Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Bangladesh’s Tarique Rahman pledges to work for democracy after landslide victory in election

    Bangladesh’s Tarique Rahman pledges to work for democracy after landslide victory in election

    DHAKA, Bangladesh — The political landscape of Bangladesh has undergone a profound transformation following the landmark general election that has positioned Tarique Rahman’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to form the next government. In his inaugural press conference held in the capital on Saturday, Rahman committed to steering the nation toward strengthened democratic institutions amid significant challenges inherited from the previous administration.

    The BNP secured a decisive majority in the 350-seat parliamentary body during Thursday’s electoral process, which international observers noted for its largely peaceful conduct under the supervision of an interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize recipient Muhammad Yunus. This election represents the first democratic exercise since the dramatic ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during the widespread public uprising of 2024.

    Rahman outlined his administration’s immediate priorities, emphasizing the urgent need to address economic fragility and restore law and order. “We are commencing our governance journey facing a vulnerable economy left by the authoritarian regime, compromised constitutional institutions, and deteriorating public safety conditions,” he stated before assembled journalists.

    The political transition marks a significant milestone for the South Asian nation of over 170 million people, with the Jamaat-e-Islami party-led alliance positioned to assume opposition responsibilities. Rahman, whose mother served as former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia until her passing in December, extended an olive branch to political adversaries while emphasizing national unity.

    “To prevent the resurgence of autocratic forces and ensure our nation never becomes subservient to external interests, we must maintain collective vigilance and honor the democratic will of our citizens,” Rahman asserted.

    The BNP, one of Bangladesh’s established political entities, had previously boycotted elections during Hasina’s 15-year tenure, which critics increasingly characterized as authoritarian. Hasina, currently in exile in India, faces convictions for crimes against humanity related to hundreds of fatalities during the 2024 uprising that ended her administration. Her Awami League party has since been prohibited from political activities.

    The new government is anticipated to be formally sworn into office within coming days, marking a new chapter in Bangladesh’s democratic evolution.

  • Free live music, hula hoop shows: Bluewaters turns Dubai into open-air stage on weekends

    Free live music, hula hoop shows: Bluewaters turns Dubai into open-air stage on weekends

    Dubai’s Bluewaters Island has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant cultural hub every weekend, offering residents and tourists an immersive open-air entertainment experience completely free of charge. From February through March 1, the waterfront destination comes alive with simultaneous performances across multiple locations, creating an unprecedented artistic atmosphere.

    The Dubai Busking Experience program features 25 international artists who showcase diverse talents including musical performances, dance routines, circus acts, and magic shows from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This innovative initiative represents a significant development in Dubai’s cultural landscape, providing artists with unprecedented access to audiences while offering visitors spontaneous entertainment encounters.

    Among the standout performers is Salina Bakaou, a professional performance artist whose mesmerizing hula hoop act combines technical mastery with emotional storytelling. “I bring soul and character to my performances,” Bakaou explained. “What distinguishes my show isn’t just skill but the genuine connection I establish with audiences. No two performances are ever identical.”

    Meanwhile, musician and magician Adam Cadabra demonstrates remarkable adaptability through his unique lap tapping guitar technique, developed after a hand injury altered his conventional playing style. “This approach originated from early blues slide guitar traditions,” Cadabra noted. “Dubai’s emerging busking culture represents an exciting evolution in the region’s artistic scene.”

    The event organization facilitates direct artist-audience interaction without physical barriers or formal staging, creating an intimate atmosphere where spectators can transition seamlessly between performances. A secure cashless payment system enables visitors to support performers financially while maintaining the event’s accessible nature.

    This cultural initiative marks Dubai’s continuing expansion of family-friendly entertainment options beyond traditional dining and sightseeing experiences, positioning Bluewaters as a pioneering destination where artistic expression and public engagement converge organically.

  • China demonstrates AI computing power in outer space with satellite network breakthrough

    China demonstrates AI computing power in outer space with satellite network breakthrough

    China has achieved a significant milestone in space technology with the successful deployment of artificial intelligence models operating directly in orbit through an advanced satellite network. The breakthrough demonstrates the nation’s growing capabilities in space-based computing systems.

    The pioneering project, known as the “Three-Body Computing Constellation,” represents a collaborative effort between Zhejiang Lab and international partners. Initially launched in May 2025 with twelve satellites, the constellation has undergone extensive testing over nine months to validate its core functionalities including orbital networking, computational processing, AI model deployment, and scientific instrument verification.

    Among the technological achievements are the operation of two massive AI models in space: an 8-billion-parameter remote sensing system and an equally sophisticated astronomical time-domain model. These represent some of the largest AI parameter models currently operational in orbit worldwide.

    The remote sensing capability was demonstrated in November 2025 when it successfully conducted an infrastructure census across 189 square kilometers in northwest China, automatically identifying structures like stadiums and bridges despite challenging heavy snow conditions.

    For astronomical research, satellites equipped with specialized cosmic X-ray polarization detectors implemented an AI model that classifies gamma-ray bursts with remarkable 99% accuracy while significantly reducing data transmission requirements and processing timelines.

    A critical advancement includes the establishment of inter-satellite communication links among six satellites, forming the foundation for a comprehensive space network. When fully realized with over 1,000 planned satellites, the constellation is projected to deliver unprecedented computational power exceeding 100 quintillion operations per second.

    According to Li Chao from Zhejiang Lab, this space-based computing architecture enables direct data processing in orbit, allowing refined information to be delivered immediately to end-users rather than raw data requiring extensive ground processing.

  • Groups push for legislated minimum wage for Indian domestic workers

    Groups push for legislated minimum wage for Indian domestic workers

    India faces a mounting crisis regarding the protection of its vast domestic workforce, with millions remaining vulnerable due to inadequate legal safeguards. The Indian Supreme Court has recently expressed concern over the plight of these workers, predominantly women, and called upon state governments to establish appropriate mechanisms for their inclusion under minimum wage legislation.

    Domestic workers’ unions have been granted permission by the court to submit detailed representations highlighting the severe exploitation faced by this marginalized workforce. These representations argue that excluding household workers from the Minimum Wages Act constitutes a violation of fundamental rights against forced labor and the right to life.

    Official statistics significantly underestimate the scale of the issue, reporting approximately 5 million domestic workers with over 3 million being women. However, International Labour Organisation estimates suggest the actual number could reach 80 million nationwide. Most concerning is that a substantial portion of these workers are young female migrants from rural areas seeking employment in urban centers, often facing arbitrary hiring and firing practices without documentation.

    Despite judicial intervention, progress remains limited with only 14 of India’s states having enacted minimum wage laws for domestic workers. The absence of a unified platform for these workers to advocate for their basic rights further compounds the problem. Organizations like the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) work extensively to raise awareness about workers’ rights but face resistance from employers opposed to regulatory measures.

    The judicial response has included criticism of trade unions, with Chief Justice Surya Kant noting that union activities have historically impacted industrial growth negatively. While acknowledging worker exploitation, the justice emphasized the importance of individual rights awareness and skill development rather than relying solely on union intervention.

    Proposed solutions include formal recognition of domestic work as a regular employment category with standardized working hours, and mandatory registration systems for both workers and employers to ensure accountability and legal protection for all parties involved.

  • South Africa hammers New Zealand by seven wickets at T20 World Cup. England beats Scotland

    South Africa hammers New Zealand by seven wickets at T20 World Cup. England beats Scotland

    In a spectacular display of cricketing prowess, South Africa delivered a commanding performance against New Zealand in their T20 World Cup encounter on Saturday. Captain Aiden Markram emerged as the undisputed hero, blasting an unbeaten 86 runs from just 44 deliveries to secure a comprehensive seven-wicket victory for the Proteas.

    The match witnessed South Africa’s clinical execution as they chased down New Zealand’s total of 175-7 with remarkable ease, achieving their target of 178-3 with 2.5 overs remaining. Markram’s explosive innings, featuring four sixes and eight boundaries, included the fastest half-century in South Africa’s T20 World Cup history, reaching 50 runs in merely 19 deliveries.

    Left-arm pacer Marco Jansen set the stage for South Africa’s dominance with an impressive bowling performance, claiming 4-40 in his four-over spell. His early breakthroughs dismantled New Zealand’s top order, reducing them to 64-4 within 6.4 overs. Despite a recovery effort from Daryl Mitchell and Mark Chapman, who contributed 74 runs, New Zealand struggled to maintain momentum against South Africa’s disciplined attack.

    The victory marks South Africa’s third consecutive win in Group D, solidifying their position as strong contenders for the next round. Meanwhile, New Zealand suffered their first tournament defeat and extended their winless streak against South Africa to five matches in T20 World Cup history.

    In other tournament developments, England revived their campaign with a crucial five-wicket triumph over Scotland in Kolkata. Tom Banton’s unbeaten 63 from 41 balls proved instrumental in England’s recovery after early setbacks. Ireland recorded their inaugural victory in Colombo, overwhelming Oman by 96 runs behind Lorcan Tucker’s spectacular 94 not out from 51 deliveries, posting the tournament’s highest score of 235-5.

  • Bangladesh Nationalist Party wins big in election

    Bangladesh Nationalist Party wins big in election

    In a decisive political shift, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has achieved a commanding victory in the nation’s parliamentary elections, capturing 209 out of 299 contested seats. This substantial win grants the party more than a two-thirds majority in parliament, positioning it to form the next government.

    The election’s most anticipated outcome is the expected ascension of BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, 60, to the prime minister’s office. Rahman, carrying a significant political legacy as the son of former president Ziaur Rahman (who founded BNP) and former prime minister Khaleda Zia (who passed away in December), now stands to lead the nation.

    According to Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami secured second place with 68 seats, while independent candidates and smaller allied parties obtained the remaining 20 seats. Voter participation reached 59.44% of the eligible population of approximately 170 million.

    This election marks a critical juncture for Bangladesh, being the first general election since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and departed the country in August 2024 amid widespread political turmoil. Since her departure, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has led an interim administration.

    The BNP leadership has responded to its victory with measured enthusiasm. Senior Joint Secretary-General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi extended congratulations to the Bangladeshi people while simultaneously announcing that the party would refrain from organizing celebratory processions or rallies despite their substantial margin of victory.

    International recognition began promptly, with the Chinese embassy in Bangladesh issuing a formal congratulatory message on Facebook, praising the “smooth and successful” election and expressing anticipation for collaborative efforts with the incoming administration to enhance bilateral relations.

    With two constituencies postponing results and polling delayed in one following a candidate’s death, the Election Commission confirmed it would soon issue an official gazette notification formalizing the outcomes. Political adviser Asif Nazrul indicated that the transition of power would occur before Ramadan begins around February 19.

    The Bangladeshi parliamentary system comprises 350 members total, with 50 seats reserved for women who are elected subsequently through proportional representation by the 300 directly-elected members.

  • Sketching new life for new year

    Sketching new life for new year

    As the 2026 Year of the Horse approaches, acclaimed China Daily illustrator Li Min has launched an innovative artistic series titled ‘A New Journey for Ten Thousand Steeds.’ This collection represents a sophisticated fusion of China’s rich equestrian heritage with contemporary artistic vision, creating a bridge between historical symbolism and modern aesthetics.

    The series draws inspiration from China’s most celebrated historical horses, transforming these cultural icons into vibrant visual narratives. Rather than simply recreating traditional motifs, Li Min has developed a unique artistic language that maintains the auspicious symbolism associated with equine imagery while speaking to contemporary sensibilities.

    Through her innovative approach, the illustrator demonstrates how traditional Chinese aesthetics can be seamlessly integrated into modern life. The collection showcases her technical mastery while offering fresh perspectives on cultural preservation through artistic innovation. Each piece in the series tells a story of movement, progress, and cultural continuity, reflecting both the dynamism of the horse as a symbol and the evolving nature of Chinese cultural expression.

    The timing of this release, coinciding with the upcoming lunar new year celebration, positions the series as both a cultural tribute and a forward-looking artistic statement. Li Min’s work represents how traditional zodiac symbolism can be reimagined for contemporary audiences while maintaining deep roots in China’s artistic heritage.

  • Various festive events held across China to celebrate upcoming Chinese New Year

    Various festive events held across China to celebrate upcoming Chinese New Year

    Communities across China are immersed in a vibrant tapestry of cultural celebrations as the nation prepares to welcome the Year of the Horse. From northern provinces to southern regions, municipalities have launched elaborate festive programs featuring traditional lantern exhibitions, folk art performances, and night illumination displays that transform urban landscapes into dazzling spectacles.

    In Luoyang, Central China’s Henan province, aerial photography captured breathtaking scenes of tourists admiring intricate lantern installations at local scenic areas on February 12. The luminous displays, featuring both traditional motifs and contemporary designs, create an enchanting atmosphere for visitors experiencing the pre-festival celebrations.

    Cultural institutions nationwide have organized special events including calligraphy workshops where masters demonstrate the art of writing Spring Festival couplets. Traditional paper-cutting exhibitions showcase regional variations of this ancient craft, while culinary events highlight local variations of holiday foods. These activities not only preserve cultural heritage but also provide educational opportunities for younger generations to connect with traditional customs.

    Transport hubs report increased passenger flow as millions begin their journeys for family reunions, while retail sectors experience seasonal peaks in shopping activity. The celebrations represent one of the most significant annual migrations and cultural observances in the country, blending ancient traditions with contemporary expressions of holiday spirit.

  • Hong Kong’s passenger traffic at boundary control points up 12 percent in 2025

    Hong Kong’s passenger traffic at boundary control points up 12 percent in 2025

    Hong Kong’s boundary control points experienced substantial growth in cross-border movement during 2025, with official statistics revealing a significant 12 percent increase in passenger traffic compared to the previous year. According to data released by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government customs authorities, these transit hubs processed approximately 330 million passenger movements throughout the year.

    The transportation sector demonstrated even more dramatic growth, with private vehicle crossings surging by 24 percent to reach 11.9 million trips. Commercial transport also showed robust performance, with goods vehicle journeys climbing 6 percent to total 4.8 million transits across Hong Kong’s borders.

    Concurrent with the increased border activity, customs enforcement efforts intensified markedly. Authorities reported detecting 38,869 cases of various violations throughout 2025, representing a substantial 24 percent year-on-year increase. The majority of these cases (approximately 75 percent) involved illicit cigarette trafficking, while remaining incidents primarily concerned dangerous drugs and intellectual property rights infringement.

    This upward trend in both legitimate border crossings and enforcement actions reflects Hong Kong’s ongoing position as a critical international transit hub while highlighting the challenges that accompany increased cross-border movement. The data provides important insights into post-pandemic recovery patterns and the evolving nature of border security operations in one of Asia’s most important financial and trade centers.

  • Foreign experts’ support for modernization hailed

    Foreign experts’ support for modernization hailed

    In a significant demonstration of China’s commitment to global engagement, Premier Li Qiang convened with international experts at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People on February 13, 2026. The symposium brought together recipients of the 2025 Chinese Government Friendship Award and distinguished foreign professionals working across China’s various sectors.

    Premier Li emphasized that maintaining open international cooperation represents both global aspirations and the necessary direction for worldwide progress. The meeting, strategically scheduled ahead of the Chinese New Year celebrations, served as a platform for meaningful dialogue between China’s leadership and the international expert community.

    Experts from multiple nations including the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Uganda, Bulgaria, Belarus, and Germany contributed insights across critical domains such as technological innovation, agricultural development, cultural exchange, talent cultivation, and investment cooperation. Premier Li actively engaged with their recommendations regarding China’s developmental trajectory and governmental policies.

    The Premier highlighted the dual impact of foreign experts’ innovations, noting that achievements developed within China generate substantial benefits for both the host nation and the global community. He referenced the recently adopted recommendations for China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), characterizing them as an ambitious blueprint for the nation’s forthcoming development phase.

    Li encouraged international professionals to deepen their involvement in China’s growth story, positioning them as crucial bridges for enhanced mutual understanding and trust between China and the world. The government committed to strengthening support systems for foreign experts, including improved visa processing, social security provisions, healthcare access, and educational arrangements for their children.

    The administration pledged to create optimal conditions for international talent to achieve professional fulfillment while experiencing comfortable living standards and promising developmental opportunities within China.