Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Silent danger: Generators can be risky if used indoors, Ajman Police warn

    Silent danger: Generators can be risky if used indoors, Ajman Police warn

    Amidst recent cold and rainy conditions across the UAE, Ajman Police have escalated public warnings regarding the lethal risks associated with improper generator usage. Authorities emphasize that while generators serve as essential backup power sources, they transform into ‘silent dangers’ when operated indoors or in inadequately ventilated spaces.

    The primary hazard identified is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. This toxic gas is particularly perilous due to its colorless, odorless nature, making detection impossible without specialized equipment. Police officials advise residents to position generators a safe distance from living quarters and windows to prevent toxic fume infiltration.

    Health implications of exposure range from headaches, dizziness, and nausea to more severe consequences including confusion, loss of consciousness, and potentially fatal outcomes. Historical incidents underscore this threat: in 2023, two domestic helpers in Dubai succumbed to CO inhalation, while three Pakistani men in Sharjah died from similar circumstances involving an operational generator indoors.

    Ajman Police mandate regular maintenance checks and immediate emergency protocols. Suspected exposure requires shutting down the generator, evacuating the area, and contacting emergency services at 997 without delay. These measures aim to prevent further tragedies and enhance public awareness about covert hazards associated with generator operation during inclement weather.

  • Benfica’s Mourinho hails keeper’s late goal, Arbeloa laments Real collapse

    Benfica’s Mourinho hails keeper’s late goal, Arbeloa laments Real collapse

    In a stunning conclusion to a pivotal Champions League group stage match, Benfica secured progression to the knockout rounds through an unprecedented last-minute goal from an unlikely source. Ukrainian goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin became the hero of the night with a 98th-minute header that delivered a 4-2 victory against Real Madrid at Estadio da Luz on Wednesday evening.

    The extraordinary finish culminated an emotionally charged evening for Benfica manager José Mourinho, who characterized the goalkeeper’s decisive goal as a ‘historic achievement’ for the Portuguese club. The victory secured Benfica’s advancement to the last-16 on goal difference, eliminating the need for playoff qualification.

    Meanwhile, Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa confronted the harsh reality of his team’s collapse, which included two late red cards and the relinquishment of a 1-0 lead. The defeat consigns the record 15-time Champions League winners to the two-legged playoff round rather than direct qualification.

    The match represented the first European encounter between these historic clubs since the 1965 European Cup quarterfinals, adding significance to Benfica’s victory. Mourinho, visibly moved during post-match interviews, emphasized the prestige value of defeating Real Madrid for both his club and players.

    Trubin’s game-winning contribution came during stoppage time from a set-piece opportunity, with the two-meter tall goalkeeper venturing into the opposition penalty area to connect with a delivered free kick. The goal triggered euphoric celebrations among home supporters, with Mourinho describing the stadium atmosphere as potentially ‘collapsing’ from the excitement.

    Conversely, Real Madrid’s performance drew sharp criticism from Arbeloa, who identified multiple deficiencies in his team’s display. ‘In a match where we knew what was at stake, we simply didn’t rise to the occasion,’ the frustrated manager stated, acknowledging problems both in possession and defensive organization.

    The match concluded with Raúl Asencio and Rodrygo receiving red cards in added time, compounding Real’s disappointing evening. Arbeloa attributed the disciplinary breakdown to emotional overflow given the high-stakes circumstances.

    This result compounds a challenging period for Real Madrid following former manager Xabi Alonso’s dismissal and their recent elimination from the Spanish Cup by second-tier Albacete. Arbeloa must now prepare his squad for the playoff round to salvage their European campaign.

  • Chinese fossil find illuminates Earth’s earliest mass extinction

    Chinese fossil find illuminates Earth’s earliest mass extinction

    A groundbreaking fossil discovery in central China is transforming scientific understanding of Earth’s earliest mass extinction event that occurred approximately 513 million years ago. Researchers from the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (NIGPAS) have uncovered an extraordinary collection of ancient marine fossils that provides unprecedented insight into how life persisted through the catastrophic Sinsk extinction event.

    The Huayuan Biota, named after its discovery location in Hunan province, represents a treasure trove of exceptionally preserved soft-bodied organisms dating to about 512 million years ago—immediately following the devastating extinction that eliminated 41-49% of marine species. The discovery site, accidentally exposed during road construction in 2020, has yielded over 50,000 fossils to date, with preliminary analysis identifying 153 animal species, 59% of which are previously unknown to science.

    What distinguishes this find is the remarkable preservation quality, capturing delicate anatomical features including digestive systems, neural tissues, and gill structures in organisms ranging from primitive worms and jellyfish to early chordates. This level of detail provides scientists with an unprecedented window into a complete ancient ecosystem that flourished in deep-water environments while shallow marine habitats experienced catastrophic collapse.

    The research, published in Nature, demonstrates that the Sinsk extinction event—triggered by widespread ocean deoxygenation—disproportionately devastated sunlit, nearshore environments while deeper ocean zones served as crucial refuges where biodiversity persisted relatively unscathed. This differential survival pattern explains how marine life eventually rebounded from this planetary crisis.

    Additionally, the Huayuan Biota reveals surprising global connections, sharing numerous species with the renowned Burgess Shale formation in North America despite the vast oceanic separation between these continents during the Cambrian period. This suggests that certain marine organisms possessed unexpected dispersal capabilities across immense distances.

    International paleontologists have hailed the discovery as one of global significance, with the site’s diversity rivaling the world’s most celebrated fossil localities. According to NIGPAS researcher Zhu Maoyan, this finding not only illuminates a pivotal chapter in Earth’s evolutionary history but also provides valuable insights into ecosystem resilience and recovery mechanisms following planetary-scale disturbances.

  • Henan to build comprehensive cultural heritage database

    Henan to build comprehensive cultural heritage database

    In a significant move to safeguard its rich historical legacy, Henan province has unveiled plans to create a comprehensive provincial database cataloging its vast cultural heritage resources. The initiative was formally announced during the government work report presented this Monday at the opening ceremony of the fourth session of the 14th Henan Provincial People’s Congress.

    The ambitious project aims to systematically digitize and consolidate information on the region’s archaeological treasures and cultural relics. Beyond establishing the central database, the provincial strategy also includes supporting several cities within Henan in their quest to become national exemplars of cultural relic preservation and management.

    The government report highlighted notable cultural achievements from 2025 that underscore the province’s commitment to its historical legacy. These included the successful public opening of major new institutions such as the Yinxu Museum in Anyang and the Dahecun Site Museum in Zhengzhou, the provincial capital. The Dahecun Archaeological Site itself, located in Zhengzhou, represents a profoundly significant historical timeline, with artifacts dating from approximately 4800 BC to 1500 BC.

    Further demonstrating the economic power of cultural investment, the report celebrated the remarkable success of Henan’s culture-tourism integration initiative. This program proved to be a substantial driver for the local economy, attracting an unprecedented tally of over 1.1 billion tourist visits throughout the year. This massive influx of visitors translated into a staggering tourism revenue exceeding 1 trillion yuan (approximately $144 billion), solidifying the vital link between cultural preservation and economic prosperity.

  • Saudi security tip leads to major drug bust, dismantling factory in Lebanon

    Saudi security tip leads to major drug bust, dismantling factory in Lebanon

    In a significant demonstration of international security cooperation, Lebanese authorities have successfully dismantled a major drug manufacturing facility following critical intelligence provided by Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Narcotics Control. The operation, which represents a substantial blow to regional drug trafficking networks, resulted in the seizure of massive quantities of illicit substances and manufacturing materials.

    The targeted laboratory, located in Lebanon, was actively producing amphetamine and methamphetamine (commonly known as shabu) when authorities conducted their raid. Law enforcement officials confiscated approximately 4,600 kilograms of hashish, 870 regulated pharmaceutical tablets, substantial quantities of precursor chemicals used in drug production, and an assortment of firearms.

    This coordinated effort highlights the growing collaboration between Saudi and Lebanese security agencies in combating transnational criminal organizations. The operation forms part of Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive strategy to combat drug smuggling and trafficking activities both within its borders and throughout the region. Officials from both nations emphasized that this successful intervention demonstrates the effectiveness of shared intelligence and joint security initiatives in addressing cross-border drug crimes that threaten regional stability.

    The bust comes amid increasing regional focus on narcotics enforcement, with several Gulf nations recently reporting major drug interdictions. Security analysts note that such cooperation between Arab nations signals a strengthening of regional security partnerships aimed at dismantling sophisticated drug manufacturing and distribution networks operating across international boundaries.

  • Egypt says it’s ready to send aid, receive wounded once Rafah crossing reopens

    Egypt says it’s ready to send aid, receive wounded once Rafah crossing reopens

    Egyptian officials have declared complete operational readiness to facilitate humanitarian assistance into Gaza and receive wounded Palestinians, contingent upon Israel’s reopening of the Rafah border crossing. The critical passage has remained sealed since May 2024 despite ceasefire agreements mandating its operation.

    According to reports from Israel’s state broadcaster KAN, the border crossing is anticipated to resume bidirectional operations on February 1st. North Sinai Governor Khaled Mujawir confirmed in a televised statement that Egyptian authorities have maintained full preparedness on their side of the border. “We are 100 percent ready for the entry of aid and for receiving the wounded from the Gaza Strip,” Mujawir stated, emphasizing that crisis management teams are developing multiple contingency plans for aid distribution.

    The current situation stems from an October agreement between Israel and Hamas that outlined a phased approach to ending hostilities and easing humanitarian restrictions. The first phase required the return of all Israeli captives and the reopening of Rafah crossing for aid delivery. While the Palestinian side fulfilled its obligation with the recent recovery and return of the final Israeli captive, Ran Gvili, Israel has maintained the border closure in violation of the accord.

    Compounding the humanitarian crisis, Israeli forces recently demolished the headquarters of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) in occupied East Jerusalem. This agency serves as the primary support system for approximately 5.9 million Palestinian refugees across the region. The demolition followed Israeli legislation passed last year banning the organization’s operations.

    Despite the theoretical progression to a second ceasefire phase, UN aid coordination officials emphasize that Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe remains severe. Gaza’s Government Media Office has documented over 1,300 ceasefire violations by Israeli forces, including 200 structural demolitions, 430 incidents of gunfire targeting civilians, 66 incursions into residential zones, and more than 600 strikes.

    The Gaza Health Ministry reports that Israeli forces have killed 488 Palestinians since the ceasefire began, with injuries totaling 1,321. Overall casualty figures from the conflict that commenced in October 2023 exceed 71,667 Palestinians killed, including at least 20,179 children, with thousands more missing and presumed dead.

  • Xi calls on China, Britain to jointly advocate, practice true multilateralism

    Xi calls on China, Britain to jointly advocate, practice true multilateralism

    In a significant diplomatic engagement at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People on January 29, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping held substantive talks with visiting British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasizing the critical importance of authentic multilateral cooperation between their nations.

    President Xi articulated that as two major global powers with established commitments to multilateral frameworks and free trade principles, China and Britain bear special responsibility in advancing genuine international collaboration. The Chinese leader underscored that multilateral systems can only maintain effectiveness when all nations, particularly major powers, demonstrate consistent adherence to established international laws and norms.

    ‘The integrity of international law depends entirely on universal compliance,’ President Xi stated during the meeting. ‘When major countries lead by example in respecting these frameworks, we create stability. Without such leadership, we risk reverting to a destructive ‘law of the jungle’ paradigm that benefits no nation.’

    The discussions between the two leaders covered broad aspects of the China-UK relationship, with both expressing commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through constructive dialogue and mutual respect. The meeting marked Prime Minister Starmer’s first official visit to China since assuming office, representing a significant moment in contemporary Sino-British relations.

    Observers noted that the emphasis on ‘true multilateralism’ reflects both nations’ interest in maintaining a rules-based international order amid global challenges. The leadership meeting signals potential for enhanced cooperation between China and Britain on multilateral platforms including trade, climate action, and global security matters.

  • Pakistan becomes latest Asian country to introduce checks for deadly Nipah virus

    Pakistan becomes latest Asian country to introduce checks for deadly Nipah virus

    Pakistan has initiated comprehensive health screening protocols at all entry points following confirmed Nipah virus cases in India, joining multiple Asian nations in implementing enhanced border controls. The Border Health Services department mandated thermal scanning and clinical assessments for all travelers entering through seaports, land borders, and airports, requiring 21-day transit history declarations to identify potential exposure risks.

    The Nipah virus, recognized by the World Health Organization as a priority pathogen, presents significant public health challenges with its high mortality rate ranging from 40% to 75%. The virus primarily transmits from infected fruit bats to humans, causing severe fever and encephalitis, though human-to-human transmission requires prolonged close contact. No vaccine currently exists for the infection.

    This health security measure comes despite limited travel connectivity between Pakistan and India, particularly following recent geopolitical tensions. Vietnam has simultaneously reinforced screening procedures at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, with specific focus on passengers originating from India’s West Bengal region where two healthcare workers tested positive in late December.

    According to global health data, Nipah virus has caused 750 confirmed infections and 415 fatalities worldwide as of December 2025. The virus was first identified during a 1998 outbreak in Malaysia and Singapore among pig farmers, though scientific evidence suggests the pathogen has circulated in fruit bat populations for millennia. India’s Kerala state remains one of the world’s highest-risk regions for Nipah infections, with the country regularly reporting sporadic cases.

  • Discovery through dialogue: Chinese and US students exchange ideas for the future

    Discovery through dialogue: Chinese and US students exchange ideas for the future

    In a groundbreaking cross-cultural exchange, Generation Z scholars from premier academic institutions in China and the United States recently convened for an unprecedented dialogue session. The event, documented on January 29, 2026, revealed remarkable insights into how young leaders from the world’s two largest economies perceive one another and envision collaborative futures.

    The gathering brought together students representing elite universities from both nations, creating a dynamic forum for cultural and intellectual exchange. What began as casual conversations about daily life rapidly evolved into profound discussions about global challenges and opportunities. Participants demonstrated exceptional ability to transcend cultural barriers, finding common ground in their aspirations for technological advancement, environmental sustainability, and global cooperation.

    Surprising commonalities emerged throughout the hours-long dialogue, particularly regarding digital innovation and climate action. The students identified parallel concerns about artificial intelligence ethics, renewable energy transition, and inclusive economic development. Their discussions revealed a shared commitment to building bridges rather than barriers, with many participants expressing frustration with geopolitical tensions that don’t reflect their generation’s desire for collaboration.

    The exchange demonstrated that despite different cultural backgrounds and educational systems, these future leaders maintain remarkably aligned visions for international cooperation. Their conversations progressed from initial cultural observations to substantive policy discussions, ultimately culminating in a collective blueprint for US-China collaboration on youth-led initiatives. The dialogue proved particularly significant given ongoing diplomatic challenges between the two nations, showing that next-generation leaders are already developing the relational foundations for future cooperation.

  • US ambassador warns of China’s growing manufacturing dominance

    US ambassador warns of China’s growing manufacturing dominance

    In a significant address to business and government leaders in Beijing, U.S. Ambassador David Perdue articulated growing international concerns regarding China’s expanding manufacturing supremacy while advocating for equitable trade relations between the world’s two largest economies. Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce in China’s annual gathering on Thursday, the Trump-appointed diplomat acknowledged China’s remarkable transformation into a global manufacturing powerhouse but emphasized the detrimental effects of its export policies on industrial sectors and employment worldwide.

    Ambassador Perdue’s remarks highlighted the fundamental tension in Sino-American economic relations, noting that while China has substantially benefited from international free trade agreements, American enterprises continue encountering substantial market access barriers within China. The ambassador explicitly stated that the United States seeks neither confrontation nor trade warfare but insists on establishing mutually beneficial, balanced commercial exchanges characterized by fairness and reciprocity.

    This diplomatic communication occurs against the backdrop of previously escalating tariff impositions, wherein both nations engaged in retaliatory trade measures that drove import duties to unprecedented levels before agreeing to successive temporary suspensions. The current détente follows the October agreement between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping during the Asia-Pacific nations summit in South Korea, which established a one-year pause in tariff escalations.

    Looking toward future diplomatic engagements, Perdue confirmed ongoing preparations for President Trump’s anticipated visit to China in 2026, concurrently revealing expectations for President Xi to undertake an official visit to the United States within the current year. While President Trump has previously suggested a potential April visit to China, both governments have maintained cautious ambiguity regarding specific dates, reflecting the complex nature of ongoing negotiations.