Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Ramadan 2026: Dubai Police announce iftar cannon firing locations

    Ramadan 2026: Dubai Police announce iftar cannon firing locations

    Dubai Police have revealed an innovative expansion to the city’s cherished Ramadan tradition for 2026, introducing mobile cannon deployments alongside established locations for the ceremonial iftar marking. The annual cannon firing, which signals sunset and the conclusion of daily fasting during the holy month, will feature both stationary and mobile installations across the emirate.

    For the first time in Dubai’s history, a specially designated mobile cannon named ‘Madfa’ Rahal’ will tour eleven distinct community and tourist destinations throughout Ramadan. This mobile initiative will bring the traditional experience directly to neighborhoods, educational institutions, and prominent hospitality venues including Bab Al Shams Hotel, Meydan Hotel, Atlantis Hotel, and the popular Global Village entertainment destination.

    The permanent cannon locations maintain their significance with Expo City Dubai serving as the primary site, accompanied by Vida Creek Harbour Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Residence (returning after nearly ten years), Festival City under Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism supervision, and the iconic Burj Khalifa precinct. Additional supported sites involve collaborations with Emirates Airline, Dubai Airports, and Dar Al Ber organization.

    Police authorities emphasized that the cannon ceremony transcends its functional purpose of marking iftar time, representing instead the core values of community solidarity, shared cultural heritage, and Dubai’s commitment to maintaining both safety and hospitality standards during Ramadan. The expansion to mobile deployments demonstrates the city’s dedication to making traditional practices accessible to both residents and visitors across diverse locations.

    The announcement comes as part of comprehensive Ramadan preparations, with detailed timing schedules for other holy month activities expected to follow in coordination with Dubai’s Islamic affairs authorities and tourism departments.

  • Trump is gathering Latin American leaders in Florida in March, ahead of his trip to China

    Trump is gathering Latin American leaders in Florida in March, ahead of his trip to China

    WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is organizing a significant gathering of Latin American leaders scheduled for March 7 in Florida, focusing on addressing China’s expanding influence throughout the Western Hemisphere. This strategic diplomatic initiative comes as the administration intensifies its efforts to reassert American dominance in the region.

    The summit, confirmed by a White House official on Thursday, represents a crucial component of the administration’s foreign policy agenda. It precedes President Trump’s anticipated diplomatic engagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, creating a nuanced geopolitical backdrop for the regional discussions.

    Administration officials have expressed particular concern regarding China’s pattern of establishing influence through substantial loans and expansive trade agreements across Latin America. This approach has enabled Beijing to gain significant leverage in several key nations, prompting the U.S. to respond with enhanced diplomatic and strategic measures.

    The administration recently demonstrated its commitment to countering foreign influence in the region through its audacious operation targeting Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The operation, which resulted in Maduro’s transfer to New York to face federal drug conspiracy charges, was explicitly justified by the administration as necessary to prevent Chinese and Russian dominance over Venezuela’s critical oil industry.

    President Trump articulated this position during a meeting with oil industry officials, stating, “One thing I think everyone has to know is that if we didn’t do this, China or Russia would have done it.” This statement underscores the administration’s view of regional engagement as a strategic competition with global powers.

    The administration’s concerns extend beyond Venezuela to include critical infrastructure throughout the hemisphere. Trump has controversially suggested reconsidering U.S. control over the Panama Canal, falsely claiming Chinese operation of the vital waterway despite its management by Panama since the 1999 handover. Recent developments, including Panama’s annulment of a Hong Kong-based company’s port operation contract, have intensified these discussions.

    Further demonstrating the scope of its concerns, the administration has raised alarms about China’s control over critical infrastructure in Peru. The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs recently expressed apprehension that Peru might lack proper oversight capabilities over the Chinese-built deepwater port at Chancay, describing it as a “cautionary tale for the region and the world” about the sovereignty costs of Chinese investment.

  • China launches megascience project to decode genetic blueprint of land plants

    China launches megascience project to decode genetic blueprint of land plants

    Chinese scientists have initiated a groundbreaking international megascience endeavor to sequence the genetic architecture of Earth’s major land plant lineages. The ambitious PLANeT project, formally inaugurated in Beijing this week, represents a collaborative effort between China’s Agricultural Genomics Institute in Shenzhen (AGIS), the Botanical Society of China, Peking University, and over 40 research institutions spanning 15 nations and territories.

    This unprecedented botanical genomics initiative seeks to address a critical scientific gap: currently, over 99% of the estimated 450,000 land plant species lack high-quality reference genomes. Researchers will employ advanced phylogenomic methodologies to resolve evolutionary relationships and divergence timelines among all major plant groups, ultimately constructing a comprehensive ‘tree of life’ for global flora.

    Dr. Wang Li, a principal investigator from AGIS, compared the project’s potential impact to the landmark Human Genome Project of the 1990s. ‘PLANeT shares a similar visionary approach to transforming our understanding of biological systems,’ Wang stated. The project will leverage artificial intelligence algorithms to process massive genomic datasets, enabling machines to identify conserved patterns and decipher what scientists describe as plants’ ‘common language’—the organizational logic of DNA sequences, regulatory elements, and functional modules.

    Beyond fundamental scientific discovery, PLANeT promises substantial practical applications. By identifying genetic markers of vulnerability, the project will enhance conservation efforts for endangered species. Additionally, researchers will mine genomic data for genes associated with disease resistance, drought tolerance, and salt tolerance, accelerating the development of climate-resilient crops to address global food security challenges.

    The initiative embodies open international scientific cooperation, aiming to reshape paradigms in life science research while delivering tangible solutions for ecological sustainability and human welfare.

  • Othman clinches first gold for UAE at Fazza Para Athletics Championships

    Othman clinches first gold for UAE at Fazza Para Athletics Championships

    Dubai witnessed an electrifying start to the 17th Fazza International Para Athletics Championships as Emirati athlete Mohammed Youssef Othman secured the host nation’s first gold medal in the men’s 100m T34 event. The 22-year-old sprinter delivered a dominant performance at the Dubai Club for People of Determination grounds, a familiar training venue that has shaped his athletic development.

    Othman clocked an impressive 15.00 seconds to outpace five-time Paralympic champion Walid Ktila of Tunisia (15.39s), while fellow UAE competitor Ahmed Nawad captured bronze with 15.97s. This victory marks a significant milestone for Othman, who placed fifth at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and has since intensified his training regimen with international sessions in Poland and Tunisia.

    “This gold medal sets an excellent foundation for my seasonal objectives,” expressed an exhilarated Othman. “My primary focus remains securing victory at the upcoming Asian Para Games in Nagoya.”

    The championship witnessed additional Emirati triumphs as Kobe 2024 world champion Maryam Alzeyoudi claimed gold in the women’s discus throw F11/38/40/41/44 final with a throw of 20.47m, outperforming seven-time Paralympic champion Raoua Tlili of Tunisia.

    International stars also made their mark, with India’s two-time Paralympic champion Sumit Antil launching a season-opening throw of 68.26m to win the combined men’s javelin F42/44/64 final. Pakistan’s Tokyo 2020 Paralympic champion Haider Ali likewise opened his season triumphantly, securing gold in the men’s discus F36/37 final with a fourth-attempt throw of 54.71m.

    The event continues to showcase exceptional athletic prowess while reinforcing Dubai’s growing prominence in the global para sports arena.

  • Risk of Nipah spread low after cases in India, Bangladesh, says WHO

    Risk of Nipah spread low after cases in India, Bangladesh, says WHO

    The World Health Organization has issued a risk assessment indicating minimal regional and global transmission threats following recent Nipah virus detections in South Asia. This evaluation comes after three confirmed cases emerged across India and Bangladesh, including one fatal infection.

    WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus addressed concerns during a Geneva press conference, confirming two unrelated outbreaks occurring along the India-Bangladesh border. These incidents shared ecological and cultural circumstances, including populations of fruit bats known to serve as natural reservoirs for the deadly pathogen.

    First identified during a 1998 outbreak among Malaysian pig farmers, Nipah virus carries a mortality rate ranging between 40-75% according to UN health authorities. The virus transmits from animals to humans and currently has no approved vaccine. India’s initial Nipah outbreak was documented in West Bengal in 2001, with subsequent outbreaks occurring in Kerala in 2018 (17 fatalities) and 2023 (2 fatalities).

    Infection symptoms typically manifest as intense fever, vomiting, and respiratory complications. Severe cases may progress to neurological symptoms including seizures, encephalitis, and coma. Despite the virus’s high fatality rate and absence of curative treatments, WHO officials emphasize that current epidemiological patterns do not suggest imminent widespread transmission.

    The organization continues to monitor the situation while highlighting the importance of surveillance systems in regions hosting the fruit bat populations that naturally harbor the virus. Health authorities recommend heightened awareness in border communities sharing ecological characteristics with affected areas.

  • Air India flight 171 crash: Pilot deliberately cut fuel switch, report reveals

    Air India flight 171 crash: Pilot deliberately cut fuel switch, report reveals

    A definitive investigative report has concluded that the catastrophic crash of Air India Flight 171, which resulted in 260 fatalities, was an intentional act by the aircraft’s captain. The findings, initially published by Italian daily Corriere della Sera and corroborated by Western aviation sources, reveal that Captain Sumeet Sabharwal deliberately disabled the fuel switches shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025.

    The Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a medical student hostel, killing 241 of the 242 people aboard and 19 individuals on the ground. The investigation, conducted jointly by Indian authorities and American aviation experts, systematically ruled out mechanical failure as the cause. This conclusion is supported by black box data analysis which indicated manual movement of engine ignition switches prior to impact.

    Evidence from cockpit voice recordings reveals one pilot questioning why the fuel had been cut off, with Captain Sabharwal denying the action. The report further indicates the pilot had been experiencing depression in the month preceding the disaster. These findings have generated significant controversy, with pilot associations in India protesting the allegations and the Sabharwal family demanding a fresh investigation amid challenges to the mental health assessment.

    The Indian Civil Aviation Ministry and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau have yet to formally respond to these allegations. Meanwhile, reports indicate Air India has offered conditional financial settlements to victims’ families requiring them to waive future legal action against both the airline and aircraft manufacturer.

  • Pene Pati rises from doubted Samoan singer to one of Opera’s most-watched new stars

    Pene Pati rises from doubted Samoan singer to one of Opera’s most-watched new stars

    NEW YORK — Opera tenor Pene Pati transformed a discouraging warning into the driving force behind his spectacular career. At age 20, he was cautioned against pursuing opera as a Polynesian artist – advice he received with defiant determination rather than resignation.

    “My motivation was partly spite,” Pati confessed with amusement. “Someone told me not to be disappointed if I failed because there weren’t many Polynesian opera singers. That sparked something in me – I needed to prove them wrong.”

    Now 38 and scheduled at premier opera houses through 2030, Pati has unquestionably proven his capabilities. His recent debut in Massenet’s “Werther” at Paris’ historic Opéra Comique demonstrated his artistic maturity, with conductor Raphaël Pichon specifically seeking performers new to the production.

    Pati’s career-defining moment occurred unexpectedly in December 2021 when he stepped into the lead role of Gounod’s “Roméo et Juliette” at the Opéra Comique with mere hours’ notice. This impromptu performance became his “springboard to international recognition,” catapulting him onto the stages of Europe and America.

    Colleagues marvel at his technical prowess – mezzo-soprano Adèle Charvet documented Pati sustaining a high C for an astonishing 19 seconds – and his magnetic stage presence. Director Ted Huffman noted how Pati’s genuine warmth creates an immediate connection with audiences, allowing for nuanced character interpretations.

    Born in Samoa to nurse parents, Pati relocated to New Zealand as a toddler. His musical journey began in Auckland choirs, nearly diverting to computer science before mentors recognized his vocal gift. His formal training took him to Wales’ International Academy of Voice in 2011, followed by the San Francisco Opera’s prestigious Merola Program in 2013.

    Pati’s career accelerated through competition successes (placing second in Operalia 2015) and strategic role selections. He has since debuted at virtually every major opera house, including Vienna State Opera, London’s Royal Opera, and upcoming performances at New York’s Metropolitan Opera.

    Despite his rapid ascent, Pati remains methodical about role selection, cautious about transitioning too quickly to heavier repertoire. Beyond performance, he demonstrates commitment to nurturing future generations, recently hosting workshops for New York vocal students.

    As Met General Manager Peter Gelb observes: “He’s a tenor with enormous potential.” But perhaps conductor Pichon captures Pati’s essence best: “The most important thing about Pene is his humanity – his desire to share passion and music is properly unique.”

  • Embroidery art exhibition from Chongqing, Xinjiang opens in Macao

    Embroidery art exhibition from Chongqing, Xinjiang opens in Macao

    MACAU – The Tap Seac Gallery has become a vibrant cultural crossroads with the inauguration of a special exhibition featuring intricate embroidery artworks from Chongqing Municipality and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. This culturally significant event, which commenced on Wednesday, presents a comprehensive display of China’s diverse textile heritage to both local residents and international visitors.

    The exhibition meticulously curates 154 individual and ensemble embroidery pieces representing seven distinct regional techniques. From Chongqing, the collection highlights four traditional styles: the sophisticated Shu embroidery known for its delicate craftsmanship, the ceremonially vibrant Wuxi wedding embroidery, the culturally rich Youzhou Miao ethnic embroidery, and the geometrically patterned Xilankapu brocade traditionally woven by Tujia artisans. The Xinjiang segment contributes three additional techniques preserved by the Uygur, Kirgiz, and Kazakh ethnic communities, each possessing unique aesthetic characteristics.

    Cheang Kai-meng, Acting President of Macao SAR’s Cultural Affairs Bureau, emphasized the exhibition’s role as an educational platform. “This carefully assembled presentation enables audiences to appreciate the technical mastery and cultural narratives embedded within these textile traditions,” he stated. “It serves as both an artistic showcase and an important bridge for understanding China’s multifaceted cultural heritage.”

    The exhibition will remain accessible to the public until March 15, offering ample opportunity for cultural enthusiasts to engage with these traditional art forms that have been passed through generations while maintaining contemporary relevance.

  • Pakistan’s proposed power prices to lift inflation, help industry, say analysts

    Pakistan’s proposed power prices to lift inflation, help industry, say analysts

    Pakistan’s proposed electricity pricing reforms are poised to significantly reshape the nation’s economic landscape, transferring financial burdens from industries to middle-class households while potentially reigniting inflationary pressures. The International Monetary Fund-mandated plan, requiring only formal approval to take effect, would dismantle the longstanding system where businesses subsidized residential energy bills.

    Financial analysts at Optimus Capital Management project the reforms could trigger a 1.1 percentage point increase in inflation over the next twelve months. The restructuring would reduce industrial power prices by 13-15% while eliminating 102 billion rupees ($365 million) in subsidies. Middle-class households face the starkest impact, with estimates suggesting approximately 50% higher electricity costs.

    The proposed changes emerge against a complex economic backdrop. Pakistan experienced one of Asia’s most severe inflation spikes in 2023, reaching nearly 40% due to currency devaluation, rising fuel costs, and previous IMF-backed reforms. Although inflation has moderated to 5.8%, the new power pricing threatens to reverse this progress.

    Energy finance expert Ahtasam Ahmad of Renewables First noted, “The significant decline in average household purchasing power means these changes compound the inflationary effects we’ve witnessed since 2022.”

    The overhaul extends beyond traditional pricing structures. The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has introduced substantial fixed charges: households consuming 100-300 monthly units face rate increases up to 76%, while the lowest-income users (1-100 units) will see fixed charges jump from zero to PKR 400.

    Simultaneously, the regulator reduced compensation rates for rooftop solar users exporting power to the grid, replacing the previous net-metering system. This decision prompted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to order an immediate review, citing concerns about cost transfers from 466,000 solar users to 37.6 million grid consumers.

    Energy consultancy Arzachel warned that excessively high fixed charges risk driving consumers toward complete grid defection, potentially undermining long-term system stability. The changes reflect ongoing tensions within Pakistan’s IMF program, which has mandated utility price hikes since 2023 to support struggling state power companies.

  • Beijing’s Dongcheng district in festive mood ahead of Spring Festival

    Beijing’s Dongcheng district in festive mood ahead of Spring Festival

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