Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Salman Khan attends Nupur Sanon-Stebin Ben’s wedding reception

    Salman Khan attends Nupur Sanon-Stebin Ben’s wedding reception

    Mumbai’s elite social scene witnessed a glamorous convergence of Bollywood’s finest on Tuesday evening as superstar Salman Khan made a distinguished appearance at the wedding reception of actress Nupur Sanon and singer Stebin Ben. The celebrated actor, renowned for his iconic roles in films like “Bodyguard,” commanded immediate attention upon his arrival at the sophisticated Mumbai venue, elegantly attired in a tailored blue suit that exemplified his signature style.

    The newly married couple extended a warm welcome to the megastar as he entered the celebration. In a gesture demonstrating deep respect for the veteran actor, Stebin Ben was observed greeting Khan with a reverent bow before engaging in animated conversation. The trio shared several moments together on the crimson-hued carpet, generously posing for photographers while exchanging cheerful smiles and apparent good wishes.

    Nupur Sanon, sister of established actress Kriti Sanon, captivated attendees in a exquisite deep maroon off-shoulder gown featuring intricate craftsmanship, complemented by coordinating jewelry selections. Her partner Stebin Ben selected a traditionally inspired black sherwani embellished with subtle glitter accents, creating a harmonious visual presentation that reflected their joyful union.

    The celebration transformed into a veritable who’s who of Indian entertainment, with Kriti Sanon making a sophisticated statement in an olive-green saree paired with a sleeveless blouse, opting for understated elegance with minimal jewelry. The guest roster included prominent industry figures such as producer Ramesh Turani, actress Karishma Tanna, director Aanand L. Rai, and television personality Arjun Bijlani, all extending their congratulations to the couple.

    This reception followed the couple’s formal wedding ceremony on January 11th, which similarly attracted numerous celebrities including Dinesh Vijan, Varun Sharma, Mouni Roy, and fashion designer Manish Malhotra, consolidating the union as one of Bollywood’s most notable matrimonial events of the season.

  • OMODA&JAECOO UAE partners with Dubai Police Esaad programme to offer exclusive member benefits

    OMODA&JAECOO UAE partners with Dubai Police Esaad programme to offer exclusive member benefits

    In a significant development for automotive retail in the United Arab Emirates, OMODA&JAECOO UAE has entered into a formal partnership with the Dubai Police Esaad Card Center. The collaboration, established through a memorandum of understanding signed on December 10, 2025, will provide exclusive vehicle ownership benefits to Esaad programme members throughout the UAE for a duration of one year.

    The ceremonial signing occurred with Colonel Salah Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Director of the Esaad Card Center, representing Dubai Police, and Will Li, Executive Vice President of OMODA&JAECOO UAE, leading the automotive brand’s delegation. Senior officials from both organizations witnessed the agreement that aims to enhance community engagement through customer-focused mobility solutions.

    Under this arrangement, Esaad cardholders gain access to substantial financial advantages including an immediate AED 1,500 discount across the entire OMODA and JAECOO model range. The flagship JAECOO J8 SHS receives an enhanced incentive of AED 2,000 reduction. These discounts remain applicable alongside any current promotional offers available at company showrooms.

    The comprehensive benefits package extends beyond purchase price reductions to include complimentary insurance coverage, maintenance services, vehicle registration, window tinting, and warranty protection. Selected models will additionally qualify for further financial incentives, creating one of the most complete automotive benefit programmes currently accessible to Esaad members.

    Redemption procedures have been streamlined for convenience: members can either access the discount section through official Esaad channels or simply present their Esaad card QR code at any OMODA&JAECOO showroom nationwide. Verification and instant discount application occur directly at the point of sale.

    Both entities emphasized that this public-private partnership demonstrates their mutual dedication to fostering sustainable cooperation between sectors while delivering measurable value that positively influences community development. The initiative reflects OMODA&JAECOO UAE’s ongoing commitment to supporting national programmes and rewarding community members through accessible premium mobility solutions.

  • Two ancient chariots unearthed outside Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum

    Two ancient chariots unearthed outside Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum

    In a significant archaeological breakthrough, researchers excavating the perimeter of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum in Shaanxi province have uncovered two ancient ceremonial chariots devoid of wheels. The discovery emerged during a 2025 excavation project covering 30 square meters within Pit No. 2 at the renowned mausoleum site museum.

    The excavation team, led by project director Zhu Sihong from the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, revealed that the finding represents the first confirmed instance of wheel-less chariot burial in this section of the archaeological complex. Alongside the chariots, archaeologists recovered 15 pieces of sophisticated chariot and horse gear alongside nine ancient weapons.

    According to Zhu, the absence of wheels suggests these vehicles served a symbolic rather than practical purpose within the emperor’s subterranean army. This discovery provides new insights into the funerary practices and spiritual beliefs of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC).

    Pit No. 2, spanning approximately 6,000 square meters, is believed to contain over 1,300 terracotta figures including charioteers, cavalry units, and both kneeling and standing archers. Many of the best-preserved painted terracotta artifacts discovered to date originate from this section of the burial complex.

    The Terracotta Army, first unearthed in 1974, represents one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Commissioned by China’s first emperor to accompany him in the afterlife, the site gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1987. To date, thousands of life-sized clay soldiers and extensive weaponry have been recovered from three primary pits surrounding the main tomb, offering unprecedented understanding of Qin Dynasty military organization, artistic achievement, and social structure.

  • Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood to legally challenge US terror designation

    Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood to legally challenge US terror designation

    The Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood has initiated a formal legal challenge against the United States’ recent decision to classify its organization and affiliated branches in Jordan and Lebanon as terrorist entities. In an official statement released Tuesday, the Brotherhood condemned the designation as “fundamentally detached from reality and unsupported by credible evidence,” characterizing the move as politically motivated and detrimental to Muslim communities worldwide.

    The US Treasury and State Departments jointly announced sweeping sanctions against the Brotherhood’s regional branches, with the Lebanese wing receiving the severe classification of “Foreign Terrorist Organization” – a designation that criminalizes any material support to the group. Simultaneously, the Treasury Department listed the Jordanian and Egyptian branches as “Specially Designated Global Terrorists,” alleging connections to Hamas.

    These designations carry substantial consequences, including travel bans for current and former members, economic sanctions targeting revenue streams, and criminal penalties for providing material assistance. The Brotherhood maintains that the US action “politicizes counterterrorism tools, conflates peaceful Islamic civic engagement with extremism, and reinforces marginalizing narratives against Muslims.”

    The organization emphasized its historical commitment to non-violence, stating it has “never threatened the security of the United States” while vowing to exhaust all legal avenues to overturn the decision. The group has additionally called upon human rights organizations and civil society groups to challenge what it describes as discriminatory policy.

    This development follows years of deliberation within US government circles, reportedly initiated after President Donald Trump’s 2019 meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. At that time, numerous government agencies including the Defense Department and diplomatic officials raised substantive legal and policy objections to such designations.

    Founded in 1928 as an anti-colonial movement, the Muslim Brotherhood has evolved into one of the world’s most significant Islamic organizations, operating primarily as a socio-political movement despite facing decades of persecution by Arab nationalist regimes. The group experienced remarkable political ascendancy following the 2011 Arab Spring, culminating in Mohamed Morsi’s democratic election as Egypt’s president in 2012 – an administration that was subsequently overthrown in a military coup.

    The Brotherhood’s designation reflects broader geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, where regional powers including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain have already banned the organization. These developments have contributed to regional rifts involving Turkey, Qatar, and Gulf states, with many autocratic governments viewing the Brotherhood as an existential threat to their rule.

  • Shanghai unveils cultural tourism program for Spring Festival holiday

    Shanghai unveils cultural tourism program for Spring Festival holiday

    Shanghai has unveiled an ambitious cultural tourism program for the upcoming 2026 Spring Festival holiday, featuring an impressive lineup of approximately 2,570 diverse events and activities. The Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism announced the comprehensive initiative designed to create immersive experiences for both residents and visitors during the traditional Chinese New Year celebrations.

    The extensive program encompasses festival activities, cultural performances, museum exhibitions, and specialized showcases. Among the highlights are 353 themed tourism activities complemented by 54 science-focused events specifically tailored for younger audiences. These educational offerings include interactive exhibitions, specialized classes, 4D cinematic experiences, and performance fairs that blend entertainment with learning.

    Performance arts take center stage with 1,369 scheduled shows spanning various genres. The diverse repertoire features large-scale concerts, traditional Shanghai-style performances, children’s theater productions, and international spectacles including London’s West End musicals. Sports enthusiasts can anticipate the Spring Festival tennis star match at Shanghai stadium, scheduled from the second to fifth day of the lunar new year, which will showcase veteran tennis players, social media influencers, and crossover celebrities.

    Museum offerings include nearly 50 special exhibitions exploring themes from Shanghai-style qipao fashion to ancient Roman culture, with particular emphasis on celebrations for the Year of the Horse. Art galleries contribute to the cultural feast with over 100 premium exhibitions across 60 venues, including prestigious collections on loan from the Louvre and dedicated showcases featuring Picasso’s works.

    The program also highlights intangible cultural heritage with activities running from mid-January through the Lantern Festival on March 3. These experiences focus on culinary traditions, lantern festivals, calligraphy demonstrations, riddle events, and traditional craftsmanship workshops.

    To enhance accessibility, 60 tourist attractions will offer substantial discounts including half-price admissions and zodiac-specific promotions. These venues will feature traditional craft demonstrations, pet-friendly celebrations, and specialty markets, alongside integrated accommodation packages. Donghu Group has introduced over 50 ‘accommodation+’ holiday packages, while Shanghai Jiushi Group offers the ShanghaiPass cultural tour joint ticket for 299 yuan ($42.88), providing access to 20 landmark cultural venues and discounts at nearly 50 restaurants throughout the city.

  • Emaar to launch tender for Dubai Creek Tower in three months, says Alabbar

    Emaar to launch tender for Dubai Creek Tower in three months, says Alabbar

    Dubai’s iconic skyline is poised for another transformative addition as Emaar Properties confirms the revival of its ambitious Dubai Creek Tower project. Company founder Mohamed Ali Alabbar announced at the Dubai International Project Management Forum that construction tenders for the newly redesigned tower will be issued within the next quarter.

    The project, initially unveiled prior to the global pandemic, underwent significant design revisions during its hiatus. While originally conceived to surpass the Burj Khalifa as the world’s tallest structure, Alabbar emphasized that contemporary architectural excellence transcends mere height. ‘After the Burj Khalifa, altitude alone is no longer enough. We focus on the aesthetics of the building and its surroundings,’ he stated, indicating a shift toward holistic urban design philosophy.

    Alabbar declined to disclose specific construction details or cost projections, citing the project’s technical complexity. This revival occurs amidst regional competition, with Saudi Arabia reportedly resuming work on its own mile-high Kingdom Tower project.

    The announcement forms part of Emaar’s broader development strategy for Dubai Creek Harbour, which includes the recently launched Dubai Square project. This integrated residential and retail development will center around the Dubai Square Mall—scheduled for completion within three years—which at 180 billion dirhams will become the region’s second-largest shopping and entertainment destination, slightly smaller than the Dubai Mall but nearly triple the size of Downtown Dubai.

    Beyond real estate developments, Alabbar shared provocative insights on corporate management, revealing that Emaar implemented a 30-day meeting ban in September 2025, including virtual gatherings. He challenged conventional workforce structures, stating that technological advancement and artificial intelligence have rendered traditional employee ratios obsolete for most companies.

  • Dutch court hears arguments in Nexperia mismanagement case that upset the global auto industry

    Dutch court hears arguments in Nexperia mismanagement case that upset the global auto industry

    AMSTERDAM (AP) — A high-stakes legal confrontation unfolded Wednesday at the Amsterdam Court of Appeal, where semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia became the focal point of an international corporate governance dispute with far-reaching implications for global supply chains.

    The enterprise chamber convened to determine whether to initiate a formal investigation into alleged management failures at the Dutch-based chipmaker, which is ultimately owned by China’s Wingtech. This judicial proceeding represents the latest chapter in an escalating geopolitical corporate drama that first erupted into public view in September.

    Citing pressing national security considerations, the Dutch government executed an extraordinary intervention in late September, assuming temporary operational control of Nexperia and ousting Chinese CEO Zhang Xuezheng, who concurrently founded parent company Wingtech. Authorities expressed specific concerns regarding potential intellectual property transfers and broader management practices.

    Legal representatives for Zhang and Wingtech mounted a vigorous defense, characterizing their client as an accomplished entrepreneur navigating complex international trade tensions. They asserted that the Dutch government’s sudden maneuver caught Wingtech completely unprepared and urged the judicial panel to reject the proposed investigation. Zhang himself was notably absent from the proceedings.

    Nexperia’s counsel, Jeroen van der Schriek, presented counterarguments suggesting that Wingtech and Hong Kong-based holding company Yuching had demonstrated willingness to prioritize external interests over Nexperia’s operational welfare since October’s developments.

    The corporate struggle triggered tangible global repercussions when Beijing temporarily suspended exports of Nexperia chips from Chinese production facilities in October. This action sent automotive manufacturers across North America, Japan, and South Korea scrambling for alternatives, given Nexperia’s significant role in automotive semiconductor supply chains.

    The export restriction was subsequently lifted following diplomatic engagement between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese Leader Xi Jinping in late October. By November, the Dutch government relinquished its control over Nexperia as a goodwill gesture, though underlying tensions persisted.

    An internal standoff between Nexperia’s Netherlands headquarters and its Chinese operations continued to disrupt production workflows, with the Chinese division alleging shipment interruptions of essential wafers from Europe. The headquarters countered that its Chinese subsidiary had disregarded direct instructions, exacerbating supply chain uncertainties.

    Major automakers including Honda and Mercedes-Benz experienced production disruptions and sought emergency semiconductor alternatives during the crisis. China’s Ministry of Commerce subsequently accused the Netherlands of provoking a global chip shortage and demanded immediate corrective actions.

    Originally established as a Philips Semiconductors division two decades ago, Nexperia was acquired by Wingtech in 2018. The company faced previous regulatory challenges when the British government blocked its acquisition of Wales-based Newport Wafer Fab in 2023, citing national security risks.

  • Mainland vows stringent countermeasures against diehard Taiwan separatists

    Mainland vows stringent countermeasures against diehard Taiwan separatists

    China has intensified its legal campaign against proponents of Taiwanese independence, warning of increasingly severe consequences for those pursuing separatist agendas. Zhu Fenglian, spokeswoman for China’s State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, articulated the government’s position during a Wednesday press briefing, emphasizing that punitive measures would escalate in direct proportion to separatist activities.

    The official stated that legal action against hardline Taiwan independence advocates and their accomplices constitutes both a necessary defense of national sovereignty and a protective measure for the interests of citizens across the Taiwan Strait. This development follows the January 7th designation of three Taiwanese officials—Liu Shyh-fang (head of Taiwan’s interior affairs department), Cheng Ying-yao (education department head), and Chen Shu-yi (a prosecutor)—as either diehard separatists or accomplices to separatist activities.

    The Democratic Progressive Party subsequently challenged mainland China’s jurisdictional authority over Taiwanese citizens, a position promptly dismissed by Zhu. She reaffirmed Beijing’s longstanding position that Taiwan remains an inalienable part of Chinese territory, asserting that any actions endangering national sovereignty would incur legal consequences under Chinese law.

    Zhu characterized the targeted individuals as having undermined national unity, damaged cross-strait relations, and compromised the welfare of compatriots. She indicated that those pursuing Taiwan independence faced inevitable legal accountability and historical disgrace, describing China’s approach as operating through legal channels with unwavering determination.

    The spokeswoman specifically addressed comments by Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te, who had expressed pride regarding the designated officials. Zhu warned that as separatists grow more assertive in their pursuit of what she termed a ‘dead-end path,’ corresponding countermeasures would intensify, ultimately leading to what she described as ‘the judgment of justice and a disgraced downfall.’

  • Iran calls on UN to condemn Trump’s incitement to overthrow government

    Iran calls on UN to condemn Trump’s incitement to overthrow government

    Iran’s United Nations mission has formally requested the Security Council to denounce what it characterizes as Washington’s intensifying campaign to destabilize the nation. This diplomatic move comes in direct response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s public exhortation on social media urging Iranian protesters to seize state institutions.

    Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani submitted an urgent communiqué late Tuesday asserting that Trump’s Truth Social post constituted explicit encouragement of political destabilization and incitement to violence. The diplomatic correspondence emphasized that such statements directly threaten Iran’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security.

    Trump’s provocative message, posted January 13, 2026, declared: ‘Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! … HELP IS ON ITS WAY.’ When subsequently questioned by journalists regarding the nature of this promised assistance, the former president offered no clarification, stating only that he would ‘have to figure that out.’

    Ambassador Iravani contextualized these remarks within recent hostilities against Iran, specifically referencing the failed 12-day military aggression in June 2025 that reportedly resulted in approximately 1,000 Iranian casualties. The ambassador’s letter attributed direct legal responsibility to both the United States and Israel for civilian deaths during this conflict.

    The Iranian mission’s Twitter account simultaneously amplified these allegations, characterizing U.S. policy toward Iran as fundamentally rooted in regime change strategies employing sanctions, threats, and engineered unrest as pretexts for military intervention.

    Iran’s formal request to the United Nations includes demands for unequivocal condemnation of U.S. incitement to violence, cessation of destabilizing policies, and compliance with international legal obligations. The appeal further seeks warnings against potential military aggression.

    This diplomatic offensive coincides with revelations from former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who acknowledged the necessity for ‘strategic patience’ in pursuing regime change in Iran while operating with an ‘invisible hand.’ Gallant, currently subject to an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for alleged war crimes, emphasized the importance of background influence during ongoing protests that commenced in Iran on December 28.

  • Paid study spaces gaining popularity among China’s dream-seeking youth

    Paid study spaces gaining popularity among China’s dream-seeking youth

    Across urban China, a quiet revolution in learning is unfolding within the walls of specialized paid study spaces that have become essential sanctuaries for the nation’s ambitious youth. These meticulously designed environments offer much more than mere quiet—they provide structured havens for concentrated study amid increasingly competitive academic and professional landscapes.

    The phenomenon represents a sophisticated market response to growing educational pressures. Modern study rooms feature sound-proofed cubicles, ergonomic furniture, optimized lighting systems, and amenity-rich spaces complete with printers, beverage stations, and rest zones. Flexible membership options cater to diverse needs, ranging from hourly access to comprehensive annual packages.

    Industry pioneer Zhongxiang Study Room exemplifies this rapid expansion. Since its 2023 establishment in Hebei province, the chain has grown to encompass over 60 corporate locations and 100 franchised outlets, serving approximately 140,000 registered users while generating roughly 10 million yuan ($1.4 million) in annual revenue. According to company director Meng Yulong, over half their clientele consists of postgraduate and civil service examination candidates.

    Beyond commercial success, these spaces fulfill deeper sociological needs by creating environments of mutual dedication. ‘The collective determination becomes genuinely contagious,’ noted Wang Pan, a regular at Beijing’s Chenxi Study Room. Unwritten protocols govern behavior—phone conversations remain outside, cleanliness is maintained, and inspirational messages adorn bulletin boards, fostering what users describe as a powerful ‘shared journey’ of improvement.

    Industry analysts estimate approximately 100,000 such facilities nationwide, representing an annual market value exceeding 10 billion yuan. With average monthly passes costing 400 yuan and venues typically containing 50 seats, the business model demonstrates significant economic viability while addressing urban youth’s need for distraction-free environments unavailable at home or in crowded public libraries.

    The trend reflects broader societal shifts toward continuous skill development. Many users represent career changers like Xiao Peng, who transitioned from bioengineering to computer science studies, or professionals like Tianjin’s A Lan, who left high-pressure technology sector employment to pursue civil service examinations in these dedicated spaces.

    According to Nankai University expert Zhang Zhihong, ‘These environments demonstrate young people’s self-motivated adaptability and highlight growing demand for concentration-friendly spaces that support personal development—a need both commercial operators and public services should address.’

    The movement aligns with national initiatives promoting reading culture and lifelong learning, complementing upgraded public libraries and community reading spaces. As China’s latest five-year development plan emphasizes educational advancement, these study rooms have evolved into integrated learning hubs that may eventually offer complimentary basic access alongside premium services.

    As midnight approaches in Beijing’s Changping district, the lights at Chenxi Study Room continue illuminating rows of determined learners—their silent dedication punctuated only by turning pages and keyboard clicks, embodying China’s next generation of dream-chasers investing in their futures through concentrated effort and mutual inspiration.