Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • China warns Japan against missile deployment, citing risk of self-destruction

    China warns Japan against missile deployment, citing risk of self-destruction

    China’s Defense Ministry has delivered a stark warning to Japan regarding its recent deployment of long-range offensive missiles, characterizing the move as a dangerous regression to militarism that threatens regional stability. Defense Ministry spokesman Jiang Bin issued the statement during a virtual press briefing on Wednesday, responding to reports that Japan had initiated deployment of missiles capable of striking targets approximately 1,000 kilometers away—sufficient range to reach coastal regions of neighboring nations, with full deployment expected by month’s end.

    Jiang articulated grave concerns about Japan’s accelerating remilitarization efforts, citing multiple concerning developments including proposed amendments to the nation’s pacifist Constitution, revisions to three key national security documents, and potential alterations to the longstanding three non-nuclear principles. The spokesperson asserted that these long-range offensive weapons fundamentally contradict Japan’s traditionally professed defense-oriented principles, passive defense strategy, and self-defense policies.

    The Defense Ministry official characterized Japan’s neo-militarism as having evolved from a concerning tendency into an immediate threat capable of destabilizing regional peace and security. Jiang delivered an unequivocal message to Japanese authorities: ‘Retreating to its belligerent and militarist past leads nowhere but self-destruction.’ He further cautioned that any Japanese use of force against Chinese sovereignty would be met with decisive countermeasures resulting in ‘inevitable defeat.’

    The diplomatic warning represents escalating tensions between the Asian powers as Japan enhances its military capabilities amid growing regional security concerns. China’s statement emphasizes the serious consequences of Japan’s strategic shift from defensive to offensive military posturing.

  • Suzhou AI association advocates for rational development of OpenClaw AI

    Suzhou AI association advocates for rational development of OpenClaw AI

    The Suzhou AI Industry Association has issued a comprehensive proposal addressing the surging popularity of OpenClaw, an open-source AI agent framework that represents a significant evolution in artificial intelligence capabilities. Released in collaboration with multiple enterprises and institutions across Jiangsu province, the guidelines aim to establish responsible development parameters for this groundbreaking technology.

    Unlike conventional web-based AI applications, OpenClaw operates as a super assistant with direct terminal access, capable of controlling user keyboard and mouse functions while executing complex tasks through system API integration. This represents a fundamental shift from conversational AI to actionable execution platforms, enabling unprecedented individual innovation potential particularly for one-person company (OPC) entrepreneurs.

    The association’s framework emphasizes four critical pillars: recognizing the tool’s actual value within specific user expertise and business contexts, defining clear boundaries for auxiliary tasks with high repeatability and error tolerance, ensuring robust security compliance as the foundation for application, and cultivating a healthy ecosystem that discourages speculative hype and trend-following behavior.

    The initiative has received governmental endorsement from Suzhou Mayor Wu Qingwen, who highlighted OpenClaw’s potential to empower entrepreneurs during the 14th National People’s Congress. The municipal government plans to leverage Suzhou’s established OPC community to promote training programs for open-source AI agents, potentially including computational resource subsidies to foster innovation.

    Concurrent with these developments, a Suzhou-based technology company launched BoClaw, an AI-native agent platform, signaling rapid market expansion. The association will further advance these initiatives through the upcoming Suzhou OPC Practical Ability Conference and OpenClaw Strategy Open Course on March 20, focusing on enterprise AI architecture and human-machine collaboration paradigms.

  • Lib Dem foreign affairs spokesperson met Israeli president accused of inciting genocide

    Lib Dem foreign affairs spokesperson met Israeli president accused of inciting genocide

    A diplomatic visit by Liberal Democrat officials to Israel in February has ignited significant controversy within the party, following revelations that Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. This engagement occurred despite a United Nations Commission of Inquiry previously finding Herzog had committed incitement to genocide through his public statements regarding the October 2023 Hamas attacks.

    The delegation, organized by the Liberal Democrat Friends of Israel (LDFI) and previously unreported in British media, included prominent figures such as former party leader Tim Farron, LDFI Honorary President Lord Monroe Palmer, and several other senior members. The group visited sites attacked by Hamas on October 7, 2023, including Kibbutz Kfar Aza and the Nova Festival site, where they were photographed with Israeli military personnel.

    Miller defended the diplomatic mission, stating: “My role as foreign affairs spokesperson is to engage with representatives of other countries, to listen, to challenge and to engage. There will be no just peace if there is no dialogue.” A party spokesperson emphasized that the delegation also met with Palestinian officials, including Ramallah Mayor Issa Kassis, and raised concerns about humanitarian aid to Gaza, illegal settlements, and the two-state solution.

    However, the meeting drew sharp criticism from both internal and external groups. The Liberal Democrat Friends of Palestine expressed dismay that party representatives would meet with the president of a country they recognize as having committed genocide. The International Centre of Justice for Palestinians called the engagement “entirely inappropriate” and suggested it undermined the party’s official position.

    The controversy highlights the ongoing tension within the Liberal Democrats regarding Israel-Palestine relations. In September 2024, the party became the largest British political party to call for a full arms embargo on Israel, and leader Ed Davey has previously accused Israel of genocide in Gaza, describing a “famine unfolding before our eyes.”

  • UK’s Shabana Mahmood approves police request to ban pro-Palestine march

    UK’s Shabana Mahmood approves police request to ban pro-Palestine march

    The United Kingdom’s Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has officially sanctioned a Metropolitan Police request to prohibit this year’s Al-Quds Day demonstration in London. The decision, announced via social media platform X on Wednesday, stems from mounting concerns regarding potential public disorder amidst heightened Middle Eastern tensions.

    The Al-Quds Day observance, originating in post-revolution Iran in 1979, traditionally serves as an international day of solidarity with Palestine. This year’s scheduled event coincides with escalating military engagements between the US-Israeli alliance and Iran, triggering both pro-war and anti-war demonstrations across Western capitals.

    In her official justification, Minister Mahmood stated: ‘I am satisfied this prohibition is necessary to prevent serious public disorder, considering the protest scale and multiple planned counter-protests within the context of the ongoing Middle East conflict.’ The Home Secretary clarified that stationary demonstrations would remain subject to stringent police conditions, adding: ‘I expect to see the full force of the law applied to anyone spreading hatred and division instead of exercising their right to peaceful protest.’

    The Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC), primary organizer of UK Al-Quds events, vehemently condemned the policing decision. The organization accused the Metropolitan Police of abandoning their ‘sworn principle of policing without fear or favour’ while allegedly capitulating to ‘Zionist lobby pressure.’ The IHRC confirmed seeking legal counsel while proceeding with a sanctioned static protest on March 15th.

    This year’s demonstration coincides with recent military actions against Iran, including the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and a school bombing in Minab that claimed approximately 180 lives, predominantly children. Cabinet colleague Courts Minister Sarah Sackman declined to characterize the attack as a war crime, describing it instead as the ‘realities of war’ during a Sky News interview.

  • Koala named ‘Koko’ symbolizes China-Australia university friendship

    Koala named ‘Koko’ symbolizes China-Australia university friendship

    In a distinctive display of international academic camaraderie, Griffith University of Australia has formally presented an adopted koala named ‘Koko’ to the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS). This symbolic gesture, far exceeding conventional academic exchanges, embodies fifteen years of collaborative partnership between the two institutions.

    The naming of the marsupial represents a thoughtful linguistic and cultural fusion. ‘Koko’ is derived creatively from the English word ‘Koala’ and the Chinese phonetic expression for ‘science’ (Kēxué). This nomenclature was deliberately chosen to reflect the shared scientific ethos and a mutual dedication to pioneering research and innovation that characterizes both universities.

    Official records indicate that the symbolic gift was conferred during a significant diplomatic visit by Griffith University’s Vice Chancellor and President, Carolyn Evans, to UCAS in 2024. The event served to commemorate a decade and a half of sustained bilateral cooperation in education and research.

    While Koko will continue to reside in its natural habitat at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in Australia, the adoption is formally recognized and managed by Griffith University on behalf of its Chinese partner. This arrangement not only underscores a profound commitment to transnational wildlife conservation efforts but also stands as an enduring testament to the strengthening ties and lasting friendship between the academic communities of China and Australia.

  • Iran says will hit economic targets in the region

    Iran says will hit economic targets in the region

    Iran’s military command has issued a stark warning to American and Israeli financial institutions following overnight attacks on a major Tehran bank. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared imminent missile strikes that would represent the most intense bombardment since the conflict’s inception on February 27.

    Military spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya central operational command stated: ‘The American and Zionist terrorist forces, having failed in their military objectives, targeted one of our national banks. Regional populations must maintain at least one kilometer distance from banking facilities.’

    The semi-official Mehr news agency reported strikes on an administrative building connected to Bank Sepah, one of Iran’s largest financial institutions, resulting in unspecified casualties among staff members.

    Regional escalation continued with significant incidents across multiple fronts. Israeli emergency services reported 29 citizens wounded in stampedes during Iranian strikes, while Dubai authorities confirmed four injuries from intercepted drones near the international airport. Maritime security agencies documented an attack on a commercial vessel northwest of Dubai, though crew members remained unharmed.

    Air defense systems across the region saw intense activity with Kuwait intercepting eight drones, Saudi Arabia neutralizing two drones approaching the Shaybah oil field, and Qatar successfully blocking a missile attack. Iraq witnessed a direct drone strike on a major American diplomatic facility near Baghdad airport, with five additional drones intercepted before reaching their target.

    Al Jazeera reported devastating strikes on historical sites in Isfahan, described by local authorities as a ‘bloody night’ of cultural destruction. Meanwhile, Lebanese health officials reported 570 fatalities since the conflict expanded into their territory on March 2, including 86 children and 14 healthcare workers.

  • Yangzhou: Where lanterns glow and spring blooms

    Yangzhou: Where lanterns glow and spring blooms

    Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province – Last week witnessed China Daily’s foreign specialist Samar Kerkeni embarking on an immersive two-day cultural odyssey through the historic city of Yangzhou. The journey offered a profound exploration of traditional Chinese heritage against the backdrop of seasonal transformation.

    The inaugural day coincided with Lantern Festival celebrations at Songjiacheng Sports and Leisure Park, where Kerkeni engaged directly with multiple intangible cultural heritage practices. She participated in hands-on workshops demonstrating Yangzhou’s renowned lantern craftsmanship, an artistic tradition dating back centuries that combines intricate paper-cutting techniques with sophisticated lighting designs. The experience provided unique insights into how traditional festivals serve as living repositories of cultural knowledge.

    On the subsequent day, the exploration continued through Slender West Lake’s classical gardens, where early spring blossoms created a breathtaking natural panorama. Kerkeni documented the harmonious integration of horticultural artistry with landscape architecture, characteristic of Yangzhou’s UNESCO-recognized garden design philosophy. The sensory experience highlighted how Chinese cities maintain ecological consciousness alongside urban development.

    This ethnographic account reveals Yangzhou’s dual identity as both cultural conservator and natural sanctuary, demonstrating how regional Chinese cities preserve ancient traditions while remaining dynamically engaged with contemporary society. The documentation provides international audiences with accessible pathways to understanding China’s diverse regional cultural landscapes beyond metropolitan centers.

  • Iranian president’s son says new supreme leader ‘safe and sound’

    Iranian president’s son says new supreme leader ‘safe and sound’

    Amid escalating regional tensions, the son of Iran’s President has publicly affirmed the safety and well-being of the nation’s newly appointed Supreme Leader. Yousef Pezeshkian, son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, utilized his Telegram channel on Wednesday to disseminate reassurances regarding Mojtaba Khamenei’s condition.

    The presidential son revealed that informed contacts with direct connections had provided him with definitive confirmation that the Supreme Leader remains “safe and sound.” This statement emerges against a backdrop of earlier media speculation suggesting Khamenei might have sustained injuries during recent military operations conducted jointly by United States and Israeli forces against Iranian targets.

    The timing of this disclosure carries significant political weight, coming during a period of heightened geopolitical friction in the Middle East. Mojtaba Khamenei, who previously served as a senior advisor to his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, assumed the role of Supreme Leader following a complex transition of power. His leadership commencement coincides with increased international scrutiny toward Iran’s political stability and security apparatus.

    This development represents the first official communication regarding the Supreme Leader’s status since rumors of potential harm began circulating in international media outlets. The method of communication—through a family member of the presidency rather than through formal government channels—adds an intriguing dimension to the narrative of internal Iranian politics during this volatile period.

  • Smallest last quarter moon of 2026 observed in China’s Heilongjiang

    Smallest last quarter moon of 2026 observed in China’s Heilongjiang

    Astronomical observers in Northeast China were treated to a rare celestial spectacle on March 11, 2026, as the smallest last quarter moon of the year graced the night skies over Jiayin County, Heilongjiang province. This lunar phenomenon, captured in stunning detail by Xinhua photographers, represented the most diminished final quarter phase observable throughout 2026.

    The last quarter moon, characterized by its distinctive half-illuminated appearance, follows a unique celestial schedule unlike other lunar phases. This particular phase emerges around midnight and remains visible until approximately noon the following day, offering extended observation opportunities for both professional astronomers and amateur stargazers.

    Scientific analysis indicates that the apparent size variation of the moon results from its elliptical orbit around Earth. During periods when the moon reaches its apogee—the farthest point from Earth in its orbital path—it presents a noticeably smaller visual diameter. The March 11th occurrence coincided with such an orbital position, creating the most miniature appearance of the final quarter phase for the entire year.

    The photographic documentation of this event provides valuable comparative data for astronomical researchers studying lunar orbital mechanics and visual perception phenomena. Such observations contribute to our understanding of celestial mechanics while simultaneously offering breathtaking visual experiences for astronomy enthusiasts worldwide.

  • Cambodia aims to shut down all online scam centers there by the end of April

    Cambodia aims to shut down all online scam centers there by the end of April

    Cambodian authorities have announced an ambitious timeline to eradicate the nation’s notorious online scam operations by the conclusion of April, marking a significant escalation in the battle against transnational cybercrime. Senior Minister Chhay Sinarith, overseeing the Commission for Combating Online Scams, revealed in an exclusive interview that since July, the government has identified 250 suspected scam centers and successfully neutralized approximately 200 facilities—representing an 80% closure rate.

    The comprehensive crackdown has yielded substantial results: 79 legal cases initiated against 697 alleged orchestrators and accomplices, alongside the repatriation of nearly 10,000 trafficked workers from 23 nations. Fewer than 1,000 individuals remain awaiting official repatriation procedures, with many others having independently returned home following raids.

    This criminal ecosystem, which flourished during COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, has been linked to severe human rights abuses. Foreign nationals recruited under false pretenses often find themselves trapped in near-slavery conditions, forced to perpetrate romance and cryptocurrency scams against global victims. UN experts estimate these operations defraud victims worldwide of tens of billions annually.

    Cambodian police demonstrated their renewed vigilance Tuesday with a raid on a Phnom Penh high-rise, apprehending 60 Cambodian and Chinese nationals engaged in fraudulent investment schemes targeting European victims. Authorities displayed confiscated equipment including uniforms and fabricated Japanese police credentials used to intimidate targets.

    While previous enforcement efforts yielded limited results, the current campaign benefits from strengthened international cooperation with key partners including China and the United States. Post-April operations will focus on preventing criminal networks from reestablishing footholds, addressing a problem that has expanded from its circa-2012 VOIP scam origins into a global phenomenon reaching Africa and Latin America.