Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Lionel Messi reaches New Delhi, football icon’s final pit stop in India

    Lionel Messi reaches New Delhi, football icon’s final pit stop in India

    Football icon Lionel Messi arrived in New Delhi on Monday, marking the final destination of his extensively anticipated ‘GOAT India Tour’ 2025. The Argentine World Cup champion’s arrival was managed under stringent security protocols following a series of successful appearances across the country.

    The Delhi leg concludes a multi-city tour that previously visited Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. While the Kolkata event encountered organizational challenges, the Hyderabad and Mumbai segments proceeded flawlessly, drawing massive crowds and generating tremendous excitement among Indian football enthusiasts.

    Outside Arun Jaitley Stadium, fervent supporters created an electric atmosphere with continuous chants of ‘Messi, Messi’ while displaying commemorative posters of their sporting hero. Saurab Aggarwal, one dedicated fan, revealed to ANI that he had been anticipating this moment for nearly a decade since Messi’s previous visit in 2011: ‘We were planning this day for the last 3-4 months. We’ve been waiting for this day for a decade and are incredibly excited to be here.’ Another admirer expressed even stronger emotions, stating: ‘It feels like we are about to see God.’

    The tour’s previous stop in Mumbai featured spectacular events at Wankhede Stadium where Messi appeared alongside fellow football stars Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul. The evening commenced with dynamic performances by renowned Indian DJ Chetas, who energized the crowd with popular music selections complemented by vibrant cultural dance presentations.

    A highlight included an exhibition match between Indian Stars (featuring actor Tiger Shroff and Jim Sarbh alongside player Bala Devi) and Mitra Stars, captained by Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri with his Bengaluru FC teammates. Messi created unforgettable moments by kicking footballs into spectator areas and presenting Chhetri with a personally signed Argentina jersey.

    The Mumbai event concluded with significant ceremonial exchanges as Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis honored Messi with a commemorative gift. In a historic cross-sports moment, cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar presented Messi with an official Team India jersey, symbolizing the mutual respect between two sporting legends from different disciplines.

  • A date with Shandong: Symphony of life in Yellow River Delta

    A date with Shandong: Symphony of life in Yellow River Delta

    The Yellow River Delta in Dongying, Shandong province, reveals itself as a breathtaking ecological marvel where vast reed marshes, glistening wetlands, and spectacular migratory bird formations create a vibrant tapestry of life. This region represents one of China’s most significant natural habitats, where the delicate balance between river ecosystems and biodiversity flourishes.

    Through the perspective of Joe Burns, a foreign expert with China Daily Website, readers experience an intimate journey along the Yellow River’s meandering pathways. His observations capture the mesmerizing spectacle of avian migrations against expansive skies, highlighting the area’s critical role as a sanctuary for numerous bird species. The narrative transforms from mere geographical description to a profound meditation on nature’s harmonious rhythms.

    This immersive account transcends conventional travel writing by framing the delta as a living symphony—where wingbeats compose melodic patterns, waterways provide rhythmic foundation, and the sheer wonder of undisturbed nature creates emotional crescendos. The coverage emphasizes conservation achievements while illustrating how protected wetlands serve as vital waystations for international migratory routes, positioning Shandong’s wilderness as both regional treasure and global ecological asset.

  • Sudan witnesses burial of 15,000 bodies across Khartoum state

    Sudan witnesses burial of 15,000 bodies across Khartoum state

    In a solemn and extensive operation, Sudan’s Forensic Medicine Authority has managed the retrieval, transport, and formal interment of approximately 15,000 corpses from various locations across Khartoum state since April 2024. These remains, initially buried hastily by civilians under coercion or discarded in mass graves by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), have now been relocated to official burial grounds.

    An official from the Khartoum state health ministry, speaking to the Sudan Tribune, outlined the objective to complete the transfer of all bodies buried outside designated cemeteries by mid-2026. The source detailed how the RSF, which held control over much of the capital and its environs from the war’s outset in April 2023 until March 2025, compelled residents to bury their dead in residential areas, neighborhoods, and even school grounds. Civilians from Khartoum and its adjoining cities, Omdurman and Bahri, reported that accessing cemeteries was impossible due to intense and persistent combat.

    This large-scale body recovery campaign, initiated in March 2024 with support from charities like the Red Crescent, addresses the severe humanitarian consequences of the conflict. State authorities emphasized that the RSF’s blockade of traditional cemeteries forced citizens to use public squares, mosques, schools, and private homes as impromptu gravesites.

    Disturbing discoveries continue to surface. In June 2025, Sudanese army Brigadier al-Rayah Dafallah reported to Middle East Eye (MEE) that corpses were being found in highly unusual places, including buried beneath house floors. An MEE investigation of a university morgue, repurposed by the RSF as a base, revealed three tanks containing around 20 severely decomposed bodies.

    The crisis extends beyond the capital. Satellite imagery analyzed by Yale’s Humanitarian Research Lab has confirmed the existence of mass graves in el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, which was seized by the RSF in late October. Accounts from survivors describe horrific scenes of people buried alive, streets littered with corpses, and bodies unceremoniously dragged into squares using bedding materials.

    Both warring factions—the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF)—face accusations of atrocities. The RSF, which receives backing from the United Arab Emirates, stands additionally accused of committing genocide against non-Arab communities in Darfur, a charge it vehemently denies.

    No precise official death toll exists, but estimates from humanitarian organizations on the ground are staggering. As early as October 2024, Islamic Relief CEO Waseem Ahmad suggested the figure could be as high as 200,000, highlighting the immense human cost of the ongoing war.

  • Ranveer Singh shares cryptic note amid ‘Dhurandhar’ success

    Ranveer Singh shares cryptic note amid ‘Dhurandhar’ success

    Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh has captivated both audiences and social media followers by sharing a philosophical reflection on destiny and perseverance during the phenomenal box office performance of his latest cinematic venture, ‘Dhurandhar.’

    Through his Instagram platform, Singh posted a contemplative message in Hindi that translates to: ‘Fate possesses a remarkably beautiful habit of transforming when the appropriate moment arrives. However, for the present time, I am embracing faith and patience.’ This cryptic communication arrives as his recently released spy thriller continues to shatter financial records across Indian theaters.

    The film’s commercial achievement has been particularly noteworthy during its second Saturday screening, a crucial indicator of cinematic success within the industry. ‘Dhurandhar’ has demonstrated exceptional performance by surpassing the comparable earnings of several other major productions including ‘Chhaava,’ ‘Stree 2,’ ‘Animal,’ ‘Gadar 2,’ ‘Jawan,’ and ‘Saiyaara.’

    Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Aditya Dhar, ‘Dhurandhar’ presents an intense narrative centered on an undercover intelligence operative who infiltrates a dangerous criminal syndicate. The project draws inspiration from actual historical events and features an ensemble cast including established performers Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and emerging talent Sara Arjun in significant roles.

    The production company has officially confirmed that the story will continue with ‘Dhurandhar Part Two,’ scheduled for theatrical release on March 19, 2026, indicating strong confidence in the franchise’s ongoing commercial potential and audience appeal.

  • US Jewish groups urge heightened security at public events after Hanukkah attack in Australia

    US Jewish groups urge heightened security at public events after Hanukkah attack in Australia

    In response to the lethal mass shooting targeting a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach, prominent Jewish organizations across the United States are implementing enhanced security protocols for public gatherings. Three specialized security groups have jointly recommended that upcoming Jewish events adopt strict access controls, permitting entry exclusively to pre-screened individuals who completed advance registration.

    The security advisory emphasizes that event details including location and timing should only be disclosed upon confirmed registration, with physical access controls established to verify attendees. This coordinated security response emerges alongside declarations from rabbis nationwide affirming their commitment to proceed with large-scale celebrations as demonstrations of community resilience.

    Temple Beth Sholom, among Miami’s largest synagogues, publicly encouraged members to embrace “Jewish joy, communal strength, and courageous hope” by participating in Hanukkah festivities. This sentiment echoes globally, with Chabad centers maintaining thousands of scheduled public menorah lightings while implementing additional security precautions.

    Rabbi Jeffrey Myers of Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life Congregation, who survived the 2018 antisemitic attack that killed eleven worshippers, emphasized Hanukkah’s symbolic significance: “In the face of antisemitism and violence, my prayer is that we don’t let the fear win but instead lean into our Jewishness and practice our tradition proudly.”

    The Sydney attack, which claimed at least fifteen lives including Assistant Rabbi Eli Schlanger, has intensified scrutiny regarding governmental responses to rising antisemitic crimes. Australian authorities have pledged to review existing firearm regulations following the targeted assault.

    Rabbi Rick Jacobs of the Union for Reform Judaism articulated the complex tension between security concerns and religious expression: “We need to be smart about security and protecting ourselves and our fellow Jews… But our Jewish community will not go into hiding. We are proud Jews and will remain so even as we make the security of our Jewish community a primary obligation.”

    This balancing act reflects historical Jewish practices, with Jacobs noting that Talmudic teachings traditionally permit moving menorahs from windows during times of danger. Nevertheless, Alon Shalev of Jerusalem’s Shalom Hartman Institute advocates for increased public visibility: “When Jews are attacked for being visibly Jewish, the instinct to retreat is understandable — but it is precisely the wrong response. Jewish safety in democratic societies depends on open, shared civic affirmation.”

  • Verdict on Jimmy Lai is reached strictly in accordance with law and evidence: HKSAR govt

    Verdict on Jimmy Lai is reached strictly in accordance with law and evidence: HKSAR govt

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has formally affirmed that the judicial verdict in the national security case against media proprietor Jimmy Lai was determined exclusively through strict legal procedures and evidentiary standards. In an official statement released Monday, a government spokesperson emphasized that the court’s decision demonstrates rigorous adherence to judicial independence, completely free from external interference or political considerations.

    Lai, identified by authorities as a key instigator of anti-China disturbances in Hong Kong, was convicted on three distinct charges: two counts of conspiring to collude with external forces and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. The court specifically clarified that the conviction was not influenced by Lai’s political perspectives or beliefs, but rather by his unlawful actions.

    HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee characterized the verdict as a clear manifestation of legal justice and the reinforcement of Hong Kong’s core values. He asserted that national security laws cannot be violated under the pretext of human rights, democracy, or freedom, emphasizing that the government remains steadfast in its constitutional duty to combat all activities that endanger national security.

    The government statement addressed what it described as deliberate misinformation campaigns from Western powers, particularly the United States, regarding Lai’s case. Officials specifically rejected attempts to frame the prosecution as an attack on press freedom, noting that Hong Kong’s legal framework—including the Basic Law and Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance—continues to protect journalistic and speech freedoms. The spokesperson clarified that Lai’s activities involved using media operations as camouflage for actions damaging to both national and Hong Kong interests.

    Regarding Lai’s treatment during detention, authorities confirmed he received comprehensive medical care and appropriate religious accommodations. The government concluded by acknowledging persistent national security risks and reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty through the continued implementation of Hong Kong’s national security legal framework.

  • Healthcare, AI, education and space set to lead Japan and UAE bilateral ties

    Healthcare, AI, education and space set to lead Japan and UAE bilateral ties

    Japan and the United Arab Emirates are embarking on a transformative bilateral partnership, with advanced negotiations underway for a comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). This strategic alignment aims to deepen cooperation across cutting-edge sectors including artificial intelligence, healthcare innovation, space exploration, and education reform.

    Jun Imanishi, Consul-General of Japan in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, revealed that both nations are leveraging their unique strengths under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Initiative (CSPI). “Japan represents a global hub for technological development offering exceptional investment opportunities within a secure environment,” Imanishi stated, emphasizing the country’s skilled, process-driven workforce and stable political landscape.

    The partnership architecture extends beyond traditional economic ties. In healthcare, collaboration focuses on addressing shared challenges through advanced medical technologies and Japanese expertise in disease prevention. The AI partnership targets societal issues including aging populations and physical disabilities, with joint research initiatives already underway between the Japan Science and Technology Agency and Dubai Future Foundation in cybernetic avatars.

    Space exploration emerges as another critical dimension, building upon existing cooperation in renewable energy and sustainability. The upcoming International Horticultural Exposition (GREEN×EXPO 2027) in Yokohama will further showcase joint environmental initiatives.

    Investment flows are receiving significant impetus through Japan’s Programme for Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment, which targets 120 trillion yen ($810 billion) by 2030. The UAE’s extensive network of over 40 free zones—30 in Dubai alone—provides ideal infrastructure for Japanese companies seeking Middle Eastern market access. Currently, more than 300 Japanese corporations maintain regional headquarters in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

    Cultural and educational exchanges form the foundation for long-term relationship building. Youth exchange programs between Tokyo and UAE schools continue to expand, while relaxed visa regulations now permit UAE citizens 90-day stays in Japan. Artistic collaborations include innovative exhibitions blending traditional Japanese arts like ikebana, koto performances, and calligraphy with modern technologies.

    The partnership demonstrates how nations with complementary strengths can create synergistic growth models while addressing global challenges through technological innovation and cultural exchange.

  • Emirati, Indian winners take home Dh500,000 in weekly Big Ticket draw

    Emirati, Indian winners take home Dh500,000 in weekly Big Ticket draw

    In the second weekly electronic draw of December, Big Ticket has distributed Dh500,000 among five fortunate winners comprising one Emirati national and four Indian expatriates. Each recipient secured Dh100,000, sparking celebrations across the UAE and beyond.

    The winners’ circle includes Ali Alkaabi from Abu Dhabi, who expressed sheer delight during the live announcement call, though he hasn’t finalized plans for his windfall. Among the Indian winners, computer educator Ritesh Dhanak revealed he initially suspected the winning notification was fraudulent after 15 years of consistent participation. The Dubai resident of three decades intends to allocate his prize toward family vacations and his daughter’s educational expenses.

    Finance analyst Ajay Kumar, another winner from Kerala, recognized the distinctive voice of Big Ticket’s representative Richard during the fateful call while driving. Kumar’s winning ticket was part of a ten-person syndicate, meaning each member will receive Dh10,000. Meanwhile, civil engineer Shakil Ahmad Nazrul Haque, residing in Fujairah, plans to immediately transfer his winnings to family in Bihar, India, to commence construction of a new home.

    The December series continues with three additional weekly e-draws, maintaining the Dh100,000 per winner structure and accumulating a total prize pool of Dh1.5 million. The organization has also announced its flagship January 3 live draw featuring a monumental Dh30 million grand prize alongside consolation awards of Dh50,000 for five runners-up.

    A special ‘Big Win Contest’ offers additional opportunities for participants purchasing multiple tickets between December 1-24, with four selected entrants guaranteed prizes ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh150,000 during the January live event. Luxury vehicles including a BMW 430i (January) and BMW X5 (February) complement the substantial cash prizes.

    Ticket acquisition remains available through Big Ticket’s official website and physical counters at Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport, maintaining accessibility for international participants and UAE residents alike.

  • Dubai: Global Village to welcome New Year 7 times with 7 fireworks, drone shows

    Dubai: Global Village to welcome New Year 7 times with 7 fireworks, drone shows

    Dubai’s renowned cultural and entertainment destination, Global Village, is preparing to host an unprecedented New Year’s Eve celebration by welcoming 2026 not once, but seven distinct times throughout a single night. This innovative approach is designed to create a truly global festivity, allowing visitors to experience the transition into the new year alongside multiple nations.

    The meticulously planned schedule will feature countdowns synchronized with the new year’s arrival in seven different countries, each marked by its own breathtaking pyrotechnic and technological display. The celebrations will commence with China at 8:00 PM local time, followed by Thailand (9:00 PM), Bangladesh (10:00 PM), India (10:30 PM), Pakistan (11:00 PM), a grand midnight celebration for Dubai itself, and culminate with Turkey at 1:00 AM on January 1st. Each event will be highlighted by a unique, custom-designed fireworks show and a coordinated drone light performance.

    To accommodate this extraordinary marathon of festivities, Global Village will extend its operating hours on December 31st, opening its three main gates from 4:00 PM until 2:00 AM. The venue will be exclusively accessible to women and families for the occasion, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere.

    Beyond the sequential countdowns, the destination promises a full evening of immersive cultural and entertainment experiences. Guests can explore over 30 international pavilions representing more than 90 global cultures, shop from 3,500 retail outlets, and choose from a diverse array of over 250 dining options. Live entertainment will include a DJ performance on the Main Stage.

    Additional attractions such as the Floating Market, Happiness Street, and the Dessert District will be open for exploration. For thrill-seekers, the Carnaval area offers more than 200 rides and games. New installations for the season, including the Dragon Kingdom, Gardens of the World, and the child-focused Little Wonderers, will provide fresh experiences, ensuring the event offers a memorable night for visitors of all ages.

  • Rob Reiner dies: Paul Feig, Jon Cryer, Virginia Madsen offer condolences

    Rob Reiner dies: Paul Feig, Jon Cryer, Virginia Madsen offer condolences

    The entertainment industry is grappling with profound grief following the tragic discovery of acclaimed actor-director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer, deceased at their Brentwood residence on Sunday afternoon. The 78-year-old filmmaker, celebrated for his transformative contributions to cinema and television, leaves behind an indelible legacy that has shaped multiple generations of artists.

    Reiner’s extraordinary career trajectory began with his breakout role as Michael ‘Meathead’ Stivic in the groundbreaking sitcom ‘All in the Family,’ which established him as a formidable acting talent. His subsequent evolution into a directorial powerhouse produced some of Hollywood’s most enduring films, including the coming-of-age classic ‘Stand by Me,’ the mockumentary pioneer ‘This Is Spinal Tap,’ the iconic romantic comedy ‘When Harry Met Sally…,’ and the courtroom drama masterpiece ‘A Few Good Men.’

    The Norman Lear family, in an emotionally charged statement, expressed their devastation, emphasizing the profound familial bond between Lear and Reiner. They highlighted the couple’s relentless dedication to social betterment through artistic expression, activism, and philanthropy, noting that Lyn Lear characterized the world as ‘unmistakably darker’ following their passing.

    Across social media platforms, an outpouring of tributes from distinguished industry figures underscores Reiner’s dual legacy as both a creative visionary and exceptionally compassionate individual. Director Paul Feig memorialized him as ‘a true visionary titan and a lovely lovely person,’ while actor Paul Walter Hauser credited Reiner’s filmography as the primary inspiration for his own directorial ambitions.

    Actor Jon Cryer simply stated ‘Horrible,’ capturing the collective shock, while Josh Gad remembered the Reiners as ‘two of the most kind and caring souls’ who advocated tirelessly for marginalized voices. Actress Virginia Madsen offered gratitude for ‘so much joy,’ and filmmaker Joe Russo poignantly referenced Reiner’s own film, writing ‘We lost one of the few good men.’

    The couple is survived by their children Jake, Nick, and Romy, alongside Tracy Reiner, Rob’s adoptive daughter from his previous marriage to the late director Penny Marshall. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding their deaths, the global creative community reflects on the immense void left by this unparalleled artistic force.