Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Global flavors meet festive cheer at Spring Festival fair in Shanghai

    Global flavors meet festive cheer at Spring Festival fair in Shanghai

    The Bund · City Hall Plaza in Shanghai’s Huangpu district transformed into a vibrant culinary crossroads from February 6-8, hosting the ‘Global Taste in Shanghai · Global Chinese New Year Fair.’ This three-day festival, jointly organized by the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce and the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government, created a unique platform where international flavors converged with traditional Spring Festival celebrations.

    More than 50 businesses representing over 10 countries and regions participated in the gastronomic showcase, offering everything from Shanghai-themed gifts and premium food hampers to imported wines, specialty teas, artisanal crafts, and exotic delicacies. The event attracted diplomatic representatives from various consulates who personally promoted their nations’ culinary offerings.

    Teresa Bauer, Austria’s Acting Consul General in Shanghai, enthusiastically represented her country’s specialties at the fair. ‘Shanghai brings together so many different kinds of food and flavors,’ she remarked. ‘It’s kind of a hub of food culture in China.’ Bauer recommended organic chocolate from Zotter and traditional Viennese coffee from Julius Meinl, a company with roots dating back to 1862.

    Having resided in Shanghai for four years, Bauer expressed her appreciation for the cultural exchange: ‘I am very happy to have learned about all the important cultures, not only the Chinese New Year we are celebrating soon. I love the Chinese kitchen, the Chinese food, and it’s so different from the food we have in Austria.’

    The fair successfully created a multicultural celebration that extended beyond commerce, fostering cross-cultural understanding through shared culinary experiences during one of China’s most important traditional festivals.

  • UAE private schools to teach math, science subjects in English: Emarat Al Youm

    UAE private schools to teach math, science subjects in English: Emarat Al Youm

    In a significant educational reform, the United Arab Emirates has announced that private schools following the Ministry of Education’s curriculum will transition to teaching mathematics and science subjects exclusively in English. The policy change, reported by Emarat Al Youm, will commence in the 2026-2027 academic year and be implemented through a carefully structured four-phase rollout scheduled for completion by the 2029-2030 academic year.

    The initiative begins with Grade 9 Advanced Track students, who will receive instruction in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology in English during the inaugural year. Subsequent phases will expand English-medium instruction to Grade 10 (2027-2028), Grade 11 (2028-2029), and finally Grade 12 (2029-2030), ensuring a systematic and balanced transition across all secondary levels.

    According to an official circular distributed to private school administrations, the Ministry of Education emphasized that this strategic shift aims to create educational equity by standardizing the language of instruction between public and private institutions. The reform specifically targets enhanced student preparedness for higher education pathways, where these subjects are predominantly taught in English. Additionally, the policy seeks to boost academic competitiveness, facilitate smoother transitions between educational sectors, and better align graduate competencies with both labor market demands and national strategic objectives.

    School administrators have responded positively to the announcement, acknowledging that the previous discrepancy between secondary and university language mediums created significant challenges for students. Many institutions have already begun preparatory measures, including teacher training and curriculum development, to ensure a seamless implementation that maintains academic stability throughout the transition period.

    The Ministry has committed to providing all necessary educational resources and support to guarantee full operational readiness across the private school network, marking a transformative step in the UAE’s ongoing educational modernization efforts.

  • Exclusive: Ex-PCB chief recalls the day India-Pakistan cricket collapsed

    Exclusive: Ex-PCB chief recalls the day India-Pakistan cricket collapsed

    The high-stakes world of international cricket faces its most significant political crisis in years as Pakistan’s government-backed boycott of the February 15 T20 World Cup match against India exposes deep fractures within the sport’s governance. The decision, taken in solidarity with Bangladesh after their removal from the tournament, threatens to derail cricket’s most lucrative rivalry that generates approximately $400 million per match.

    Najam Sethi, former Pakistan Cricket Board chairman with three separate tenures, provided exclusive insight to Khaleej Times regarding the escalating confrontation between Pakistan and the International Cricket Council. According to Sethi, Pakistan’s protest stems from perceived inconsistent application of ICC regulations, particularly referencing the precedent set when India’s matches were relocated to Dubai during the 2025 Champions Trophy due to security concerns.

    The veteran administrator revealed startling behind-the-scenes details of cricket diplomacy, including a 2015 incident where Pakistani officials were allegedly humiliated during a trip to Mumbai. “They received us at the airport, brought us to the hotel, and asked us to wait,” Sethi recounted. “Three hours later, they told us the meeting had been cancelled and police were waiting outside to take us back to the airport.”

    The current standoff represents a dramatic escalation in cricket’s geopolitical tensions. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has publicly endorsed the boycott, characterizing it as a stance against unfair treatment. Sethi suggests informal backchannel negotiations are underway between ICC representatives and Pakistani officials, though he acknowledges the challenging dynamics given the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s considerable influence within international cricket.

    With the Olympics potentially welcoming cricket in 2028, Sethi warns that the sport’s governing body risks damaging its credibility through perceived political bias. “The Olympics will never tolerate a politicized ICC,” he emphasized, noting that the timing of this confrontation could jeopardize cricket’s Olympic aspirations.

    The situation remains fluid with February 15 looming as a critical deadline. Should Pakistan maintain their position and refuse to play India in potential knockout matches, the ICC faces unprecedented disciplinary decisions that could reshape international cricket’s power structure.

  • Explore ancient and iconic architecture with Beautiful Hebei

    Explore ancient and iconic architecture with Beautiful Hebei

    The tenth installment of the ‘Beautiful Hebei’ visual series offers a breathtaking journey through the province’s rich architectural heritage, showcasing ancient temples, historic towers, and magnificent grottoes through a curated collection of exceptional photography.

    Produced under the auspices of the Hebei Photographers Association, this ambitious project comprises eleven short films that collectively present 198 meticulously selected images. The visual content has been sourced from three primary channels: the association’s extensive archival library, specially commissioned submissions from professional photographers, and targeted collections from relevant cultural organizations.

    This multimedia initiative represents a significant cultural preservation effort, documenting Hebei’s most iconic structures and sacred spaces with unprecedented visual depth. The series not only highlights the architectural diversity spanning different dynasties but also demonstrates sophisticated photographic techniques in capturing the interplay of light, shadow, and form across these ancient edifices.

    Each episode serves as both an artistic presentation and historical documentation, offering viewers virtual access to sites that reflect Hebei’s position as a cradle of Chinese civilization. The project stands as a testament to the province’s enduring cultural significance and the continuing relevance of its architectural traditions in contemporary society.

  • ‘Sitting shuts my brain’: UAE doctors on why standing helps some people think, focus

    ‘Sitting shuts my brain’: UAE doctors on why standing helps some people think, focus

    Medical experts from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Neurological Institute have revealed compelling scientific evidence explaining why prolonged sitting adversely affects both cognitive performance and physical health. According to psychiatry and neurosurgical specialists, the human brain and body are fundamentally designed for movement, not sustained stillness.

    Dr. Muhammad Farhan, Staff Physician at the Psychiatry & Behavioural Health Department, explains that when the body remains stationary for extended periods, the brain receives diminished sensory input from muscles and joints. This reduction in neurological signaling triggers a shift toward a low-energy, drowsy state, significantly impairing mental alertness and focus.

    The physical consequences are equally significant. Dr. Nader Hebala, neurosurgical specialist at the same institute, details how sitting compresses the sciatic nerve—particularly problematic for individuals with existing back conditions or disc issues. The flexed hip position during sitting increases pressure on the nerve pathway, exacerbating pain, numbness, and tingling sensations in the lower extremities.

    For individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the challenges are particularly pronounced. Dr. Farhan notes that ADHD brains already operate with lower baseline levels of dopamine and norepinephrine—neurotransmitters critical for attention and focus. Prolonged sitting further depletes these chemicals, while movement naturally stimulates their production. This explains why many with ADHD report significantly improved concentration while standing or walking.

    The research carries important implications for workplace design, education systems, and transportation. Experts suggest implementing regular movement breaks every 30-45 minutes, advocating for sit-stand desks, and reconsidering how environments that mandate sitting—from conferences to long-haul flights—might accommodate neurological diversity.

    Crucially, doctors emphasize that the need for movement transcends mere preference, representing instead a biological requirement for optimal cognitive and physical functioning. They recommend balanced approaches that alternate between sitting and standing, combined with consistent postural changes and movement intervals throughout the day.

  • S Korean crypto firm accidentally pays out $40bn in bitcoin

    S Korean crypto firm accidentally pays out $40bn in bitcoin

    In a staggering administrative error, South Korean cryptocurrency exchange Bithumb inadvertently distributed over $40 billion worth of bitcoin to customers on Friday, temporarily transforming hundreds of account holders into instant millionaires. The platform had intended to issue modest cash rewards of 2,000 won (approximately $1.37) but instead credited 2,000 bitcoins to each recipient due to a critical system malfunction.

    The exchange detected the catastrophic error within 35 minutes, immediately implementing trading and withdrawal restrictions for the 695 affected accounts. According to Bithumb’s official statement, the company successfully recovered 99.7% of the erroneously distributed 620,000 bitcoins, emphasizing that the incident resulted from an internal processing error rather than external hacking or security vulnerabilities.

    South Korea’s Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) convened an emergency meeting Saturday to examine the unprecedented incident, warning that any indications of illegal activity would trigger formal investigations. Bithumb CEO Lee Jae-won pledged full cooperation with regulators, acknowledging the need to prioritize customer trust over external growth initiatives.

    As remediation measures, Bithumb announced compensation of 20,000 won ($13.66) for all platform users during the incident period, along with waived trading fees. The exchange committed to implementing enhanced verification systems and artificial intelligence detection mechanisms for abnormal transactions.

    This incident echoes similar high-value financial errors, including Citigroup’s April 2024 miscalculation that erroneously credited $81 trillion instead of $280 to a client account. The Bithumb case is expected to intensify regulatory scrutiny and debate surrounding operational safeguards within cryptocurrency exchanges and traditional financial institutions alike.

  • Delegates attending APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting, related sessions visit Guangzhou

    Delegates attending APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting, related sessions visit Guangzhou

    GUANGZHOU, China – International delegates participating in the APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting gained immersive cultural exposure during their visit to Guangzhou’s historic Chen Clan Ancestral Hall on February 6, 2026. The excursion provided diplomatic representatives with hands-on experience in traditional Chinese calligraphy amid the architectural splendor of one of Guangdong Province’s most significant cultural landmarks.

    This cultural diplomacy initiative forms part of China’s comprehensive hosting duties for the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for November 2026. The current preliminary sessions, running from February 1-10, establish the foundational framework for the upcoming economic summit where Asia-Pacific leaders will address regional cooperation and global economic challenges.

    The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, renowned for its exquisite traditional Cantonese architecture and status as a protected cultural heritage site, served as an ideal backdrop for cross-cultural exchange. Delegates engaged directly with China’s artistic traditions through calligraphy demonstrations, symbolizing the intersection of cultural preservation and international diplomacy.

    These preliminary meetings in Guangzhou represent critical preparatory work for establishing agenda priorities and policy directives ahead of the main November summit. The cultural component demonstrates China’s approach to diplomacy that blends substantive economic discussions with opportunities for cultural appreciation and mutual understanding among member economies.

    The selection of Guangzhou as host city highlights China’s strategic emphasis on showcasing developed metropolitan centers beyond its capital, presenting the dynamic economic and cultural landscape of southern China to international representatives.

  • China successfully launches a reusable experimental spacecraft

    China successfully launches a reusable experimental spacecraft

    China has marked a significant milestone in its space exploration program with the successful deployment of a reusable experimental spacecraft on Saturday. The launch occurred at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, utilizing the reliable Long March 2F carrier rocket system.

    According to the official Xinhua News Agency, the spacecraft represents a technological leap forward in China’s aerospace capabilities. The experimental vehicle is specifically engineered to conduct a series of planned technical validations aimed at demonstrating and refining reusable spaceflight technology.

    This achievement forms part of China’s broader strategy to develop sustainable space exploration methods that could significantly reduce mission costs and increase access to space. The successful verification of these technologies promises to enhance China’s position in the global space community while supporting peaceful extraterrestrial activities.

    The development of reusable spacecraft technology has become a priority for spacefaring nations seeking to establish regular and economically viable access to orbit. China’s progress in this domain demonstrates the nation’s growing proficiency in advanced aerospace engineering and its commitment to becoming a leading space power.

    While specific technical details and mission duration remain undisclosed, the accomplishment underscores China’s systematic approach to space technology development through methodical testing and validation processes.

  • Funerals for victims of suicide blast at Islamabad mosque that killed at least 31

    Funerals for victims of suicide blast at Islamabad mosque that killed at least 31

    Islamabad witnessed a day of profound mourning on Saturday as funerals commenced for victims of a devastating suicide bombing that struck during Friday prayers. The assault on Imam Bargah Qasr-e-Khadijatul Kubra mosque, located on the capital’s outskirts, resulted in at least 31 fatalities and left 169 individuals wounded, with authorities cautioning that the death toll may further escalate.

    Eyewitness accounts depict a scene of chaos and horror. According to security sources, the attacker was intercepted at the mosque entrance before detonating explosives. Muhammad Kazim, a 52-year-old worshipper, described an ‘extremely powerful’ explosion that reverberated through the building as prayers commenced. Another attendee, Imran Mahmood, reported an exchange of gunfire between the assailant and volunteer security personnel prior to the detonation.

    The aftermath revealed a tragic spectacle of devastation. AFP journalists documented bloodied clothing, debris, and emotional scenes at local hospitals where victims, including children, were urgently transported. Social media footage, though unverified, showed multiple bodies near the mosque’s entrance and a prayer hall carpeted in red now stained with tragedy.

    Pakistan’s leadership swiftly condemned the attack. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif pledged to pursue and prosecute those responsible, while Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar denounced the bombing as ‘a heinous crime against humanity and a blatant violation of Islamic principles.’ International condemnation followed, with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issuing a strong rebuke through a spokesperson.

    This incident marks the deadliest attack in Islamabad since September 2008, when a truck bomb devastated the Marriott Hotel, claiming 60 lives. It occurs amidst escalating security challenges for Pakistan, where intensifying insurgencies in southern and northern border provinces with Afghanistan have strained military resources. Just last week, separatist insurgents in Balochistan killed 58 security personnel and civilians, triggering extensive counter-operations that neutralized nearly 200 militants.

  • 5 dead, thousands displaced as Typhoon Penha triggers floods, landslides in Philippines

    5 dead, thousands displaced as Typhoon Penha triggers floods, landslides in Philippines

    Northern Mindanao in the Philippines has been struck by devastating floods and lethal landslides triggered by Typhoon Penha, internationally recognized while locally named Basyang. This catastrophic event marks the nation’s first major disaster of the year, resulting in five confirmed fatalities and multiple injuries according to the Philippine Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

    A particularly tragic incident occurred in Barangay Agusan, where a rain-induced landslide near a quarry site completely buried a family of four, killing all members. Three additional individuals sustained injuries from falling debris in a neighboring municipality, as confirmed by OCD spokesperson Junie Castillo.

    The storm’s impact extended severely to Iligan City, where widespread flooding submerged residential areas under water and coated extensive urban sections with thick mud. The calamity claimed the life of local radio broadcaster Creselyn Baterna Velasco, who suffered cardiac arrest after floodwaters invaded her apartment. Emergency response teams worked continuously through Thursday night executing rescue operations for residents trapped by the overflowing Tubod River.

    Official statistics reveal the typhoon has displaced approximately 21,000 individuals across northeastern and northern Mindanao, with 6,384 families currently sheltering in activated evacuation centers. Disaster management authorities established 197 emergency shelters, including 32 facilities utilized for preemptive evacuations prior to the storm’s arrival. Overall impact assessments indicate approximately 100,375 people across 27,572 families have been affected, including communities in the Visayas region and Bacolod City on Negros Island.

    The typhoon initially caused significant power disruptions across 28 areas, though utility providers successfully restored electricity to all affected locations by Saturday morning. The Philippines typically experiences 20-25 tropical cyclones annually, with scientific evidence indicating these weather systems are growing progressively more destructive due to climate change effects.