A British teenager, Bella May Culley, who was arrested in Georgia earlier this year on drug smuggling charges, may receive a two-year prison sentence following a plea deal that involved her family paying over $180,000. Culley, 19 and pregnant, was apprehended at Tbilisi Airport in May for allegedly attempting to smuggle 12 kilograms of marijuana and 2 kilograms of hashish into the country. Initially facing up to 15 years or life imprisonment, her lawyer, Malkhaz Salakhaia, confirmed that a plea agreement is nearing finalization. Salakhaia stated, ‘Reaching an agreement with the prosecutor’s office is in its final stage. All conditions are known to my client and her family, with only technical issues remaining.’ The final verdict is expected to be announced on Monday, with the possibility of a presidential pardon if convicted. Culley’s mother, Lyanne Kennedy, disclosed that the family has paid 500,000 lari (approximately $184,000) as part of the plea bargain. In Georgia, financial plea agreements are legally permissible to reduce or eliminate prison sentences in certain cases, particularly in drug-related offenses. Culley, from Teesside in northeast England, was reported missing in Thailand before her arrest on May 10. She initially pleaded not guilty, claiming she was tortured in Thailand and coerced into carrying the drugs. Salakhaia noted visible signs of torture upon her arrival in Georgia, though it remains unclear if her plea changed as part of the deal.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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Indian refiners pause new Russian oil orders, await clarity amid higher US sanctions
Indian refiners have temporarily suspended new orders for Russian crude oil as they await further clarity on the implications of heightened US sanctions targeting Russia’s oil sector. Sources revealed on Tuesday that major players, including state-run Indian Oil and private conglomerate Reliance Industries, are refraining from placing fresh orders while assessing the situation. Some refiners are reportedly turning to spot markets to meet their immediate crude oil needs. The US recently imposed sanctions on Russia’s top oil producers, Lukoil and Rosneft, prompting Indian refiners to reconsider their import strategies. Reliance Industries, India’s largest buyer of Russian oil, has committed to complying with the sanctions while maintaining ties with existing suppliers. However, the company plans to halt imports from Rosneft, a sanctioned entity. Industry insiders noted that refiners are cautious about engaging with traders linked to sanctioned entities, as banks may refuse to process payments. India, which imported 1.9 million barrels per day of Russian oil in the first nine months of 2025, accounting for 40% of Russia’s total exports, has seen a decline in imports due to narrower discounts and tighter supplies. Refiners are increasingly sourcing crude from the Middle East and the US to mitigate risks. The pause in Russian oil orders could potentially facilitate a trade deal between India and the US, as compliance with sanctions aligns with broader diplomatic objectives.
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Observers worldwide applaud designation of Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration
In a significant move, China’s national legislature has officially designated October 25 as the Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration. This decision, announced on Friday, has garnered widespread acclaim from international observers, who view it as a reaffirmation of Taiwan’s status as an inalienable part of China. The establishment of this day underscores the historical significance of Taiwan’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule, achieved through the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Prominent figures from around the globe have lauded the decision, emphasizing its alignment with the one-China principle and its role in honoring historical truths. Professor Emeritus Atsushi Koketsu of Japan’s Yamaguchi University highlighted the importance of drawing strength from history to propel progress in the new era. Ambassador Bilal Ahmad, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations, commended the decision as a demonstration of China’s unity and resolve in safeguarding national sovereignty. South African MP Andisiwe Khumbaca stressed that national liberation is a hard-won achievement, while Kyrgyzstan’s Sheradil Baktygulov noted the widespread support for the commemoration day across the Taiwan Strait. The move also serves as a reminder to external forces that the Taiwan issue is purely China’s internal affair, as emphasized by Serik Korzhumbayev of Kazakhstan. Faruk Boric of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Tahir Mumtaz Awan of Pakistan both highlighted the day’s role in upholding the post-World War II international order and historical justice. Egyptian professor Nadia Helmy and South African academic Lloyd Kuveya reiterated the historical and legal foundations of Taiwan’s status as part of China. Wang Jiaqing of France and Lian Jiehao of Indonesia emphasized the importance of national unity and the shared aspirations of Chinese people worldwide for peaceful reunification.
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Dynamic duo drive to victory in BMW Open Social at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club
The Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club witnessed a thrilling display of skill and teamwork as Young Koo Khang and Dae Il Kim emerged victorious at the BMW Open Social on Saturday, October 25. The dynamic duo posted an impressive 9-under-par score, securing the top spot on the leaderboard. Their remarkable performance featured ten net birdies and four net eagles, showcasing their precision and consistency throughout the tournament.
Supported by AGMC, the event attracted a diverse field of participants who enjoyed ideal weather conditions and a well-maintained course. The better-ball format encouraged low scoring and friendly competition, with notable achievements across the board. Jonathon Morris and Adam Warrener clinched the Front Nine prize with a stellar 6-under-par 30, while Paul McPhillmy and Sai Pagadala demonstrated their prowess by winning the Best Back Nine with a 5-under-par 31.
The BMW Open Social continues to be a highlight on the club’s calendar, blending competitive spirit with camaraderie. Golfers of all skill levels relished the opportunity to connect and challenge themselves in a relaxed yet engaging environment. The event underscored the club’s commitment to fostering a vibrant golfing community.
Organizers expressed gratitude to AGMC for their unwavering support and partnership, which has been instrumental in the success of such events. For those interested in future golfing activities, further details can be found at www.golfandshootingshj.com or by calling 06 5487777.
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Police dog skills competition held in Beijing
The Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau successfully concluded its annual Police Dog Skills Competition, held from October 24 to 27, 2025. The event, which showcased the exceptional abilities of police dogs and their handlers, attracted 125 participants and 108 highly trained canines from 19 teams across the region. The competition, held in Beijing, featured a series of rigorous challenges designed to test the dogs’ obedience, agility, and specialized skills in law enforcement scenarios. The event not only highlighted the critical role of police dogs in maintaining public safety but also served as a platform for handlers to exchange expertise and enhance their training techniques. The competition concluded with a ceremony recognizing the top-performing teams, further emphasizing the importance of these canine partners in modern policing.
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Stragglers from Myanmar scam center raided by army cross into Thailand as buildings are blown up
The influx of individuals fleeing Myanmar into Thailand has significantly decreased following the shutdown of a major cybercrime hub in Myanmar, according to a Thai regional army commander. Over the past week, more than 1,500 people had crossed the border, but the numbers have now dwindled to a mere trickle. The KK Park site, identified by Thai officials and independent experts as a center for cybercrime, was raided by Myanmar’s military in mid-October as part of broader operations to curb cross-border online scams and illegal gambling. Located near Myawaddy, a key trading town on the Myanmar-Thailand border, the area is only partially controlled by Myanmar’s military government, with significant influence from a local Karen ethnic militia operating as a Border Guard Force. Witnesses on the Thai side reported hearing explosions and seeing smoke emanating from the site over several nights, with parts of KK Park reportedly demolished by Myanmar’s military and its allies. The debris from these explosions caused damage to several houses on the Thai side of the border. Maj. Gen. Maitree Chupreecha, commander of the Thai army’s Naresuan Task Force, stated that 25 individuals from four nations crossed into Thailand on Tuesday, though their nationalities were not disclosed. Most of those fleeing are believed to have been forced laborers at the cybercrime center. Thai authorities in Tak province have established temporary shelters for the refugees, who hail from 28 countries, including Thailand, India, China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Kenya. They are being processed to determine if they were victims of human trafficking before being repatriated. Myanmar has gained notoriety for hosting cybercrime operations that lure workers from other countries under false pretenses, promising legitimate jobs only to hold them captive and force them into criminal activities. Despite the raid on KK Park, independent media reports indicate that online scams continue to operate in the Myawaddy area. Cambodia is another major hub for such operations, drawing international attention recently when the U.S. and U.K. imposed sanctions on a Cambodian cyberscam gang, and its alleged leader was indicted by a U.S. federal court in New York.
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Chasing the unicorn dream: Unlocking the UAE’s entrepreneurial future
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been celebrated for its business-friendly environment, offering foreign investors 100% ownership, zero corporate taxes, and rapid company setup through its free zones. Despite these advantages, the nation has yet to produce a significant number of homegrown unicorns—startups valued at over $1 billion. This raises a critical question: Why does the UAE lag behind in fostering billion-dollar startups, and what can be done to unlock its entrepreneurial potential?
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UAE Cabinet approves largest-ever federal budget for 2026
The UAE Cabinet has greenlit its largest-ever federal budget for 2026, with projected revenues and expenditures totaling 92.4 billion dirhams. Announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the budget reflects a 29% increase compared to 2025, underscoring the nation’s robust economic trajectory. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the UAE’s balanced budgets, growing investments, accelerating foreign trade, and expanding economy, positioning the country as a global leader in foreign direct investment (FDI). The budget allocation spans key sectors: 37% (Dh34.6 billion) for social development and pensions, 29% (Dh27.1 billion) for government affairs, 17% (Dh15.4 billion) for financial investments, 14% (Dh12.7 billion) for federal expenses, and 3% (Dh2.6 billion) for infrastructure and economic development. The UAE’s outbound FDI reached Dh1.05 trillion in 2024, a 9% year-on-year increase, with Dh86 billion flowing into global markets. The nation ranks among the top 20 global investors, leading the Arab world, West Asia, and the MENA region in FDI contributions. Over the past five years, non-oil exports surged by 247% to Dh139.3 billion, while total imports grew by 115% to Dh666.5 billion. The Cabinet also approved 35 international agreements, further cementing the UAE’s role as a global economic powerhouse.
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UAE free zones: The global investor’s gateway to growth
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its reputation as a global economic powerhouse, with its free zones emerging as a cornerstone of its success. These zones, characterized by world-class infrastructure, a low-tax regime, and unparalleled ease of doing business, have become a magnet for entrepreneurs and multinational corporations seeking to establish regional and global bases. The UAE’s strategic geographical location, advanced logistics connectivity, and transparent administrative practices further enhance its appeal as a prime investment destination. According to Syam P Prabhu, Founder and Managing Director of AURION Business Consultants, the UAE’s corporate compliance standards rival those of the world’s top business hubs, bolstered by Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements that significantly boost trade and commerce. The UAE’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment is evident in its streamlined processes, robust financial support from local and international banks, and investor-centric policies. Free zones, in particular, are designed to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles, offering tailored packages that cater to diverse investor needs. These zones serve as collaborative hubs where startups and SMEs can innovate, grow, and scale together. Additionally, the UAE’s competitive corporate tax framework, which aligns with international best practices, further cements its status as a global leader in trade, innovation, and enterprise. With visionary leadership and a forward-thinking approach, the UAE continues to attract global investors, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most attractive business hubs.
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Pink About It: Starting conversations, changing lives
Breast cancer continues to be the most prevalent cancer among women globally, with projections indicating a staggering 40% increase in cases by 2050. This alarming trend underscores the critical importance of awareness, timely screening, and education in combating the disease. Early detection remains the cornerstone of effective treatment, offering the best chance for a cure and a healthy future. Medical experts emphasize the life-saving potential of regular screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams, which can identify abnormalities before they escalate into serious conditions. Dr. Pranay Taori, a Specialist in Medical Oncology at Aster Hospital, Qusais, highlights that early-stage cancers are often more manageable, with better treatment outcomes. He urges individuals to prioritize routine screenings based on age and risk factors, encouraging friends and family to do the same. Beyond detection, modern surgical advancements provide hope and improved quality of life for patients. Dr. Afsal Muhammed, a Specialist in Surgical Oncology, explains that contemporary techniques focus on patient comfort and long-term health, offering options like breast-conserving surgery and reconstruction. Emotional and psychological support also plays a vital role in the journey. Dr. Pranab Karipody Prabhakaran, a Consultant in Medical Oncology, reassures patients that they are not alone, with access to support groups, counselling, and community resources. Lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, further contribute to reducing risk. Dr. Nilusha Vadhwania, a Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, emphasizes the cumulative benefits of consistent healthy habits. Personalized screening plans, tailored to individual risk factors, are essential for proactive health management. Dr. Anitha Sophia Biju advises consulting healthcare providers for age and risk-based guidelines. Community support networks also offer strength and encouragement to patients and their families. Dr. Preetha Vinoj underscores the power of shared experiences in fostering hope and resilience. The journey through breast cancer is marked by courage, conversation, and connection, transforming fear into triumph. The colour pink symbolizes not just awareness but a promise of support, compassion, and renewal. Together, we can inspire new beginnings and celebrate every step forward.