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Turkey seeks to break Libya deadlock with 6+6 revival
Turkey seeks to break Libya deadlock with 6+6 revival Saleh and Takala agreed to reactivate the 6+6 Committee to complete the drafting of electoral laws, with Turkey due to host the committee’s meetings in the coming days. Friday 11/09/2026 Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin (R), House of Representatives Speaker Aguila Saleh (C) and High Council of State President Mohammed Takala pose for a picture in Ankara, September 10, 2026. ANKARA Turkey is seeking to turn its expanding contacts with rival Libyan factions into an opening to revive the country’s stalled political process, bringing together House of Representatives Speaker Aguila Saleh and High Council of State President Mohammed Takala in Ankara in a move that has put electoral laws back at the centre of the debate and opened the way for the 6+6 Committee to resume its work. The significance of the meeting goes beyond reviving the committee that previously drafted proposals for laws governing elections. It is also part of an effort to bring together issues that have remained unresolved for years, foremost among them the unification of sovereign institutions and executive authority and preparations for elections that could end Libya’s political division. Saleh and Takala agreed after their meeting in the Turkish capital to reactivate the 6+6 Committee to complete the drafting of electoral laws, with Turkey due to host the committee’s meetings in the coming days. The agreement came with a joint emphasis on the importance of strengthening national consensus and supporting political and institutional stability, paving the way towards electoral milestones intended to end a prolonged succession of transitional phases. The move is significant because the 6+6 Committee itself was one of the previous attempts to establish common ground between the House of Representatives and the High Council of State. The committee was formed in June 2023 following meetings in Bouznika, Morocco, and was tasked with preparing the laws needed to hold presidential and parliamentary elections. Disagreements over some provisions of those laws, however, prevented its work from being translated into an electoral process capable of being implemented. By bringing Saleh and Takala together, Ankara is seeking to put that track back on the table, but within a broader political framework. The two sides stressed the need to unify sovereign institutions and end the division between executive authorities, leading to a unified executive authority capable of overseeing elections. This is where the importance of Turkey’s move lies. Libya’s crisis is no longer linked only to the absence of agreed electoral laws, but also to the existence of multiple centres of political, executive and security decision-making. Elections require unified institutions and rules accepted by the main parties, making the reactivation of the 6+6 Committee a necessary step, but not one that is sufficient on its own. In this context, Takala handed Saleh a letter concerning the composition of the board of the High National Elections Commission, which is to be presented to the House of Representatives. The development shows that the discussion is beginning to move beyond electoral legislation itself to the institutions that are expected to manage the electoral process, reflecting an attempt to address different elements of the dispute in parallel. Turkey’s involvement has not emerged in isolation. Over the past years, Ankara has developed relations with different actors in Libya and become an influential player in the west of the country, while at the same time maintaining channels of communication with figures and institutions in the east. That gives Turkey room to move between the two sides, although it does not mean that Ankara has the ability to impose a settlement. The Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin has also entered the contacts, meeting Saleh and Takala in Ankara to discuss the Libyan file and cooperation between the two countries, alongside issues related to political and military unity, stability and the resolution of outstanding matters. The involvement indicates that Ankara views the Libyan process as an intertwined political and security issue, rather than simply a dispute over the timing of elections. Kalin’s meeting with the two legislative leaders focused on developments in Libya and the region, steps to further Libya-Turkey cooperation and ongoing efforts to achieve political and military unity while maintaining stability. The talks also addressed ways to make lasting progress on long-unresolved issues and reach broad consensus among the parties. The leading roles of the High Council of State and the House of Representatives in establishing stability and advancing the political process were also underlined. The parties agreed on the objectives of achieving political unity and unifying state institutions. The holding of Libyan presidential and parliamentary elections, resolving disputes over executive authority and achieving full integration in the military and political spheres have been under discussion for years, but initiatives by different parties have failed to produce a solution. The Ankara meeting is considered significant because it brought the heads of the two institutions together in Turkey to discuss the issues and made concrete progress on processes that had been at an impasse. The real test of Turkey’s role, however, begins after the Ankara meeting rather than with it. Successfully restarting the 6+6 Committee will require the two councils to overcome the disagreements that previously paralysed its work. It will also require addressing the issue of the divided executive authority, split between the Government of National Unity headed by Abdulhamid Dbeibah in Tripoli and the government appointed by the House of Representatives in the east and headed by Osama Hamad. The international factor also remains strongly present, particularly as the United Nations Support Mission in Libya has sought in recent years to push towards a formula leading to elections without managing to remove the political and institutional obstacles. Turkey’s move could therefore intersect with or support the UN track, but it will face the same question: can Libya’s rival parties turn initial understandings into binding and implementable arrangements? Ankara is betting that bringing Saleh and Takala together can open a new political window, particularly amid continuing division and the failure of previous attempts to break the deadlock. The value of the move, however, will be measured by its ability to produce practical understandings on electoral laws and institutional unification, rather than simply by the resumption of meetings. Turkey is testing the limits of its political influence in Libya: whether it can move from being an influential party to a mediator capable of bringing opposing sides closer together. The answer will depend on the willingness of the House of Representatives and the High Council of State to make mutual concessions, Turkey’s ability to maintain a balance in its relations with Libya’s different centres of power, and whether the new track avoids becoming another in a series of initiatives that reproduce the deadlock rather than end it. Elections remain the stated goal, but the road towards them first runs through addressing the institutional and political division that has kept the electoral process postponed for years. The return of the 6+6 Committee to work could therefore mark the beginning of a new track, while also providing an early test of Turkey’s ability to break Libya’s political deadlock rather than simply host it.
2026-09-11 09:58:10

Colombia Emergency Response, Situation Report #2 (18 August – 10 September 2026)
Country: Colombia Source: CESVI Please refer to the attached file. OPERATIONAL CONTEXT 466,709 People affected 101,416 Uninhabitable homes Colombia continues to face a large-scale humanitarian emergency following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck San José del Palmar, Chocó, on 10 August. As of 9 September, at least 466,709 people had been recorded as affected across 15 departments and 496 municipalities. The earthquake has also caused widespread disruption to essential infrastructure, affecting 400 health facilities and 141 water supply systems, alongside thousands of educational and community facilities.ii The impact is particularly severe in Chocó and Valle del Cauca. In Chocó, the earthquake is compounding pre-existing vulnerabilities linked to armed conflict, displacement, geographic isolation and limited access to basic services. Humanitarian access remains especially difficult in rural areas, including Litoral del San Juan and San José del Palmar. Affected communities face significant and overlapping humanitarian needs, from access to food, safe water and adequate shelter to protection and psychosocial support. Mental health and psychosocial impacts have emerged as one of the major consequences of the disaster, with anxiety, acute stress, hypervigilance, insomnia and persistent fear of further aftershocks continuing three weeks on.iii CESVI’s field consultations also point to other emerging protection risks: in Buenaventura, informants reported looting of damaged or abandoned homes and individuals posing as humanitarian staff to gain access to houses.iv Further, consultations conducted by CESVI with the Buenaventura Mayor’s Office and Secretaría de la Mujer, together with women community leaders from the San Francisco neighbourhood, highlighted the disproportionate impact of the earthquake on women heads of household, caregivers and small entrepreneurs, whose livelihoods and care responsibilities are closely interlinked. These findings form part of CESVI’s expanded Rapid Needs Assessment, building on the initial assessment presented in SitRep#1, covering the period 10 - 17 August. Between 12 and 27 August, CESVI carried out 776 household surveys and 35 key informant interviews with community leaders and referents across Buenaventura (Valle del Cauca), Quibdó, and other municipalities of Chocó. A rapid WASH assessment of 5 collective shelters in Quibdó was also conducted on 24 August. The findings confirm persistent, and in some cases worsening, needs across housing, livelihoods, protection and psychosocial wellbeing, as outlined below.
2026-09-11 09:52:44

Can Iraq’s oil-funded social order survive uncertainty?
Can Iraq’s oil-funded social order survive uncertainty? By becoming the primary provider of employment and social welfare, the state becomes unable to scale back from said commitments without risking social destabilisation. Friday 11/09/2026 Traders take part in a protest against an increase in customs fees on imported goods, in Baghdad, Iraq, February 8, 2026. Iraq’s post-2003 social order has been dependent upon complicated patronage networks distributing a portion of oil revenues to the public through salaries, pensions, and state-sponsored social welfare programs. These dynamics have managed to keep a system impaired by structural contradictions and corruption afloat. However, this arrangement is currently facing an unprecedented test illustrated by the disruption to Iraq’s oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz. In a country where approximately 90 percent of its revenues is derived from exporting oil, mainly through the Strait of Hormuz, the ongoing reduction in traffic underlines the inherent vulnerabilities of the system. According to data published by the ministry of oil , exports from Iraq’s southern port-city of Basrahthrough the Strait of Hormuz have decreased from 101,160,349 barrels of oil in January to 20,238,836 across both May and June. The repercussions of this drastic loss of oil rents has already been felt by the public as they experienced delays in receiving their July and August salaries. Despite the government’s attempts to reassure the public, such as the minister of finance’s statement that salaries were completely covered and guaranteed, the ongoing regional escalation exposes a significant vulnerability; the endurance of Iraq’s political stability and order hinges upon external factors, mainly the continued flow of oil rents. This, in turn, raises the question: how long can Baghdad sustain its expansive state-funded social order if this disruption persists or another arises? A Social order sustained by oil rents Post-2003 governments have entrenched state spending on a fragile and unsustainable social safety net into the country’s social order. This has Led to an extraordinary dependence on state payments, primarily through public sector employment and social welfare programs. Based on the ministry of finance’s data in 2024 , the state has employed a total of 4,079,906 people. Incorporating the recipients of social welfare, which according to the ministry of labor and social affairs are approximately 8 million, places the total figure of individuals dependent on the state to about 12 million, with some estimates placing it at 14 million. Another interesting facet is the amount allocated to cover these expenditures within the federal budget. In 2015, according to the ministry of finance, 44.1 trillion Iraqi dinars ($33.6 billion) were allocated to cover both salaries and social welfare. In the following decade this number would more than double, bringing it to 90.67 trillion Iraqi dinars ($69.15 billion) in 2024. This year, according to the ministry’s data covering expenditures up to June, the state has spent 44.62 trillion Iraqi dinars ($34.03 billion) on salaries and social welfare alone. These numbers are in line with the level of expenditures established in the 2024 budget, however, calculating the percentages from the total revenues provide another significant angle. In 2024, funds allocated to cover employee compensation and social welfare accounted for 61.3% of total revenues.This year, however, government revenues are insufficient to cover these expenditures, with the two categories alone producing a budget deficit equivalent to 24.2% of total revenues. These figures tell an important story about the structural vulnerability of Iraq’s post-2003 political economy. Successive governments have utilised oil rents in expanding the public sector in order to attain a level of stability, acquire legitimacy, and form patronage networks. These dynamics have locked the country into a cycle of perpetual expenditure commitments which consume significant portions of state revenues. By becoming the primary provider of employment and social welfare, the state becomes unable to scale back from the said commitments without risking social destabilisation. Thus, within the state of fiscal disorder described above, the vast majority of the limited revenue is spent on salaries, pensions, and social welfare. Here, an important distinction is required. The dynamics examined above should not be interpreted as evidence that Iraq’s post-2003 political actors have manufactured a comprehensive welfare state or even that public sector employment is inherently unsustainable. Rather, it is their particular configuration in contemporary Iraq. Expenditures on salaries, subsidies, pensions, and welfare have been used as a tool of cultivating patronage networks and voting blocs, as well as an instrument of expanding privileges and accommodation among political actors. Furthermore, claims of ghost employee fraud –commonly referred to as “alien” employees– have repeatedly been raised to explain the exceptionally inflated public sector. These notions of “aliens” have repeatedly been raised regarding the security apparatus, particularly against –Iran-aligned– armed factions operating under the umbrella of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF). For instance, in 2020, former member of the council of representative, Faiq al-Sheikh Ali stated that although the PMF claims that the total number of their personnel was 130,000, the real number was actually 48,000 fighters. The political implications of liquidity uncertainty The risk of the ongoing disruption to the flow of oil rents is characterised by the questions it raises concerning thegovernment’s fiscal liquidity. In this regard, Iraq’s banking system appears to be inadequately positioned. Although the Central Bank of Iraq has pursued efforts to encourage electronic payments and reducing dependence on cash, public confidence in the country’s electronic banking system remains limited. A significant number of Iraqis prefer to withdraw their salaries in cash upon receiving them, and many citizens still favour the use of cash transactions over electronic transactions. This lack of trust has, according to Ali Abdul Ridha Alalwan, the director of the Trade Bank of Iraq , led to more than 85% of the state’s cash liquidity being outside the banking system.This further limits the banking sector’s ability to mitigate the impact of any disruption to state revenues. The duration of the ongoing disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could therefore prove pivotal. In the short-term, the government could resort to the state’s federal reserves or to loans to temporarily avoid delays in imminent expenditures such as salaries and pensions. Nevertheless, this could also erode domestic and foreign confidence in the country’s economic and banking systems. On the other hand, a prolonged regional crisis would ultimately force the government to confront the structural vulnerabilities of Iraq’s political economy. As the September 30 th deadline set by prime minister Ali al-Zaidi to assert state monopoly over arms approaches, the political implications and risks of Iraq’s fiscal predicament rises. In this regard, the government has recently shifted its rhetoric from the elimination of weapons outside state control and the disarmament of armed factions to a more calculated and subdued tone, opting for phrases such as “regulating” and “organising” weapons instead. Traditionally, Iraqi political actors –especially where shared ethnic or sectarian identities are present– have favoured accommodation and compromise,often facilitated by access to state resources. Declining oil rents, however, could prove the costs of enforcing state authority to be too high. Beyond oil rents This situation encapsulates the structural vulnerabilities of Iraq’s post-2003 political economy. Dependence on oil rents has produced a bloated public sector and an overly corrupt system of patronage and rent distribution. Yet, the much-needed diversification of the economy would entail confronting the political arrangements which produced this political economy. Iraq could potentially return to the status quo if the current regional escalation is resolved. However, unless the system’s inherent structural contradictions and vulnerabilities are addressed, any future disruption will risk a serious economic and financial crisis, hence hindering the state’s capacity to balance the existing arrangements of political elites and financial desires of armed factions, with the needs of the public. This, in turn could potentially intensify overall frustration and result in the destabilisation of the very social order this political economy seeks to preserve.
2026-09-11 09:51:40

Entries Open for Second Edition of "The Beauty of Green Buildings" Photography Exhibition, Inaugural Edition's Winning Works on View at ICC During Hong Kong Green Week 2026
Nearly 600 LEED-certified projects in Hong Kong; AI growth puts data centers at the forefront of green building development HONG KONG , Sept. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Entries are now open for the second edition of "The Beauty of Green Buildings" Photography Exhibition. Hosted by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) in partnership with the Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC), the campaign invites architects, designers, photographers and members of the public to capture the design aesthetics, cultural essence and stories of sustainable urban living associated with LEED- and BEAM Plus-certified projects across the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Selected and winning works will be exhibited publicly this November at One IGC, a new commercial landmark in West Kowloon. A highlight of Hong Kong Green Week 2026, "The Beauty of Green Buildings: Seeing Better Cities" Exhibition is on view at the International Commerce Centre (ICC) until 13 September. It features award-winning and selected works from the inaugural showcase. Presented at ICC, Asia's first and the world's largest LEED v5-certified project, the exhibition shows the practical value of green buildings and inspires the public to share their vision for the future of green cities through imagery. Hong Kong's LEED Market Continues to Expand as Focus Shifts to Existing Buildings Hong Kong has ranked among the Top 10 LEED markets globally for two consecutive years since 2024, rising to sixth globally and fourth in Asia in 2025. As of June 2026, nearly 600 projects in Hong Kong had achieved LEED certification, with a total certified floor area of more than 136 million square feet — equivalent to around 49 ICCs — and a five-year compound annual growth rate of 32.7%. These figures reflect sustained demand for low-carbon, high-efficiency and healthy buildings. With Hong Kong's large stock of existing buildings, improving energy efficiency and green performance is critical to achieving the city's carbon neutrality goals. Industry attention is shifting from new construction design to operation, management and continuous optimization of existing buildings, improving environmental performance throughout their entire lifecycle. LEED for Operations and Maintenance (O+M) certifications rose from 4.3% of Hong Kong's overall LEED certifications in 2021 to 21% in 2026, making it the leading certification category in Hong Kong. Recertifications account for approximately 10% of overall LEED certifications, including One and Two IFC and Sun Hung Kai Centre. This reflects the growing importance that building owners and corporations place on ongoing building performance monitoring and transparent disclosure, while integrating sustainability into long-term operations and management strategies. This trend also aligns with LEED v5's strengthened approach to lifecycle management. AI Growth Accelerates Green Transformation of Data Centers Rapid growth in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and the digital economy is bringing data centers to the forefront of green buildings. Data centers have intensive requirements for energy, cooling, water and reliable operations. In response, LEED has established specific criteria within its Building Design and Construction (BD+C) and O+M rating systems. Currently, data centers account for approximately 5% of Hong Kong's LEED-certified projects. Jing Wang, USGBC Vice President for North Asia, said: "Hong Kong's mature real estate market and green finance ecosystem make it an important market for LEED implementation and innovation. Sustainability is increasingly being integrated into existing building upgrades, the green transformation of data centers and long-term strategies across all building types. Building on the success of the inaugural edition, this year's photography exhibition extends its reach across the GBA. Through imagery, it connects cities across the region and shows a wider audience how green buildings can enhance urban living and quality of life while shaping a sustainable future." "The Beauty of Green Buildings: Seeing Better Cities" Exhibition Details Date: 7–13 September 2026 Venue: 8/F, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon, Hong Kong Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Admission: Free and open to public; no registration required. Call for Entries for the Second Edition of "The Beauty of Green Buildings" Photography Exhibition Eligibility: to public, including architects, designers, photographers and members of all sectors of the community. Submission Deadline: 12 October 2026 Awards Announcement: 16 November 2026 Date: 16 November–15 December 2026 Venue: One IGC, 1 Wui Man Road, West Kowloon, Hong Kong For details and registration, please visit: www.beautyofgb.com Download Press Images About the Second Edition of "The Beauty of Green Buildings" Photography Exhibition This exhibition is organized by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) North Asia in partnership with the Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC). Supporting organizations include the American Institute of Architects Hong Kong Chapter, the Greater Bay Area Carbon Neutrality Association (GBACNA), the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Hong Kong Chapter, and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Hong Kong Chapter. Sun Hung Kai Properties, International Commerce Centre (ICC) Hong Kong, and International Gateway Centre (IGC) Hong Kong serve as venue partners. The exhibition is curated by Jeff Tung, with a jury comprising representatives from the above organizations. All exhibited photos showcase LEED- or BEAM Plus-certified projects within the Greater Bay Area, featuring entries from both the Architect and Public groups, highlighting the convergence of professional and community perspectives. About LEED LEED is a globally recognized green building and city certification system, applied to more than 220,000 commercial projects across over 196 countries and regions. Developed and owned by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED aims to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability worldwide. China is a leader in green building, represents the largest market for LEED certification outside the United States. About USGBC The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to transforming how buildings and communities are designed, built and operated to create thriving, healthy, equitable and resilient places that advance human and environmental wellbeing. USGBC leads market transformation through its LEED green building program, robust educational offerings, an international network of local community leaders, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo , the Center for Green Schools , and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. For more information, visit usgbc.org and connect on X (formerly Twitter) , Instagram , Facebook , and LinkedIn . Official Website: https://www.usgbc.org/ Official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/leed-in-north-asia/ Official RedNote: https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/61def75e000000001000f0f0 Telephone: +86 21 6512 6863
2026-09-10 07:30:00

Swiss Luxury Expert: Laopu Gold Is Following--and Rewriting--the Rules of Luxury
BEIJING , Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from The Economic Observer: Chinese high-end brand Laopu Gold, through its conscious choice of branding, has become a key benchmark closely observed by overseas luxury researchers. Its robust performance growth, premium store locations, distinctive product portfolio and strong consumer popularity have made it a leading case for observing the value re-evaluation of high-end consumption. Cross Pendant, No.3 & Cross Vajra Pendant, No.2 IMD is ranked among the world's top three business schools for executive education. Professor Stéphane JG Girod specializes in the global luxury industry, corporate strategic transformation and organizational innovation. Professor Girod began to focus on Laopu Gold earlier this year, inspired by an industry report that shocked the European luxury sector: Laopu Gold's sales in the Chinese market in 2025 surpassed the jewellery business of the Richemont Group. This breakthrough made him realize that Chinese brands are redefining industry rules, with Laopu Gold serving as a typical example of challenging Western luxury houses through innovative business models and the integration of traditional craftsmanship and modern design. Professor Girod conducted dedicated research on Laopu Gold recently. Taking the brand as a core case, he analyzed the unique brand value and development path of emerging Chinese luxury brands, as well as pivotal shifts taking place in high-end consumption. From Professor Girod's perspective, the most noteworthy strength of Laopu Gold lies in its integration of 100% solid gold (24K), a reinterpretation of Chinese ancestral aesthetics for contemporary lives, traditional craftsmanship, a new retail experience that breaks with standardized Western store design, and customized services, forming a unique luxury value proposition and systematic brand ecosystem. For a long time, Western luxury brands have dominated China's high-end consumer market. International reputation, iconic logos, symbolic social status and long brand heritage were the core drivers of luxury consumption. Today, consumers are reconnecting with their own culture. They are shifting from pursuing widely recognized mainstream luxury brands to selecting products that align with their personal aesthetics and cultural roots. Modern consumers pay closer attention to material quality, craftsmanship and service standards. These are constants in luxury, and Laopu Gold adheres to these practices. Alongside its approach to retail design and collections, Laopu Gold pays particularly close attention to the authenticity of the value behind high-end pricing. The considerations related to "value" matter greatly to the brand: many jewellery brands claim to create heirlooms that can be passed down through generations and retain their value over time. This is, by the way, currently driving the success of branded jewellery, which is one of the few categories to keep growing amid the overall global luxury downturn. But thanks to its choice of 24K gold (which creates its own headaches in terms of margin management for the brand), Laopu Gold offers greater long-term value and value-retention potential in product categories where Western brands tend to use 18K gold. Laopu Gold perfectly embodies this market shift. Industry data shows that in 2025 and from January to June 2026, Laopu Gold consistently ranked first globally among luxury brands in both single-store sales efficiency and floor area efficiency. In the jewellery category, its performance was several times higher than that of other international jewellery brands. It is now the only Chinese brand to have entered the high jewellery segment of the luxury market. This fundamental shift poses new challenges to international luxury brands. Professor Girod notes that over the past decade or more, many luxury brands achieved growth in the Chinese market through price hikes, expansion and high market exposure. However, these practices have led to brand dilution and a disconnect between pricing and actual product value. For increasingly sophisticated Chinese consumers, Western luxury symbolism is no longer sufficient. They are re-evaluating the essence of high-end consumption, focusing on superior quality, genuine product value, and innovation in cultural expression and service experience. Interview with Professor Girod: Laopu Gold Is Far More Than Gold Professor Stéphane JG Girod Q: How do you view the ongoing changes in China's luxury market and consumer behaviour? Professor Girod: Chinese consumers today have a wide range of choices, extending far beyond established Western luxury brands. A new generation of outstanding Chinese brands has emerged with highly innovative retail concepts. These brands revitalize and reshape traditional cultural heritage through modern products. Their store designs are sophisticated, integrating traditional Chinese cultural elements with contemporary, forward-looking aesthetics. The Chinese luxury market has become increasingly diverse. Consumers are now more rational about their spending, carefully evaluating whether a purchase is worthwhile and what unique experience it can deliver. This creates enormous opportunities for emerging Chinese luxury brands. From my observations, Laopu Gold has successfully delivered unique value in this emerging market segment. Sophisticated Chinese consumers are now paying for brand essence and styling rather than merely brand logos. They are no longer willing to pay premium prices blindly, requiring products to deliver authentic and substantial value. The functionality-quality-price equation that Chinese brands offer makes their value proposition very compelling. Q: Against such market changes, why has Laopu Gold entered your research scope? Professor Girod: Chinese consumers are increasingly drawn to innovative products that resonate with their cultural identity, and Laopu Gold precisely fulfils this demand. During my field research in China, I found that Laopu Gold operates a complete, mature brand system, featuring innovative retail experiences and differentiated product lines. The brand boasts exceptional aesthetic standards. It interprets classic Chinese cultural symbols while creating contemporary artistic works for modern audiences. Its highly recognizable store design, modelled after Ming- and Song-style study rooms, delivers an immersive and refined retail experience that resonates deeply with mature consumers. I was struck by the tea ceremony in the Laopu Gold features a multi-tiered product portfolio, covering daily wearable accessories and high-end artistic goldware. While conventional jewellery is purchased predominantly by women from the middle classes who buy for themselves, artistic goldware—including objects of virtu—attracts a large number of mature high-net-worth individuals. This is a product segment with distinct Chinese cultural characteristics and profound heritage that could resonate well with connoisseurs on international markets because the designs are universally attractive and chic. The brand's unique styling, market positioning and creative capabilities are fully reflected in its jewellery and goldware collections. This has deepened my understanding of China's luxury market and helps explain the brand's immense popularity among local consumers. Q: How do you define Laopu Gold's high-end positioning? What differentiates it from other jewellery brands? Professor Girod: Laopu Gold is engaged in long-term brand building that fully complies with core luxury industry principles. Its inherent creativity, profound cultural connections, premium materials and exquisite craftsmanship collectively deliver value that far exceeds the intrinsic value of gold itself. Notably, while some luxury brands are considering introducing less expensive materials, Laopu Gold remains focused on gold, a material of high intrinsic value. This is an important signal. By adhering strictly to 24K pure gold without compromise or shortcut, but also by shifting from gold sold by the weight to fixed prices Laopu Gold has successfully built consumers' trust in its value proposition based on creativity even more than on the price of the metal. Both consumer excitement and trust are essential. Q: Do you believe Laopu Gold already possesses some of the characteristics of a luxury brand? What direction might its future development take? Professor Girod: There is no unified definition of luxury even within the industry. Some define luxury by scarcity, yet scarcity in the luxury sector is often artificially managed. In my definition, luxury represents a commitment to ultra-high quality and creativity, a promise that products will retain their value over time, and a foundation in the beauty of the product. I believe Laopu Gold meets these criteria. If anyone says that Laopu Gold is not a genuine luxury brand, then one could say that there are no luxury brands in China—or even in the world. Laopu Gold is not trying to mimic Western brands or to be a luxury brand anyway. Most of the brands I study in China eschew the label "luxury." They all have studied Western brands, they often admire them, but they all want to invent their own path towards a more "honest luxury" as I call it. Twelve Month Flower Deity Cup in Lacquer with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay With solid foundations in creative design, refined craftsmanship and service experience, a diversified product portfolio, pricing discipline, and cultural inheritance, Laopu Gold has established important brand pillars that can support its development as a long-term player in the luxury sector rather than a brand focused only on short-term gains. I study whether traditional Chinese craftsmanship and Eastern aesthetics can evolve into a global language of luxury. What I can already say is that Chinese brands will be able to internationalize because they are not simply concentrating on aesthetics; they are rethinking the business model too. Traditional luxury itself is in flux; my new book "Purposeful Luxury" (Wiley, September 17, 2026) shows that all luxury brands have to considerably adapt to stay legitimate in a world grappling with growing environmental pressures, social polarization and conflict. What is certain is that Laopu Gold has beautiful products, classic cultural elements, precious and distinctive materials and craftsmanship, and a carefully designed product portfolio. These strengths have already laid a solid foundation for entering international markets. If the brand opened a creatively designed store in Europe, would European consumers embrace it? I will explore this question further in my Research Report on Chinese Luxury Brands, scheduled for release on November 5, 2026.
2026-09-09 05:37:00

Sungrow and UNSW Launch AI-Enabled Community Energy Project in NSW Southern Highlands
BOWRAL, Australia , Sept. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sungrow, a globally leading PV inverter and energy storage system provider, has joined UNSW Sydney, JT Solar Technology, trading as Aussie Hybrid Solar to launch an AI-enabled community energy project at the Gibraltar Bowral in the Southern Highlands. The project demonstrates how solar generation, battery storage and intelligent energy management can work together to improve energy resilience, maximise renewable energy use and reduce reliance on the grid. Sungrow and UNSW Launch AI-Enabled Community Energy Project in NSW Southern Highlands A Smarter, Community ‐ Centric Approach to Energy For commercial sites such as hotels and event venues, energy demand can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, while rising electricity costs and the need for reliable power make efficient energy management increasingly important. The community-based virtual power plant (VPP) project addresses these challenges by integrating solar generation, battery storage and intelligent energy management. Rather than simply generating and storing energy, the system determines how and when energy should be used, stored or discharged based on solar availability, site demand, electricity prices, grid requirements and battery health. At the heart of the system are Sungrow's ST200CF PowerKeeper battery energy storage system , deployed across four PK stacks, and the SH110CX hybrid inverter , installed by Aussie Hybrid Solar. These assets are coordinated through UNSW's AI Energy Management System (AI EMS) . " The value of a system like this goes beyond payback. It needs to be safe, reliable and intelligent enough to respond to changing energy needs. That requires close collaboration between engineering and commercial teams ." said Richard Chen, Business Development Manager of Sungrow. PowerKeeper Enhancing Energy Resilience at The Gibraltar Bowral As a premium hotel and event venue, The Gibraltar Bowral has diverse and often variable energy needs, making reliable power essential to both guest services and event operations. Modular DC-coupled architecture. The stackable design enables flexible capacity expansion to accommodate variable site loads. It simplifies retrofits by avoiding complex transformer upgrades and grid approvals, achieving plug-and-play compatibility with existing PV systems and SH110CX hybrid inverters. Hospitality-optimized deployment. With a compact design, flexible installation options and comprehensive safety certifications, PowerKeeper can fit easily into hospitality sites where space is limited and appearance matters, while meeting all relevant safety and regulatory requirements. Ultra-reliable performance. Validated through extreme environment tests and equipped with real-time battery health tracking, the system delivers stable long-term operation and full-site backup power to prevent venue downtime. AI and VPP-ready intelligence. It serves as core hardware for AI energy scheduling and VPP dispatch, enabling autonomous charge-discharge optimization based on solar output, site load, electricity prices and grid conditions to boost renewable self-consumption and energy resilience. By integrating PowerKeeper into the VPP model, the project demonstrates how advanced storage solutions can serve both commercial reliability needs and broader community energy goals. Collaboration Driving Innovation " Sungrow has provided strong technical data and support. Their team independently verified our calculations, which gave us greater confidence when sizing the system and demonstrating the potential savings to the client. That level of technical collaboration has been fantastic ." said Steve Doyle, co-owner of JT Solar and Voltval. By bringing together solar, storage and AI-driven energy management, the project demonstrates a practical pathway towards a more flexible, resilient and renewable-powered future. About JT Solar Technology With more than 17 years of industry experience, JT Solar Technology brings long-standing expertise in solar installation, engineering, project delivery and after-sales support. Operating under the commercial trading name Aussie Hybrid Solar, the Sydney-based energy company has been helping Australian customers install solar power systems, reduce energy bills and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. For more information, visit https://jtsolar.com.au/ CONTACT: luly.wang@sungrow-hq.com +86-15618330862
2026-09-07 02:08:00

Nepal Logistics and Telecommunications Cluster - Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Common Logistics Services, September 6, 2026
Country: Nepal Sources: Emergency Telecommunications Cluster, Logistics Cluster, World Food Programme Please refer to the attached file. 1. Overview This document provides an overview of the common logistics services made available through the Logistics & Telecommunications Cluster (LTC), how to access them and the conditions under which these services are to be provided. The objective of these services is to enable responding organisations to establish an uninterrupted supply chain that supports the delivery of humanitarian relief items to the affected population in Nepal. These services are not intended to replace the logistics capacities of other organisations, nor are they meant to compete with the commercial market. Rather, they are intended to fill identified operational gaps and provide a last-resort option in case other service providers are not available, and/or existing capacity is inadequate to respond to humanitarian needs. These services are planned to be available until 15 October 2026, with the possibility of further extension. However, partial or complete withdrawal of the services may occur prior to this date due to specific circumstances: • Changes in the situation on the ground • Services are no longer an agreed upon/identified need • Funding constraints This document is subject to regular updates based on evolving operational requirements and situational changes. Service requestors are responsible for consulting the latest version prior to submitting any requests. Updated versions will be shared on the Nepal Operations page. The LTC reserve the right to reject or put requests on hold at any time if field conditions do not allow the proper implementation of the below.
2026-09-07 02:05:13

50 Years After the Judgment of Paris Changed Wine World Forever, Resorts World Sentosa Hosts a New Global Blind Tasting in Singapore
Co-led by Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and Ronan Sayburn MS , a panel of 15 judges from 10 countries, including Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers and leading wine industry figures, will assess the wines without knowing their identities, origins or reputations. The double-blind tasting will compare 24 Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignons from leading European, American and Australian producers, primarily from the 2019 vintage. SINGAPORE , Sept. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Fifty years after the historic Judgment of Paris transformed perceptions of wine around the world, Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) will host the Judgement of Singapore, a new international blind tasting that brings together some of the world's leading wine experts, producers and collectors. As the flagship event of Singapore Wine Week 2026, the tasting will take place at RWS from 2 to 4 October 2026, with the results announced publicly on 4 October 2026. The event will not attempt to recreate the 1976 tasting. Instead, it will explore how wine styles and winemaking have evolved over the past half-century, and whether a wine's origin remains identifiable when its label and producer are concealed. "Fifty years ago, the wine world was an exclusive club, but today, great wine belongs to global culture," noted Soo Hoo Khoon Peng , Founder of Impeccable APAC and Park90. "Hosting the 50 th anniversary tasting here in Singapore is proof of that tectonic shift. Today's wine consumers are much more global, and our taste palates have diversified beyond what anyone imagined in 1976. Through community spaces like Park90, we see firsthand how adventurous and borderless wine appreciation has become. A blind tasting of this scale democratizes the experience even further, letting the craftsmanship speak for itself and proving that the true value of a legendary bottle is realized only when it is opened and shared." By bringing this conversation to Asia, the event also reflects Singapore's position as a meeting point for wine producers, professionals, collectors and consumers from around the world. The Judgement of Singapore is the flagship event of Singapore Wine Week 2026, presented by Impeccable APAC and Park90. Resorts World Sentosa is the event's Official Integrated Resort Partner. Andreas Reich , Senior Vice President, Hospitality at Resorts World Sentosa said: "Wine can transform a meal into a memory. At RWS, we curate our wine experiences with the same care we bring to every aspect of hospitality, selecting bottles that complement our cuisine and invite discovery. Hosting the Judgement of Singapore brings exceptional wine expertise to our guests, enriches our culinary offering, and strengthens RWS as a destination for distinctive experiences." An International Judging Panel The panel will be led by two Co-Lead Moderators: Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW (USA), former Editor-in-Chief of The Wine Advocate, with more than two decades spent evaluating the world's most celebrated wines and shaping international wine discourse; and Ronan Sayburn MS (UK), CEO of the Court of Master Sommeliers Europe, widely respected for the depth of his knowledge and his influence across the international wine community. They will be joined by 13 judges, forming a 15-member panel representing Singapore, Australia, Belgium, Mainland China, France, India, Italy, Taiwan, the United Kingdom and the United States. Among them are Julien Boulard MW MS (Mainland China), Ned Goodwin MW (Australia), Dr Jackie Ang MW (Singapore), Sarah Jane Evans MW (United Kingdom), Kevin Lu MS (Taiwan) and Kamal Malik MS (India), who hold the Master of Wine (" MW ") and/or Master Sommelier (" MS ") qualifications, two of the wine industry's most demanding professional credentials. "Fifty years ago, a single tasting in Paris changed how the world thought about where great wine could come from," said Perrotti-Brown . "The map has grown considerably since then. What interests me is not who wins, but what these wines tell us, with the labels hidden, about how far quality has travelled and how much of it still comes down to place." A Study, Not A Contest The Judgement of Singapore is not intended simply to crown a winning wine. It will examine how styles have evolved over the past 50 years, how factors such as climate, soil and winemaking are reflected in the glass, and whether established assumptions about a wine's region and origin still hold when its identity is concealed. The judges will assess each wine independently on five criteria: balance, intensity, complexity, ageing potential and singularity, meaning how distinctive the wine is. They will not be told the producer, label or region of origin during the evaluation. The double-blind tasting will feature 24 wines: 12 Chardonnays and 12 Cabernet Sauvignons from established Old World and New World producers . The selection will focus primarily on the 2019 vintage, with the nearest available vintage used where required. Singapore Wine Week 2026 Event Line-up The final day of Singapore Wine Week, 4 October 2026 (Sunday), will include: Fruits of the Vine Wine Fair A premium walkabout wine fair featuring up to 300 wines, alongside private wine tasting sessions and masterclasses led by wine experts. Guests can explore dedicated zones showcasing Bordeaux estates, white wines from Burgundy, New World Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, Champagne, and Pinot Noir, with approximately 50 wines represented in each category. The fair is expected to welcome around 1,200 collectors, wine trade professionals, media and enthusiasts. Time: 10am to 5pm Venue: Resorts World Convention Centre (Standard Access); Moutarde at WEAVE, RWS (VIP Access) The Grand Cellar Auction The Grand Cellar Auction brings together rare vintages, mature bottles and sought-after releases from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne and the New World. Drawn from private cellars and renowned estates, the curated selection offers collectors the opportunity to acquire bottles that rarely reach the open market. The auction will welcome international collectors, wine trade professionals and enthusiasts for an afternoon of discovery and acquisition. Time: 1:30pm to 4:30pm Venue: The Joaquim Hall, The Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, Resorts World Sentosa The results of the Judgement of Singapore will also be announced publicly that day. For more information about Singapore Wine Week 2026, please visit www.singaporewineweek.com
2026-09-07 02:00:00

Nepal: Flash Floods - LTC Situation Report (Telecoms Area) #1 (Reporting period: 26 August – 04 September 2026)
Country: Nepal Sources: Emergency Telecommunications Cluster, Logistics Cluster, World Food Programme Please refer to the attached file. This Situation Report provides an update on the humanitarian situation following the flash floods that struck Nepal on 26 August 2026. Since the activation of the Logistics & Telecommunications Cluster (LTC) 1 on 02 September, the LTC Telecoms Area has supported humanitarian partners through telecommunications coordination, assessments, connectivity services and information management. The report highlights the latest situation, telecommunications impacts and LTC Telecoms activities. Summary Points • The 26 August flash floods have caused widespread humanitarian impacts across northern Nepal, with more than 1,250 fatalities, thousands of people still missing and over 84,000 people requiring humanitarian assistance as response efforts transition from search and rescue to sustained humanitarian support. • Telecommunications services have been restored on an emergency basis across the affected areas, with priority mobile network sites returned to service through temporary power solutions. Some locations remain dependent on generators until electricity and fibre connectivity are fully restored. • Following the activation of the LTC on 02 September, the LTC Telecoms Area is supporting the response through telecommunications coordination, assessments, connectivity planning, information management and the deployment of an LTC Telecoms Coordinator to Nepal.
2026-09-07 01:59:57

Nepal, Asia-Pacific | Flash Flood - Emergency Appeal Operational Strategy (MDRNP022)
Country: Nepal Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Please refer to the attached file. TIMELINE 26 August 2026: A massive surge of water enters the Bhote Koshi River bordering China. Floodwaters rapidly impact Timure, Rasuwaghadi, and Syafrubeshi towns in Rasuwa District and other towns further downstream in Nuwakot and Dhading Districts. The Government of Nepal issues evacuation orders and mobilises security forces. The Prime Minister’s Office convenes a high-level emergency meeting to assess the evolving situation and coordinate response measures. Additionally, the government holds a second emergency meeting and declares three districts and 15 municipalities as crisis-affected areas for three months while expediting relief and rescue operations. 26 August 2026: The NRCS activates its EOC on 26 August 2026. The NRCS is supporting the response through the mobilisation of staff and volunteers, search and rescue support, first aid and health assistance, emergency relief distributions, shelter and household items, WASH support, and dead body management, including the recovery, safe handling, identification, and dignified management of deceased persons. Other humanitarian partners are supporting complementary food, shelter, health, WASH, and protection activities, while international assistance and funding continue to be mobilised. 26 August 2026: The IFRC allocates CHF 999,934 from its Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) to support the immediate response, targeting 20,000 of the most affected people in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading. A CHF 100,000 Emergency Advance Payment request is signed enabling immediate access to funding. 28 August 2026: The IFRC launches a Federation-wide Emergency Appeal of CHF 25 million (CHF 18 million secretariat) to provide early recovery and recovery support to approximately 28,000 people in three districts. 28 August 2026: Multiple IFRC surge role alerts are issued, and the Regional Operational Coordinator, Communications Coordinator, and WASH Coordinator arrive in Nepal to provide technical support. DESCRIPTION OF THE EVENT On 26 August 2026, a major ice–rock avalanche occurred in the upper Bhote Koshi watershed near the China–Nepal border. An estimated 1km2 of ice and rock detached from a slope, picking up loose proglacial sediments downstream and transforming into a highly mobile sediment- and water-laden debris flow. Initial assessments suggest that the resulting outburst flood in the upper watershed was an order of magnitude or more greater than normal seasonal flooding. A powerful debris flow of sediment moved rapidly downstream, causing widespread destruction across Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts. Reports indicate that water levels in the Trishuli River rose up to nine metres above normal levels, inundating settlements and damaging critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, police stations, markets, health facilities, telecommunication towers, electricity poles, financial institutions, vehicles, hydrometeorological stations, customs infrastructure, and multiple hydropower projects. Timure border market was among the hardest-hit areas. The disaster has disrupted transportation along several key highways and roads, while authorities have restricted accessto river corridors due to ongoing risks. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) issued a red alert for downstream districts, while the Government of Nepal convened an Emergency Disaster Council meeting chaired by the Prime Minister to coordinate search and rescue operations, damage assessments, and humanitarian response. Relief supplies have been mobilised from the Kathmandu Humanitarian Staging Area, with health response coordination led through national emergency mechanisms and partners. The scale of the physical damage, service disruption, and impacts on communities along the river corridor has created significant humanitarian needs requiring immediate relief and early recovery support.
2026-09-07 01:47:09

Kenya Complex Emergency 2025 - DREF Final Report (MDRKE068)
Country: Kenya Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Please refer to the attached file. Description of the Event Date when the trigger was met 22-10-2025 What happened, where and when? Kenya experienced a prolonged and severe drought emergency driven by consecutive below-average rainfall seasons, prolonged dry spells, and the cumulative impacts of climate variability across the country’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). The drought resulted in widespread depletion of water sources, reduced pasture and browse availability, declining livestock productivity, increased livestock losses, reduced household food availability, and worsening livelihood insecurity among pastoral and agro-pastoral communities. The crisis affected vulnerable households that rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture and livestock-based livelihoods. As the drought persisted, communities increasingly adopted negative coping strategies, including reducing food consumption, selling productive assets, migrating in search of water and pasture, and increasing reliance on humanitarian assistance. By the end of the operation in May 2026, drought impacts continued to affect vulnerable populations despite localized improvements following the March–May 2026 rains. The humanitarian situation remained fragile, with several ASAL counties experiencing Crisis food insecurity conditions (IPC Phase 3) and some vulnerable populations facing heightened risks of acute malnutrition, disease outbreaks, and loss of livelihoods. The drought emergency was compounded by reduced humanitarian funding, limiting the ability of partners to sustain assistance at the required scale. Additionally, emerging climate-related shocks, including flooding in some parts of the country during the MAM 2026 rainy season, placed further pressure on already vulnerable communities and humanitarian resources. The drought primarily affected Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), particularly pastoral and agro-pastoral counties in northern and eastern Kenya. The DREF-supported response targeted some of the most drought-affected areas, including: _ North Eastern Region (Mandera, Wajir and Garissa) – including vulnerable pastoral communities experiencing severe water shortages, reduced livestock productivity, and food insecurity. _ South Rift Refion (Baringo County and Narok County) – particularly drought-affected communities dependent on pastoralism and mixed livelihoods. _ North Rift Region– Counties affected by prolonged drought conditions, limited water availability, and declining livestock-based livelihoods. _ Coast Region– where pastoral households faced reduced access to water, pasture, and essential services. _ Lower Eastern and Upper Eastern Regions – where drought impacts affected pastoral livelihoods, food security, and access to basic services. The broader national drought response covered multiple ASAL counties, with KRCS supporting interventions including emergency food assistance, cash voucher assistance, water trucking, rehabilitation of community water systems, nutrition support, and livestock interventions across affected pastoral areas. The drought emergency developed over several consecutive seasons following below-average rainfall and failed or poor-performing rainy seasons in Kenya’s ASAL regions. The humanitarian situation intensified during the 2024–2025 period, with the impacts continuing into 2026 due to prolonged livelihood depletion and slow recovery among affected communities. At the time of the DREF implementation period, the crisis had reached a critical stage, with the 2025 lean season showing a significant increase in acute food insecurity compared to previous years. Humanitarian needs remained elevated into May 2026, despite some temporary improvements associated with the March–May 2026 rainfall season. The DREF operation was therefore implemented during a period of heightened vulnerability to provide timely humanitarian assistance, protect lives and livelihoods, and address urgent needs related to food security, nutrition, water access, health, and livelihood support among drought-affected communities. The trigger for a Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) was met in October 2025 which lead to the launch of this DREF in November 2025. Owing to the scale of
2026-09-07 01:41:21

China says providing Nepal satellite monitoring support following mudslide disaster

Beijing: The China Metorological Administration (CMA) says it has stepped up satellite-based meteorological support for Nepal, providing satellite imagery and real-time weather tracking to aid search, rescue, and emergency response teams.

The administration has been providing Nepal with a range of meteorological products through MAZU, China's AI-powered meteorological early warning solution, including multi-source satellite data and products from the Fengyun-3 and Fengyun-4 meteorological satellite series.

On Aug. 26, a severe mudslide struck the Gyirong-Rasuwa border crossing between China and Nepal.

China's National Satellite Meteorological Center has continued to monitor precipitation and weather changes in the disaster-affected areas. China has also used high-resolution satellite data to track upstream ice-rock avalanche areas and river channels, supporting disaster assessment, rescue and meteorological services.

The CMA has connected Nepal-customized services to China's Fengyun meteorological satellites in real time. They enable real-time monitoring of convective weather and lightning activity, helping Nepal track precipitation conditions and severe convective weather over a wider area.

Since the disaster occurred, Chinese meteorological and water resources authorities have maintained close cooperation with their Nepali counterparts, sharing monitoring information and jointly responding to the disaster, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Thursday.

China will continue to strengthen cooperation with Nepal in relevant fields and provide strong support for Nepal's emergency rescue and response efforts, Guo added.


2026-09-06 00:00:00

Agoda Unveils South Korean Travelers' Top Domestic and International Destinations for Chuseok Holiday
- Fukuoka, Tokyo, Osaka, Da Nang, and Nha Trang topped overseas destinations, while Jeju, Busan, Seoul, Sokcho, and Gyeongju led domestic hotspots SEOUL, South Korea , Sept. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- With the Chuseok holiday around the corner, South Korean travelers are already making plans to make the most of the four-day break. According to digital travel platform Agoda, accommodation search es for international and domestic destinations have increased by 38% and 160%, respectively, compared to two weeks before the holiday period. Based on accommodation searches made by South Korean travelers between May to mid-August 2026, Agoda found that Japanese destinations dominated the list of the most-searched overseas destinations for the Chuseok holiday. Fukuoka ranked first, followed by Tokyo and Osaka. Beyond Japan, Vietnamese destinations also proved popular, with Da Nang and Nha Trang rounding out the top five. The findings highlight South Korean travelers' continued preference for short- and mid-haul destinations, where they can enjoy a combination of cultural experiences and seaside leisure. Due to its proximity to South Korea with an average flight time of just 1.5 hours from Seoul, Fukuoka is one of the most accessible Japanese destinations for South Korean travelers. The destination is expected to become even more accessible with Eastar Jet's expanded services on the Incheon–Fukuoka route through October 24, and the Busan–Fukuoka route from August 29 to October 24, covering the Chuseok holiday period. For those making travel plans closer to home, Jeju ranked as the most-searched domestic destination, with a 131% increase in travel interest, followed by Busan (147%), Seoul (64%), Sokcho (324%), and Gyeongju (222%). Sokcho, which recorded the strongest growth in search interest among the top 5 domestic destinations, saw tourism expenditure by South Korean travelers increase by 8.2% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, according to the Korea Tourism Organization. The high growth in interest in Sokcho' , driven by its diverse mix of mountains, beaches, lakes, culinary experiences and cultural attractions, suggests that the destination could see continued visitor demand through the second half of the year, including during the Chuseok holiday period. Gyeongju, which ranked fifth, continues to attract South Korean travelers with its historic sites and rich cultural heritage. The city's appeal could be further boosted by expanded KTX and KTX-Eum services scheduled to begin in September, offering travelers improved rail connectivity during the autumn travel season. Alex Park, Country Director, South Korea at Agoda shared, "As the Chuseok holiday approaches, South Korean travelers are showing strong interest in nearby destinations, with domestic travel seeing particularly strong demand. As a global travel platform, Agoda is committed to supporting travelers with diverse preferences by offering great deals on flights, accommodation, and activities, whether they are looking to explore destinations overseas or closer to home." As South Korean travelers finalize their Chuseok holiday plans, Agoda continues to offer a seamless booking experience across more than six million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities worldwide. To find the best deals for autumn travel to Asia and beyond, visit Agoda.com or download the Agoda mobile app. As part of Agoda's August Mega Sale, travelers can enjoy up to 60% off on hotel bookings during the main sale through 31 August.
2026-09-06 00:00:00

Vanguard 500 Index Fund Turns 50: NYSE Content Update
NYSE issues a pre-market daily advisory direct from the trading floor. NEW YORK , Aug. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) provides a daily pre-market update directly from the NYSE Trading Floor. Access today's NYSE Pre-market update for market insights before trading begins. Gabelli Aerospace + Defense Symposium takes off in Sept Ashley Mastronardi delivers the pre-market update on August 31st Today marks the 50 th anniversary of the launch of the Vanguard 500 Index Fund. Considered the industry's first index fund for individual investors. The fund holds approximately $1.7 trillion in assets across all its share classes. Vanguard's Kathy Kellert will join NYSE Live to explain what makes the fund revolutionary. The Annual Gabelli Aerospace & Defense Symposium kicks off September 10 th . The event is designed to connect aerospace and defense companies with shareholders, investors, fund managers, and analysts. Participants will discuss key trends shaping the industry, including accelerating global defense spending and technological modernization. Gabelli Funds Portfolio Manager Tony Bancroft will join NYSE Live to discuss how the event connects companies with investors. Investors renew their focus on the Middle East following new developments. The U.S. struck Iranian rocket launchers on Sunday, marking the first military action against Iran in more than a month. The Dow Jones I ndustrial Average will look to clinch its fifth consecutive winning month during today's session. Opening Bell Vanguard celebrates the 50 th anniversary of the Vanguard 500 Index Fund Closing Bell Ronald McDonald House NY marks the start of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month on September 1st For market insights, IPO activity, and today's opening bell, download the NYSE TV App and check out the NYSE YouTube: TV.NYSE.com and YouTube.com/@NYSEofficial Glass House Brands at NYSE on August 28
2026-08-31 14:40:00

Lesotho Launches National Farmers Portal, Giving Every Farmer a Place in a Single Digital Registry
The new registration system, built on Joget DX Enterprise, brings farmer and land information together across all 10 districts, giving the Ministry a stronger foundation to serve farmers . MOYENI, Lesotho , Aug. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition (MAFSN) has officially launched the Lesotho Farmers Portal , the country's first national digital platform bringing farmer and land information together in one central registry. The Honourable Selibe Mochoboroane, Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, led the launch in partnership with Vodacom Lesotho. Field officers across all 10 districts will use the platform to register farmers and their land parcels, and to capture information about households, farming activities, livestock, assets and support services. Prior to the portal, farmer information was held in paper files, spreadsheets and separate district-level records that did not connect to one another. Built by FiscalAdmin Ltd on Joget DX Enterprise platform , the new system replaces that patchwork, giving the Ministry a clearer picture of the country's agricultural community. Field officers use the portal to register farmers against their national identity number, capture household, farming, livestock and asset information, and record land parcels with GPS boundaries. Ministry staff can then search and review that data centrally, giving the government a live, national view of the farming population for the first time. For farmers, formal registration means the Ministry can identify who they are, what they grow or raise, and what support they may need, laying the groundwork for future services such as targeted subsidies and input distribution. For the Ministry, the registry replaces incomplete and scattered records with one verified source of data to guide policy and budget decisions. The wider platform already includes capabilities for programme applications, eligibility evaluation, decision management and entitlement issuance, which can be introduced as the programme progresses beyond this initial registration phase. The Farmers Portal is an important step in strengthening how the ministry understands and supports farmers across Lesotho. Having reliable information in one place will help the Ministry better understand the needs of the farmers, plan agricultural programmes and improve the way services are delivered. Transitioning from development into a national service enables the platform to benefit farmers across all 10 districts. Built for the needs of a public-sector team The Farmers Portal was delivered by FiscalAdmin Ltd using Joget DX Enterprise, with several partners contributing to the programme. MAFSN owns the registry, the data and the process; the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) provided the programme framework and digital-government methodology; GovStack supplied the Registration Building Block specification and reference architecture; the World Food Programme supported the implementation, including the Joget DX Enterprise licence; and Vodacom Lesotho partnered on the launch and on reaching officers in the field. The portal was built with the realities of a small public-sector ICT team in mind. Much of the application is managed through configuration rather than traditional software development, including forms, lists, workflows, user access and reference data. This means Ministry staff can maintain information such as districts, villages, crops, livestock types and document types through the system itself, without needing a developer for every change. "We wanted to build a service that could work at a national scale and still be practical for the people using it every day. The Farmers Portal brings together a number of processes that would otherwise remain separate, while giving the Ministry greater control over its own data. We built this as a live implementation of the GovStack Registration Building Block, so it needed to hold up under real conditions in the field, not just on paper. Joget's enterprise application platform enabled a very small team to turn a working prototype into a national service the Ministry can run and maintain on its own, and that is what made the two-year timeline possible." said Aare Lapõnin, Founder and CEO, FiscalAdmin Ltd, Technical Delivery Partner. The delivery approach also used what FiscalAdmin describes as LLM-assisted spec-driven development. An LLM assistant worked against a written specification rather than the live system directly, with each result pushed through the platform's own API and checked by an automated test suite before release. When something did not work, the fix went back into the specification, not into the system directly. Raveesh Dewan, President and CEO of Joget Inc., said the project shows how technology can help public-sector organisations build practical digital services while keeping them adaptable as their needs evolve. "What makes this project meaningful is the real-world problem it addresses. The Ministry needed a better way to understand its farmers and manage information that can support agricultural services across the country. We are proud that Joget could provide the foundation for that work. The portal also shows how an agentic AI application platform can help a small team build and maintain a national service while leaving room to expand it as new needs emerge." continued Raveesh Dewan, President & CEO, Joget Inc.. As registration reaches full national coverage, the Ministry expects to introduce further services building on the registry, including programme applications and input distribution, extending support to farmers across Lesotho. About Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition (MAFSN) The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition (MAFSN) was first established in 1935 as the Department of Agriculture. Since its inception, like any other government Ministry and/or department, the Ministry has not been immune to transformations and structural changes that have been occurring. Following a government wide reorganisation and restructuring of Ministries and Departments, the Ministry was renamed Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in 2003. Today the Ministry is now known as the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition. The Ministry's principal responsibility is to facilitate sustainable production and productivity of agricultural outputs and promotion of food and nutrition security in the country. About FiscalAdmin FiscalAdmin is a software engineering and consulting company established in 2015 in Tallinn, Estonia. We focus on assessment, modernisation and development services and technologies for tax administrations, ministries of finance, the public sector and international organisations. Our Tallinn Office, located in the middle of the Nordic startup scene, is focused on the development of products for the new digital age. We develop new operational models for the public sector to help tackle the complexity of digitalisation through the creation of platforms and ecosystems for public finance, revenue management, marketing, e-commerce and public transport. About Joget Joget offers an open-source, enterprise Agentic AI application platform that converges no-code/low-code development with AI agents to help organizations rapidly build and customize enterprise applications at scale. By combining AI agents with visual app builders, not raw code, Joget makes app generation faster, safer, and more accessible for business users and developers alike. With Generative AI and Agentic AI capabilities, Joget Intelligence enables organizations to automate and enhance processes while maintaining oversight and compliance. Through Vibe Composition , Joget enables AI-assisted application development where AI interprets business intent and assembles applications using governed, pre-validated composable components. Unlike typical AI code generation, Joget's visual-first approach ensures applications remain maintainable and governed within collaborative human workflows. As an Application and Integration Fabric , Joget connects legacy and modern systems seamlessly. Its extensible, open-source core and plugin architecture offer unmatched flexibility, and its White Label solution allows OEMs and digital solution providers to fully rebrand the platform. Trusted by startups, global enterprises, and government agencies, Joget delivers the speed of AI with the control of visual development for scalable, intelligent digital transformation. Visit www.joget.com and follow us on LinkedIn , X , Facebook , or YouTube. Media contact: FiscalAdmin : info@fiscaladmin.com Joget Inc: pr@joget.com
2026-08-30 13:00:00

YFORE Debuts ODMS In-Cabin Sensing System to Enhance Cockpit Safety
SUWANEE, Ga. , Aug. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Marking the official opening of its North American manufacturing facility in Georgia, global Tier-1 supplier YFORE Technology debuted its Occupant & Driver Monitoring System (ODMS)—an integrated in-cabin full-coverage sensing solution. As in-cabin monitoring systems become standard, conventional vision-only setups often struggle with seatback occlusion, footwell blind spots, and covered occupants, while distributed sensors complicate vehicle wiring and roof tooling. To solve this, YFORE's ODMS combines a DMS/OMS-integrated smart mirror with automotive-grade cabin radar, delivering an integrated multimodal architecture for robust cabin protection. Multimodal Fusion Eliminates Blind Spots Integrating the smart mirror with in-cabin radar overcomes optical limitations through RF signal penetration. The smart mirror's high-definition camera tracks driver fatigue, distraction, and unresponsive states from a prime forward angle. Simultaneously, the roof radar penetrates blankets, clothing, and tall seatbacks to capture micro-breathing in rear rows and footwells, achieving comprehensive 3D spatial coverage. Full-Scenario Sensing Aligned with Safety Standards The ODMS architecture covers seven core functions: driver fatigue, distraction, unresponsive driver, and phone use detection, alongside seatbelt status, occupant classification, and full-cabin life presence detection. This integrated approach provides automakers with a reliable, full-scenario sensing foundation to help vehicles achieve five-star safety ratings under Euro NCAP. Streamlined Architecture and Cabin Space By embedding optical components into the smart mirror and pairing them with a compact radar module, ODMS eliminates multiple headliner cutouts and complex roof wiring. This preserves clean interior aesthetics while simplifying platform adaptation across multiple vehicle models. Moving from localized monitoring to full-cabin protection, YFORE delivers a comprehensive, integrated, and scalable safety solution for global automakers. About YFORE YFORE is a global Tier 1 automotive electronics supplier dedicated to driving the future of intelligent mobility. Partnering with more than 30 leading automotive OEMs worldwide, YFORE delivers high-performance, automotive-grade solutions across Intelligent Access, Intelligent Mirror and Sensing systems. With operational footprint spanning North America, Europe, and Asia, YFORE combines global engineering depth with local execution to empower the next era of connected vehicles. For more information, please visit www.yftech.com/en or follow YFORE on LinkedIn .
2026-08-29 11:16:00

STARCARES Completes Basketball Court Revamp in the Philippines, Benefiting Nearly 20,000 People
The renovated court at Communal Elementary School opens a dedicated space for learning, sport, and community life in Buhangin. DAVAO CITY, Philippines, Aug. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- STARCARES, the community impact initiative of STARTRADER, has completed the redevelopment of the basketball court at Communal Elementary School in Buhangin, Davao City, Philippines. Now open and in daily use, the facility serves approximately 20,000 people, including around 2,000 learners, 72 school staff, 1,600 parents, and 16,000 residents of Barangay Communal. STARCARES Completes Basketball Court Revamp in the Philippines, Benefiting Nearly 20,000 People For students, the court offers a dependable space to learn and play, doubling as the venue for graduations, award ceremonies, and school assemblies. For the wider community, it becomes a gathering place for meetings, celebrations and youth activities once classes end, reflecting how central basketball is to daily life in Buhangin. "Before, we held graduations, school activities and community gatherings on a cracked, uneven court. Today, our students have a safe and proper space to learn, play and celebrate, while the wider community has a place that can bring people together." — Nelson Sepe Lubguban Jr., Principal of Communal Elementary School STARCARES designed the redevelopment around long-term community use, ensuring the investment extends beyond construction as a practical resource for students, families and the wider Buhangin community. "A court becomes powerful when it gives young people somewhere to show up, be seen, and grow stronger together. That is the impact we wanted to create." — Peter Karsten, Chief Executive Officer of STARTRADER. The Davao project extends STARCARES' work revitalising community infrastructure, following similar initiatives in Vietnam, Thailand and Nigeria, and reflects STARTRADER's commitment to supporting the communities it operates in, beyond its work in financial markets. Under 'Where Tomorrow's STARS Begin', STARCARES will continue identifying communities where practical infrastructure can create lasting everyday value. About STARTRADER STARTRADER is a global multi-asset broker empowering retail and institutional partners to access global markets through a range of platforms, including MetaTrader, STARTRADER APP, and STAR Copy. STARTRADER operates through entities licensed and regulated by authorities including CMA, ASIC, FSCA, FSA, and FSC, combining strong governance with a client-first approach, serving both retail clients and partners with a commitment to transparency, reliability, and long-term growth. STARCARES Completes Basketball Court Revamp in the Philippines, Benefiting Nearly 20,000 People STARCARES Completes Basketball Court Revamp in the Philippines, Benefiting Nearly 20,000 People STARCARES Completes Basketball Court Revamp in the Philippines, Benefiting Nearly 20,000 People
2026-08-28 09:16:00

Getting Around Kanazawa, Ishikawa, by Bus: A New Practical Guide for International Visitors
KANAZAWA, Japan , Aug. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- For international travelers planning a trip to Ishikawa Prefecture and its castle-town capital, Kanazawa, buses are one of the easiest ways to get around. The city's best-known sights sit close together in a compact center, and frequent service from Kanazawa Station makes it easy to combine short rides with walking to reach most major attractions. Kanazawa Biyori, a media outlet based in Kanazawa in the Hokuriku region on Japan's Sea of Japan coast, covers Ishikawa Prefecture and its capital for readers in Japan and abroad. Here is a practical overview of getting around the city by bus. The Loop Bus Covers Many of Kanazawa's Key Sights For a first visit, the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Jokamachi Kanazawa Shuyu Bus) is the simplest choice. It runs in both directions around the city's main sights, departing from bus stop 7 at Kanazawa Station's East Gate. The timetable published by Hokuriku Railroad (Hokutetsu), which operates the Loop Bus, lists clockwise departures from the station between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m., approximately every 15 minutes, and counterclockwise departures between 8:38 a.m. and 5:58 p.m., approximately every 20 minutes. Travelers heading back in the evening should not rely on the Loop Bus after these times. A single ride costs a flat ¥220 for adults and ¥110 for children (about US$1.40 and US$0.70) regardless of distance, and the Loop Bus accepts a wide range of payment methods, including nationwide IC cards, contactless credit and debit cards, the ICa card issued by Hokutetsu, and digital tickets. For destinations beyond the loop, the Kanazawa Flat Bus (Furatto Bus) — a network of community minibuses — and ordinary route buses serve areas the loop does not reach. Which Card Works Where: Paying for the Ride Payment is the part of riding Kanazawa's buses that most often confuses visitors, because the city's two main bus companies accept different kinds of cards. Kanazawa's buses are run mainly by Hokutetsu and West Japan JR Bus. Hokutetsu buses accept contactless credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, JCB and American Express, but they do not accept nationwide transport IC cards — prepaid cards such as Suica, ICOCA and PASMO, which are tapped to ride trains and buses across Japan. West Japan JR Bus works the other way around: it accepts nationwide IC cards but not contactless credit or debit cards. Among the buses covered here, the Loop Bus is the exception: it accepts both. For most international visitors, a contactless card is the simplest way to pay on the buses that accept it: you tap a card you already carry, with no ticket to buy and no app to set up. Tap the card on the orange reader as you board, then tap it on the farebox reader as you get off. If you pay this way, you do not need to take a numbered ticket. If you pay in cash on an ordinary route bus, where the fare depends on how far you travel, take a numbered ticket from the machine as you board at the rear door. The ticket shows where you boarded and determines your fare. When you get off at the front, drop the ticket and your fare into the farebox beside the driver. The farebox does not give change, so if you do not have the exact fare, use the change machine beside the driver first. It changes ¥1,000 bills and ¥500, ¥100 and ¥50 coins into smaller denominations, but not ¥10,000, ¥5,000 or ¥2,000 bills, so carry ¥1,000 bills or coins. A One-Day Pass for Multiple Rides Travelers planning several rides can save with the Kanazawa City One-Day Pass, priced at ¥800 for adults and ¥400 for children (about US$5 and US$2.50). The pass provides unlimited rides for one day on designated buses in central Kanazawa, including the Loop Bus, the Kanazawa Flat Bus, the Kanazawa Shopping Bus, and selected Hokutetsu and West Japan JR Bus routes. At the ¥220 Loop Bus fare, it pays for itself on a day with four or more rides, and it also gives holders discounts at a range of museums and cultural facilities. For international visitors, the easiest place to buy the paper ticket is the Kanazawa Station Tourist Information Center, just across from the Shinkansen ticket gates inside JR Kanazawa Station. The center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and sells passes for both adults and children. English-language assistance is available at a separate counter inside the center, staffed by volunteer interpreters. The counter's hours are shorter than the center's: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in June and from December through February. Visitors who need help in English should plan around the counter's hours rather than the center's. The paper pass requires no app, account or smartphone, but it must be purchased before boarding; it is not sold on the bus. A digital version is available through Norimasshi Kanazawa, a mobile ticketing service. Reaching the Sights from Kanazawa Station The Loop Bus departs from stop 7 at Kanazawa Station's East Gate and passes close to most of the city's major sights. Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, the historic Higashi Chaya District, Omicho Market and the Nagamachi samurai district are each within a short walk of a stop on the loop. Stops are generally named after neighborhoods rather than the sights they serve, so it is worth checking the stop name in advance. For visitors who prefer to walk, the central cluster of sights is easy to explore on foot, and many travelers combine a few bus rides with walking rather than riding the whole route. Check Official Sources Before Traveling Fares, timetables, payment methods and counter hours are subject to change, and some services operate on seasonal schedules. Travelers are advised to confirm the latest details with Hokutetsu, which operates the Loop Bus and issues the Kanazawa City One-Day Pass, and with the official Visit Kanazawa website before finalizing their plans. Why Kanazawa Biyori Is Sharing This Information Kanazawa Biyori reports on Ishikawa Prefecture and Kanazawa year-round, covering crafts, cuisine, seasons and living traditions. Yet these are best appreciated in person. By explaining how the city's buses work, Kanazawa Biyori hopes to make trip planning a little easier and encourage more travelers to see Ishikawa for themselves. Information Getting Around Kanazawa by Bus Kanazawa Loop Bus: Kanazawa Station, East Gate, bus stop 7 Departures from Kanazawa Station: clockwise 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m., approx. every 15 minutes; counterclockwise 8:38 a.m.–5:58 p.m., approx. every 20 minutes Fare: ¥220 adults / ¥110 children per ride Kanazawa City One-Day Pass: ¥800 adults / ¥400 children Pass sales: outlets including the Kanazawa Station Tourist Information Center, inside JR Kanazawa Station, across from the Shinkansen ticket gates Center hours: daily, 8:30 a.m.–8 p.m. English-language counter (a separate counter inside the center): 9 a.m.–7 p.m.; 9:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. in June and December–February Enquiries: Kanazawa Biyori| www.kanazawabiyori.com Information is current as of August 2026 and is subject to change. U.S. dollar figures are approximate, converted at about ¥159 to US$1 in August 2026. About Kanazawa Biyori Kanazawa Biyori is a media outlet based in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, that reports on the region — from crafts and cuisine to seasonal events and living traditions — for readers in Japan and abroad. Website: www.kanazawabiyori.com Media Contact Kanazawa Biyori Co., Ltd. 255 Fushimishinmachi, Sunpia Izumigaoka 511, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0964, Japan Email: info@kanazawabiyori.com
2026-08-27 07:15:00

Bowtie Takes Lead in Responding to HKFI's "Best Practice on Critical Illness Definitions Standardization"
Upholding the "Meet-or-Better-Off" Principle: Extending Upgrades to Not Only New Policies But Also Existing Customers HONG KONG , Aug. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited ("Bowtie"), Hong Kong's first virtual insurer [1] , today announced that it will fully adopt the "Best Practice on Critical Illness Definitions Standardization" launched by the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers ("HKFI"). Effective 1 September 2026, Bowtie will not only apply these standardized definitions to new policies but also proactively extend the coverage to all existing customers across its entire "Bowtie Term Critical Illness Products" [2] , without any impact on renewal premiums. HKFI's initiative on launching "Best Practice on Critical Illness Definitions Standardization" aims to enhance industry transparency through standardization. Currently, critical illness products across the market feature varying disease definitions and claim thresholds. Therefore, identical medical conditions can yield different claim outcomes across insurers, which creates unnecessary stress for insured persons. Although the HKFI's initiative in principle applies only to new policies issued on or after 1 September 2026, Bowtie has chosen to go a step further, proactively extending the same arrangement to existing customers as well. For every covered critical illness and surgical procedure, Bowtie will adopt the "Meet-or-Better-Off" principle: assessing claims by comparing Bowtie's existing terms against HKFI's standardized definitions. Subject to satisfying relevant policy terms, claim requirements, and necessary supporting documentation, claims will always be processed based on the definition more favorable to the customer. This arrangement will only maintain or expand coverage, and will never reduce existing benefits. Take a claim for "End-Stage Liver Disease" as an example: if a patient presents with symptoms such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, esophageal and gastric varices, but lacks persistent jaundice: Under Bowtie's original definition: all three symptoms (ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and permanent jaundice) must be present; therefore, the claim would not qualify; Under "Best Practice on Critical Illness Definitions Standardization": only three out of four symptoms need to be met for claim to be eligible. Under the "Meet-or-Better-Off" principle, Bowtie will assess this case in accordance with the "Best Practice on Critical Illness Definitions Standardization", significantly narrowing the grey areas in clinical claims assessment. "Critical illness insurance was originally designed to provide immediate financial support to insured persons at the point of diagnosis. Yet differences in disease thresholds between insurers have often left patients uncertain at a time when they can least afford it. Taking another common critical illness, 'Major Head Trauma,' as an example, Bowtie and the HKFI standard apply two entirely different assessment bases — one clinical, one based on activities of daily living. Under our 'Meet-or-Better-Off' principle, patients only need to meet one of the two standards to be eligible for a claim, ensuring the outcome better aligns with patient needs. Unifying core definitions across the industry significantly reduces interpretation gaps between clinical diagnoses and insurance terms, allowing patients to focus on recovery without added worry." said Jacky Lio, Chief Medical Officer of Bowtie . "The 'Best Practice on Critical Illness Definitions Standardization' shares a similar spirit with the Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme — representing another major industry milestone in boosting transparency and protecting consumer rights. Bowtie has always upheld the principle of 'paying all legitimate claims'. Choosing to extend these new definitions to existing customers without extra cost, reflects our commitment to acting as a true safety net and delivering on our customer-first philosophy." said Fred Ngan, Co-founder of Bowtie . Bowtie will notify affected customers regarding the detailed amendments to the critical illness definitions via email. Customers with enquiries may call the customer service hotline at 3008 8123, or visit the Critical Illness Insurance product page for more details. About Bowtie Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited is an authorized life insurance company and Hong Kong's very first virtual insurer authorized by the Insurance Authority under the fast track pilot scheme. It's vision is to bridge the health protection gap and transform the way people access healthcare in Asia. Through digital technology, Bowtie makes health insurance more affordable and accessible for individuals and small-medium enterprises. To date, Bowtie has raised over HK$1.2 billion from Sun Life Financial and Mitsui & Co., providing over HK$150 billion in protection amount to families. Learn more at www.bowtie.com.hk . [1] Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited is Hong Kong's very first virtual insurer authorized by the Insurance Authority under the fast track pilot scheme. [2] Applicable products include Bowtie Term CI, Bowtie Term CI - Multiple Cover, and Bowtie Term CI - Early Stage and Multiple Cover.
2026-08-27 07:13:00

Silver Cross & Automobili Lamborghini Unveil Reef AL Giallo, the Final Chapter in Their 'Super Stroller' Collaboration
Limited to 500 units worldwide, Reef AL Giallo closes out the two-part collection following 2025's Reef AL Arancio NORTH YORKSHIRE, England , Aug. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Iconic British nursery brand Silver Cross, creators of the original pram in 1877, and premier Italian luxury super sports car manufacturer Automobili Lamborghini unveil the next evolution, and final chapter, of their "Super Stroller" partnership: Reef AL Giallo. Reef AL Giallo Limited to 500 units worldwide, Reef AL Giallo follows the brands' debut collaboration, Reef AL Arancio, translating Automobili Lamborghini's design DNA into a bold new chromatic statement. Reef AL Giallo closes out the partnership with one final expression of luxury craftsmanship and precision engineering from two iconic brands. "Reef AL Giallo marks a fitting finale to our collaboration with Automobili Lamborghini," said Nick Paxton, CEO of Silver Cross. "From Arancio to Giallo, this collaboration has challenged us to push the boundaries of design and craftsmanship, and we're proud to conclude it with our most striking edition yet." Modelled on Silver Cross' award-winning Reef 2 stroller, Reef AL Giallo carries forward Silver Cross' hallmark multi-terrain performance and reversible, lie-flat seating, with automotive-inspired details at every touchpoint: high-performance suede, genuine leather accents, and flashes of Automobili Lamborghini's iconic yellow that illuminate the stroller's sleek black fabrics. " Every detail of Reef AL Giallo was designed to echo Lamborghini's own obsession with precision. From the debossed Y-pattern to the hand-finished brake pedal, every touchpoint had to feel like it belonged to a Lamborghini, not just alongside one ," said Luke Mallinder, Head of Design at Silver Cross . Reef AL Giallo includes the stroller, carrycot, and accessories. As the final limited edition in the Silver Cross x Lamborghini collaboration, this piece is available in limited numbers at select retailers globally in the UK, USA, UAE, Australia, and beyond. For product and pricing details, visit silvercrossbaby.com and silvercrossus.com About Silver Cross Silver Cross is a leading premium nursery brand, founded in 1877. Loved and trusted by parents across the globe, it is recognized for producing beautifully crafted, innovative products for babies and toddlers. Today, Silver Cross' sustainable choices and innovative developments connect the brand to a new generation, supporting them through their parenting journey. Intuitive design, expert craftsmanship and beautiful detail are combined into every product, so they can be enjoyed for years to come. About Automobili Lamborghini Founded in 1963 in Sant'Agata Bolognese, near Bologna, Automobili Lamborghini is an iconic name in luxury supersports car production. With legendary models like the Miura, Countach and Aventador, and limited editions such as the Reventón and Sesto Elemento, Automobili Lamborghini continues to innovate and shape the industry.
2026-08-27 07:04:00

Bangladesh: A safer place to live: stronger shelters protect Rohingya families in Cox's Bazar | IFRC
Country: Bangladesh Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies "Not a permanent home, but a safer place to live." Written by Abu Taleb Md Saqib, Senior Communications Officer, Cox’s Bazar Sub-Delegation, IFRC As monsoon rain battered Cox's Bazar this year, more than 5,500 shelters across Cox’s Bazar camps were damaged by rainwater, strong winds and landslides. Families were once again forced to repair homes, relocate to safer areas or seek temporary refuge. Yet among the affected shelters, none of the stronger Temporary Safer Shelters (TSS) supported by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) and the IFRC sustained significant damage. This offered a glimpse of what is possible in one of the world's largest and most disaster-prone settlements, where more than one million Rohingya people continue to face overlapping risks from fire, flooding, storms and landslides. Nearly nine years after the mass displacement of Rohingya people into Bangladesh in August 2017, safer shelter remains one of the community's most urgent needs. For Bashir Ahmod, 36, and his wife Rabeya Basri, 30, moving into a Temporary Safer Shelter with their two children in November 2025 brought a sense of relief after years of uncertainty. Having fled their home in Rakhine State, Myanmar, they had spent years living with insecurity in the camps. "Now, we can sleep without being scared," said Bashir. His wife Rabeya added: "This shelter has given my children a safer place to live and I feel more protected." A new approach to safer shelters The idea for the Temporary Safer Shelter did not emerge overnight. Since 2017, Rohingya families have lived in bamboo shelters across 33 camps in Cox’s Bazar. Many were upgraded in 2021 to Midterm Shelters using treated bamboo, metal footings and tarpaulin, but these structures require frequent repairs, which not only increase humanitarian operational costs but also pose safety risks to residents. As Cox’s Bazar is a high-risk area for multiple natural hazards, these shelters are constantly exposed to heavy rain, strong winds and recurring fires, making them even more vulnerable. The Temporary Safer Shelter was developed following a series of disasters in the camps, including a major fire in Camp 11 in 2023 that destroyed 3,000 shelters within hours. It followed an earlier fire in 2021 that devastated large parts of Camps 9, 10 and 8 west. Recurring disasters in the camps highlighted the need for a shelter that could remain temporary, in line with government regulations, while providing greater safety, durability and dignity. Following the fire, BDRCS and IFRC worked with partners to develop an improved shelter design, which was approved by the Shelter Cluster and the Government of Bangladesh in September 2025. So far, 280 temporary safer shelters have been built. "As its name suggests, the Temporary Safer Shelter is not a permanent home, but a safer place to live," said Urmi Das, Shelter and Settlement Manager with the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society's Population Movement Operation project in Cox's Bazar. "The development of Temporary Safer Shelters is a breakthrough for us. While they are temporary structures, the improved design significantly reduces the risks posed by different hazards. Fully compliant with government regulations, they are designed to help families stay safer and maintain their dignity, even in the most difficult conditions." The shelters continue to use materials that are familiar and readily available in the camps. Bamboo remains the primary building material and is strengthened with materials such as cement, rice straw and clay, making the shelters more durable and better able to withstand harsh weather conditions. The recent monsoon season served as a real test of the design. Despite widespread shelter damage across the camps, the Temporary Safer Shelters withstood the heavy rains and strong winds, demonstrating their potential to provide greater safety and peace of mind for refugee families. Built by the community A key feature of the project is community involvement. Camp residents are not just recipients of assistance; they are involved throughout the entire process, from start to completion. They work alongside trained community members to build their shelters and are paid for their contributions. This approach helps them learn how to care for their shelters and foster a stronger sense of ownership. While funding constraints mean that only a limited number of shelters have been built so far, BDRCS and IFRC continue to prioritize families living in the most vulnerable conditions. As the Rohingya crisis enters its ninth year and returns remain unsafe, camp residents like Bashir and Rabeya are not asking for much – only a temporary place to live with less fear, even in uncertain times. Their story is a reminder that humanitarian action is not only about responding to emergencies. It is also about helping people live more safely, with dignity and hope, even when a crisis lasts far longer than anyone imagined.
2026-08-26 05:33:07

THE HUNT IS ON: WILD TURKEY GOLD FOIL EDITION ARRIVES IN AUSTRALIA
The highly anticipated Wild Turkey Austin Nichols Archives Gold Foil Edition lands in Australia as Bruce Russell arrives to share the story behind bourbon's newest collector's release SYDNEY , Aug. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- After months of anticipation from whiskey enthusiasts and collectors around the world, the Wild Turkey Austin Nichols Archives Gold Foil Edition has officially arrived in Australia. The inaugural release in the new Austin Nichols Archives Collection, Gold Foil Edition is a highly collectable bourbon inspired by one of the most legendary and sought-after bottles in Wild Turkey's history. Created by Associate Master Blender Bruce Russell, the limited release pays tribute to the iconic "Cheesy Gold Foil" bottlings that have achieved near-mythical status among bourbon collectors. Long before whiskey collecting became a global phenomenon, the original Gold Foil earned a reputation as one of the most revered and fiercely hunted bottles in American whiskey. Decades later, that legacy continues to capture the imagination of collectors, inspiring a modern interpretation that honours the past while creating a new chapter for a new generation of bourbon fans. The release offers a rare opportunity to celebrate the generations who share a love of bourbon. With Father's Day just around the corner, Gold Foil Edition is the perfect gift for whiskey loving dads, collectors and connoisseurs alike. As the first release in the Austin Nichols Archives Collection, Gold Foil Edition celebrates the stories, bottles and moments that have shaped Wild Turkey's rich history. More than a decade in the making, the collection was conceived by Bruce Russell as a way to reintroduce some of Wild Turkey's most iconic releases to modern whiskey drinkers, while celebrating the legacy of the generations who came before him. Created from carefully selected 16-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon barrels sourced from Wild Turkey's renowned Camp Nelson rickhouses and bottled at 120 proof, Gold Foil delivers rich notes of dark fruit, mature oak, cherry cola, clove and Wild Turkey's signature character. Designed for collectors as much as whiskey drinkers, Gold Foil Edition pairs exceptional bourbon with equally striking presentation. Inspired by Wild Turkey's hunting heritage and vintage archive imagery, the bottle is housed in a premium canister featuring an autumn hunting scene, gold foil detailing and subtle references to the legendary original release. It's a package that celebrates the spirit of discovery and gives whiskey hunters something worth displaying long after the final pour. "Austin Nichols Archives has been a labour of love, and I'm excited to finally share it with bourbon lovers everywhere," said Bruce Russell, Associate Master Blender at Wild Turkey. "Gold Foil Edition was the perfect bourbon to launch the collection. Inspired by a personal favourite of mine and of many Wild Turkey fans, I drew on everything I've learned from my father and grandfather to create a whiskey that honours the Wild Turkey legacy." With Father's Day approaching, Gold Foil is a reminder of how special it is to share stories, traditions and a great whiskey across generations. To mark the Australian launch, Bruce Russell will visit Australia to meet collectors and whiskey enthusiasts, sharing the story behind Gold Foil, the legacy of the Russell family and the inspiration behind one of Wild Turkey's most anticipated new releases. For collectors, the release of Gold Foil is more than a bottle. It's a rare opportunity to hunt and own a piece of bourbon history. A whiskey inspired by one of the great collector stories in American whiskey. AUSTRALIAN AVAILABILITY Australian collectors can begin their hunt from 20 August. With only 4,161 bottles released, this exclusive edition is set to become a highly sought-after collector's item, reflecting the rarity and heritage of the Austin Nichols Archives collection. Retailer information for the Wild Turkey Austin Nichols Archives Gold Foil Edition can be found on: https://promotions.wildturkeybourbon.com/archivespreorder/ RRP: $499 AUD Australia's Top Shelf Hunters are being called to the table. Submit a photo of your Wild Turkey collection for the chance to win an invitation for you and a guest to an exclusive whiskey tasting experience hosted by Associate Master Distiller Bruce Russell. Find out more here: https://promotions.wildturkeybourbon.com/wildturkeyhunt/ BRUCE RUSSELL MEET & GREET OPPORTUNITIES Melbourne Date: Sunday, 30 August Location: Goodwater, 300 High St, Northcote VIC 3070 Time: 1:00pm–4:00pm Register HERE *Limited capacity Queensland Date: Thursday, 3 September Location: Sense of Taste at Hotel West End, 10 Browning Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101 Time: 6:00pm–10:00pm Register HERE Sydney VIP Event – Winners by Invite only Date: Friday 4 September Consumers will have a chance to win tickets to an excl usive Wild Turkey event via competition: https://promotions.wildturkeybourbon.com/wildturkeyhunt/ Sydney Dan Murphy's Date: Sunday , 6 September Location: Dan Murphy's Narellan, Cnr The Northern Rd & The Old Northern Rd, Narellan NSW 2567 Time: 1:00pm-3:00pm Open to public ABOUT WILD TURKEY The distillery for Wild Turkey Bourbon is in Kentucky, situated on a deep limestone shelf on the Kentucky River. The shelf acts as a natural filter and provides the distillery with crystal clear water, vital to making such a high-quality product. Wild Turkey features the legendary father and son Master Distilling team of Jimmy and Eddie Russell, who have over 100 years of collective experience working at the Wild Turkey distillery, and are now joined by the next generation, Associate Blender Bruce Russell. The famous Wild Turkey brand name first came about back in 1940 when distillery executive Thomas McCarthy took a few warehouse samples on a Wild Turkey hunting trip with a group of friends. The following year, his friends asked him for "some of that Wild Turkey whiskey" and the brand was born. Wild Turkey is distilled and put into new oak barrels at a much lower ABV than most bourbons. This results in a much richer flavour, as less is cooked out during the production process. Ageing in the highest quality new American oak barrels with the heaviest char available (the Number 4 "alligator" char) imparts a smooth flavour and deep amber colour to the whiskey. The barrels are filled at the distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Website: wildturkey.com . ABOUT CAMPARI GROUP Campari Group is a major player in the global spirits industry, with a portfolio of over 50 premium and super premium brands, spreading across Global, Regional and Local priorities. The Group was founded in 1860 and today is the sixth-largest player worldwide in the premium spirits industry. It has a global distribution reach, trading in over 190 nations around the world with leading positions in Europe and the Americas. Campari Group's growth strategy aims to combine organic growth through strong brand building and external growth via selective acquisitions of brands and businesses. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari Group operates in 23 production sites worldwide and has its own distribution network in 26 countries. Campari Group employs approximately 4,900 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano N.V. (Reuters CPRI.MI - Bloomberg CPR IM), have been listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001. For more information: http://www.camparigroup.com/en . Please enjoy our brands responsibly.
2026-08-26 05:24:00

GIEWS Country Brief: Lesotho 24-August-2026
Country: Lesotho Source: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Please refer to the attached file. FOOD SECURITY SNAPSHOT Heavy rains curb 2026 cereal production Increased import needs in 2026/27 Food inflation stable, supported by low cereal prices Reduced harvest limits improvements in acute food insecurity in 2026 Heavy rains curb 2026 cereal production Harvesting of the 2026 main season cereal crops concluded in June. Although final production data will be available in October, preliminary estimates indicate that cereal production in 2026 is likely to fall to a level about half the previous five‐year average, mainly due to a smaller maize harvest, the country's key food staple, driven by reductions in both the area planted and yields. This is attributed to periods of heavy rainfall in November 2025 as well as in February and April 2026, which reportedly caused waterlogging stress and curbed yields. The impact was particularly severe in the key maize‐producing district of Berea, where yields were assessed to be roughly half of last year's level. Sorghum production is also assessed to have fallen markedly, while wheat, grown mainly during the winter months between May and September, is forecast at an average level in 2026. In total, production of maize, sorghum and wheat is provisionally estimated at a below‐average 42 000 tonnes in 2026. Looking ahead to the 2026/27 cropping season, forecast El Niño conditions raise the risk of a delayed onset of seasonal rains and below‐average rainfall amounts which could constrain cereal production in 2027. Increased import needs in 2026/27 Although the reduced domestic harvest in 2026 is expected to increase import requirements, the cereal supply outlook in 2026/27 remains favourable, supported by ample exportable surpluses in the region. The country is structurally dependent on imports, even in years of good harvest, and benefits from well‐established trade links with South Africa, its main grain supplier. Maize import requirements for the 2026/27 marketing year (April/March) are estimated at an above‐average 130 000 tonnes. Food inflation stable, supported by falling cereal prices According to the National Bureau of Statistics , annual food inflation held broadly steady through the first half of 2026, easing to just under 2 percent in June, down sharply from 6.5 percent a year earlier. The slowdown was mainly driven by the bread and cereals subindex, the largest component of the food inflation basket, which fell 6 percent year‐on‐year in June. The lower cereal prices largely reflect regional market dynamics rather than domestic production conditions. As the country is a net importer of grains, domestic cereal prices are closely linked to those in South Africa, where wholesale grain prices have fallen sharply in 2026. As a result, domestic cereal prices have declined despite the reduced local harvest. Meat prices moved in the opposite direction, rising by 8 percent in the year to June 2026. The increase largely reflects disease‐related supply disruptions, following outbreaks of foot‐and‐mouth disease in South Africa in 2025 and in Lesotho in 2026, which reduced cattle supply and pushed up regional meat prices. Reduced harvest limits improvements in acute food insecurity in 2026 According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis released in August 2026, about 234 000 people, 15 percent of the analyzed population, are currently facing IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) and above levels of acute food insecurity. This number is projected to increase to 311 000 people (20 percent of the analysed population) during the October 2026‐March 2027 lean period. The expected deterioration reflects the combined effects of a below-average agricultural production, as well as reduced agricultural labour opportunities and household incomes. Looking ahead, the anticipated El Niño conditions and the associated risk of below‐average rainfall amounts could further constrain crop production in 2027 and rural employment opportunities, increasing pressure on households’ food access during the lean season.
2026-08-25 03:38:36

Secretary of State Sarai concludes visit to Lebanon and Jordan and announces funding for international assistance
Countries: Lebanon, Canada, Jordan Source: Government of Canada August 24, 2026 - Ottawa, Canada - Global Affairs Canada The Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), concluded his visit to Lebanon and Jordan to strengthen humanitarian response efforts, support refugees, expand inclusive economic opportunities and build resilient communities. During the visit, Secretary of State Sarai announced almost $80 million in international assistance funding for Lebanon and Jordan, helping address urgent humanitarian needs while advancing human rights, inclusive economic opportunity and food security across the region. While in Lebanon, Secretary of State Sarai met with Joseph Aoun, President of Lebanon; Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister; and Nabih Berri, Speaker of the Parliament, to discuss mutual priorities for humanitarian response and recovery efforts, regional security, economic development and legislative reforms. Secretary of State Sarai travelled to Tyre, in southern Lebanon, where he met with displaced families at a UN Women-supported shelter and heard directly about the challenges of displacement, how they are supporting their families and their aspirations to return home. Secretary of State Sarai also met with Syrian refugees in the Bekaa Valley and heard first-hand accounts of displacement, protection concerns, humanitarian needs and perspectives on voluntary and dignified return home and integration. He met with entrepreneurs at Go Baladi, a Lebanese women-owned and -led dairy enterprise, and toured its production facility to see first-hand how Canada’s support is helping local women grow their businesses, participate more fully in the economy and create jobs in their communities. With World Vision Canada’s local partner, the Imam Sadr Foundation, he visited a facility where conflict-affected people receive psychosocial support and other essential services. He concluded with a stop at a Lebanese Red Cross health and emergency response centre, where he heard from the staff and volunteers about their harrowing experiences delivering essential health and humanitarian services to conflict-affected communities, putting their lives on the line. Secretary of State Sarai reinforced the need for humanitarian workers to be protected in conflict zones and for international humanitarian law to be upheld by all parties. While in Jordan, Secretary of State Sarai met with Zeina Toukan, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation; Ambassador Dhaifallah Ali Al-Fayez, Secretary General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates; and His Royal Highness Prince Rashid bin El Hassan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization. He engaged in discussions with Canadian and Jordanian development partners on Canada’s support for humanitarian efforts and refugee response, economic reforms, as well as measures to increase women’s and youths’ labour force participation. He was also welcomed into a home-based child-care nursery supported by the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) through Canadian funding, where he met with the nursery owner and children to see how the initiative is helping expand access to quality child care while supporting women’s economic empowerment in Jordan. Secretary of State Sarai visited a World Food Programme logistics warehouse that facilitates the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza and Lebanon, including Canadian-funded relief supplies. The visit highlighted the importance of opening all crossings into Gaza and the urgent need to facilitate the rapid and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance. He also met with evacuees from Gaza and their families, who receive care through the Jordan Medical Corridor Initiative to hear about their experiences. These visits reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to delivering life-saving assistance to people affected by the crisis in Gaza, including through close cooperation with partners such as Jordan. Secretary of State Sarai concluded his trip to Jordan at the Zaatari Refugee Camp, one of the world’s largest camps for Syrian refugees, where he recognized Jordan’s leadership in hosting displaced populations and reaffirmed Canada’s support for refugees. Secretary of State Sarai’s visit to the Middle East reinforces Canada’s steadfast commitment to providing sustained humanitarian aid and response efforts in the region that help the most vulnerable and those affected by ongoing crises, while underlining the importance of international engagement for greater regional security and stability that benefits everyone. Quotes “Throughout my trip, I’ve witnessed first-hand the challenges facing the region, as well as the resilience and determination of people navigating conflict, displacement and economic hardship. Canada remains committed to working with Lebanon and Jordan to support humanitarian needs, strengthen communities and advance lasting stability, security and opportunity.” - Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development)
2026-08-25 03:32:03

Gravity Game Unite Officially Launched Ragnarok Zero: Global on August 18th
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia , Aug. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Global gaming company Gravity's Malaysia-based subsidiary, Gravity Game Unite (GGU), officially launched its new PC MMORPG, Ragnarok Zero: Global , across Southeast Asia, Europe, and Oceania on August 18. Ragnarok Zero: Global Officially Launched on August 18th! Starting August 18 local time in Southeast Asia, Europe, and Oceania, players can download the PC client from the official Ragnarok Zero: Global website and begin playing immediately. The title operates under a subscription-based service model. It is noteworthy that Gravity Game Unite (GGU) is directly operating the game not only in Southeast Asia and Oceania, but also across Europe. Building on the core elements of the original PC MMORPG Ragnarok Online , including its iconic 2D pixel graphics and class system, Ragnarok Zero: Global introduces new episodes along with modern features such as auto-hunting and an updated UI/UX. The official version features a variety of new content designed to offer an experience beyond the original, including the connected game Get Poring , RO Factory , the first User Generated Content (UGC) feature in a Ragnarok IP title, a new Germany-themed map, the new MVP Raid content, and a new Valkyrie skin. The game supports French, German, Spanish, English, Turkish, Simplified Chinese, Thai, and Indonesian. In particular, Get Poring and RO Factory attracted significant attention even before the official launch of Ragnarok Zero: Global. Get Poring is a connected game where players can collect and raise unique Porings and monsters, which can then be used as pets. RO Factory is a platform that allows players to create their own footprint items. The initial 100 available slots filled up quickly, generating strong interest among players and prompting GGU to expand the number of available slots. GGU also plans to identify items and effects that players would like to see and add them in future updates. To celebrate the official launch, Gravity Game Unite (GGU) is holding a variety of in-game events. Until the maintenance on September 24, players can receive various rewards by logging in with a character for at least one hour on 5, 10, and 15 separate days. Players can activate or deactivate participation in the event by speaking with the NPC Ribello . During the same period, rewards will also be provided to Guild Masters when their guild reaches levels 5, 10, and 15. Players can also participate in additional events featuring Catch the King Poring, Reach Max level 50, EXP Boosting, Monster Gauntlet, and more. GGU has also prepared a crossover event with RO Lite - Arrow , the first title under RO Lite , a casual brand based on the Ragnarok IP. Players who play RO Lite - Arrow and clear up to Stage 100 can receive a one-day Ragnarok Zero: Global Game Pass up to twice per month . RO Lite - Arrow is a stage-based puzzle game featuring simple controls and collectible Ragnarok monsters. Players complete each stage by finding the correct sequence to move all arrows off the puzzle board. The second title in the series, RO Lite - Puzzle & Monster , is also scheduled to be unveiled at a later date. Gravity Game Unite (GGU) President Harry Choi said, "Ragnarok Zero: Global is a highly anticipated title that preserves the core elements that have made Ragnarok Online beloved by players around the world, while introducing new experiences such as Get Poring and RO Factory that have already attracted attention ahead of launch." He added, "We have worked to enhance the overall quality of the game to meet players' expectations. As we directly operate the game across multiple regions, we will continue to communicate our service direction, listen closely to player feedback, and strive to build long-term relationships with our community after launch." Download Game https://roz.mygnjoy.com/main?media=glbglpr1 Stay Connected Players can follow the official Ragnarok Zero: Global channels for the latest news and updates. Discord: https://discord.gg/bFg77WjcHT Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ragnarokzeroglobal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ragnarokzeroglobal/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@RagnarokZeroGlobal TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ragnarokzeroglobal
2026-08-24 02:03:00

Malawi: Measles Outbreak Response - DREF Operation (MDRMW027)
Country: Malawi Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Please refer to the attached file. Description of the Event Date when the trigger was met 20-07-2026 What happened, where and when? Malawi is experiencing an escalating measles outbreak, with the Ministry of Health reporting 73 measles alerts through the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system during Epidemiological Week 27 (29 June to 5 July 2026). The outbreak follows months of sustained transmission that began with sporadic cases earlier in 2026 and has since developed into localized outbreaks in several districts. Cumulatively, Nsanje has reported 211 confirmed and epidemiologically linked cases since February 2026, Dedza has reported 90 confirmed cases since July 2026, and Balaka has reported 82 laboratory-confirmed cases since January 2026. Epidemiological data further indicate that more than 85% of confirmed cases have occurred among children under 15 years of age, while over 70% of cases were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status, demonstrating significant immunity gaps within affected communities. Continued reporting of new laboratory-confirmed cases indicates ongoing transmission and an increasing risk of expansion to neighbouring districts. The outbreak is most pronounced in the catchment areas of Comfort and Khwisa health facilities in Balaka District, Golomoti and Kaundu in Dedza District, and Osiyana, Ndamera, Nsanje, and Trinity health facilities in Nsanje District. These areas are experiencing a combination of factors that continue to fuel transmission, including low routine immunization coverage, high numbers of unvaccinated children, delayed health-seeking behaviour, weak community surveillance systems, inadequate risk communication, and widespread misinformation regarding vaccination. In Nsanje, cross-border population movement along the Malawi-Mozambique border has intensified the risk of disease spread, while shortages of trained health workers, volunteers, and operational resources have constrained surveillance and response efforts. In Balaka and Dedza, persistent immunity gaps and delayed case detection are contributing to continued transmission within communities. The outbreak has generated significant public health and humanitarian impacts. Increasing numbers of suspected and confirmed cases have placed additional pressure on district health services through heightened demand for surveillance, laboratory testing, case management, contact tracing, and vaccination outreach activities. Children under five years of age remain particularly vulnerable due to low vaccination uptake, malnutrition, and limited access to health services. In some communities, particularly within parts of Nsanje, religious beliefs and vaccine hesitancy have contributed to delayed treatment-seeking and reduced acceptance of vaccination services, increasing the risk of severe illness and preventable deaths. The continued accumulation of susceptible children and ongoing transmission in Balaka, Dedza, and Nsanje indicate a high likelihood of further spread unless urgent interventions are implemented to strengthen outbreak-response vaccination, community engagement, surveillance, and risk communication activities. Given the epidemiological trends and operational gaps identified, Balaka, Dedza, and Nsanje represent the highest-priority districts for immediate intervention. These districts continue to experience active transmission driven by substantial immunity gaps, weak community-level disease detection and reporting systems, and challenges in reaching at-risk populations with vaccination and health promotion services. Without rapid scale-up of surveillance, community engagement, social mobilization, and immunization activities, there is a significant risk that transmission will intensify within these districts and spread to surrounding areas, resulting in additional morbidity and mortality among vulnerable children and other susceptible populations.
2026-08-24 02:01:48

Strength From Within: A TORRAS Conversation with Tommy Caldwell
LOS ANGELES , Aug. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Climbing icon Tommy Caldwell recently joined TORRAS for a father-son climb with his son Fitz on the Scimitar route near Lake Tahoe. Featuring TORRAS Q3 AIR PRO, the project opened into a candid conversation about resilience, fatherhood and the experiences that have shaped him over a lifetime of climbing. Strength in Focus For Tommy, who once saw climbing as the center of his life, losing a finger might have seemed like a nightmare. Yet even in that moment, he found a sense of possibility. "I felt uncertainty and fear, but I also felt strangely liberated. There were no expectations anymore—neither from me nor from anyone else. I was starting from the bottom, and every time I proved I could still do something, it was uplifting and invigorating." Despite the extraordinary climbs he went on to achieve after that, Tommy has never seen himself as a naturally gifted climber. "Over time, I realized that hard work could still take me to those places. I grew to love getting into the trench and digging a little every day. That process itself became fulfilling. I learned that I was good at focusing on something, being relentless, and moving steadily toward it—so I embraced that strength." Recording on His Own Terms Tommy and Kevin Jorgeson's historic Dawn Wall ascent brought their story to a global audience and changed the way Caldwell thought about sharing his experiences. "I began to understand that sharing could be meaningful. But I also learned when to put the phone down. At one point I dropped my phone off the wall, and it reminded me that if you become too absorbed in what people are saying, you can stop experiencing the thing itself. The balance matters." Today, Caldwell also captures moments on his own terms. During the climb with Fitz, the TORRAS Q3 Air Pro made it easier to record along the way. "I found myself belaying with one hand and recording with the other in a way I would not have felt comfortable doing before. I also clipped the ring to a carabiner on my rack, almost the same way I rack climbing gear. That was a pleasant surprise because it made the phone much faster to access than repeatedly sliding it in and out of a pocket." Passing on Confidence Scimitar marked one of Fitz's most challenging multi-pitch climbs yet. As he stays close to protect Fitz on the wall, Tommy takes an equally careful approach to fatherhood. "I did not want to force him to climb, even though in the back of my mind I hoped he might eventually see what I see in it. The challenge for me is to contain my enthusiasm and let his interest grow naturally, without tying it to ego or to other people's expectations of a professional climber's child." Asked what he ultimately hopes for Fitz, Caldwell does not prescribe a destination. "First of all, I want him to be his own person and find his own path. I know how to teach him to follow the path I took, but that is not necessarily the path he should take. "I want him to be confident and joyful—to see the world as a wonderful place, to meet people from many places, to notice beauty, and to move through life with openness." For Caldwell, what gets passed on is not a path to follow, but the confidence to find one. Shared Ground: Tommy Caldwell & TORRAS The sense of focus Caldwell values is what he appreciates about TORRAS as a brand. "I think the biggest difference between TORRAS and other brands I've worked with is that they put so much energy into making just a few products very well. It's cool to see all that energy going into a few things and those things being really perfected." The connection feels even closer through a shared relationship with climbing. "It was exciting to see TORRAS's connection to climbing. There are people within the company who are climbers, and TORRAS supports climbing gyms. Anything close to the climbing world means a lot to me."
2026-08-20 17:23:00

Indonesia: Situation report #2 - Nagekeo earthquake, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) - Update: Sunday, 16 August 2026
Country: Indonesia Source: Human Initiative Please refer to the attached file. SITUATION REPORT #2 NAGEKEO EARTHQUAKE, EAST NUSA TENGGARA Update: Sunday, 16 August 2026, 07:30 WIB / 08:30 WITA Time of Main Earthquake: Saturday, 15 August 2026, at 04:58:24 WIB (05:58:24 WITA). Magnitude & Depth: Magnitude (M) 7.7 | Depth: 15 km. The earthquake was caused by a thrust-fault mechanism along the Flores Back-Arc Thrust. Tsunami Potential & Aftershocks: The tsunami early warning has been officially lifted. Aftershock activity has begun to subside, although monitoring for secondary hazards remains ongoing. Epicentre: Located offshore at coordinates 8.42° S – 121.39° E, approximately 30 km northeast of Mbay, Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Geographical Extent of Impact: 10 regencies and 1 city in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), 2 areas in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), and 2 regencies in South Sulawesi. UPDATE ON EMERGENCY STATUS AND RESPONSE (AS OF SUNDAY MORNING) Based on the latest multi-stakeholder disaster-response coordination as of Sunday morning, 16 August 2026: • Provincial Level: The decree establishing a 14-day Provincial Disaster Emergency Response Status for East Nusa Tenggara has been officially finalised to accelerate the delivery of ground and air logistics assistance to the 10 affected regencies. • Manggarai Regency: A Regent’s Decree establishes a Disaster Emergency Response Status, effective from 15 August to 13 November 2026. • East Manggarai Regency: A Regent’s Decree establishes a Disaster Emergency Preparedness Status, effective from 15 August to 4 September 2026. • Ngada Regency: A Regent’s Decree establishes a 30-day Earthquake Disaster Emergency Response Status, effective from 15 August to 15 September 2026.
2026-08-17 11:39:40

Belgium: EU mobilises support as wildfires spread across Europe
Countries: Belgium, Albania, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Serbia, Spain Source: European Commission's Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations The EU has deployed assistance to Belgium and Spain following their activation of the EU civil protection mechanism (UCPM), as wildfires continue to affect several parts of Europe. In Belgium, 2 planes from the EU's firefighting fleet, rescEU, were dispatched from Sweden to Belgium, alongside 2 helicopters from the Netherlands, 2 from Norway and 2 from Germany, supporting local firefighters battling the blaze in the Hautes Fagnes. More than 3,000 hectares have burnt to date. In Spain, 104 ground firefighters with 36 vehicles from France have come to the aid of Spanish firefighters in the Aragón region, where close to 16,000 hectares have already burnt. The EU is also supporting emergency services with satellite mapping. The Copernicus Emergency Management Service is active for wildfires in Belgium, Spain, Greece, Germany, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, France and Italy, providing rapid maps to help authorities assess affected areas and organise the response. Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib , said: ' No country should face wildfires alone. Through our civil protection mechanism, Europe is moving aircraft, helicopters and firefighters quickly to where they are needed most. This weekend in Belgium and Spain, European solidarity was on the ground again. ' The 2026 wildfire season is already exceptionally severe. By the end of July, the area burned was already 2,5 times the usual level in Europe. Through the UCPM, countries can rapidly draw on a much wider pool of firefighters, aircraft and other emergency capacities when national resources come under pressure. The European Commission's emergency response coordination centre is at the centre of this system: it receives requests for assistance, coordinates offers from Member States and participating states, and supports the deployment of the capacities offered. The Commission also co-finances the deployments. Publication date17 August 2026 Author Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO)
2026-08-17 11:33:07

Nigeria: EU provides €2.3 million in emergency humanitarian funding to curb cholera outbreak in West and Central Africa
Countries: Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad Source: European Commission's Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations The European Commission has allocated €2.3 million in emergency humanitarian funding to Nigeria, Cameroon, the Central African Republic and Chad to support these countries in addressing the ongoing cholera epidemic. According to the World Health Organization, more than 61,000 cholera cases were reported in the African Region in the first 5 months of 2026. In Nigeria , €1.5 million will help increase the number of intervention teams, provide essential supplies such as cholera kits, and support water, sanitation and hygiene interventions, including the treatment of public water points and household water. It will also help intensify epidemiological surveillance in inaccessible areas and strengthen case management, risk communication and community sensitisation. In Cameroon , €100,000 will support outbreak containment and case management, including through additional staff for humanitarian partners on the ground, essential medicines, additional cholera treatment units and oral rehydration points in the most affected villages. In the Central African Republic , €500,000 will scale-up case management and vaccination, as well as water, sanitation and hygiene interventions. It will also consist of strengthening risk communication and community engagement, boosting surveillance and case detection, as well as supporting dignified and safe burials. In Chad, €200,000 will contribute to breaking the chain of cholera transmission through improved access to water, sanitation, hygiene and community support for surveillance and case management. Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib , said: ' Cholera is preventable and treatable. Yet it still threatens lives when people lack something as basic as safe water and healthcare. At a time when humanitarian needs are growing and resources are shrinking, Europe is not looking away. This emergency funding will help our partners act quickly, contain the outbreaks and protect the communities most at risk. ' Cholera is caused by a Vibrio cholera bacteria . The infection spreads most commonly when people consume contaminated water. In severe cases rapid loss of body fluids can quickly lead to dehydration and shock. Cholera is not a common problem in Europe and the risk of spreading from imported cases is low. Publication date17 August 2026 Author Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) ## Related links Nigeria Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Health Water, sanitation and hygiene
2026-08-17 11:33:06

Lingnan University rises 300 places in the 2026 ShanghaiRanking's Academic Ranking of World Universities Achieves biggest improvement and ranks 6th among Hong Kong SAR's eight UGC-funded universities
HONG KONG , Aug. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A spokesperson for Lingnan University welcomed the results of the 2026 ShanghaiRanking's Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). Lingnan rose significantly from the 901st to 1,000th band globally last year to the 601st to 700th band this year, representing an advancement of 300 places and the biggest rise among Hong Kong SAR's eight UGC-funded universities. The university has also risen to joint 6th place within this group. The encouraging improvement is consistent with Lingnan's upward trend in other international university rankings in recent months, reflecting the phased results of the University's continued strategic transformation in recent years and recognition from the international academic community. Lingnan University rises 300 places in the 2026 ShanghaiRanking's Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), from the 901st to 1,000th band globally last year to the 601st to 700th band this year, representing an improvement of 300 places and the biggest rise among Hong Kong SAR’s eight UGC-funded universities. The university has also risen to joint 6th place within this group. Lingnan's rise in the ARWU is driven by improvements across a range of indicators, including the number of Highly Cited Researchers, papers published in Nature and Science , papers indexed in major citation databases, and per-capita academic performance. A key factor behind this progress is the University's growing number of Highly Cited Researchers , a metric that accounts for 20 per cent of the ranking and reflects Lingnan's strategy of building a critical mass of high-impact researchers. Lingnan has also launched the Lingnan-60 Global Talent Recruitment scheme, which aims to bring in over 60 outstanding scholars from around the globe, strengthening the University's research capacity across disciplines. In recent years, Lingnan University has been committed to developing into a leading research-oriented liberal arts university comprehensive in arts and sciences in the digital era, while contributing to the development of Hong Kong SAR as an international education hub. In response to the transformation of higher education brought about by the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies, the University has actively pursued its strategic transformation through "Liberal Arts + Technology" and "AI+", recruited talent from around the world, promoted campus internationalisation, and strengthened industry-academia-research collaboration, gradually establishing a distinctive and competitive development positioning. Recently, Lingnan participated in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings for the first time, ranking 84th in Asia and placing among the top 100 universities in Asia. In the newly released QS World University Rankings 2027, Lingnan rose by more than 120 places from last year to 581st globally, marking its biggest rise in recent years. In addition, in the latest THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026, Lingnan University rose from the 101st to 200th band globally last year to 63rd this year, entering the global top 100 for the first time. In the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education category, Lingnan retained its position as the world's number one. The University also ranked first in Hong Kong for six SDGs and placed seven SDGs among the global top 100. Looking ahead, Lingnan will continue to recruit top talent from around the world, promote campus internationalisation, and strengthen interdisciplinary industry-academia-research collaboration. The University will draw on the strengths of a liberal arts education in developing students' critical thinking, interdisciplinary thinking and ability to address complex social issues, while combining the humanities with cutting-edge technologies in science, technology and artificial intelligence to equip students to respond to new challenges in the digital era and develop innovative solutions.
2026-08-15 07:19:00

Global Times: China advances global AI governance on all fronts, turning principles into deeper, more concrete action
BEIJING , Aug. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- When machines begin to think, how should humans coexist with them? When algorithms participate in decision-making, how can security be ensured? When technology challenges ethics, how can governance keep pace? As the divide continues to widen, how can inclusiveness be achieved? At the opening ceremony of the 2026 World AI Conference (WAIC) and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, Chinese President Xi Jinping pointed out that we should always guide AI development with human wisdom and international consensus, so that AI can truly become a mighty force that increases the well-being of humanity and advances human civilization. In the intelligent era, we share the same planet and must pull together. Standing at the forefront of the times and shouldering the responsibilities of a major country, China is advancing global AI governance in an all-round way, making it deeper and more substantive. From laying down the opening strokes through its own development, to the "broad-brush freehand" of top-level design, and then to the "fine-brush painting" of detailed implementation, China is working to make the dividends of technology benefit the world and to make the bottom line of security clearly visible. This is China's commitment to the world, and also humanity's answer to the future. Building a solid foundation for governance through strength at home Not long ago, Kimi K3, a new-generation large AI model developed in China, was released as open source and was made available for anyone to download. With 2.8 trillion parameters, it is currently the world's largest open-source model in terms of parameter count. Kimi K3 is one member of the "China team" in the AI field that have attracted global attention. Six of the world's top 10 applicants for generative AI patents are headquartered in China. The Financial Times has noted that Chinese companies are joining the global front ranks in AI innovation while outperforming their peers in cost efficiency. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has attached great importance to AI development, improving top-level design, strengthening work arrangements, and promoting an overall and systematic leap in China's comprehensive AI strength. Data show that the adoption rate of AI technology among China's manufacturing enterprises above designated size has exceeded 30 percent, the core industries of the intelligent economy have grown to more than 1 trillion yuan (about $139 billion), the number of generative AI users has surpassed 600 million, and China has become the world's largest holder of AI patents. China has achieved notable results in AI technological innovation and industrial applications, with its overall strength significantly enhanced. Standing at the new starting point of the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30), China is consolidating the foundation for innovation through greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology and embracing the global opportunities through the "AI Plus" initiative. China is entering a prime opportunity to develop its AI. This confidence comes from continuous breakthroughs in core technologies in key fields. Zhangjiang Science City, where the Zhangjiang Science Hall exhibition area of the 2026 World AI Conference is located, is home to hundreds of companies for chip designing, manufacturing, packaging and testing, with the scale of the industry accounting for about one-fifth of the national total. In the chip sector, which has been affected by external shocks, China has not only blazed a new path through independent innovation and self-reliance, but has also firmly kept the initiative in AI development in its own hands. "Computing power is the cornerstone of AI development and governance. It concerns not only technological breakthroughs, but also strategic initiative. Only by basing development on independence and controllability, while ensuring inclusiveness and accessibility, can we continuously strengthen the foundation for AI development," Moore Threads founder Zhang Jianzhong said. This confidence comes from an increasingly vibrant innovation ecosystem. With strong support from scientific and technological innovation, AI is being integrated across all areas of China's economy and society, entering ordinary households and bringing tangible benefits to people's livelihoods, making "Intelligent Manufacturing in China" another shining calling card of Chinese modernization. In Shunde, South China's Guangdong Province, and Wuhan, Central China's Hubei Province, after Midea's "AI agent factories" introduced SmartMore's AI visual reasoning platform, the pace of inspection came fully in line with the production rhythm. AI now directly participates in production decision-making, rapidly turning large models into productive capacity. In Nanchong, Southwest China's Sichuan Province, and Bozhou, East China's Anhui Province, iFLYTEK Healthcare's "AI Medical Assistant" has significantly improved the efficiency and standardization of medical record writing through functions such as structured consultations and intelligent prompts. A number of terminal device companies are relying on a well-developed industrial chain support system to accelerate the launch of new-generation products such as smartphones, intelligent robots and smart glasses, enriching market choices and creating new hot spots in information consumption. On August 12, Chinese smartphone brand Honor launched the world's first Robot Phone. "China has rich and diverse production and everyday-life scenarios as well as integrated software-hardware engineering capabilities, so this has provided excellent conditions for AI to be efficiently translated from needs into actual experience," Honor CEO Li Jian said. This confidence comes from institutional guarantee that coordinates development and security. Recently, Dongbi Tech Data, together with the School of Digital Economy at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, released the Global Large Language Model Safety Evaluation Report (2026). Using 313 high-risk science and technology questions as the test set, the report assessed the security prevention capabilities of 38 large language models from China and abroad while helping users obtain, understand and use scientific and technological knowledge. "Currently, society as a whole is paying close attention to issues such as content security and data security arising from the large-scale applications of AI. Balancing development and security, and advancing scientific and technological innovation in parallel with the rule of law in science and technology and the building of ethics and integrity, will further guide large models and the entire AI industry toward positive and beneficial development and sustainable growth," said Zhu Xufeng, dean of the School of Public Policy and Management of Tsinghua University. In recent years, the State Council's Guidelines on Further Implementing the "AI Plus" Initiative have explicitly called for establishing and improving systems for AI technology monitoring, risk early warning and emergency response. The Implementation Guidelines on the Standardized Application and Innovative Development of AI Agents have also made clear that the development of AI agents should adhere to the basic principles of safety and controllability, orderliness and standardization, innovation-driven growth and application-oriented traction. China is accelerating efforts to build laws and regulations, policies and institutions, application standards and ethical guidelines that are suited to the evolving trends of AI, strengthening the security foundation for Chinese modernization and contributing Chinese wisdom and Chinese approaches to global science and technology governance. Guiding AI governance with a global vision A recent commentary from The New York Times likened the development of cutting-edge AI models to two divergent paths. "The United States is behaving as though frontier A.I. models could be the equivalent of nuclear weapons, offering an immensely destructive form of power that requires a careful and jealous watch... Meanwhile, China treats the models that its companies produce as the equivalent of nuclear energy, a lower-risk technology to be shared and commercialized to win friends," read the NYT article. At the heart of these two approaches lies a fundamental difference in how AI is perceived: Is it a strategic asset to be monopolized in a race for dominance, or a public good that should serve humanity? China's answer is clear and unwavering: Put people first, ensure AI is used for good, and make it a powerful force for shared prosperity and common security. Xi called for joint efforts to build a just and equitable system for global AI governance, the Xinhua News Agency reported. This reflects a deeper understanding of technological and historical trends, promoting shared benefits through consultation and wisdom through good governance. It also demonstrates China's commitment to global AI governance, ultimately serving the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity. Embracing openness and win-win cooperation to drive innovation and empower industries. China has emerged as one of the world's most active and fastest-growing hubs for open-source AI models. Chinese open-source AI models have been downloaded more than 10 billion times worldwide, while open-source communities such as AtomGit have brought together more than 11 million registered users. From topping global large-model leaderboards in certain performance metrics, to steadily advancing multimodal capabilities, and to evolving from single intelligent agents into agent clusters, China's large-model innovation and iteration have been accelerating at an unprecedented pace. This has not only given rise to a diverse array of intelligent application scenarios and unlocked new potential for domestic economic growth, but has also driven technological inclusiveness through advantages such as high performance and low cost. Chinese large models have become "productivity tools" favored by developers and users worldwide, as well as benchmarks in global model evaluations and important reference cases for overseas research institutions. Openness and open source are more than just a technological development model. They embody a broader philosophy of collaboration and coexistence, as well as a commitment to sharing the fruits of development. China has launched the AI+ International Cooperation Initiative, calling upon all countries to proactively carry out AI+ campaigns in light of their national conditions, enhance policy exchanges and practical cooperation, and share best practices and solutions on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit. The Action Plan for AI Cooperation and Development sets out eight areas of action, including sharing open-source ecosystems, jointly developing rules and standards, strengthening cooperation on safety governance, and ensuring AI is used for good. China has launched "Fenghe," a large language model for AI-powered meteorological services, and initiated a global open-source program. Strengthening risk awareness to ensure AI remains safe, controllable and trustworthy. With a deep understanding of the trends and logic of AI development, we are continuously improving laws, regulations, policies, mechanisms, application norms, as well as ethical principles to make sure that AI is safe, secure and controllable, and that this fine steed of AI gallops with both speed and stability, Xi said, according to Xinhua. China has put forward the Global AI Governance Initiative, advocating risk-based assessment, stronger laws and regulations, and the development of ethical guidelines. It has called on countries to jointly prevent risks and continuously improve the safety, reliability, controllability and fairness of AI technologies. China has also released versions 1.0 and 2.0 of its AI Safety Governance Framework, embedding safety requirements throughout the entire process of model development, deployment and application. The Global AI Governance Action Plan has identified "safety and controllability" as one of its core principles; An international action plan on AI ethics governance has contributed a framework that is both principled and actionable to global AI governance... From defining directions to charting pathways, China continues to provide international public goods, ensuring that the "swift horse" of AI runs both fast and steadily. Fostering inclusiveness and mutual learning to build a diverse and harmonious global civilization. Dujiangyan tamed the Minjiang River without dams, nourishing the Chengdu Plain for over 2,000 years. Confucius taught that "Gentlemen seek harmony but not uniformity." Civilizations have their own paths, best pursued through mutual respect and coexistence. Drawing on such Eastern wisdom, Lu Zilong, deputy chair of the World Intellectual Property Organization supervision committee, interprets China's coherent approach to AI governance. Today, the Eastern wisdom is being translated into concrete initiatives. The "cultural interaction engine," developed by the institute for Long-term AI Research Center and the Institute of Automation of Chinese Academy of Sciences, uses AI to uncover links between world cultural heritage sites, presenting the shared values and diversity of human civilization to users in more than 170 countries and regions. The Milan Winter Olympics has launched the first official LLM in Olympic history, powered by Qwen, a Chinese large model, serving both professional operations and public services, a new era of smart winter sports experiences. Chinese and Malaysian companies have jointly established a multilingual AI translation center for ASEAN, supporting translations across more than 130 languages and enabling film and television content to be translated in as little as 30 minutes. From cultural dialogue to sports, from language to human connections, Chinese AI is bridging distances, allowing civilizations to flourish through inclusivity and be revitalized through exchanges. Promoting solidarity and improving global governance to prevent new historical injustices in the AI era. During the 2026 WAIC and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) was established, with 38 countries becoming its founding members. The blueprint laid out a year ago has now borne fruit. As the world's first intergovernmental international organization on artificial intelligence, WAICO is committed to AI for good and inclusive benefits, adheres to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and is open to all countries, charting a new course and coordinates for global governance in the age of intelligence. China has sought to translate its sense of responsibility into concrete action. By upholding multilateralism, bringing the international community together and continuously seeking the broadest possible common ground on global AI governance, China is working to ensure that AI can truly become a valuable common asset of all humanity. Looking to the future, fulfilling the responsibility of governance through action Looking back at the summer of 1956, the spark of "artificial intelligence" was quietly kindled at a workshop at Dartmouth College in the US. Over the past 70 years, AI scientists and researchers around the world have explored the unknown, moved forward through twists and turns, and achieved breakthroughs through perseverance, continuously expanding the boundaries of technology. History has witnessed Chinese science and technology carving furrows out of barren ground and setting off from a faint glimmer of light. China has progressed from following behind to running alongside others and then to gaining the initiative on more tracks. Every rut and every milestone along the way has deepened its understanding of the power of technology, while also prompting clearer reflection on where the road ahead will lead and how far it can go. Inclusive development for the benefit of all is the right path forward, and it is a path that grows broader as we travel further. Remote control of pond aeration, round-the-clock online monitoring of water-quality parameters, precise feeding by drones... In Takeo Province in southern Cambodia, with support from an integrated smart farm development program implemented by China, an intelligent rice-fish farming model has significantly improved the survival rate and quality of local giant freshwater prawn seedlings. Annual income per hectare has increased from about $1,000 to more than $3,000, bringing real increases to the incomes of local farmers. In Saraburi Province, Thailand, the Chinese-developed "YUKON" system has equipped a traditional mining area with a "digital brain." From excavators to mining trucks, and from power monitoring to transport routes, this parallel mining operating system, based on an AI large model, can make the optimal allocation of equipment across the entire mine within milliseconds. Efficiency has risen by 16 percent and electricity consumption has fallen by 20 percent. SCG International General Manager Jirapat Janjerdsak said, "China's AI technology has shown us the possibility of achieving a mine with 'zero casualty, high efficiency and low emissions.'" Along the Red Sea coast, as the tide recedes, sediment samples are collected into containers. Through China's AI-powered marine drug intelligent screening platform, they become a "seed bank" for new antibacterial agents. At Djibouti's Doraleh Multi-Purpose Port, extreme weather such as high temperatures, short bursts of heavy rain and sudden strong winds frequently causes disruptions. MAZU, an AI-powered meteorological early-warning solution from China, has helped establish a full-chain early-warning system covering "monitoring, forecasting, warning, services." Helping safeguard countless homes and protect peace and safety far and wide, Mohamed Ismail Nour, director general of the Djibouti National Meteorological Agency, said, "Djibouti hopes to steadily advance its economic and social development by drawing on Chinese technologies." To bridge the digital and intelligent divide, it is better to teach people how to fish than simply give them fish. Data from the International Telecommunication Union show that about one-third of the world's population still has no access to the internet. The World Bank's Digital Progress and Trends Report 2025: Strengthening AI Foundations shows that low- and middle-income countries lag far behind high-income economies in both the number of AI systems and available computing capacity; a survey by the African Data Centres Association has found that most of the world's data center capacity is concentrated in developed economies, with Africa accounting for less than 1 percent. Without coordinated intervention, disparities in AI development may further evolve into a digital and intelligent divide, or even a North-South divide, posing new challenges to global development. China has held AI capacity-building workshops, launched a special cooperation program on AI science and technology innovation under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, developed the "Digital South" brand under the Global Development Project Pool and established the China-ASEAN AI Industry Innovation Center... A series of pragmatic measures have crossed mountains and seas, using Chinese expertise to help countries, particularly those of the Global South, strengthen their capacity building. The great road takes us far when traveled together; working together, we embark on a new journey. China has announced that over the next five years, it will provide developing countries with 5,000 opportunities in AI training and seminar programs; develop international AI application cooperation centers with the ASEAN, the League of Arab States, the African Union, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS; and promote the applications of the MAZU AI-powered meteorological early-warning solution in 30 countries. Standing at a new historical starting point, China is willing to work with all parties with a more open approach, more pragmatic action and a longer-term vision, to seize the opportunities and address the challenges brought by AI development, creating a better future for human society. This was compiled and translated by the Global Times based on an article originally published on Page 1 of the People's Daily on August 13, 2026.
2026-08-14 05:18:00

Indonesia battles Mount Bromo wildfire as El Nino takes root

Malang, Indonesia: Indonesian authorities battled Friday to contain a wildfire that has swept through Mount Bromo National Park on Java island, destroying more than 120 hectares as the country braces itself for an extreme El Nino-fuelled dry season.

The fire started Monday near Mount Bromo in East Java, one of Indonesia's most visited tourist destinations but now closed until further notice.

Local authorities deployed two water-bombing helicopters against the flames that have razed at least 127 hectares of national park land to date, fire official Bambang Setyo Antoko told AFP.

The destroyed area is equivalent to about 180 soccer fields.

"We're very dependent on wind conditions," Bambang said of the firefighting effort ahead.

National park official Rudijanta Tjahja Nugraha said the area on fire was in a steep, cliffside region, making it difficult for firefighters to reach.

It was not known how the fire started, but Bambang said the park was extremely dry as El Nino conditions take root in Indonesia.

Mount Bromo, famed for its volcanic scenery, previously caught fire in 2023.

That blaze broke out when a couple lit a flare during a pre-wedding photo shoot and destroyed more than 500 hectares of land.

Indonesia's BMKG weather agency has warned that the 2026 dry season will be more intense and prolonged than usual, with a higher risk for wildfires and drought due in part to El Nino.

According to the Ministry of Forestry, more than 107,000 hectares of land burned in Indonesia between January and June this year -- more than double the area destroyed in forest fires in 2023.

The last El Nino helped make 2023 and 2024 the two hottest years globally on record.

El Nino is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon that brings worldwide changes in winds, air pressure and rainfall patterns.

In India and Southeast Asia, it typically causes drier conditions.


2026-08-07 11:14:57

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