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2024-09-28 14:06:44

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#note1d70…zzp8

2024-09-28 14:06:33

Lebanon's Hezbollah confirms leader Nasrallah killed
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Hezbollah confirmed on September 28, 2024, that its leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah was killed; Israel claimed responsibility for the airstrike that killed him in Beirut's southern suburbs on September 27, 2024; Hezbollah vowed to continue its battle against Israel in support of Gaza and Palestine; Al-Manar TV began airing Koran verses following the announcement.
#Hezbollah #Nasrallah #Israel #Gaza #Lebanon #Airstrike #Conflict #Death #Politics #MiddleEast
https://www.asiaone.com/world/lebanons-hezbollah-confirms-leader-nasrallah-killed

2024-09-27 07:44:58

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#note1kj9…y22f

2024-09-27 07:44:46

What happens to your cash when the US federal reserve cuts interest rates?
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On September 18, 2024, the US Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate by 0.5% (50 basis points), marking the first cut in over four years since early 2020. The Fed Funds rate is now between 4.75% and 5.0%. Falling interest rates lead to lower cash yields, impacting global asset prices, including Singapore's six-month T-bill yields which dropped from 4.4% in August 2022 to 3.1% in September 2024. The Fed's actions influence Singapore's stock market, particularly REITs and banks. Following the rate cut, the i-Edge S-REIT Index rose 1.7% on September 19, 2024. While falling rates may reduce banks' net interest income, they still offer attractive dividend yields around 6%. The Fed's rate cuts are often a response to economic concerns, particularly regarding the US labor market.
#UsFederalReserve #InterestRates #Singapore #Reits #Banks #Economy #Investing #Tbills #CashManagement #FinancialMarkets
https://www.asiaone.com/money/what-happens-your-cash-when-us-federal-reserve-cuts-interest-rates

2024-08-18 02:37:40

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#note1zpz…aupy

2024-08-18 02:37:28

South Korea, Japan, US leaders renew pledge to co-operate on regional challenges
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The leaders of South Korea, Japan, and the US issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to jointly tackle regional challenges. The principles on trilateral cooperation established at the summit last year continue to serve as a roadmap for their cooperation. They stand by their commitment to consult on regional challenges, provocations, and threats affecting their collective interests and security. They agreed to deepen military and economic cooperation and take a united stand against China's growing power and security threats from North Korea. The leaders plan to meet again this year, but the timing is not yet clear.
#SouthKorea #Japan #UnitedStates #JoeBiden #FumioKishida #YoonSukyeol #DefenceAndMilitary #Economy #PoliticsAndGovernment
https://www.asiaone.com/world/south-korea-japan-us-leaders-renew-pledge-co-operate-regional-challenges

2024-07-21 06:17:21

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#note1rcf…sw3m

2024-07-21 06:17:10

North Korea floats trash balloons towards South
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North Korea floated balloons carrying trash towards South Korea, raising tensions near the border. South Korea's military will respond with full-scale loudspeaker broadcasts. Activists and defectors in South Korea have sent their own balloons with propaganda leaflets into North Korea, angering Pyongyang. South Korea's round-the-clock loudspeaker broadcast campaign targeting North Korea has resumed. Since May, North Korea has been floating thousands of balloons with bags of trash attached. South Korea's broadcasts are considered effective psychological warfare.
#NorthKorea #SouthKorea #Defense #Military
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/north-korea-floats-trash-balloons-towards-south

2024-07-21 06:16:48

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#note1ymg…cwn0

2024-07-21 06:16:37

Economy booms but India's young hanker for government jobs
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Despite India's booming economy, many young Indians continue to pursue government jobs due to the perceived security and benefits they offer. Sunil Kumar, a 30-year-old, has spent the last nine years trying to secure a government job but has been unsuccessful in 13 attempts. The trend of chasing government jobs highlights the cultural and economic anxieties facing many Indians, who see government employment as more secure than private-sector jobs. The demand for government job cram school classes has attracted large players and moved online, indicating a lucrative and perennial business. Discontent over employment opportunities was cited as a key reason for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party failing to win a majority in the recent general election. The government has generated 20 million new employment opportunities each year since 2017/18, but much of it is self-employment and temporary farm hiring rather than formal positions with regular wages. The lack of well-paying jobs with security and benefits is a major concern. The Indian National Congress estimates that nearly six million jobs across all levels of government remain unfilled. The clamor for government jobs is driven by attitudes toward work and the perception of job security in the government sector.
#India #Economy #GovernmentJobs #Employment #JobMarket
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/economy-booms-indias-young-hanker-government-jobs

2024-07-07 02:37:59

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#note1xdu…yrq8

2024-07-07 02:37:47

What it is like on board the new sleeper train from Beijing to Hong Kong
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The new sleeper train service from Beijing to Hong Kong was introduced on June 15, 2024, after train services between the two cities were suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic. The travel time between the two cities has been almost halved, from 24 hours to 12 hours and 34 minutes, with the introduction of the Dongche train, which has an average speed of 250km/h. The sleeper service is operated by both China Railways and Hong Kong's MTR Corporation and can accommodate about 600 passengers each way. The cabins on the sleeper train are compact, with limited privacy and space, but they have air-conditioning and adjustable lights. Meals are included in the ticket price and are delivered to the beds by train staff. Passengers have suggested improvements such as more spacious berths and additional power sockets in the cabins. Demand for sleeper train tickets between Beijing and Hong Kong has cooled off since the opening weekend, with tickets still available a day before departure. The ticket price for the sleeper service from Beijing to Hong Kong on June 21 was 1,170 yuan (S$220), while plane tickets cost between 1,800 and 2,500 yuan for a one-way journey taking about 3½ hours. The sleeper train service has been well-received by passengers, who appreciate the convenience and the opportunity to start sightseeing or shopping in Hong Kong immediately upon arrival.
https://www.asiaone.com/china/what-it-board-new-sleeper-train-beijing-hong-kong

2024-06-19 02:32:52

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#note16n8…ep29

2024-06-19 02:32:41

Putin, Kim agree to develop 'strategic fortress' relations, KCNA says
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Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un agreed to develop their nations' relations during Putin's visit to Pyongyang. The visit is Putin's first trip to the North Korean capital in 24 years and is expected to reshape Russia-North Korea relations. The partnership between the two countries is seen as an engine for accelerating the building of a new multi-polar world. Russia has used its warming ties with North Korea to counter the United States, while North Korea has received political backing and promises of economic support from Moscow. The agenda for the visit includes one-on-one discussions, a gala concert, state reception, document signings, and a statement to the media. Putin praised Pyongyang for resisting US economic pressure and promised to develop alternative trade and settlement mechanisms not controlled by the West. He also issued a presidential order to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty with North Korea, which would include security issues.
#Putin #KimJongun #Russia #NorthKorea #Relations #Partnership
https://www.asiaone.com/world/putin-kim-agree-develop-strategic-fortress-relations-kcna-says

2024-06-18 09:33:54

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#note1u0a…7jar

2024-06-18 09:33:43

'How to be like this at 49?' Netizens wowed by Charmaine Sheh's bikini photos on Thailand vacation
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Charmaine Sheh, a 49-year-old Hong Kong actress, wowed netizens with bikini photos from her vacation in Thailand. She shared three photos of herself in a black bikini and mesh cover-up by the poolside. She also posted a photo with her friends, including Hong Kong actresses Janet Chow, Angela Tong, Toby Leung, Annie Man, Sherming Yiu, and Margaret Chung, all wearing black swimwear. Netizens expressed admiration for Charmaine's youthful physique, with one commenting, 'How to be like this at 49? Idol.' Celebrities like Sammi Cheng, Joel Chan, Candice Yu, Samantha Ko, and Tavia Yeung also left positive comments. Margaret Chung posted photos of the group in white swimsuits, expressing their bond and love for each other. The article was published on June 18, 2024, by Yeo Shu Hui on AsiaOne.
#CharmaineSheh #BikiniPhotos #ThailandVacation #HongKongActress #Netizens #YouthfulPhysique
https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/how-be-49-netizens-wowed-charmaine-shehs-bikini-photos-thailand-vacation

2024-06-13 03:47:26

Female stunt drivers take on obstacles to working in Hollywood
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The Association of Women Drivers, the first ever stunt group for professional female drivers, has been formed in Hollywood. Founder Olivia Summers, a stuntwoman with 20 years of experience, was disappointed by male stunt drivers being cast to double for female actors. The group aims to address the lack of opportunities for female stunt drivers and the practice of 'paintdowns' where stunt performers are painted black or brown to double for actors of color. Men comprise three quarters of stunt performers, while women make up one quarter. Stunt coordinators often bypass guild rules that require them to find matching stuntpersons by claiming they exhausted all avenues. Training to work in stunts is expensive, with one driver spending $18,000 in their first year. Female stunt performers also face pay inequality, with men receiving larger adjustments for the same stunts. The Association of Women Drivers aims to bring about change and promote equal opportunities for all stunt performers.
#StuntDrivers #Hollywood #GenderEquality #StuntPerformers
https://www.asiaone.com/lifestyle/female-stunt-drivers-take-obstacles-working-hollywood

2024-06-13 02:20:58

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#note10sc…eljq

2024-06-13 02:20:47

US expands Russia sanctions, targets chips sent via China
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The United States has expanded sanctions on Russia, targeting China-based companies selling semiconductors to Moscow. The US Treasury is raising the risk of secondary sanctions for foreign financial institutions dealing with Russia's war economy, threatening them with losing access to the US financial system. The Commerce Department is targeting shell companies in Hong Kong for diverting semiconductors to Russia, affecting nearly $100 million of high-priority items. The US-made chips and technology have been found in various Russian equipment recovered from the battlefield in Ukraine. The Treasury is also imposing sanctions on key parts of Russia's financial infrastructure, including the Moscow Exchange. The new sanctions have forced an immediate suspension of trading in dollars and euros on the exchange. The latest sanctions are seen as a paradigm shift and an effort to set up a global financial embargo on Russia, targeting foreign banks dealing with Russian banks. The move is expected to complicate the flow of goods from countries trading with Russia.
#Us #Russia #Sanctions #China #Semiconductors #War #Ukraine
https://www.asiaone.com/world/us-expands-russia-sanctions-targets-chips-sent-china

2024-06-12 05:05:21

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#note1v6h…wvuf

2024-06-12 05:05:10

China hit by searing temperatures as Asia braces for extreme summer
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China is experiencing record-high temperatures in parts of north and central China, with temperatures reaching as high as 42 degrees Celsius in northern Hebei province. The National Meteorological Centre (NMC) has warned of the impact of soaring temperatures on energy supplies, crop production, and people's health. China has been experiencing unusually warm weather since March, with average temperatures from March to May at their highest since records began in 1961. Northern India is also in the midst of a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in late May. Scientists attribute the heatwaves to human-caused climate change. Soaring temperatures will continue in northern China until June 20, with the possibility of reaching or exceeding historical highs in Hebei, Shanxi, and central Henan province. In Mengyin County, Shandong, authorities have resorted to measures like creating artificial rain to combat a severe drought.
#China #Asia #Temperatures #Heatwave #Drought #ClimateChange
https://www.asiaone.com/china/china-hit-searing-temperatures-asia-braces-extreme-summer

2024-06-08 07:13:09

DIY wheelchair: Malaysian father makes special mobility device for son
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Mohd Noor Syazwan Ab Patar, a Malaysian mechanical engineer, created a special wheelchair for his 19-month-old son Muhammad Qhalish Mohd Noor Syazwan, who suffers from spina bifida. The materials used for the mobility device were large-sized meat cutting boards, a special chair for children, bicycle tires, bearings, and spans. The total cost amounted to RM700 (S$200). After uploading videos of Qhalish using the wheelchair, several people expressed interest in ordering the device. Qhalish recently underwent surgery to correct the bones that are blocking the nerves on his back.
#DiyWheelchair #SpecialMobilityDevice #SpinaBifida #Malaysia
https://www.asiaone.com/malaysia/diy-wheelchair-malaysian-father-makes-special-mobility-device-son-spina-bifida

2024-06-08 05:12:03

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#note1pal…jq9f

2024-06-08 05:11:52

Malaysia defends eviction of sea nomads, citing security concerns
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Malaysian authorities defended their decision to evict hundreds of sea nomads from their homes off the coast of Sabah state this week, saying it was aimed at boosting security and combating cross-border crime. More than 500 people from the Bajau Laut, a mostly stateless sea-faring community who live on rickety houseboats or coastal huts built on stilts, saw their homes demolished or burned by enforcement officials this week. Sabah's minister of tourism, culture and environment Christina Liew said authorities were empowered to act against illegal activities, such as fishing, building structures and farming without permission, in protected areas controlled by Sabah Parks, a state conservation agency. The operation was carried out taking into account security factors, including cross-border crime. The Bajau Laut have been recorded living in the area for centuries, but many are born without nationality documents and are regarded by authorities as migrants. Rights group Pusat Komas called on the state to provide alternative homes and address documentation issues to ensure the Bajau Laut received fair treatment and access to essential services.
https://www.asiaone.com/malaysia/malaysia-defends-eviction-sea-nomads-citing-security-concerns

2024-05-28 03:13:37

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#note1ss2…raz5

2024-05-28 03:13:26

China's premier hails 'new beginning' with US-allied South Korea, Japan
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Chinese Premier Li Qiang praised the restart in relations with Japan and South Korea during a three-way summit in Seoul. The leaders agreed to revive trade and security dialogues that had been stalled since 2019. Li called for the comprehensive resumption of cooperation between the three countries, emphasizing the need to separate politics from economic and trade issues. The trilateral summit aimed to reduce frictions and manage mutual distrust amid tensions between China and the US, as well as issues related to Taiwan and North Korea's nuclear program. The joint declaration released after the meeting called for regular communication at the highest levels and collaboration on various areas, including climate change, health, and trade. The leaders also issued separate joint statements on pandemic preparation and intellectual property protection. The trade relationship between China, South Korea, and Japan has been further tested by US calls for supply chain diversification away from China. The leaders agreed to build a transparent and predictable trade and supply chain environment. The summit also included a forum with top business executives from the three countries, who expressed the need for better access and improved business environment for foreign companies in China. The last FTA negotiation in 2019 resulted in agreements on liberalization in various areas.
#China #SouthKorea #Japan #LiQiang #FumioKishida #YoonSukyeol #Trade #Security #Cooperation #Politics #Economy #SupplyChains #Summit
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/chinas-premier-hails-new-beginning-us-allied-south-korea-japan

2024-05-27 02:14:18

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#note1dm7…lxaj

2024-05-27 02:14:07

China’s Premier Li Qiang to hold rare summit with US-allied South Korea, Japan
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Chinese Premier Li Qiang will hold a rare summit with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on May 27 in Seoul. The three leaders will adopt a joint statement on six areas including the economy and trade, science and technology, people-to-people exchanges, and health and the aging population. The summit comes after separate bilateral talks between the leaders, where agreements were made on diplomatic and security dialogue, resuming free trade talks, and holding a new round of bilateral high-level economic dialogue. The leaders will also discuss North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile arsenal, with Japan demanding that North Korea cancel a planned rocket launch. The summit aims to revive and reinvigorate strained relations between China, South Korea, and Japan, amid rising distrust and tensions over Taiwan.
#China #SouthKorea #Japan #Summit #Trade #Security #Diplomacy #NorthKorea #Taiwan
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/chinas-premier-li-qiang-hold-rare-summit-us-allied-south-korea-japan

2024-05-26 03:20:09

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#note1qva…45d9

2024-05-26 03:19:58

Japan issues fresh warning on yen drops, signals readiness to intervene
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Japan's top currency diplomat, Masato Kanda, issued a fresh warning on the chance of renewed exchange-rate intervention, stating that Japan stands ready to take appropriate action in the market "any time" to counter excessive moves in the yen. Kanda emphasized that under a flexible exchange-rate regime, intervention is not necessary if currency moves are stable, but if there are excessively volatile moves that have an adverse effect on the economy, action would be justified. Japan also expressed the need for vigilance against excessive volatility in the currency market driven by speculative moves at the G7 finance leaders' meeting. The yen has lost 11% against the dollar this year, causing concerns for Japanese policymakers as it hurts consumption by inflating the cost of raw material imports. Japan is suspected to have intervened in the currency market in April and May to prop up the yen, but the currency has yet to stage a clear rebound. Tokyo sees the 160-to-the-dollar level as a line in the sand for authorities that heightens the chance of yen-buying intervention. The G7 group of advanced nations share a common understanding that stable currency moves are desirable and that countries have authority to take action in the market when exchange-rate moves become too volatile.
#Japan #Yen #CurrencyIntervention #ExchangeRate #G7
https://www.asiaone.com/money/japan-issues-fresh-warning-yen-drops-signals-readiness-intervene

2024-05-23 05:16:18

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#note1wz3…kf04

2024-05-23 05:16:06

US says tariff increases on Chinese EVs, batteries and chips to start Aug 1
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The US Trade Representative's office announced that some of the steep US tariff increases on Chinese imports, including electric vehicles (EVs) and their batteries, computer chips, and medical products, will take effect on August 1. President Joe Biden will maintain tariffs put in place by his predecessor Donald Trump while increasing others, such as quadrupling import duties on Chinese EVs to over 100% and doubling semiconductor duties to 50%. The United States is seeking public comments on the proposed tariff increases until June 28. The new measures will affect $18 billion worth of current imported Chinese goods, including steel, aluminum, semiconductors, electric vehicles, critical minerals, solar cells, and cranes. The largest categories affected are lithium-ion batteries, which make up $13.2 billion of the targeted imports from China in 2023. The US imported $427 billion in goods from China in 2023 and exported $148 billion to China. The Retail Industry Leaders Association expressed concern about the product exclusions set to expire at the end of the month. US Trade Representative Katherine Tai has justified the revised tariffs by accusing China of stealing US intellectual property. The Chinese Embassy in Washington stated that China will take necessary measures to defend its rights and interests and that the tariff hike will disrupt economic and trade cooperation between China and the US. Beijing recently announced a new anti-dumping probe on certain industrial plastics from the US, Europe, Japan, and Taiwan. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is pushing for G7 allies to jointly push back on China's industrial policies.
#UschinaTrade #Tariffs #ElectricVehicles #Batteries #ComputerChips
https://www.asiaone.com/world/us-says-tariff-increases-chinese-evs-batteries-and-chips-start-aug-1

2024-05-11 05:15:13

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#note1cwa…qfnw

2024-05-11 05:15:02

Australia says Palestinian UN membership bid builds peace momentum
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Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that Australia's support for a Palestinian bid to become a full United Nations member is part of building momentum to secure peace in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Australia voted with the majority of the UN General Assembly in backing the resolution that would effectively recognize a Palestinian state. The US had previously vetoed a similar recommendation. The General Assembly vote was 143 in favor, nine against (including the US and Israel), and 25 abstaining. Australia's ambassador to the UN, James Larsen, stated that Australia has long been an unwavering supporter of a two-state solution.
#Australia #Palestinian #Un #Membership #Peace #Momentum
https://www.asiaone.com/world/australia-says-palestinian-un-membership-bid-builds-peace-momentum

2024-05-03 03:12:35

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#note1hgu…az3v

2024-05-03 03:12:24

New Zealand foreign minister calls China relationship complex
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New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters described the country's relationship with China as "complex" and expressed concerns about the hardening rhetoric across the Taiwan Strait, human rights violations in Hong Kong, and China's increased engagement in Pacific security sectors. Peters emphasized that China is a vital economic partner to New Zealand but also highlighted the importance of adhering to internationally agreed human rights frameworks. New Zealand has become increasingly vocal about its concerns over China's behavior in recent years. Peters stated that New Zealand needs to clearly articulate its interests and be transparent about areas of convergence and divergence with China. Earlier, Peters mentioned that New Zealand is not considering joining the Aukus security pact between Australia, the United States, and the UK.
#NewZealand #China #ForeignRelations #HumanRights #PacificSecurity
https://www.asiaone.com/world/new-zealand-foreign-minister-calls-china-relationship-complex

2024-04-19 06:45:04

The International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva Reveals More than 40 Scientific and Technological Innovation Achievements from Hong Kong
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The Hong Kong Innovation and Invention Exhibition, led by the Hong Kong Exporters' Association, participated in the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva, Switzerland for the first time. The exhibition showcased over 40 cutting-edge inventions and technologies from Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Innovation and Invention Exhibition showcased innovations and inventions in five major categories: smart city, smart home and life, innovative finance, health technology and pharmaceuticals, intelligent transportation, and intelligent industry. Some of the showcased products include SINOVATED TECHNOLOGY's intelligent monitoring system for eldercare centers, GREEN DAY INC's carbon dioxide recovery and resource regeneration device, ETBadge's blockchain-based certification system, Gense Technologies' portable health screening device, and the electronic lock developed by the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre. Eric Sun, Chairman of Hong Kong Exporters' Association, highlighted the global potential of Hong Kong's technology companies and the exhibition's role in aiding overseas market expansion and internationalization. Caroline Simonet, Director of the Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions, praised Hong Kong's dynamic spirit of invention and emphasized the importance of fostering international exchange and collaboration for innovation.
#HongKong #Innovation #Technology #Inventions #Exhibition #Geneva
https://www.asiaone.com/business/international-exhibition-inventions-geneva-reveals-more-40-scientific-and-technological

2024-04-16 02:47:56

Nasa seeks cheaper ideas for Mars sample return mission amid budget crunch
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Nasa is seeking a cheaper, simpler approach to retrieve soil samples collected on Mars and fly them back to Earth. A formal request for proposals will be sent to Nasa centers, laboratories, and space industry companies. The overhaul will focus on innovation and proven technology to reduce development time, risks, and costs. The move comes after an independent review found the program hindered by unrealistic budget and schedule expectations. The mission's next phase involves sending a second robotic landing craft to Mars to retrieve the samples and launching them into Martian orbit for rendezvous with a third spacecraft that would fly them back to Earth. The original launch and return dates were anticipated for the late 2020s and early 2030s, respectively, with costs projected at $5 billion to $7 billion. However, the review found that costs could soar to as high as $11 billion and the specimens would not be delivered to Earth before 2040. Nasa officials are considering leaving behind some of the samples and hope to find a solution with the help of Nasa, JPL, and aerospace industry partners.
#Nasa #Mars #SampleReturnMission #BudgetCrunch
https://www.asiaone.com/world/nasa-seeks-cheaper-ideas-mars-sample-return-mission-amid-budget-crunch

2024-04-11 03:06:10

Will Smith to address his Oscars slap ahead of movie comeback
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Will Smith, the 55-year-old actor, is preparing to address his infamous Oscars slap "head on" as part of his big PR campaign ahead of his Hollywood comeback. He will tackle the slap and how he has changed since then, and is likely to speak about his marriage to Jada, after they secretly split up more than six years ago. Will has a big fan base who want him back in the thick of the action, and he has previously apologized to Chris Rock for his behavior at the Oscars.
https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/will-smith-address-his-oscars-slap-ahead-movie-comeback

2024-04-11 03:03:58

Tennis drama Challengers showcases Zendaya's versatility
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Zendaya produces and stars in the tennis drama Challengers. The film, directed by Luca Guadagnino, follows the story of Tashi Duncan, a former tennis champion who now coaches her husband Art. When Art's former best friend Patrick reappears, problems from their past start affecting their present. The actors immersed themselves in the world of tennis for authenticity. Challengers, which marks the screenwriting debut of Justin Kuritzkes, will be released globally on April 24.
#Zendaya #Challengers #Tennis #Drama #LucaGuadagnino
https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/tennis-drama-challengers-showcases-zendayas-versatility

2024-03-27 05:36:29

Jane Goodall's 90th birthday wish? More time to get out the conservation message
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British primatologist-turned-conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall will mark her 90th birthday next month with a series of talks. Her greatest wish is for people to start thinking more about the environment. Goodall wants more years to continue spreading the message about slowing down climate change, loss of biodiversity, alleviating poverty, and ending industrial farming. She rose to prominence in the 1960s for her groundbreaking research on wild chimpanzees in Gombe, Tanzania. Goodall's upcoming talks will focus on her reflections as she turns 90 and the need for immediate action. The events will raise money for the Jane Goodall Institute and the Roots and Shoots youth program. Goodall remains hopeful that there is time to persuade the wealthy to be more considerate of the future. She will speak in Seattle on March 30 and in New York on April 1.
#JaneGoodall #Conservation #Environment #ClimateChange #Biodiversity #Poverty #IndustrialFarming #Talks #Fundraising
https://www.asiaone.com/world/jane-goodalls-90th-birthday-wish-more-time-get-out-conservation-message

2024-03-27 04:51:03

Vietnam minister says president's resignation has not affected policies
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Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son stated that the resignation of Vietnam's second president in little over a year has not affected the country's foreign and economic policies. Son emphasized that Vietnam has a collective leadership and policymaking system, with collective-decided economic development plans set out during Communist Party congresses held every five years. He also expressed Vietnam's hope for the United States to recognize it as a market economy and called for increased economic trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. The resignation of the president, Vo Van Thuong, has raised questions about stability in Vietnam, but analysts believe that the current leadership changes will not impact the country's key policies. Vietnam seeks good relations with all major powers and welcomes efforts to stabilize relations between the United States and China.
#Vietnam #ForeignMinister #President'sResignation #ForeignPolicy #EconomicDevelopment #MarketEconomy #UsvietnamRelations #Stability
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/vietnam-minister-says-presidents-resignation-has-not-affected-policies

2024-03-20 07:45:58

TUMI Appoints Aris Maroulis as Vice President for TUMI Asia-Pacific & Middle East
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TUMI has appointed Aris Maroulis as the new Vice President for Asia-Pacific and Middle East. Maroulis will be responsible for building the brand, overseeing operations, and managing overall business in the region. Maroulis has 25 years of experience in Asia, Europe, and the US, with the last 15 years focused on Asia. Before joining TUMI, he held the title of Director - China Business Operation, Asset Management for Hang Lung Properties for four years. Maroulis was also the Managing Director for Montblanc China, based in Shanghai. He earned an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and is multilingual and fluent in Greek, English, French, and Mandarin.
#Tumi #ArisMaroulis #Asia-pacific #MiddleEast
https://www.asiaone.com/business/tumi-appoints-aris-maroulis-vice-president-tumi-asia-pacific-middle-east

2024-03-10 03:13:51

Pope says Ukraine should have 'courage of the white flag' of negotiations
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Pope Francis has urged Ukraine to have the 'courage of the white flag' and negotiate an end to the war with Russia. In an interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI, the Pope expressed his support for Ukraine to engage in peace talks with the help of international powers. The comments were made before Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's offer to host a summit between Ukraine and Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has stated that while he wants peace, he will not give up any territory. The Pope's remarks were in response to a debate on whether Ukraine should surrender or continue to resist Russian forces. He emphasized the importance of negotiations and finding a mediator to achieve a truce and stop the hostilities. Pope Francis has previously sent a peace envoy to Ukraine, Russia, and the United States to discuss the conflict.
#PopeFrancis #Ukraine #Russia #Negotiations #War
https://www.asiaone.com/world/pope-says-ukraine-should-have-courage-white-flag-negotiations

2024-03-02 04:41:39

Rocky start set WTO talks up for minimal results
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The World Trade Organisation's biennial gathering of ministers started with warning signs that major trading nations were not in a mood for compromise. WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo Iweala had curbed expectations due to wars, tensions, and limited room for manoeuvre. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal arrived late, and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide's attempt to broker a compromise on trade dispute resolution was rebuffed by US Trade Representative Katherine Tai. The WTO toasted the accessions of East Timor and Comoros, but the near 30-year-old organization has only struck two multilateral accords. A multi-nation agreement to boost investment in poorer countries was blocked, and language on climate change was parked in an annex due to "deep divergences" among members. The talks ended with trade chiefs from the European Union, India, and other countries battling through to the close. The overall impasse was seen as sobering and not good for the future of trade, with power relations overshadowing the rule of law.
#Wto #Trade #Compromise #TradeDisputes #GlobalTrade
https://www.asiaone.com/world/rocky-start-set-wto-talks-minimal-results

2024-03-01 06:42:40

Vietnam eyes crackdown on workers' rights and foreign aid, report says
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Vietnam's ruling Communist Party has directed officials to control trade unions and closely monitor foreign organizations and citizens traveling abroad. The party has ordered measures that appear to contradict its commitments under international trade deals to increase the protection of workers. Officials are required to ensure the continued control of party cells and government management in the application of a United Nations convention on workers' rights. The directive also urges officials to closely manage international cooperation activities and refuse funds for sensitive projects. The media should be used to tackle civil disobedience and counter the promotion of foreign culture that does not conform to the customs and traditions of the nation.
#Vietnam #CommunistParty #Workers'Rights #ForeignAid #TradeUnions #InternationalTradeDeals #UnitedNationsConvention #InternationalCooperation #CivilDisobedience #ForeignCulture
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/vietnam-eyes-crackdown-workers-rights-and-foreign-aid-report-says

2024-02-22 06:24:58

'Mimi Choo said this may be her last film': King of Hawkers director on veteran actress' absence from publicity events
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Veteran actress Mimi Choo may be taking a break from the entertainment industry, according to King of Hawkers director Kelvin Sng. Choo, 69, was absent from the movie's publicity events and is not joining the press tour in Malaysia and Singapore. Sng revealed that Choo intends to retire and rest as she is feeling tired. Choo had previously mentioned her desire to retire during an appearance on the Sheng Siong Show, citing her Meniere's disease as a reason for needing rest. Sng stated that Choo said this may be her last film and declined multiple invitations to the publicity events. King of Hawkers, which also stars Liu Lingling, Ryan Lian, and Asher Su, opens in Singapore cinemas today.
#MimiChoo #KelvinSng #KingOfHawkers #Retirement #EntertainmentIndustry
https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/mimi-choo-may-be-last-film-king-of-hawkers-director-kelvin-sng-actress-absence-publicity-events

2024-02-21 10:09:49

China's childcare costs among highest in world, think tank says
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China is one of the world's most expensive places to raise a child, with the cost of raising a child until they are 18 relative to per capita GDP being around 6.3 times in China. This is compared to 2.08 times in Australia, 2.24 times in France, 4.11 times in the US, and 4.26 times in Japan. Raising children also leads to a reduction in women's paid work hours and wage rates, while men's livelihoods remain largely unchanged. The current social environment in China is not friendly to women's fertility, resulting in high time and opportunity costs for women to have children. China's population fell for a second consecutive year in 2023, with an increasing number of women opting not to have children due to high childcare costs, unwillingness to marry or put their careers on hold, and gender discrimination. Women generally see a reduction of 2,106 working hours and an estimated wage loss of 63,000 yuan when looking after children aged 0-4. Having a child also leads to a 12-17% drop in women's wages. The report calls for policies to reduce the cost of childbearing, such as cash and tax subsidies, improved childcare services, equal maternity and paternity leave, access to foreign nannies, allowing flexible working, and giving single women the same reproductive rights as married women. The measures together could increase new births to around three million. If the current ultra-low fertility rate cannot be improved, China's population will rapidly decline and age, negatively impacting innovation and overall national strength.
#China #ChildcareCosts #Fertility #PopulationDecline #GenderDiscrimination
https://www.asiaone.com/china/chinas-childcare-costs-among-highest-world-think-tank-says

2024-02-16 02:46:46

Ukraine needs $654b to recover, rebuild after nearly 2 years of war: World Bank
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Ukraine needs $654 billion to recover and rebuild its economy after nearly two years of war with Russia, according to a study by the World Bank, United Nations, European Commission, and the Ukrainian government. The estimate covers the period from Russia's invasion on February 24, 2022, through December 31, 2023, and includes the direct physical damage to buildings and infrastructure, the impact on people's lives and livelihoods, and the cost to "build back better." The report states that direct damages from the war have reached almost $152 billion, with additional costs related to economic output, trade disruptions, and debris removal totaling around $499 billion. The estimate excludes reconstruction needs already met through the Ukrainian state budget or international support. The report highlights that about 10% of Ukraine's total housing stock, or approximately two million housing units, have been damaged or destroyed, along with 8,400 km of motorways, highways, and national roads, and nearly 300 bridges. Ukraine needs $15 billion to cover urgent repair, recovery, and reconstruction priorities in 2024, of which $5.5 billion has already been met through the state budget and donor support. The Ukrainian government plans to undertake 200 separate reforms to governance, energy, and other areas to attract private sector investment and increase tax revenues. Despite the war, foreign direct investment of over $4 billion has flowed into Ukraine in the first three quarters of 2023, indicating foreign investors see opportunities in the country. As of December, about 5.9 million Ukrainians remain displaced outside of the country, and around 3.7 million are internally displaced.
#Ukraine #WorldBank #War #Recovery #Rebuilding
https://www.asiaone.com/world/ukraine-needs-654b-recover-rebuild-after-nearly-2-years-war-world-bank

2024-02-09 04:29:46

Vietnam's rare 'dragon chickens' all the rage for Lunar New Year
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Dong Tao chickens, also known as 'Dragon Chicken', are a delicacy in Vietnam, particularly during the Lunar New Year holiday. The rare breed of poultry, originating from Dong Tao village, features large scaly red feet and weighs up to six kg when fully grown. Dong Tao chickens are believed to bring good fortune and wealth to their owners. Demand for Dong Tao chicken has risen sharply, driven by a growing number of wealthy individuals in Vietnam. A fully grown dragon chicken can be sold for up to five million dong (S$275) or even 10 million dong. The legs of the chicken are considered the most valuable part. Dong Tao chickens have a crunchy texture, distinct fragrant aroma, and rich flavor. They are best cooked by steaming. While the chickens are now raised beyond the village, those raised in Dong Tao village and fed with paddy rice and corn are said to have the best taste. Production has not yet met domestic demand, and Dong Tao chicken is not available in KFC restaurants.
#Vietnam #LunarNewYear #DongTaoChicken #DragonChicken
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/vietnams-rare-dragon-chickens-all-rage-lunar-new-year

2024-02-08 02:25:55

North Korea scraps all economic co-operation with South Korea
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North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly has voted to scrap all agreements signed with South Korea on promoting economic co-operation. The assembly also voted to abolish laws governing economic ties with Seoul, including the special law on the operation of the Mount Kumgang tourism project. The project was suspended in 2008 after a South Korean tourist was shot and killed by North Korean guards. North Korea considers the South as an enemy at war and last year scrapped a military pact signed in 2018 aimed at de-escalating tension near the military border. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol called the shift in North Korea's inter-Korea policy 'an extraordinary change' but said it was hard to understand the thinking behind the move. Yoon remains open to engaging the North, even by holding a summit meeting with Kim, and providing aid if it would help its economy. Kim Jong-un has pushed the North to develop nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles while its economy languished. Kim recently toured factories and gave guidance on modernizing facilities as part of a new regional development policy.
#NorthKorea #SouthKorea #EconomicCo-operation #SupremePeople'sAssembly #MountKumgangTourismProject #MilitaryPact #YoonSuk-yeol #KimJong-un #NuclearWeapons #BallisticMissiles
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/north-korea-scraps-all-economic-co-operation-south-korea

2024-02-06 02:20:22

UK minister to meet with US lawmakers on restoration of Northern Ireland government
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Chris Heaton-Harris, the British Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, will travel to Washington to discuss the restoration of Northern Ireland's devolved government with US lawmakers and promote its economic potential. Northern Ireland recently appointed its first Irish nationalist leader after a two-year deadlock over post-Brexit trade frictions. Heaton-Harris will meet with representatives from the US State Department, the US National Security Council, and businesses to highlight Northern Ireland as a place to trade, invest, visit, and study. The US has played a significant role in brokering a peace deal in Northern Ireland in 1998. President Joe Biden has expressed pride in his ancestral ties to Ireland and has urged Northern Irish political leaders to restore the government with the promise of US investment. Heaton-Harris will also discuss the implementation of a new law that gives conditional amnesties to former soldiers and militants, which Ireland has challenged legally.
#NorthernIreland #ChrisHeaton-harris #UsLawmakers #DevolvedGovernment #EconomicPotential #Post-brexitTradeFrictions #UsStateDepartment #UsNationalSecurityCouncil #Power-sharingGovernment #1998PeaceDeal #JoeBiden #ConditionalAmnesties #FormerSoldiers #Militants #Ireland
https://www.asiaone.com/world/uk-minister-meet-us-lawmakers-restoration-northern-ireland-government

2024-02-06 02:19:38

Coface Country and Sector Risk Barometer – Q4 2023: 2024, a pivotal year
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After a somewhat turbulent 2023, 2024 is shaping up to be a decisive year with more than 60 national elections and risks mounting on a slowing global economy. Global growth is expected to slow to 2.2% in 2024. The Chinese economy is stalling at the beginning of the year, with concerns about the property market correction and deflationary pressures. In Europe, stagnation is expected in the first half of the year. Core inflation is still twice the central bank target in most developed monetary areas. Interest rates are expected to remain high throughout the year in all advanced economies. Emerging economies will be the main drivers of global growth, contributing 1.7 percentage points to world GDP growth. Instability in the Red Sea region is a major threat to maritime traffic. Shipping companies are already avoiding the Suez Canal, resulting in higher costs and fares. Freight rates have more than doubled from Shanghai to Europe. Coface is a leader in trade credit insurance and risk management.
#Coface #RiskAssessment #GlobalEconomy #EconomicOutlook #InterestRates #MaritimeTraffic #FreightRates
https://www.asiaone.com/business/coface-country-and-sector-risk-barometer-q4-2023-2024-pivotal-year

2024-02-06 02:18:54

Bangladesh welcomes Biden letter on support for economic goals
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President Joe Biden has sent a letter to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh, expressing the US's willingness to work with Bangladesh to help achieve its economic goals. This comes nearly a month after Hasina was sworn in for her fourth term following an election boycotted by the opposition. The US government has been critical of Bangladesh's democracy and human rights records, but Biden's letter signals a desire to improve the relationship and reach new heights. The United States is committed to supporting Bangladesh's ambitious economic goals and partnering on a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. The US embassy in Dhaka has not yet responded to requests for comment. The United States is the biggest buyer of Bangladeshi clothes and has the ability to restrict visas for individuals believed to undermine the democratic election process. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) boycotted the election after Hasina refused their demand for her resignation and the appointment of a neutral authority to oversee the election. Hasina has been credited with turning around the economy, but critics have accused her of human rights violations and suppressing dissent.
#Bangladesh #JoeBiden #SheikhHasina #Us-bangladeshRelations #EconomicGoals
https://www.asiaone.com/world/bangladesh-welcomes-biden-letter-support-economic-goals

2024-01-26 06:03:56

'I asked Chris about ordering food delivery in Taiwan': Fann Wong begins work overseas in drama directed by ex-co star Peter Ho
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Fann Wong, a local actress, sought tips from her husband Christopher Lee about living in Taiwan for her new drama 'Breeze by the Sea'. Fann plays an authoritative talent manager in the drama, which also marks a reunion with Taiwanese singer-actor Peter Ho, who is directing the drama. The romantic comedy drama series centers around the residents of Kinmen Islands and will showcase the region's scenic beauty. Fann has been in Taiwan for a week and has been sharing updates on Instagram, including meeting up with fellow actors Hong Huifang, Yvonne Lim, and Chen Hanwei.
#FannWong #ChristopherLee #Taiwan #BreezeByTheSea #PeterHo #KinmenIslands
https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/chris-lee-ordering-food-delivery-taiwan-fann-wong-work-taiwan-breeze-by-the-sea-peter-ho

2024-01-25 01:25:38

Houthis order US, British nationals to leave Yemen
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Yemen's Houthi authorities have ordered US and British staff of the United Nations and Sanaa-based humanitarian organizations to leave the country within a month. The decision comes after the US and Britain, with support from other nations, struck military targets of the Iran-aligned group. The US government also returned the group to a list of terrorist groups. The Houthi foreign ministry sent a letter to the UN's acting humanitarian coordinator in Yemen, ordering the departure of officials and workers with US and British citizenships. Houthi top negotiator Mohammed Abdulsalam confirmed the letter's authenticity. US and British embassies in Yemen did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/houthis-order-us-british-nationals-leave-yemen

2024-01-13 13:19:53

Taiwan voters rebuff China and give ruling party third presidential term
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Taiwanese voters have elected Lai Ching-te, the presidential candidate of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), for a third term, rejecting China's warnings not to vote for him. Lai's DPP, which advocates for Taiwan's separate identity and rejects China's territorial claims, secured an unprecedented third term under Taiwan's current electoral system. Lai's opponents, Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's Party, conceded defeat. China had denounced Lai as a dangerous separatist and warned that moves towards Taiwan's independence meant war. Lai has pledged to preserve peace, maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, and strengthen Taiwan's defenses.
#Taiwan #China #DemocraticProgressiveParty #LaiChing-te #Election
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/taiwan-voters-rebuff-china-give-ruling-party-third-presidential-term-dpp-lai-ching-te

2024-01-05 02:40:44

Bangladesh will hold general elections on January 7, with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina set to win a fourth straight term. The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party is boycotting the poll. Women make up almost half of the nearly 120 million eligible voters, while first-time voters number about 15 million. Vying for 300 parliamentary seats are a total of 1,896 candidates, 5.1% of them women. The economy, once among the world's fastest growing, was rocked by violent protests in recent months. Voting begins at 8am and ends at 4pm on Sunday, with counting starting soon after and initial results expected by January 8.
#Bangladesh #GeneralElections #SheikhHasina #BangladeshNationalistParty #Voters #ParliamentarySeats #Economy #Protests #Voting #Counting
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/bangladesh-holds-general-elections-jan-7

2024-01-05 02:38:02

China plans a three-year campaign to address safety risks after a year of accidents and disasters. The campaign will focus on improving response times during disasters and accidents, as well as addressing production safety lapses in sectors like mining. China experienced deadly natural disasters, mining accidents, fires, and gas explosions in the past year, raising concerns about safety protocols. The emergency management ministry called for mines to investigate hidden factors that cause disasters and implement measures to prevent floods and earthquakes. The ministry emphasized the need for stronger disaster prevention, mitigation, and relief efforts. The campaign will begin this year.
#China #SafetyRisks #Accidents #Disasters #EmergencyManagement #Mining #Floods #Earthquakes
https://www.asiaone.com/china/china-tackle-safety-risks-after-year-accidents-disasters