Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Shanghai’s political advisory body opens annual session

    Shanghai’s political advisory body opens annual session

    The 14th Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) commenced its fourth annual session on Monday, highlighting significant advancements in the city’s governance model and policy advisory functions.

    Chairman Hu Wenrong, delivering the keynote work report, revealed that Shanghai’s pioneering practice sites for whole-process people’s democracy have substantially expanded their operational scope throughout 2025. These democratic innovation hubs attracted considerable international attention, hosting 440 foreign delegates who expressed admiration for Shanghai’s distinctive approach to democratic governance. Many international observers noted the potential applicability of Shanghai’s model as a reference for other nations exploring democratic innovations.

    The advisory body’s operational metrics demonstrate robust engagement: 143 specialized consultative meetings were organized across the network, featuring participation from CPPCC members at national, municipal, and district levels, accounting for 3,861 individual engagements. The initiative further extended to educational outreach, welcoming 274 domestic groups and 948 students from diverse academic backgrounds.

    Economic stabilization emerged as the cornerstone of the committee’s policy focus throughout the past year. Nine dedicated research teams conducted comprehensive analyses across 12 critical sectors, including high-end manufacturing, real estate markets, and foreign investment frameworks. The research initiative encompassed 173 enterprise visits to gather firsthand operational insights, with findings systematically channeled to party and government authorities to facilitate responsive policy adjustments.

    The committee’s proposal mechanism demonstrated exceptional productivity, receiving 1,269 formal submissions with 1,046 proposals achieving formal acceptance after rigorous review. These vetted proposals provided substantively constructive, precisely targeted, and operationally feasible recommendations aimed at accelerating reform initiatives and advancing Shanghai’s comprehensive modernization agenda.

  • Dubai gold prices drop further, down over Dh100 per gram since last week’s peak

    Dubai gold prices drop further, down over Dh100 per gram since last week’s peak

    Dubai’s gold market witnessed a significant downturn on Monday as prices continued their sharp decline from last week’s historic highs. The precious metal’s value experienced a substantial drop, with 24K gold falling by Dh26.25 per gram at market opening, settling at Dh563.25 per gram according to Dubai Jewellery Group data.

    This recent decline marks a dramatic reversal from Thursday’s peak of Dh666 per gram, representing a total decrease of Dh102.75 per gram within days. All gold variants in the Dubai market now trade below the Dh600 threshold, with 22K, 21K, 18K and 14K gold dropping to Dh521.5, Dh500.0, Dh428.75 and Dh334.25 per gram respectively.

    The price correction triggered a wave of selling activity among UAE residents and investors who rushed to liquidate their gold and silver holdings. Market participants moved quickly to capitalize on the recent rally, believing the precious metals had reached their peak valuation.

    International spot gold mirrored this trend, trading at $4,651.34 per ounce with a nearly five percent decline as the US dollar strengthened in global markets. This represents the first time since last month that Dubai’s gold prices have retreated below the Dh600 per gram level after previously surpassing this milestone for both 24K and 22K variants.

    Market analyst Rania Gule of XS.com Mena attributed the selling pressure to a complex interplay of psychological factors and macroeconomic variables. “In phases that follow the achievement of record highs, markets are rarely driven by a single factor; rather, investor decisions are shaped by fears of losing accumulated gains, the rapid flow of news, and shifts in broader macroeconomic expectations,” she explained.

    The current market behavior reflects typical profit-taking activity following exceptional price performance, with investors reassessing their positions amid changing market conditions and currency fluctuations.

  • Japan retrieves rare earth-rich mud from seabed to lower reliance on China

    Japan retrieves rare earth-rich mud from seabed to lower reliance on China

    In a groundbreaking technological achievement, Japan has successfully retrieved deep-sea sediment containing rare earth minerals from the seabed near Minamitorishima Island, marking a significant advancement in undersea resource extraction. The operation, conducted at an unprecedented depth of nearly 6,000 meters by the drilling vessel Chikyu, represents the world’s first successful test retrieval of rare earth elements from such extreme marine environments.

    Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the accomplishment via official channels, characterizing it as “a first step toward industrialization of domestically produced rare earth in Japan.” The breakthrough forms part of Japan’s broader Strategic Innovation Promotion Program, which has been conducting comprehensive research and feasibility studies on rare earth deposits around the remote island since their discovery in the 2010s.

    This development carries substantial geopolitical significance given China’s current dominance in global rare earth production, particularly heavy rare earths essential for manufacturing high-strength magnets used in defense systems and electric vehicles. Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki emphasized the achievement’s importance “from the perspectives of economic security and comprehensive ocean development.”

    While technical details including precise mineral concentrations require further analysis, officials confirmed the successful retrieval occurred on February 1st following the Chikyu’s departure last month and arrival at the mining site on January 17th. The project now moves toward demonstrating full industrial viability, encompassing the complete process from seabed extraction through separation and refining operations.

    The advancement occurs amid heightened regional tensions and follows China’s recent suspension of dual-use exports to Japan, raising concerns about potential restrictions on rare earth shipments. Japanese researchers estimate the Minamitorishima deposits contain high-concentration rare earths sufficient to supply global demand for hundreds of years, potentially reshaping global supply chains for critical minerals.

  • Japan sets up ’24/7′ task force to combat online abuse during Milan Cortina Winter Olympics

    Japan sets up ’24/7′ task force to combat online abuse during Milan Cortina Winter Olympics

    In an unprecedented move to safeguard its athletes, the Japanese Olympic Committee has established a specialized 24-hour monitoring task force for the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Games. This proactive initiative directly responds to the widespread online harassment experienced by competitors during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.

    The comprehensive digital protection unit will consist of 22 dedicated staff members strategically positioned across two continents. Six team members will operate from Milan while another sixteen will work from Japan, ensuring continuous coverage across all time zones. Each location will have legal expertise on standby to address severe cases.

    Hidehito Ito, Japan’s Chef de Mission, emphasized the program’s significance: “As a new initiative we are going to be tackling online abuse. Experts will monitor platforms continuously, and when we identify harmful content, we will formally request its removal.”

    This groundbreaking athlete protection program builds upon Japan’s intensified national campaign against cyberbullying, which gained urgency following the 2020 suicide of reality television star and professional wrestler Hana Kimura. The 22-year-old’s tragic death prompted legislative reforms, including stricter penalties for online abuse that can now result in up to one year imprisonment.

    The JOC will collaborate with the International Olympic Committee while respecting cultural differences in addressing online harassment. According to JOC official Naoya Yanagiya, the organization is “closely monitoring the IOC’s approach and considering in which areas we can cooperate” while maintaining “regular communication with the IOC throughout the tournament.”

    The task force represents the latest evolution in Japan’s multi-competition strategy against digital abuse, incorporating lessons learned from both the Paris Games and World Athletics Championships.

  • Beijing criticises Dalai Lama Grammy win as ‘manipulation’

    Beijing criticises Dalai Lama Grammy win as ‘manipulation’

    China has issued a stern diplomatic condemnation following the Grammy Awards’ recognition of the Dalai Lama, characterizing the accolade as a form of political weaponization against Chinese interests. The Tibetan spiritual leader received the award in the Best Audio Book, Narration & Storytelling Recording category for ‘Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.’

    Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian articulated Beijing’s position during a press briefing, stating: ‘We firmly oppose relevant parties using art awards as a tool for anti-China political manipulation, and this position is consistent and clear.’ The declaration reinforces China’s longstanding view of the Dalai Lama as a separatist figure seeking to undermine Chinese territorial integrity.

    The 90-year-old Nobel Peace Laureate, who has resided in exile in Dharamshala, India since fleeing Tibet during the 1959 uprising, accepted the honor with measured diplomacy. In a social media statement, he noted: ‘I receive this recognition with gratitude and humility. I don’t see it as something personal, but as a recognition of our shared universal responsibility.’ Musician Rufus Wainwright accepted the award on his behalf during the ceremony.

    The Grammy recognition coincides with heightened tensions regarding succession plans for the spiritual leadership. The Dalai Lama’s previous statements indicating his reincarnation would occur in the ‘free world’ outside China directly contradict Beijing’s insistence that any succession must adhere to Chinese laws and receive government approval. This disagreement has amplified concerns among Tibetan exile communities that China might attempt to control the succession process to strengthen its governance over Tibet, which China has administered since 1950.

  • Australian woman dies after becoming snagged in ski lift in Japan

    Australian woman dies after becoming snagged in ski lift in Japan

    A devastating incident at Tsugaike Kogen Mountain Resort in Japan’s Nagano Prefecture has resulted in the death of a 22-year-old Australian woman following a catastrophic ski lift malfunction. The tragedy occurred around 9:00 AM local time on Friday when the victim’s backpack became entangled in the chairlift mechanism during disembarkation.

    According to official statements from resort management, an unfastened buckle on the woman’s backpack hooked onto the chair while the chest strap remained secured, creating a dangerous entanglement that suspended her mid-air. The immediate trauma triggered a cardiac arrest, with emergency responders unable to revive her despite rapid medical intervention.

    Tsuneo Kubo, Chief Executive of Tsugaike Mountain Resort, issued a profound apology expressing his “deepest condolences to the bereaved family” while confirming a comprehensive investigation has been launched in coordination with local authorities. The resort’s emergency protocols were activated when an attendant triggered the emergency stop mechanism, followed by immediate first aid administration and ambulance transportation to a nearby medical facility.

    The incident occurred on the Tsuga No. 2 Pair Lift, a two-person chairlift that serves as a primary access point to the resort’s extensive skiing terrain. Japanese police have initiated a thorough examination of the equipment and are interviewing resort staff as part of their official inquiry into the mechanical failure and safety procedures.

    Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed the tragic death of their citizen and is providing consular support to the grieving family. The popular Hakuba Valley resort, renowned among international visitors for its extensive winter sports facilities, has pledged to implement enhanced safety measures and conduct a complete review of all lift operations to prevent future tragedies.

  • From charity to connectivity: China remaking global public health

    From charity to connectivity: China remaking global public health

    The United States’ scheduled withdrawal from the World Health Organization in January 2026 has initiated a fundamental transformation in global health governance that extends far beyond immediate financial concerns. While the $260 million funding gap and reduced management capacity present immediate operational challenges, the more significant evolution is structural and ideological in nature.

    China is strategically capitalizing on this power vacuum through its Health Silk Road initiative, fundamentally altering the paradigm of international health assistance. Rather than merely assuming America’s vacant position, Beijing is architecting an entirely new operational framework that prioritizes infrastructure development over traditional aid models. This represents a historic transition from charity-based donor-recipient relationships to investment-driven partnerships focused on building sustainable local capacity.

    The Western approach, historically led by the United States and European Union, operated primarily through multilateral organizations and NGOs delivering essential health commodities—vaccines, antiretroviral drugs, and preventive materials—to developing nations. In contrast, China’s model emphasizes constructing the physical infrastructure that enables countries to manufacture their own medical solutions, as demonstrated by recent agreements establishing insulin production facilities in Nigeria and antimalarial factories throughout West Africa.

    This strategic shift resonates powerfully with developing nations seeking to overcome the perceived paternalism often associated with Western aid conditionality. China frames its engagement as ‘South-South cooperation’ grounded in mutual respect and commercial partnership rather than donor dependency.

    The complexity of this transition manifests in what analysts term a ‘bifurcated system’—a financially constrained WHO continues setting global health standards while China’s bilateral engine builds the physical architecture of healthcare delivery. This fragmentation risks creating incompatible technical standards for digital health, AI diagnostics, and vaccine production that could undermine global pandemic preparedness.

    America’s withdrawal represents not merely a financial shortfall but an ideological abdication, allowing China to redefine ‘global public goods’ according to its state-centric governance philosophy. Through dispatching medical teams to 77 countries and embedding experts within institutions like the Africa CDC, China is executing health policy as foreign policy with unprecedented efficiency.

    The emerging global health landscape will likely evolve as a hybrid system where nations adopt Western standards when available but increasingly rely on Chinese infrastructure. This new pragmatism necessitates that Western powers compete not through increased charity but through smarter investments in local capacity building. As Beijing paves this new road in global health governance, the absence of American leadership ensures it becomes the primary pathway forward.

  • Why the UAE is pulling ahead in the EV transition

    Why the UAE is pulling ahead in the EV transition

    The United Arab Emirates has quietly positioned itself at the forefront of the global electric vehicle revolution, creating a unique market paradigm that transcends conventional EV adoption narratives. While many nations still approach electric mobility through the lens of environmental responsibility and cost savings, the UAE has engineered a comprehensive ecosystem where government policy, infrastructure development, and consumer aspirations converge to accelerate adoption.

    Market projections reveal remarkable growth trajectories, with battery electric vehicle sales expected to expand at a 19% compound annual growth rate between 2024 and 2029. This momentum stems from unprecedented public-private alignment, including Dubai’s transformation of approximately 70% of its taxi fleet to battery electric and hybrid models—a clear indicator of systemic change rather than niche adoption.

    The charging infrastructure network continues to scale strategically, initially emphasizing slow chargers but rapidly expanding fast-charging capabilities as utilization increases. For ride-hailing operators, the economic model proves increasingly compelling, with earnings between 15-22% achievable under battery replacement frameworks.

    Luxury Redefined: From Performance to Experience

    In a region historically synonymous with V12 engines and dramatic arrivals, the very definition of automotive luxury is undergoing profound transformation. Industry leaders note that premium EV adoption in the UAE represents a paradigm shift where technology, digital integration, and seamless experiences have become the new benchmarks of luxury.

    Karim-Christian Haririan, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East, emphasizes that success stems from ‘the power of choice, enabled by technological openness.’ The forthcoming BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, built on Amazon’s Alexa+ AI architecture, exemplifies this evolution—transforming vehicles from mechanical marvels into intuitive digital companions.

    Ricky Mullins, Executive Vice-President of Exeed UAE, observes that luxury now reflects ‘intelligence, effortlessness, and emotional ease’ rather than overt status symbols. This recalibration is particularly significant in a market where refinement is measured by how quietly, smoothly, and intuitively vehicles perform.

    Roberto Colucci, Director of EVs at AW Rostamani Group, describes the transition as fundamental: ‘The absence of engine noise isn’t a loss, it’s a gain. It creates a refined cabin environment that allows for an entirely new level of comfort and conversation.’

    Beyond Sustainability: The Experience Economy

    While sustainability initiates consumer consideration, it no longer dominates purchase decisions. Comprehensive research indicates that 52% of UAE buyers prioritize lower operating costs, while 47% cite environmental concerns—but the ultimate decision hinges on overall experience, design, and lifestyle alignment.

    This psychological shift from duty-based to desire-driven adoption explains why 94% of UAE EV owners intend to purchase another electric vehicle. The market has matured beyond compromise, offering vehicles that deliver superior driving experiences while addressing environmental considerations.

    Digital-First Ownership Models

    The UAE’s advanced digital landscape has reshaped EV ownership expectations, with smartphones becoming the new control centers for vehicle management. From checking charge levels and preconditioning cabins to scheduling maintenance and locating chargers, integrated apps have transformed the ownership experience.

    Flexible subscription models through platforms like Shift Rent a Car and Subscribe Me further lower adoption barriers, particularly valuable in a market characterized by mobility and transient residency patterns. These digital-native approaches align with broader regional trends in banking, retail, and service consumption.

    Securing Global Leadership

    Maintaining the UAE’s competitive advantage requires transitioning from rapid adoption to comprehensive system building. Industry leaders emphasize the necessity of sustained infrastructure investment, supportive regulatory frameworks, and innovative public-private partnerships.

    The next phase demands full ecosystem integration, including charging interoperability across networks, smart grid capabilities enabling vehicle-to-grid technologies, and developing circular economy solutions for battery repair, reuse, and recycling. With premium vehicles above $80,000 currently dominating the market, expanding mid-range options will be crucial for mass adoption.

    As the UAE continues to refine its EV ecosystem, the nation demonstrates how strategic alignment across government, industry, and consumer preferences can accelerate sustainable transportation transitions while creating market leadership in the emerging electric mobility economy.

  • UAE schools expand FS2, Grade 1 capacity to meet rising demand amid new age cut-offs

    UAE schools expand FS2, Grade 1 capacity to meet rising demand amid new age cut-offs

    United Arab Emirates educational institutions are significantly increasing capacity for Foundation Stage 2 and Grade 1 classes to address substantial enrollment demand following recent adjustments to national school entry regulations. The capacity expansion comes as Dubai’s private education sector implements revised age eligibility guidelines issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

    In December, the Ministry of Education extended the enrollment cutoff date from August 31 to December 31 for Foundation Stage One admissions within the British curriculum system. This regulatory change has subsequently influenced placement decisions for FS2, Year 1, and Year 2 admissions across the country.

    The implementation has created logistical challenges for both families and educational institutions. Numerous parents have reported limited availability at preferred schools, necessitating alternative placement arrangements. Concerns have emerged regarding developmental readiness as some children are being placed in older age groups earlier than originally anticipated.

    Marah Kadoura, Principal of Woodlem American School in Ajman, indicated that schools are strategically planning enrollment while prioritizing early applicants. “Although some classes such as KG2 and Grade 1 are approaching capacity, institutions are implementing measures to increase seating availability where feasible,” Kadoura noted, while acknowledging physical infrastructure and class size limitations.

    The KHDA has clarified that children born between September 1 and December 31, 2021, who were previously ineligible for the 2025-2026 academic year, may now register for FS2 or Year 1 for the 2026-2027 session. Final enrollment decisions remain subject to individual assessments of developmental readiness and seat availability.

    Education experts emphasize the critical importance of transparent communication during this transition. Neil Hopkin, Director of Education at Fortes Education, highlighted their comprehensive outreach to affected families: “We have engaged closely with parents to explain how the updated KHDA guidance functions and its implications for individual placements.”

    Developmental considerations remain paramount amidst the regulatory changes. Vandana Gandhi, CEO of British Orchard Nursery, emphasized that “not all children meeting the new age criteria may be developmentally prepared for FS2.” Her organization has implemented an Enhanced Readiness Programme specifically designed to support children requiring additional preparation before transitioning to more formal educational environments.

    As the academic community adapts to these regulatory modifications, maintaining educational quality while accommodating increased demand represents the primary challenge facing UAE educational institutions.

  • China’s rail fleets ready for Spring Festival travel rush​

    China’s rail fleets ready for Spring Festival travel rush​

    China’s extensive high-speed railway system stands fully prepared to accommodate the monumental Spring Festival travel surge, known as chunyun, which officially commenced on February 2, 2026. This annual phenomenon represents the planet’s largest periodic human migration, with millions of Chinese citizens journeying back to their ancestral homes to celebrate the Lunar New Year with family.

    Photographic evidence from maintenance depots across Southwest China’s Chongqing municipality reveals rows of bullet trains undergoing final preparations before deployment. These meticulously serviced high-speed trains will form the backbone of China’s transportation infrastructure during the 40-day travel period, ensuring safe and efficient transit for the massive passenger volumes.

    The Spring Festival travel rush represents both a logistical challenge and a cultural tradition of profound significance. Migrant workers, university students, and professionals working far from their birthplaces all participate in this homeward migration, creating unprecedented demand on China’s rail network. Authorities have implemented comprehensive operational plans to handle the anticipated passenger surge while maintaining service quality and safety standards.

    China’s railway operators have optimized scheduling, increased train frequencies on popular routes, and deployed additional staff to manage station operations. The preparation period saw intensive maintenance checks and cleaning procedures to ensure all rolling stock meets the rigorous demands of continuous operation during peak travel days.

    The annual chunyun period not only demonstrates China’s transportation capabilities but also reflects deep-rooted cultural values surrounding family reunification and traditional celebrations. The successful management of this massive population movement remains a top priority for transportation authorities nationwide.