Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Xiaoguo Comedy launches nationwide year-end tour

    Xiaoguo Comedy launches nationwide year-end tour

    Shanghai witnessed the spectacular launch of Xiaoguo Comedy’s annual year-end extravaganza on Tuesday, December 26, 2025. The premiere of ‘To Gather, Together’ at the prestigious Bocom New Bund 31 Performing Arts Center drew an enthusiastic crowd of over 2,000 attendees, setting the stage for what promises to be an unprecedented comedy tour across China.

    Headlined by renowned stand-up comedian Tong Monan, the production marks the beginning of an extensive nationwide journey that will continue through February 8, 2026. The ambitious schedule includes nearly 60 performances spanning 18 different cities, creating one of the most comprehensive comedy tours in recent Chinese entertainment history.

    The production distinguishes itself through its diverse comedic offerings, featuring an impressive roster of more than 150 top-tier stand-up comedians from across China. The show’s innovative format incorporates multiple comedy styles including traditional stand-up specials, intellectual property-based shows, Japanese-inspired manzai (a dynamic double-act comedy style), and spontaneous improvisational comedy performances.

    This massive undertaking represents significant growth for China’s comedy scene, demonstrating both the increasing popularity of live comedy performances and the expanding market for diverse entertainment formats. The multi-city tour is expected to bring high-quality comedy productions to audiences who previously had limited access to such performances outside major metropolitan areas.

    The timing of the tour, spanning the year-end holiday season and extending through the Lunar New Year period, positions it as prime entertainment during one of China’s most celebrated times for family gatherings and social activities. The inclusion of various comedy formats ensures appeal across different demographic groups, from traditional comedy enthusiasts to younger audiences seeking innovative performance styles.

  • CPC expels former China Life Insurance president

    CPC expels former China Life Insurance president

    In a significant demonstration of China’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign, Yang Chao, the former president of China Life Insurance (Group) Company, has been expelled from the Communist Party of China following extensive investigations by the nation’s top disciplinary watchdogs.

    The CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Commission of Supervision announced the decision through an official statement released on Friday, December 26, 2025. The investigation, which began in March, uncovered systematic violations of Party discipline and national laws by the senior executive.

    According to the disciplinary authorities, Yang, who held leadership positions in one of China’s central financial State-owned enterprises, demonstrated disloyalty to the Party and exhibited a profound disregard for organizational discipline. The investigation revealed multiple layers of misconduct spanning his tenure and even continuing after his retirement.

    Yang’s violations included illegally accepting gifts and banquet invitations, along with persistent misuse of official vehicles. The former executive also provided false information during questioning and was found to have solicited and accepted bribes in exchange for influencing personnel promotions and recruitment decisions within the company.

    Notably, the disciplinary commissions highlighted that Yang continued to breach regulations post-retirement by engaging in unauthorized part-time employment and illicit business activities. Furthermore, he systematically enabled family members to exploit his former position and influence for personal gain.

    The investigation particularly emphasized Yang’s interference in investment activities, where he allegedly accepted substantial illicit payments, characterizing his case as emblematic of corruption within China’s financial investment sector.

    In addition to his expulsion from the Party, authorities have confiscated all illicit gains obtained through his corrupt practices. The case’s criminal aspects and related assets have been transferred to prosecutors in Shangrao, Jiangxi province, for formal legal proceedings.

    Yang Chao, a 75-year-old Shanghai native, dedicated decades to China’s banking and insurance sectors. He ascended to the positions of Party chief and general manager of China Life Insurance Co Ltd in 2000 before retiring in 2011, though his post-retirement activities have now drawn severe disciplinary consequences.

  • NYE 2026 in Sharjah: Where to celebrate with fireworks, live performances

    NYE 2026 in Sharjah: Where to celebrate with fireworks, live performances

    Sharjah is preparing to welcome 2026 with an array of spectacular celebrations across the emirate on December 31, offering residents and visitors diverse entertainment options ranging from pyrotechnic displays to cultural experiences. The coastal city will illuminate its skies at midnight with synchronized fireworks shows at three prime locations: Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Heera Beach, and Khorfakkan Beach, ensuring panoramic viewing opportunities throughout the region.

    Preceding the midnight spectacle, Al Heera Beach will feature hourly laser, fire, and LED performances from 9:00 PM to midnight across three designated clusters. Simultaneously, Khorfakkan Beach will present its own laser and fire displays commencing at 8:30 PM across two phases. Al Majaz Waterfront will enhance the festive atmosphere with live musical performances, including saxophone shows at 8:30 PM and 10:30 PM, followed by accordion performances at 9:30 PM and 11:30 PM in Block A.

    For premium viewing experiences, beachside restaurants at all three main venues are offering reserved tables with front-row perspectives of the fireworks extravaganza. Those seeking unconventional celebrations can opt for Al Noor Island’s exclusive starlit event, featuring specialized dining, complimentary skywatch sessions, and self-guided tours priced at AED 340 for adults and AED 150 for children under twelve.

    Alternatively, Mleiha National Park presents a desert celebration package including overnight camping, buffet dinner, camel rides, Tanoura dance performances, and stargazing activities for AED 550 per adult and AED 390 per child. Maritime enthusiasts can charter private boats for unparalleled views of the coastal fireworks displays.

    Family-oriented activities include pop-up avenues at Al Qasba and Al Majaz Waterfront operating daily from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM, featuring workshops, outdoor cinema, and adventure activities. The winter market at Al Majaz Waterfront will remain open until midnight on New Year’s Eve, offering live entertainment, mascot interactions, and family-friendly attractions from 5:00 PM daily.

  • Internet satellites launched into orbit

    Internet satellites launched into orbit

    China has successfully advanced its ambitious space-based internet infrastructure with the deployment of a new satellite cluster on December 26, 2025. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) confirmed the flawless launch operation conducted from the Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Center in Wenchang at 7:26 AM local time.

    The mission utilized the Long March 8A carrier rocket, a sophisticated launch vehicle developed domestically by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology. This 50.5-meter rocket, boasting a liftoff weight of 371 metric tons and generating approximately 480 tons of thrust, successfully delivered the latest batch of internet satellites to their designated low Earth orbits.

    These satellites represent the seventeenth installment in China’s expanding state-operated internet satellite network. Designed and manufactured by the China Academy of Space Technology, a Beijing-based subsidiary of CASC, the new additions bring the total operational count in the constellation to over 130 satellites following this deployment.

    The Long March 8A has demonstrated particular proficiency in transporting payloads to sun-synchronous orbits, capable of delivering up to 7 metric tons to orbits approximately 700 kilometers above Earth. This mission marked both the 90th Chinese space endeavor of the year and the 620th overall flight for the Long March rocket series, representing the sixth dedicated deployment of internet satellites using the Long March 8A platform.

  • Bombing in Alawi mosque in Syrian city of Homs kills at least eight

    Bombing in Alawi mosque in Syrian city of Homs kills at least eight

    A devastating bomb explosion struck the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque in Homs, Syria, on Friday, resulting in a significant loss of life and injuries. Syrian state media confirmed that the blast killed at least eight worshippers and left eighteen others wounded. The mosque, affiliated with the Alawi Islamic sect, was targeted by an explosive device strategically planted within its premises.

    Security forces have launched a comprehensive investigation into the attack, aiming to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. This incident occurs against a complex geopolitical backdrop, marking one year since the fall of Damascus to rebel forces under current President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The ousted leader Bashar al-Assad, himself an Alawite, sought refuge in Russia following his government’s collapse.

    The attack highlights ongoing vulnerabilities within Syrian society, where Alawi communities and other minorities face persistent threats from extremist elements. Although the Islamic State group suffered decisive defeat in 2017 after attempting to establish a caliphate, residual factions have reorganized and continue operational activities. These remnants have specifically targeted minority groups to destabilize the current administration.

    Syria’s devastating civil war, ignited in 2011 by government suppression of popular protests, has created one of the century’s most severe humanitarian crises. The conflict has displaced approximately half of Syria’s population, forcing millions to seek refuge in Turkey, Europe, and neighboring Arab nations. While exact figures remain unverified, estimates suggest the death toll has surpassed 500,000 people over thirteen years of continuous warfare.

  • Yemen secessionists accuse Saudi Arabia of striking their forces in south

    Yemen secessionists accuse Saudi Arabia of striking their forces in south

    Tensions escalated dramatically in Yemen’s strategic Hadhramaut governorate as the Southern Transition Council (STC) reported coming under aerial bombardment from Saudi Arabian forces on Friday. The alleged strikes represent a significant deterioration in the complex alliance dynamics within the Yemeni conflict.

    The Saudi government maintained official silence regarding the military action, though the attacks followed a stern diplomatic demand from Riyadh. Just one day prior, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry had publicly called for the UAE-supported separatist faction to immediately withdraw its forces from both Hadhramaut and al-Mahrah provinces.

    Amr al Bidh, the STC’s special representative for foreign affairs, provided detailed accounts of the engagement to press agencies. According to his testimony, STC personnel in eastern Hadhramaut first encountered coordinated ground assaults by unidentified gunmen, resulting in two fatalities and twelve casualties. These initial skirmishes were subsequently followed by the reported aerial strikes.

    This confrontation occurs against the backdrop of the STC’s successful military campaign earlier this month, during which the group established control over Yemen’s easternmost territories. Their advance prompted the unexpected retreat of Saudi-backed governmental forces from the region, fundamentally altering the balance of power.

    The strategic significance of Hadhramaut cannot be overstated—while sparsely populated, the province contains approximately 80% of Yemen’s light crude oil reserves. Previously, this vital territory remained under the joint control of the internationally recognized Yemeni government (supported by Saudi Arabia) and local Hadrami tribal forces who likewise enjoyed Saudi patronage.

    These developments constitute the latest chapter in Yemen’s devastating civil war, which commenced in 2014 when Houthi rebels captured the capital Sanaa and forced the Saudi-backed administration into exile. The STC emerged as a significant political entity in 2017, initially joining the UN-recognized government following negotiation efforts in 2022. Recently, however, the council has revived its campaign for an independent southern state, creating renewed friction within the anti-Houthi coalition.

    The Emirati government has consistently provided military and political support to the STC and its affiliated groups, establishing multiple coastal military bases administered by the separatists. The recent expansion of STC control in Hadhramaut has exposed growing tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, traditional Gulf allies who now back opposing factions within the same governorate.

    Despite this emerging rift, the UAE government issued an official statement on Friday expressing support for Saudi efforts to promote regional stability. This diplomatic gesture, relayed through Saudi media channels, suggests ongoing attempts to manage disagreements behind closed doors.

    Concurrently, the STC continues its efforts to consolidate territorial control while pursuing international legitimacy. The council has engaged in diplomatic outreach including reported discussions about normalizing relations with Israel, signaling its aspirations for broader international recognition beyond its current patronage relationships.

  • Lijiang authority calls on Xiaohongshu to tighten review oversight

    Lijiang authority calls on Xiaohongshu to tighten review oversight

    The Cultural and Tourism Bureau of Gucheng District in Lijiang, Yunnan Province, has formally requested that lifestyle-sharing platform Xiaohongshu enhance its monitoring and regulatory measures concerning negative consumer reviews targeting local wedding photography businesses. This official appeal has ignited substantial online discourse regarding platform responsibility and consumer protection mechanisms.

    In a publicly released communication dated Tuesday, the bureau asserted that Xiaohongshu has inadequately managed potentially fabricated negative content. According to their investigation, certain users allegedly post misleading complaints to coercively obtain refunds from businesses even when service providers have fulfilled their contractual obligations. The bureau claims this regulatory gap has created significant challenges for companies seeking to dispute questionable posts, resulting in substantial reputational harm and widespread order cancellations.

    Data from the Gucheng District Wedding Photography Industry Association indicates that as of December, allegedly deceptive cautionary posts have directly caused order cancellations valued at over 1 million yuan ($142,716), with estimated indirect losses surpassing 5 million yuan.

    Contrasting perspectives emerged from third-party sources close to Xiaohongshu, who told Jiupai News that current evidence doesn’t substantiate claims of consumers fabricating personal experiences. The platform has initiated a dedicated communication channel with local photography businesses and proposed implementing case-by-case verification procedures for negative reviews.

    However, industry representatives have rejected this proposal as insufficient compensation for incurred losses and indicative of inadequate sincerity. The association has announced intentions to pursue legal recourse.

    Lijiang’s popularity as a wedding photography destination continues to grow, attracting approximately 100,000 couples in 2024 alone. The ancient town currently hosts over 600 photography businesses with a market value exceeding 1 billion yuan, ranking first in Yunnan Province.

    The platform maintains its commitment to authentic experience sharing, with customer service representatives emphasizing ongoing efforts to address fabricated content while providing businesses with multiple channels to report disputes and submit evidence for prompt investigation.

  • China OKs three action plans to build pilot zones for a Beautiful China

    China OKs three action plans to build pilot zones for a Beautiful China

    In a significant move toward its ecological civilization goals, China’s State Council has formally approved three comprehensive action plans to establish pilot zones for the “Beautiful China” initiative across key economic regions. The approved frameworks target the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei cluster, the Yangtze River Delta region, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area for transformative environmental modernization.

    Pei Xiaofei, spokesperson for the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, announced the plans at a Beijing press conference, emphasizing their alignment with China’s high-quality development objectives. “These action plans address fundamental constraints on ecological conservation while strengthening regional collaboration in green development,” Pei stated. The initiative seeks to overcome deep-seated environmental challenges through coordinated governance and innovative policy mechanisms.

    Each region receives a tailored strategic approach. The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei plan prioritizes air pollution control, climate adaptation, and creating a demonstration zone for simultaneous pollution reduction and carbon mitigation. The Yangtze River Delta framework emphasizes legal standardization, zoned ecological management, and intelligent governance systems to model how environmental protection can drive economic advancement.

    The Greater Bay Area strategy uniquely leverages the “one country, two systems” principle to pioneer innovations in green finance and cross-border environmental cooperation. This approach aims to establish a modern ecological governance system while enhancing the region’s role as an economic driver with reduced environmental impact.

    The ministry confirmed ongoing coordination with relevant departments to ensure effective implementation, with expectations that successful practices will become replicable models for national scaling. These pilot zones represent concrete progress toward China’s broader ecological civilization objectives, integrating environmental improvement with economic modernization.

  • Hamas calls on Israel to allow impartial investigation into 7 October attacks

    Hamas calls on Israel to allow impartial investigation into 7 October attacks

    Hamas has formally called for an impartial international investigation into the events of October 7, 2023, while categorically denying allegations of civilian killings and atrocities. The Palestinian group issued a comprehensive 42-page document on Friday presenting its detailed account of the attack and subsequent developments in Gaza.

    The document asserts that Western media and Zionist lobby groups orchestrated a disinformation campaign regarding the attack’s events. Hamas claims Israeli authorities propagated false narratives about child killings and sexual violence to justify what it describes as a premeditated genocide campaign aimed at eliminating Gaza.

    Regarding captives taken during the incident, Hamas stated it had initially offered to release non-military prisoners, an offer it says Israel rejected. During the November 2023 truce, approximately 100 hostages were eventually exchanged for Palestinian detainees.

    The organization maintains that targeting civilians contradicts its religious and moral principles, challenging Israel to provide evidence supporting allegations of attacks on hospitals, schools, worship sites, journalists, or medical personnel. Hamas further references Israeli media reports suggesting the military’s application of the Hannibal Directive resulted in Israeli civilian casualties during crossfire situations.

    In May 2024, the International Criminal Court sought arrest warrants for three Hamas leaders (all subsequently killed by Israel) and Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The ICC prosecutor cited alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity from both sides.

    Hamas justified its October 7th operation—codenamed Al-Aqsa Flood—as a response to 77 years of occupation, the 17-year Gaza blockade, repeated violations of the Oslo Accords, rising right-wing extremism, and international community inaction. The group claims the operation successfully globalized the Palestinian cause, isolated Israel internationally, and exposed societal divisions within the country.

    The document concludes by rejecting external governance proposals, including the recent UN Security Council-approved plan backed by former President Donald Trump that envisions Hamas-free governance in Gaza. Hamas asserts Palestinian competence for self-governance and considers any imposed trusteeship equivalent to occupation.

  • CPC leadership meeting stresses steadfast implementation of eight-point decision on improving conduct

    CPC leadership meeting stresses steadfast implementation of eight-point decision on improving conduct

    In a significant demonstration of continued commitment to disciplinary reform, the Communist Party of China’s leadership has convened to reinforce the steadfast implementation of its landmark eight-point decision on improving official conduct. The high-level meeting, chaired by Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, took place from Thursday to Friday and served as a platform for critical self-assessment and collective accountability among China’s top political leadership.

    During the proceedings, Xi delivered a substantial address emphasizing the enduring importance of the eight-point framework, initially introduced to combat bureaucratic inefficiencies, extravagance, and disconnection from the public. The resolution, originally established to streamline bureaucratic procedures and eliminate superfluous formalities, has evolved into a cornerstone of the Party’s internal governance strategy.

    The meeting adopted a format of criticism and self-criticism, a traditional Party mechanism designed to foster introspection and continuous improvement among leadership members. This approach underscores the Party’s institutionalized method for maintaining discipline and ensuring alignment with central directives amid evolving political and social challenges.

    Political analysts interpret this reaffirmation as signaling both the ongoing relevance of the eight-point decision and the leadership’s determination to preserve institutional integrity. The meeting occurs within the broader context of the Party’s comprehensive anti-corruption campaign and governance modernization efforts, reflecting consistent policy continuity rather than introducing new directives.