Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Xinjiang to introduce football classes across all schools

    Xinjiang to introduce football classes across all schools

    Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has unveiled an ambitious educational initiative to integrate football into physical education curricula across all academic institutions. The comprehensive policy framework, developed through interdepartmental collaboration, aims to cultivate athletic talent while promoting sports participation among students.

    The strategic implementation plan establishes football-focused schools that will dedicate no less than one-third of physical education hours to football instruction and training. This institutional approach forms part of a broader vision to construct an integrated talent development pipeline connecting vocational schools, universities, football academies, and professional clubs.

    Xinjiang’s rich football heritage provides fertile ground for this expansion. With 4,595 football fields recorded by 2024, the region boasts one of China’s highest per capita rates of football infrastructure. The existing network of campus leagues will continue operations alongside newly expanded weekend competitions designed to increase regular student participation.

    Addressing historical challenges in coaching capacity, the initiative includes measures to enhance training protocols, improve recruitment strategies, and elevate compensation packages for football instructors. Educational institutions will expand specialized programs while actively recruiting retired professional players to bolster teaching ranks.

    The region has emerged as a significant talent source for Chinese football, producing national team players including striker Behram Abduweili and defender Umidjan Yusup. This new systematic approach to youth football development promises to strengthen both regional sports culture and China’s national football pipeline.

  • Fujian town produces over 1 billion slippers annually

    Fujian town produces over 1 billion slippers annually

    The modest town of Neikeng in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, has emerged as an unlikely global footwear powerhouse, manufacturing an astonishing 1 billion pairs of slippers annually. This remarkable output means approximately one in every eight people worldwide could be wearing slippers originating from this Chinese manufacturing hub.

    The town’s extraordinary journey began over four decades ago during China’s reform and opening-up period, starting from humble family-operated workshops. Through strategic development and industrial consolidation, Neikeng has transformed into a world-class manufacturing cluster with a fully integrated ecosystem encompassing research and development, production, supply chain management, and international trade operations.

    Today, Neikeng’s industrial landscape comprises more than 620 specialized slipper manufacturers, including 81 large-scale enterprises and 28 companies each generating annual revenues exceeding 100 million yuan ($14.2 million). The combined annual output value of the town’s slipper industry chain has surpassed 3 billion yuan, demonstrating significant economic impact and industrial concentration.

    Local authorities have actively promoted digital transformation within the traditional industry, facilitating e-commerce platform integration to expand market reach. This strategic approach has enabled Neikeng’s manufacturers to maintain competitive advantage while adapting to evolving global market demands and consumer preferences.

    The town’s success story exemplifies China’s manufacturing capabilities in transforming traditional industries through technological innovation, cluster development, and market-oriented reforms, positioning itself as a critical node in global footwear supply chains.

  • Thousands of wild white swans arrive in Shanxi for wintering

    Thousands of wild white swans arrive in Shanxi for wintering

    The Yellow River wetlands in Pinglu county, Shanxi province, have transformed into a seasonal haven for an extraordinary natural spectacle as thousands of wild white swans complete their annual migration from Siberia. This massive avian gathering, occurring amidst dropping temperatures, marks one of China’s most significant wintering phenomena for these majestic birds.

    Strategically positioned at the provincial border between Shanxi and Henan, the Pinglu wetland ecosystem offers ideal winter conditions with its temperate microclimate and abundant nutritional resources. The area’s unique geographical attributes have established it as a crucial habitat for migratory swans seeking refuge from harsh northern winters.

    Local conservation authorities have implemented comprehensive measures to ensure the swans’ welfare during their extended stay. According to Wang Chao, a representative from the Pinglu County Forestry Bureau, the migration pattern typically begins in mid-to-late October, with populations remaining until March of the following year. “We’ve established substantial food reserves including Chinese cabbage and corn supplements,” Wang explained. “Additionally, we maintain continuous patrol operations with staff conducting 24-hour monitoring to protect these vulnerable migrants.”

    The swan population reaching approximately 10,000 annually reflects successful ecological preservation efforts in the region. Conservation initiatives have progressively enhanced the wetland environment, creating sustainable conditions that support this remarkable yearly migration. The growing numbers demonstrate how targeted environmental protection policies can positively impact wildlife preservation, offering a promising model for ecological balance between human activity and natural habitats.

  • Year-ender: China’s scientific achievements in 2025

    Year-ender: China’s scientific achievements in 2025

    China’s scientific landscape witnessed transformative breakthroughs throughout 2025, positioning the nation at the forefront of global technological advancement. The year’s achievements spanned multiple disciplines, demonstrating remarkable progress in both theoretical research and practical applications.

    In quantum technology, Chinese researchers achieved unprecedented computing stability, pushing the boundaries of qubit coherence and error correction. These developments have significant implications for cryptography, drug discovery, and complex system modeling. Parallel to these advances, China’s nuclear fusion program reached critical milestones, with experimental reactors sustaining plasma confinement for record durations, edging closer to viable commercial energy production.

    Space exploration efforts accelerated with multiple successful missions, including lunar sample-return operations and the deployment of next-generation orbital telescopes. The deep-sea exploration program simultaneously made groundbreaking discoveries, with manned submersibles documenting previously unknown marine ecosystems and geological formations at extreme depths.

    Interdisciplinary collaboration emerged as a defining characteristic of China’s 2025 scientific approach, with research institutions establishing unprecedented data-sharing protocols and international partnerships. The integration of artificial intelligence across research domains accelerated discovery timelines, particularly in materials science and biomedical engineering.

    These accomplishments reflect China’s strategic investment in research infrastructure and talent development, with particular emphasis on fostering young innovators and establishing world-class research facilities. The systematic approach to scientific advancement has created synergistic effects across industries, from renewable energy to telecommunications.

  • Will it snow in UAE? What expert says after rare snowfall in Saudi Arabia

    Will it snow in UAE? What expert says after rare snowfall in Saudi Arabia

    The recent occurrence of snowfall in Saudi Arabia has sparked widespread curiosity among UAE residents regarding the possibility of similar winter phenomena in their own country. Meteorologists confirm that while not impossible, snowfall requires exceptionally specific atmospheric conditions that rarely align in the region.

    According to meteorological reports, several areas in Saudi Arabia experienced unusual snowfall on December 18th following the arrival of a cold air mass. The Saudi Press Agency documented snow accumulation in Al Majmaah and Al Ghat governorates north of Riyadh, with higher elevation areas including Jabal Al Lawz in the northwest similarly affected. The National Centre of Meteorology attributed this event to dramatically dropping temperatures—some falling below zero degrees Celsius—combined with precipitation-bearing thunderclouds.

    Dr. Ahmed Habib from the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology explained that snowfall demands particularly stringent conditions: “Snow formation necessitates very specific circumstances, primarily occurring in high elevation zones when atmospheric temperatures at upper levels decrease significantly. Within the UAE, such conditions remain uncommon, with hail representing the more typical winter precipitation.”

    Historical records indicate that the UAE has witnessed actual snowfall on rare occasions. The most notable event occurred on January 24, 2009, when Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah experienced substantial snow accumulation following temperatures plunging to minus three degrees Celsius. Mountain peaks approximately 5,700 feet high were covered with snow extending over five kilometers, reaching depths up to 20 centimeters in certain areas. Another similar event was documented in December 2004, though with lesser intensity, and minor snowfall was again reported on Jebel Jais in 2020.

    Recent winter conditions have produced visually similar phenomena across the UAE. Icy rains have deposited hail across desert landscapes, creating snow-like blankets of white, while temperatures in Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah have approached freezing points. These conditions have inspired ‘ice chasing’ trends where residents visit mountainous areas to observe frost formations.

    Meteorological authorities emphasize that current weather patterns predominantly generate rain, thunderstorms, and hail during winter months. While snowfall remains theoretically possible under precisely aligned conditions at high elevations, it continues to represent an exceptional meteorological occurrence rather than expected winter weather in the region.

  • Research: Israel expanding military outposts to prolong presence in Gaza

    Research: Israel expanding military outposts to prolong presence in Gaza

    A comprehensive investigation by London-based research agency Forensic Architecture has revealed Israel’s systematic military expansion within the Gaza Strip, suggesting preparations for a permanent territorial division. The research, documented by Drop Site News, indicates Israel has established at least 13 new military outposts while consolidating existing infrastructure and constructing extensive road networks throughout the enclave.

    The findings detail how Gaza has been effectively partitioned by a ‘yellow line’ since the October ceasefire took effect. Eastern areas beyond this demarcation have been designated as ‘combat zones’ under Israeli military control, where forces reportedly shoot anyone approaching. Western regions remain under Hamas’s de facto governance, creating a stark territorial division.

    Forensic Architecture’s analysis identified significant discrepancies between officially mapped boundaries and physical military placements. Researchers documented 27 yellow block markers positioned up to 940 meters beyond the officially indicated line, demonstrating gradual encroachment into Gazan territory. The report concludes this infrastructure expansion effectively institutionalizes ethnic cleansing across 53% of Gaza.

    Despite the ceasefire agreement, the research indicates continued targeting of civilian structures and homes. Palestinian news agency WAFA reported renewed aerial bombardments across Gaza this week, with attacks targeting eastern Gaza City and the Tuffah neighborhood. These developments align with B’Tselem’s recent report on forced displacement, which found no meaningful change in Israel’s conduct post-ceasefire.

    The military campaign has produced devastating infrastructure damage, with over 90% of homes destroyed, 70% of all structures compromised, and 81% of road networks rendered unusable. University of Malaya research fellow Belal Alakhras characterized Israel’s strategy as ‘calculated dominance masquerading as security,’ noting that military supremacy is being leveraged to entrench control rather than pursue genuine stability.

    Alakhras further argued that this approach exposes fundamental contradictions in the occupation while deepening international complicity. ‘What Israel is engineering is not stability, but institutionalized fragility that further undermines its own regional standing,’ he stated, describing the situation as ‘colonial logic’ that manages subjugation rather than pursuing safety.

  • Trademark Law being revised to protect IPs

    Trademark Law being revised to protect IPs

    Chinese legislators are undertaking comprehensive revisions to the nation’s Trademark Law, marking a significant advancement in intellectual property rights protection. The proposed amendments, currently under review by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, address critical challenges in trademark governance while reinforcing China’s commitment to creating a robust legal framework for innovation-driven economic development.

    The draft legislation, comprising 84 substantive articles, specifically targets malicious trademark practices including trademark squatting, hoarding activities, and improper registrations. These measures represent China’s proactive response to emerging IP violations that have accompanied rapid economic expansion. Shen Changyu, Director of the China National Intellectual Property Administration, emphasized that while China leads globally with 49.78 million valid trademarks and 83.52 million registration applications as of December 2024, new regulatory challenges demand updated legal solutions.

    Key provisions establish stringent oversight mechanisms for trademark agencies, mandating strict confidentiality of client trade secrets and imposing substantial penalties for unethical practices. Agencies found obtaining business through fraudulent means, including forgery or defamation of competitors, face fines reaching ¥200,000 (approximately $28,418) in severe cases. The draft further empowers industry associations to develop self-regulatory standards and disciplinary protocols to elevate professional service quality.

    A fundamental shift introduced requires trademark applicants to demonstrate genuine usage intent, rejecting registrations that exceed normal business requirements. Individuals engaged in malicious registration practices may incur penalties up to ¥100,000, with clear criteria defining violations including appropriation of others’ prior rights, misuse of public resources, and mass registrations made in bad faith.

    Concurrently, the amendments streamline administrative procedures to enhance applicant convenience while maintaining rigorous examination standards. This balanced approach aims to foster legitimate trademark utilization while deterring abusive practices. The legislative process incorporated extensive public consultation through multiple channels, reflecting China’s methodical approach to legal modernization in intellectual property protection.

  • New high-speed rail links Inner Mongolia, Ningxia

    New high-speed rail links Inner Mongolia, Ningxia

    A transformative transportation milestone has been achieved in Northwest China with the full operational launch of the Baotou-Yinchuan High-Speed Railway, creating unprecedented connectivity between Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. The 519.3-kilometer infrastructure marvel, commencing full service on December 24, 2025, now seamlessly links Baotou and Yinchuan with 13 strategically located stations along its route.

    Engineering excellence enables trains to operate at peak velocities of 250 km/h, dramatically compressing the intercity journey from approximately six hours to a mere two hours and 38 minutes. The railway’s initial segment between Yinchuan and Huinong district had previously commenced operations in October 2024, setting the stage for the complete corridor’s activation.

    China Railway Hohhot Group has implemented a robust operational framework with 12 daily high-speed trains scheduled initially. The service incorporates flexible pricing structures and market-responsive discounts to accommodate diverse passenger requirements, as confirmed by Han Zhenmin, director of the 12306 customer service center.

    The inaugural services featured trains adorned with cultural motifs representing cities along the route, transforming the maiden voyage into a mobile exhibition of regional heritage. For residents like Ms. Li from Baotou, the railway delivers immediate practical benefits: “My daughter studies at a university in Yinchuan. Previously I endured overnight train journeys—now travel is both rapid and convenient for family visits.”

    Beyond immediate passenger convenience, the railway carries substantial strategic importance within China’s national transportation blueprint. It completes a critical segment of the Beijing-Lanzhou corridor, integrating with existing Beijing-Baotou and Yinchuan-Lanzhou lines. This integration promises to reduce Yinchuan-Beijing travel duration from 19 hours to approximately six hours once fully optimized.

    Ma Hongyue, director of the Transportation Project Center at Ningxia’s Development and Reform Commission, emphasized the project’s broader implications: “This railway significantly enhances rail connectivity between Northwest China and northern/northeastern regions. It will effectively stimulate coordinated regional development and economic advancement across western territories while facilitating Ningxia’s deeper integration into the national high-speed network.”

    Anticipating increased passenger volume, stations along the route have implemented enhanced service protocols. Baotou Railway Station has optimized passenger flow management with streamlined entry-exit routes and specialized assistance measures for elderly travelers and those without digital access. Yinchuan Railway Station conducted comprehensive emergency preparedness drills and extensive staff training programs prior to launch, with deputy director Shen Xingtao confirming “multiple training rounds covering passenger service etiquette and operational knowledge.”

  • Zhejiang forms team on child’s postoperative death

    Zhejiang forms team on child’s postoperative death

    The Zhejiang Provincial Government has deployed a specialized task force to supervise investigations into the tragic postoperative death of a child at Ningbo University’s Women and Children’s Hospital, according to an official Xinhua News Agency report. The case, involving a young patient surnamed Xu who passed away on November 14 after cardiac surgery, has triggered significant public concern and intensive scrutiny across social media platforms.

    Provincial authorities have designated this incident as a critical priority, establishing enhanced oversight mechanisms for subsequent measures. Concurrently, Ningbo municipal authorities have dispatched their own working group to the medical facility to advance the investigation, implement corrective actions, and safeguard normal clinical operations.

    In a December 14 statement, Ningbo’s Health Commission revealed that their investigation uncovered multiple deficiencies in the medical team’s management of the case. These included insufficient surgical risk assessment, procedural negligence, failure to promptly notify family members of intraoperative emergencies, and inadequate postoperative monitoring and care protocols. The hospital itself was found to have systemic weaknesses in enforcing quality control standards and risk prevention mechanisms.

    Accountability measures have already been implemented, with the lead surgeon and anesthesiologist removed from their departmental leadership positions and suspended from clinical practice. The pediatric intensive care attending physician has likewise been suspended pending further investigation. Additional disciplinary actions against other personnel will follow completion of a technical appraisal of the medical accident and subsequent legal proceedings.

    Following the incident, authorities arranged for an autopsy through a forensic center selected by the child’s family. Tide News, a Zhejiang-based digital news outlet, reported that the notarized autopsy report was delivered to the family on December 19. The city has now initiated a formal medical-accident technical appraisal that will incorporate national experts to identify medical errors and establish responsibility levels. A local court has accepted the family’s medical liability lawsuit against the hospital.

    From November 19 to December 9, the investigation team consulted 17 medical experts from leading hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai, and various Zhejiang institutions, including specialists in pediatric cardiac surgery, cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, anesthesiology, pediatric intensive care, neonatology, and forensic medicine. While experts agreed that the child’s condition warranted surgical intervention without absolute contraindications, they expressed differing opinions regarding the optimal timing of the procedure—a matter expected to be resolved through the ongoing technical appraisal.

    Ningbo’s Health Commission has announced a comprehensive citywide quality and safety rectification campaign focusing on surgical safety protocols, patient safety measures, humane care standards, and medical record documentation practices.

  • Social security covers more gig workers

    Social security covers more gig workers

    China is accelerating regulatory reforms to strengthen social protections for its massive gig economy workforce, with new measures targeting rights protection, income stability, and benefit coverage for flexible workers. The initiative represents a significant policy shift addressing the growing contingent of delivery personnel, ride-hailing drivers, and other platform-based workers estimated to exceed 200 million people.

    The State Council presented a comprehensive work report to the National People’s Congress Standing Committee detailing progress in safeguarding non-traditional employment rights. Government agencies have implemented multi-faceted approaches including enhanced working standards, algorithmic oversight reforms, and experimental social insurance programs specifically designed for gig workers.

    A landmark achievement is the specialized work-related injury insurance program launched in 2022, which has expanded to 17 pilot provinces and 11 participating companies, covering approximately 23.25 million workers by October 2025. The innovative program calculates premiums based on completed orders rather than traditional employment relationships.

    Concurrently, pension and medical insurance participation barriers have been reduced, resulting in 70.57 million flexible workers enrolled in basic pension insurance and 66.16 million in medical insurance by end-2024. Human Resources and Social Security Vice-Minister Wu Xiuzhang emphasized these developments create unprecedented security for previously vulnerable workers.

    Despite substantial progress, challenges persist including income instability and protection gaps. Future measures will strengthen supervision of payment rights, rest periods, and workplace safety while developing collective bargaining mechanisms tailored to platform-based employment. The government also plans to enhance legal frameworks and dispute resolution channels to ensure comprehensive worker protection in the evolving digital economy.