including potential future missions to the Moon and beyond.

  • Merz in Turkey: Germany seeks to rebuild strategic defence ties

    Merz in Turkey: Germany seeks to rebuild strategic defence ties

    German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s inaugural official visit to Ankara on Thursday signifies a pivotal shift in Berlin’s approach toward Turkey, emphasizing a security-oriented and transactional partnership. This visit underscores Germany’s growing reliance on Ankara’s role in bolstering European security and marks an effort to reset bilateral relations on a new foundation of cooperation. Historically, Germany’s concerns regarding Turkey revolved around domestic issues, human rights, and migration, particularly concerning Syrian refugees. However, Merz’s agenda now encompasses broader collaboration, including joint efforts to address the war in Ukraine and potential defense sector initiatives. A notable development is Germany’s approval of a €10.7 billion Eurofighter jet deal with Turkey, featuring advanced Meteor missiles and cutting-edge weaponry. Sources in Ankara suggest that Berlin has also urged Greece and Cyprus not to obstruct Turkey’s participation in the EU’s Safe initiative, which allocates €170 billion for defense industry investments. Merz emphasized the multifaceted nature of German-Turkish relations, spanning foreign policy, security, migration, energy, and trade, during his arrival in Ankara. He expressed his commitment to strengthening this partnership through discussions with President Erdogan. Turkey’s mediation efforts in the Ukraine conflict, including hosting talks between Russia and Ukraine, have been welcomed by Berlin. However, achieving a lasting peace would require significant strategic adjustments, potentially involving territorial compromises for Ukraine. Beyond Ukraine, Turkey has raised bilateral concerns, including a request for price reductions on Siemens high-speed trains for its expanding rail network. Ankara also seeks updates to the customs union, visa facilitation, and cooperation in Africa to counter Chinese influence. Additionally, Turkey aims for Germany’s continued support for the Gaza ceasefire plan brokered by Donald Trump, which envisions Hamas’s disarmament and political transformation. Merz is expected to address the issue of Turkish asylum seekers, pressing Ankara to accept more rejected applicants as Germany intensifies deportation efforts. Official data reveals that 22,560 Turkish nationals await deportation, with Germany also exploring the resumption of deportations to Syria, contingent on Turkey’s cooperation. This visit highlights the evolving dynamics of German-Turkish relations amid shifting geopolitical priorities.

  • China’s amphibious AG600 completes first open water scoop-drop drill

    China’s amphibious AG600 completes first open water scoop-drop drill

    China’s domestically developed AG600 Kunlong amphibious aircraft has successfully completed its first scoop-and-drop drill in open water, marking a significant milestone in its operational capabilities. The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) announced the achievement on Thursday, highlighting the aircraft’s performance in natural conditions over Songhua Lake in Jilin province. This drill, which involved scooping and dropping water, tested the AG600’s systems comprehensively, a step forward from previous trials confined to the Jingmen test flight base in Hubei province. The AG600, capable of carrying a 12-tonne water load and skimming additional fills from lakes, can drop a total of 120 tonnes of water, sufficient to cover over 4 hectares with heavy-rain intensity during fire-fighting missions. Following its production certification in June, the AG600 has entered mass production, with the first three units set for delivery by the end of 2025.

  • International youth talent alliance launches in Beijing’s Chaoyang district

    International youth talent alliance launches in Beijing’s Chaoyang district

    In a significant move to foster global collaboration in vocational training, the International Youth Talent Development Alliance was officially launched in Beijing’s Chaoyang district. The initiative was unveiled during the Fourth Chaoyang District Vocational Training Development Conference, which commenced on October 25. This groundbreaking alliance aims to unite domestic and international vocational training institutions and universities, creating a platform for knowledge exchange and skill development. The conference, held in Beijing, highlighted the district’s commitment to nurturing young talent and addressing the evolving demands of the global workforce. The alliance is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of vocational education, offering innovative solutions and fostering international partnerships. This initiative underscores Beijing’s strategic vision to position itself as a hub for talent development and innovation on the global stage.

  • Pakistan-Afghanistan peace talks likely to resume in Istanbul

    Pakistan-Afghanistan peace talks likely to resume in Istanbul

    In a groundbreaking move to combat breast cancer, the Burjeel Cancer Institute has launched a mobile screening initiative aimed at making early detection accessible to all. This innovative program, dubbed ‘Early Detection on Wheels,’ features state-of-the-art mammography units mounted on specially equipped vehicles, designed to reach underserved communities and remote areas. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly for women who face barriers to regular screenings due to geographical, financial, or cultural constraints. By bringing diagnostic services directly to patients, the program aims to detect breast cancer at its earliest stages, significantly improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. The mobile units are staffed by experienced healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive screenings, education, and follow-up care. This initiative aligns with global efforts to reduce breast cancer mortality and underscores the importance of early detection in saving lives. The Burjeel Cancer Institute’s commitment to equitable healthcare access sets a new standard in cancer prevention and care.