Global Pulse

标签： Asia

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  • Turkey unveils rare and ancient Christian fresco during the pope’s visit

    Turkey unveils rare and ancient Christian fresco during the pope’s visit

    In a significant diplomatic gesture, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan unveiled a remarkable third-century Christian fresco to mark Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural foreign visit. The ancient artwork, discovered earlier this year in Iznik’s Hisardere Necropolis, represents one of the most exceptional early Christian archaeological finds in decades.

    The fresco, dating to approximately 300 CE, depicts a beardless Christ as the Good Shepherd carrying a horned ram across his shoulders, flanked symmetrically by two goats. This portrayal represents a crucial transitional period between pagan and Christian artistic traditions. Turkish officials confirmed this specimen is the only known example of its kind outside Italy, with comparable depictions previously found only in Rome’s catacombs of Priscilla, Domitilla and Callixtus.

    Archaeologists from the Iznik Museum and Turkish Ministry of Culture determined the burial chamber was actively used between the second and fifth centuries CE. Unlike other discovered painted tombs, this site features prominent human figures alongside traditional animal and vegetable motifs. The west wall portrays a married couple, likely the tomb’s occupants, depicted as aristocrats through their elaborate attire and adornments.

    The papal visit coincides with the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, which originally convened in what is now modern-day Iznik. This ecumenical council historically gathered bishops from across the Christian world to resolve foundational theological disputes. During his stay, Pope Leo will also tour the submerged remains of an ancient basilica in Lake Iznik, believed to be the actual site where the landmark council convened in 325 CE.

    Experts note that Good Shepherd imagery was widely employed in Roman funerary art before becoming central to early Christian iconography. The symposium scene depicted within the tomb, while located in a Christian-era burial site, reflects persistent pagan funerary traditions symbolizing the afterlife as an eternal banquet.

    Pope Leo and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of the Orthodox Church are expected to jointly commemorate the Nicaean Council anniversary in a demonstration of interfaith dialogue and historical recognition.

  • Pope lands in Turkey to meet Erdogan on first overseas trip

    Pope lands in Turkey to meet Erdogan on first overseas trip

    Pope Leo XIV commenced his inaugural international papal journey on Thursday, arriving in Turkey for a significant four-day diplomatic and religious mission. The first American pontiff landed in Ankara where he immediately expressed anticipation for this “historic moment” that carries profound significance for global interfaith relations.

    The papal itinerary features high-level discussions with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, recognized as a crucial mediator in regional conflicts. Following ceremonial respects at Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s mausoleum, the Pope will engage in comprehensive talks addressing peace initiatives in the turbulent Middle East region before addressing Turkish authorities, civil society representatives, and diplomatic corps.

    This visit marks a strategic media engagement for the new pontiff, with over 80 international journalists accompanying his delegation. Demonstrating his innovative approach to communication, Pope Leo will deliver all addresses in English—his native language—rather than traditional Italian, signaling his commitment to broader global accessibility.

    The theological dimension of the journey culminates Friday with commemorations of the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea in Iznik. This ecumenical gathering, hosted by Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I, represents a significant step toward Christian unity amid ongoing divisions between Catholic and Orthodox traditions exacerbated by geopolitical tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict.

    Vatican officials acknowledge Turkey’s substantial humanitarian efforts in hosting over 2.5 million refugees, primarily from Syria. The Pope’s agenda reflects continuity with his predecessor’s advocacy for migrant rights, previously criticizing what he termed “extremely disrespectful” treatment of displaced populations.

    Following the Turkish leg, Pope Leo will proceed to Lebanon on Sunday, entering a nation grappling with severe economic collapse and renewed regional violence despite recent ceasefire agreements.

  • Indonesian Air Force colonel participant writes song for China’s National Defense University

    Indonesian Air Force colonel participant writes song for China’s National Defense University

    Colonel Pandu, an Indonesian Air Force officer and participant at the International College of Defense Studies under China’s National Defense University, has composed a touching song titled ‘Changping’s Heart.’ The melody, now available on the university’s official Facebook and X accounts (@StudyinNDUChina), reflects his deep admiration for the institution and his affection for China. The song, described as a beautiful and heartfelt creation, symbolizes the cultural exchange and camaraderie fostered within the academic environment. It invites listeners to explore the inspiration and stories behind its creation, offering a voice that transcends geographical boundaries and resonates with emotional depth.

  • ‘Couldn’t do anything’: Hong Kong fire survivors recall horror, still in shock

    ‘Couldn’t do anything’: Hong Kong fire survivors recall horror, still in shock

    In one of Hong Kong’s most devastating fires in recent history, a blaze engulfed a 2,000-unit high-rise complex, claiming at least 55 lives and leaving hundreds unaccounted for. The fire, which began on Wednesday afternoon, sent shockwaves through the densely populated financial hub, known for its towering apartment blocks. Residents, still in shock, recounted the horror of watching the flames spread uncontrollably, with thick smoke billowing into the sky and the sound of burning bamboo scaffolding echoing through the area. Veezy Chan, a 25-year-old resident, described the scene as ‘terrifying,’ as the fire rapidly consumed multiple buildings. At a temporary shelter, anxious families awaited news of their loved ones, while social workers distributed blankets and pillows to the elderly. Shirley Chan, another local resident, expressed her heartbreak over the loss of homes and lives, calling the tragedy ‘indescribable.’ A 65-year-old resident, surnamed Yuen, highlighted the challenges faced by elderly residents, many of whom were unable to hear the fire alarm due to closed windows during ongoing maintenance. The fire also claimed the life of a firefighter, adding to the devastation. In the aftermath, volunteers like Logan Yeung stepped up to provide support, while citizens donated supplies to shelters. Hong Kong’s city leader, John Lee, announced the formation of a task force to investigate the incident, promising to provide the public with a thorough explanation. This tragic event has reignited concerns about fire safety in the city, despite significant improvements in recent decades.

  • UAE: Experts explain how Abraham Accords reshape geopolitics in China, Iran

    UAE: Experts explain how Abraham Accords reshape geopolitics in China, Iran

    The geopolitical ramifications of the Abraham Accords are extending far beyond Middle Eastern diplomacy, fundamentally altering global power dynamics and infrastructure competition between the United States and China, according to experts speaking at a recent policy conference in Abu Dhabi.

    Analysts at the Abraham Accords Conference revealed how the normalization agreements between Israel and Arab states have created ripple effects across Asia, prompting strategic recalculations in both Tehran and Beijing. The accords, initially focused on Middle Eastern reconciliation, are now influencing how China positions itself in Asia and how the United States structures its global infrastructure initiatives.

    Chelsi Mueller, researcher at the Moshe Dayan Center, presented compelling evidence linking the Abraham Accords to China’s 25-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement with Iran, signed in 2021. Mueller argued the timing was not coincidental but represented a strategic countermeasure to the region’s rapid realignment following UAE-Israel normalization. ‘Beijing perceived regional normalization as component of broader US repositioning,’ Mueller stated, adding that ‘It came in the context of US moves in the Pacific.’

    The conference highlighted how the accords have become embedded in the architecture of global infrastructure competition, particularly through the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Experts emphasized that IMEC couldn’t have materialized without the regional cooperation framework enabled by the UAE-Israel normalization. ‘The Abraham Accords provide the foundational architecture for IMEC,’ Mueller asserted.

    Michalis Kontos, Associate Professor at the University of Nicosia, underscored the geopolitical significance of this alignment, characterizing IMEC as Washington’s strategic counterweight to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. ‘The US is treating IMEC as its answer to China’s Belt and Road,’ Kontos noted, linking the project directly to transport, energy, and data-sharing corridors made possible by the Accords.

    The panel concluded that China and Iran’s coordinated response, combined with US-backed infrastructure corridors depending on Accords-enabled routes, positions the Abraham Accords as a critical inflection point not only for Middle Eastern politics but for global power competition. As long as IMEC remains integral to Washington’s Indo-Pacific strategy and China-Iran agreements continue to calibrate in response to regional normalization, the Abraham Accords will maintain far-reaching implications extending well beyond diplomatic relations.

  • UAE President pardons nearly 3,000 prisoners ahead of Union Day

    UAE President pardons nearly 3,000 prisoners ahead of Union Day

    In a significant humanitarian gesture marking the nation’s 54th Union Day celebrations, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has authorized the release of 2,937 prisoners from correctional facilities across the Emirates. The presidential decree, announced on November 27, 2025, represents one of the most comprehensive prisoner amnesty initiatives in recent years.

    The groundbreaking pardon extends beyond mere release, with the President committing to settle all outstanding financial penalties and debts incurred by the inmates as part of their judicial sentences. This dual approach of physical freedom coupled with financial relief underscores the leadership’s commitment to providing truly fresh starts for those affected.

    The timing of this benevolent act coincides with Eid Al Etihad (Union Day) festivities, reflecting the nation’s values of compassion and social solidarity. Official statements emphasize that this initiative aims to alleviate burdens on families while facilitating the reintegration of pardoned individuals into society through proper rehabilitation opportunities.

    This mass pardon forms part of the UAE’s broader strategy toward criminal justice reform and social cohesion enhancement. By removing financial barriers that often hinder successful reentry into society, the leadership demonstrates its innovative approach to correctional reform and community stability.

    Previous similar initiatives have shown that such comprehensive amnesty programs significantly reduce recidivism rates while strengthening family bonds and community ties. The current pardon continues this established tradition of using national celebrations as occasions for mercy and social renewal.

  • Chameera’s 4 wickets against Pakistan lifts Sri Lanka into the final of T20 tri-series

    Chameera’s 4 wickets against Pakistan lifts Sri Lanka into the final of T20 tri-series

    In a dramatic turnaround at Rawalpindi, Sri Lanka clinched a thrilling six-run victory against Pakistan to advance to the T20 tri-series final on Thursday. The match culminated in an intense final over where fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera demonstrated exceptional skill, conceding merely three runs when Pakistan required ten for victory.

    Chameera’s remarkable figures of 4-20 proved decisive, dismantling Pakistan’s top order early in the powerplay and returning to seal the game under pressure. His brilliant execution included dismissing key batsmen Sahibzada Farhan and captain Babar Azam for a two-ball duck, leaving Pakistan reeling at 43-4 within the first six overs.

    Sri Lanka’s innings was anchored by opener Kamil Mishra’s commanding 76 runs off 48 deliveries, providing a competitive total of 184-5. Supported by Kusal Mendis’ aggressive 40-run contribution, the Lankan batting lineup established a foundation that ultimately proved defensible despite dew conditions in the latter stages.

    Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha fought valiantly with a career-best unbeaten 63, forming crucial partnerships with Usman Khan (33) and Mohammad Nawaz (27). Their 70-run stand in the death overs nearly turned the tide, but Sri Lanka’s bowlers maintained composure when it mattered most.

    Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka praised his team’s resilience, stating: ‘Proud of how the boys bounced back. Everybody contributed. Of course Chameera exhibited world-class bowling.’

    The victory eliminates Zimbabwe from contention and sets up a final showdown between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Saturday, with both teams demonstrating competitive form ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

  • Watch: Dubai residents spot Leonid meteor shower in the sky

    Watch: Dubai residents spot Leonid meteor shower in the sky

    Dubai’s night sky recently hosted an unexpected astronomical spectacle as residents witnessed the annual Leonid meteor shower with unusual urban visibility. Amateur astronomer Abhishek Ashokan made a remarkable discovery during his evening commute on November 17th when he spotted a brilliant celestial streak near the Business Bay toll gate amidst traffic congestion.

    Ashokan, whose passion for celestial observation has previously taken him to dark-sky locations like Al Quaa, immediately recognized the phenomenon’s significance. ‘Spotting celestial objects is my hobby,’ Ashokan told Khaleej Times. ‘I immediately had a hunch that I had spotted a meteor.’ Subsequent verification of his dashboard camera footage by the Dubai Astronomy Group confirmed his sighting as part of the Leonid meteor shower that peaked November 18th.

    The event sparked widespread public engagement as multiple residents reported similar sightings across social media platforms. Vaisakh Babu, another Dubai resident, accidentally captured the meteor while filming the Dubai Frame in Zabeel Park on November 15th. ‘When I saw weather expert Muhammad Sajjad’s social media post, I realized what I had witnessed,’ Babu explained.

    Public reaction revealed fascinating misconceptions about the phenomenon, with many observers initially mistaking the meteors for satellites, laser displays, or even fireworks. One social media user commented: ‘Because I was close to Global Village, I thought it was Skydive Dubai’s yet another stunt.’

    The Leonid meteor shower occurs annually when Earth passes through debris from comet Tempel-Tuttle, typically producing 10-15 meteors per hour. The shower’s unusual urban visibility this year marks a significant departure from typical observations that require dark-sky conditions.

    Looking ahead, astronomy enthusiasts can anticipate the Geminids meteor shower peaking around December 15th, with predicted rates of 80-120 meteors per hour. Sajjad noted favorable viewing conditions: ‘This year, the moon will only be 23-25 percent visible, making meteors significantly more observable compared to last year’s 80 percent moon visibility.’ Experts recommend traveling beyond city limits for optimal viewing experiences during upcoming celestial events.

  • Intl symposium on copyright protection, promotion of cultural folklore held in Fujian

    Intl symposium on copyright protection, promotion of cultural folklore held in Fujian

    An international symposium focusing on the copyright protection and promotion of traditional cultural folklore was convened in Quanzhou, Fujian province, on November 27, 2025. The event, co-organized by China’s National Copyright Administration and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), brought together over 300 participants, including officials, intellectual property experts, and business representatives from 11 countries. The symposium aimed to foster international dialogue and explore innovative strategies for safeguarding and promoting traditional cultural folklore in the digital age. Key discussions centered on balancing preservation with development, fostering industry integration, and nurturing young talent to ensure the continuity of cultural heritage. The event also emphasized the importance of international cooperation in building a governance system that respects cultural roots while embracing modernization. Participants were encouraged to collaborate on creating effective protection mechanisms, ensuring that folk art serves as a bridge connecting diverse civilizations. The symposium concluded with a call for mutual respect and equality in cultural exchanges, highlighting the role of folk art in fostering a shared future for humanity.

  • Russia sentences eight to life for 2022 Crimean bridge blast

    Russia sentences eight to life for 2022 Crimean bridge blast

    A Russian court has handed down life sentences to eight individuals for their involvement in the 2022 bombing of the Crimean Bridge, a critical infrastructure linking Russia to the annexed Crimean peninsula. The attack, which occurred on October 8, 2022, resulted in the deaths of five people and caused significant damage to the 19-kilometer Kerch road and rail bridge. The explosion, carried out via a truck bomb, ignited seven oil tankers on a passing train and collapsed two sections of the highway. The defendants were tried in a closed-door military court in Rostov-on-Don and found guilty of orchestrating a terrorist act, illegal weapon possession, and, in two cases, smuggling explosives. Both Kyiv and Moscow have attributed the attack to Ukraine’s secret services, with Kyiv later claiming responsibility, citing the disruption of Russian military logistics as the objective. The bridge, inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin in 2018, holds immense symbolic value for both nations, representing Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea. Despite assurances of its safety, the bridge has been repeatedly targeted since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.