Vatican: sanctions still in effect against Opus Dei cardinal
Vatican confirms ongoing disciplinary sanctions against Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani Thorne amid sexual abuse allegations. These measures include restrictions on his public activities, residence, and the use of insignia, requiring the 81-year-old cleric to leave Peru and live in Madrid and Rome. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni emphasized that while some exceptions have been made for Cipriani's age and family needs, the sanctions remain in effect.
The sanctions were initiated after Cipriani's retirement as the head of the Peruvian church in 2019, following multiple allegations against him. In a letter addressing the claims, Cipriani vehemently denied any wrongdoing, stating, “I haven’t committed any crime, nor have I sexually abused anyone.” Similar sanctions have been imposed on other high-ranking church figures accused of abuse, indicating a consistent approach by the Vatican to address such serious allegations within the clergy.
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Vatican confirms ongoing disciplinary sanctions against Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani Thorne amid sexual abuse allegations. These measures include restrictions on his public activities, residence, and the use of insignia, requiring the 81-year-old cleric to leave Peru and live in Madrid and Rome. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni emphasized that while some exceptions have been made for Cipriani's age and family needs, the sanctions remain in effect.
The sanctions were initiated after Cipriani's retirement as the head of the Peruvian church in 2019, following multiple allegations against him. In a letter addressing the claims, Cipriani vehemently denied any wrongdoing, stating, “I haven’t committed any crime, nor have I sexually abused anyone.” Similar sanctions have been imposed on other high-ranking church figures accused of abuse, indicating a consistent approach by the Vatican to address such serious allegations within the clergy.
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Australia Day protesters support Aboriginal groups, deface statues
在墨尔本，两座历史雕像在澳大利亚日庆祝活动前遭到破坏，反映出对原住民团体的支持。全国各地的成千上万民众走上街头抗议，认为这一庆祝日期并不值得欢庆。当地报道指出，殖民者约翰·巴特曼的雕像被锯为两半，而一座纪念一战澳大利亚士兵的雕像则被涂上红漆，并写上了“归还土地”的字样。
澳大利亚国庆日1月26日对于许多原住民来说是哀悼日，这一天标志着亚瑟·菲利普船长抵达悉尼湾和英国对澳大利亚的殖民开始。此外，抗议者携带巴勒斯坦国旗，发言人提到原住民与巴勒斯坦人在经历上的相似之处。原住民阿曼达·希尔表示：“入侵日。我们的生存至关重要。我们仍然在这里，不会消失。”在悉尼，韦拉朱里-比里皮艺术家詹姆斯·P·西蒙的作品在歌剧院的帆上投射，成为全国多场清晨反思活动的一部分。
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在墨尔本，两座历史雕像在澳大利亚日庆祝活动前遭到破坏，反映出对原住民团体的支持。全国各地的成千上万民众走上街头抗议，认为这一庆祝日期并不值得欢庆。当地报道指出，殖民者约翰·巴特曼的雕像被锯为两半，而一座纪念一战澳大利亚士兵的雕像则被涂上红漆，并写上了“归还土地”的字样。
澳大利亚国庆日1月26日对于许多原住民来说是哀悼日，这一天标志着亚瑟·菲利普船长抵达悉尼湾和英国对澳大利亚的殖民开始。此外，抗议者携带巴勒斯坦国旗，发言人提到原住民与巴勒斯坦人在经历上的相似之处。原住民阿曼达·希尔表示：“入侵日。我们的生存至关重要。我们仍然在这里，不会消失。”在悉尼，韦拉朱里-比里皮艺术家詹姆斯·P·西蒙的作品在歌剧院的帆上投射，成为全国多场清晨反思活动的一部分。
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Hong Kong’s cash-strapped Urban Renewal Authority to adjust pace of projects
香港市建局将调整市政项目的节奏以保持财政稳定，私营开发商将提前知道项目计划以避免失败投标。该改变主要目的是为市建局保持足够的现金流并避免过高的收购成本。
市建局负责人Wai Chi-sing周日称，当前经济环境和房地产市场状况给市建局造成了许多财务挑战。市建局在其网站的博客文章中解释称，其已经推迟了一些项目的投标，因为在市场条件下，开发商可能不会做出投标。
尽管如此，市建局仍将在短期内向五个政府批准的项目支付约3.85亿美元的收购费用，这些项目包括九龍城區的Nga Tsin Wai Road-Carpenter Road項目。
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香港市建局将调整市政项目的节奏以保持财政稳定，私营开发商将提前知道项目计划以避免失败投标。该改变主要目的是为市建局保持足够的现金流并避免过高的收购成本。
市建局负责人Wai Chi-sing周日称，当前经济环境和房地产市场状况给市建局造成了许多财务挑战。市建局在其网站的博客文章中解释称，其已经推迟了一些项目的投标，因为在市场条件下，开发商可能不会做出投标。
尽管如此，市建局仍将在短期内向五个政府批准的项目支付约3.85亿美元的收购费用，这些项目包括九龍城區的Nga Tsin Wai Road-Carpenter Road項目。
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Partially charred body found at Hong Kong lake, prompting police probe
By Danny Mok
Hong Kong police are investigating after a partially charred body was discovered near a lake on Lantau Island.
Staff at Inspiration Lake Recreation Centre called police at 3.30pm on Sunday to report the discovery.
Police officers and Fire Services Department personnel arrived and launched an investigation.
A couple reportedly spotted the body beneath a tree.
There were burns on the upper part of the body.
No personal belongings or traces of accelerants were found, according to media reports.
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By Danny Mok
Hong Kong police are investigating after a partially charred body was discovered near a lake on Lantau Island.
Staff at Inspiration Lake Recreation Centre called police at 3.30pm on Sunday to report the discovery.
Police officers and Fire Services Department personnel arrived and launched an investigation.
A couple reportedly spotted the body beneath a tree.
There were burns on the upper part of the body.
No personal belongings or traces of accelerants were found, according to media reports.
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China’s Communist Party draws ‘red line’ on virtual Lunar New Year cash gifts for cadres
中国共产党警告干部在春节期间不要接受数字“红包”，以防止贿赂问题。这一警告是在党重申反腐败承诺的背景下发布的，旨在维护官员的公正性和纪律性。
中央组织部在其网站上发表的文章指出，接受或赠送可能影响官方职责公正执行的虚拟礼物，可能被视为违反党纪的“红线”。此外，文章还特别警告不要在微信平台上以虚拟红包的形式接受赌博或间接贿赂。随着春节假期的临近，干部们被提醒要谨慎对待虚拟红包，并告知家人同样注意。
微信的红包功能允许用户向单个联系人或聊天群组发送虚拟资金，广受欢迎，拥有超过10亿的月活跃用户。近年来，中国共产党加强了纪律规则，以清除被认为不称职或缺乏忠诚的成员，进一步加强对近亿党员的管理。
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中国共产党警告干部在春节期间不要接受数字“红包”，以防止贿赂问题。这一警告是在党重申反腐败承诺的背景下发布的，旨在维护官员的公正性和纪律性。
中央组织部在其网站上发表的文章指出，接受或赠送可能影响官方职责公正执行的虚拟礼物，可能被视为违反党纪的“红线”。此外，文章还特别警告不要在微信平台上以虚拟红包的形式接受赌博或间接贿赂。随着春节假期的临近，干部们被提醒要谨慎对待虚拟红包，并告知家人同样注意。
微信的红包功能允许用户向单个联系人或聊天群组发送虚拟资金，广受欢迎，拥有超过10亿的月活跃用户。近年来，中国共产党加强了纪律规则，以清除被认为不称职或缺乏忠诚的成员，进一步加强对近亿党员的管理。
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China ritual sees villagers rolling on ‘thorn bed’, suffering cuts to connect with deities
一种独特的中国仪式“Fan Cichuang”吸引了人们的注意，它涉及半裸的参与者在荆棘床上滚动，这一传统习俗将在农历新年期间举行。该仪式被指定为广东省的非物质文化遗产，被称为“最残酷的农历新年民俗”，是湛江地区在春节博览会（Nianli）期间流行的一种庆祝活动。
Nianli与中国春节往往相重叠，但这是一个在广东省西部庆祝的地方性活动，以一系列独特的地方习俗为标志。Fan Cichuang作为其中的亮点，展现了参与者的勇气和韧性，仪式的准备工作包括当地居民准备荆棘树枝，将其绑在一起，形成床铺，并将其固定在一种特定的传统方桌上，称为“八仙桌”。
参与者通常是年轻或中年男性，他们脱去上衣在荆棘上翻滚，尽管过程伴随疼痛，但观众的欢呼声将痛楚与勇气联系在一起，荆棘刺得越深，鲜血流得越多，观众的喝彩声便越响亮。这一仪式不仅是对个人勇气的挑战，也反映了当地文化的独特魅力。
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一种独特的中国仪式“Fan Cichuang”吸引了人们的注意，它涉及半裸的参与者在荆棘床上滚动，这一传统习俗将在农历新年期间举行。该仪式被指定为广东省的非物质文化遗产，被称为“最残酷的农历新年民俗”，是湛江地区在春节博览会（Nianli）期间流行的一种庆祝活动。
Nianli与中国春节往往相重叠，但这是一个在广东省西部庆祝的地方性活动，以一系列独特的地方习俗为标志。Fan Cichuang作为其中的亮点，展现了参与者的勇气和韧性，仪式的准备工作包括当地居民准备荆棘树枝，将其绑在一起，形成床铺，并将其固定在一种特定的传统方桌上，称为“八仙桌”。
参与者通常是年轻或中年男性，他们脱去上衣在荆棘上翻滚，尽管过程伴随疼痛，但观众的欢呼声将痛楚与勇气联系在一起，荆棘刺得越深，鲜血流得越多，观众的喝彩声便越响亮。这一仪式不仅是对个人勇气的挑战，也反映了当地文化的独特魅力。
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Israeli fire kills 2, wounds 32 during Lebanon withdrawal
Israeli troops fired on residents in south Lebanon, resulting in two deaths and 32 injuries, as people attempted to return home amidst an Israeli withdrawal deadline. Health officials reported the violence occurred as hundreds gathered, expecting the withdrawal of Israeli forces as part of a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. This agreement, initiated two months ago, stipulated the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the deployment of the Lebanese army alongside UN peacekeepers by the deadline, which Israel was unlikely to meet. The incident heightened tensions in the region, reflecting the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the challenges in its implementation.
The withdrawal was part of a ceasefire agreement that sought to stabilize the region after a conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah. The agreement, which took effect on November 27, mandated a 60-day period for Israeli forces to pull back, allowing Lebanese forces and UN peacekeepers to take control of the area. The violence erupted in the border towns of Houla and Kfar Kila, where residents were eager to return to their homes, highlighting the complexities and sensitivities involved in the withdrawal process. The situation underscores the ongoing volatility in the region and the difficulty of maintaining peace in areas with deep-seated conflicts.
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Israeli troops fired on residents in south Lebanon, resulting in two deaths and 32 injuries, as people attempted to return home amidst an Israeli withdrawal deadline. Health officials reported the violence occurred as hundreds gathered, expecting the withdrawal of Israeli forces as part of a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. This agreement, initiated two months ago, stipulated the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the deployment of the Lebanese army alongside UN peacekeepers by the deadline, which Israel was unlikely to meet. The incident heightened tensions in the region, reflecting the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the challenges in its implementation.
The withdrawal was part of a ceasefire agreement that sought to stabilize the region after a conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah. The agreement, which took effect on November 27, mandated a 60-day period for Israeli forces to pull back, allowing Lebanese forces and UN peacekeepers to take control of the area. The violence erupted in the border towns of Houla and Kfar Kila, where residents were eager to return to their homes, highlighting the complexities and sensitivities involved in the withdrawal process. The situation underscores the ongoing volatility in the region and the difficulty of maintaining peace in areas with deep-seated conflicts.
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HK$2 fare scheme: 56% of Hongkongers support raising age level, survey finds
超过半数香港人支持提高65岁以下的港币2元(26美分)交通计程补贴方案的年龄门槛至原设定的65岁水平，一项由民主党发布的民调显示。 这项民调显示，改变交通计程补贴方案不会是“灾难”。民主党要求当局公布更多数据。
政府正在审查该计划，该计划已被认为对政府造成巨大经济负担，据估计政府预计赤字将达到约港币100亿元。一些提议包括提高年龄门槛或设定补贴上限。政府在过去五年中已向运营商退还超过港币10亿元的费用，金额从2019-20年的港币1.27亿元增加到2023-24年的港币3.99亿元。预计本财年将达到港币6亿元。
民调显示，居民普遍认为计程补贴有助于老年人的福利。民主党主席洛锦熙表示，居民是理性和客观的，政府应该对他们有信心，并公布更多交通数据以便进行更有意义的讨论。
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超过半数香港人支持提高65岁以下的港币2元(26美分)交通计程补贴方案的年龄门槛至原设定的65岁水平，一项由民主党发布的民调显示。 这项民调显示，改变交通计程补贴方案不会是“灾难”。民主党要求当局公布更多数据。
政府正在审查该计划，该计划已被认为对政府造成巨大经济负担，据估计政府预计赤字将达到约港币100亿元。一些提议包括提高年龄门槛或设定补贴上限。政府在过去五年中已向运营商退还超过港币10亿元的费用，金额从2019-20年的港币1.27亿元增加到2023-24年的港币3.99亿元。预计本财年将达到港币6亿元。
民调显示，居民普遍认为计程补贴有助于老年人的福利。民主党主席洛锦熙表示，居民是理性和客观的，政府应该对他们有信心，并公布更多交通数据以便进行更有意义的讨论。
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From tropics to tundra: why Filipinos are flocking to Iceland
Filipinos are increasingly migrating to Iceland in search of better opportunities, particularly in the healthcare sector. Despite the stark geographical and cultural differences, Iceland has emerged as a promising destination for Filipinos, offering higher wages, job stability, and a gateway to Europe. As of last year, the Filipino community in Iceland numbered 2,631, making them the largest Asian group and the fifth-largest foreign nationality in the country. This influx is most noticeable in Iceland's healthcare system, where Filipino nurses have become vital in addressing staffing shortages.
The significant presence of Filipino nurses, who constitute 70% of the foreign nursing workforce at Landspitali, Iceland's only university hospital, highlights their critical role. These nurses are not only attracted by the substantial salary increase—around 650,000 krona per month compared to just US$490 in the Philippines—but also by the respect and professional autonomy they experience. Challenges such as language barriers exist, yet the benefits and opportunities in Iceland and its Nordic neighbors continue to draw Filipino healthcare professionals. The trend suggests that by 2030, there could be 10,000 Filipino nurses across the Nordic region, further strengthening the healthcare systems in countries like Norway, Denmark, and Sweden.
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Filipinos are increasingly migrating to Iceland in search of better opportunities, particularly in the healthcare sector. Despite the stark geographical and cultural differences, Iceland has emerged as a promising destination for Filipinos, offering higher wages, job stability, and a gateway to Europe. As of last year, the Filipino community in Iceland numbered 2,631, making them the largest Asian group and the fifth-largest foreign nationality in the country. This influx is most noticeable in Iceland's healthcare system, where Filipino nurses have become vital in addressing staffing shortages.
The significant presence of Filipino nurses, who constitute 70% of the foreign nursing workforce at Landspitali, Iceland's only university hospital, highlights their critical role. These nurses are not only attracted by the substantial salary increase—around 650,000 krona per month compared to just US$490 in the Philippines—but also by the respect and professional autonomy they experience. Challenges such as language barriers exist, yet the benefits and opportunities in Iceland and its Nordic neighbors continue to draw Filipino healthcare professionals. The trend suggests that by 2030, there could be 10,000 Filipino nurses across the Nordic region, further strengthening the healthcare systems in countries like Norway, Denmark, and Sweden.
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Belarus strongman set to win a 7th term in an election the opposition calls a farce
Belarusians began voting in an election where President Alexander Lukashenko is expected to secure a seventh term unchallenged, extending his nearly 30-year authoritarian rule. As a long-time leader closely aligned with Moscow, Lukashenko's continued presidency seems assured amid a tightly controlled political environment. Since coming to power in 1994, he has maintained a strong grip on Belarus, and this election is the first since he suppressed mass protests in 2020.
The 2020 protests were sparked by accusations of election rigging, leading to a severe crackdown by authorities, with over a thousand people still imprisoned. Many of Lukashenko's political opponents are incarcerated or exiled, reflecting the lack of political competition. Additionally, Lukashenko's alignment with Russia has been evident as he allowed Belarusian territory to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This ongoing relationship with Moscow and the suppression of dissent highlight the challenges faced by opposition forces in Belarus.
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Belarusians began voting in an election where President Alexander Lukashenko is expected to secure a seventh term unchallenged, extending his nearly 30-year authoritarian rule. As a long-time leader closely aligned with Moscow, Lukashenko's continued presidency seems assured amid a tightly controlled political environment. Since coming to power in 1994, he has maintained a strong grip on Belarus, and this election is the first since he suppressed mass protests in 2020.
The 2020 protests were sparked by accusations of election rigging, leading to a severe crackdown by authorities, with over a thousand people still imprisoned. Many of Lukashenko's political opponents are incarcerated or exiled, reflecting the lack of political competition. Additionally, Lukashenko's alignment with Russia has been evident as he allowed Belarusian territory to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This ongoing relationship with Moscow and the suppression of dissent highlight the challenges faced by opposition forces in Belarus.
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India, Modi mark Republic Day with Indonesia’s Prabowo
India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with a grand parade showcasing military strength and cultural diversity, with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the guest of honour. The event took place on Kartavayapath in New Delhi, attended by tens of thousands who braved the cold to witness the display. The parade commemorates the adoption of India's Constitution on January 26, 1950, a significant milestone following the country's independence from British rule.
The parade featured soldiers from India's military and paramilitary forces, accompanied by bands and vibrant cultural floats. Among these was a depiction of the Maha Kumbh festival, highlighting India's rich cultural tapestry. For the first time, a contingent from the Indonesian National Armed Forces participated, symbolizing strengthened ties between India and Indonesia. Historically, India has invited international leaders to this event to foster diplomatic relations, with past guests including French President Emmanuel Macron and former US President Barack Obama. The avenue, previously known as Rajpath, was renamed Kartavayapath as part of the 75th anniversary of Indian independence celebrations, underscoring the nation's ongoing transformation and growth.
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India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with a grand parade showcasing military strength and cultural diversity, with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the guest of honour. The event took place on Kartavayapath in New Delhi, attended by tens of thousands who braved the cold to witness the display. The parade commemorates the adoption of India's Constitution on January 26, 1950, a significant milestone following the country's independence from British rule.
The parade featured soldiers from India's military and paramilitary forces, accompanied by bands and vibrant cultural floats. Among these was a depiction of the Maha Kumbh festival, highlighting India's rich cultural tapestry. For the first time, a contingent from the Indonesian National Armed Forces participated, symbolizing strengthened ties between India and Indonesia. Historically, India has invited international leaders to this event to foster diplomatic relations, with past guests including French President Emmanuel Macron and former US President Barack Obama. The avenue, previously known as Rajpath, was renamed Kartavayapath as part of the 75th anniversary of Indian independence celebrations, underscoring the nation's ongoing transformation and growth.
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China tells India Yarlung Tsangpo mega dam in Tibet will not be at ‘expense of neighbours’
中国试图向印度保证，其在西藏高原建设的超大型水坝项目不会损害邻国利益。该水坝位于雅鲁藏布江上，预计将成为全球最大的水电项目，但也引发了对其对下游布拉马普特拉河水源影响的严重担忧，这条河对数百万印度民众至关重要。
这一项目可能加剧水资源的竞争，印度也计划加强自身的水坝建设，进而威胁到两国之间近期减少紧张局势的努力。中国驻印度大使馆的代理大使王磊在一篇文章中回应了这些担忧，称批评该项目的人误将其视为“中国的武器”。他强调，中国始终遵循与邻国建立友谊与合作伙伴关系的政策，并不会追求单方面利益。
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中国试图向印度保证，其在西藏高原建设的超大型水坝项目不会损害邻国利益。该水坝位于雅鲁藏布江上，预计将成为全球最大的水电项目，但也引发了对其对下游布拉马普特拉河水源影响的严重担忧，这条河对数百万印度民众至关重要。
这一项目可能加剧水资源的竞争，印度也计划加强自身的水坝建设，进而威胁到两国之间近期减少紧张局势的努力。中国驻印度大使馆的代理大使王磊在一篇文章中回应了这些担忧，称批评该项目的人误将其视为“中国的武器”。他强调，中国始终遵循与邻国建立友谊与合作伙伴关系的政策，并不会追求单方面利益。
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China has brokered another ceasefire in Myanmar civil war. But will it hold?
By Fan Chen
The latest China-brokered truce in Myanmar’s civil war is likely to hold for now but lasting peace may still be a pipe dream, according to observers.
Myanmar’s military government and a major northeastern ethnic rebel group agreed to a ceasefire this month in the Chinese border city of Kunming – the second such pact to be signed there in just over a year.
The agreement between the incumbent junta and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) took effect on January 18, China’s foreign ministry announced last Monday.
The MNDAA, made up of the ethnic Chinese Kokang minority, is part of Myanmar’s “Three Brotherhood Alliance” rebel coalition.
China shares a 2,000km (1,242-mile) border with Myanmar, and shares close ties with both the junta and rebel groups. Beijing has been deeply involved in mediation as the fighting impacts border stability and disrupts trade, and puts its substantial infrastructure investment in Myanmar at risk.
In early January last year, the two sides signed their first ceasefire in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan – the southwestern Chinese province bordering Myanmar. But the deal fell apart within six months.
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By Fan Chen
The latest China-brokered truce in Myanmar’s civil war is likely to hold for now but lasting peace may still be a pipe dream, according to observers.
Myanmar’s military government and a major northeastern ethnic rebel group agreed to a ceasefire this month in the Chinese border city of Kunming – the second such pact to be signed there in just over a year.
The agreement between the incumbent junta and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) took effect on January 18, China’s foreign ministry announced last Monday.
The MNDAA, made up of the ethnic Chinese Kokang minority, is part of Myanmar’s “Three Brotherhood Alliance” rebel coalition.
China shares a 2,000km (1,242-mile) border with Myanmar, and shares close ties with both the junta and rebel groups. Beijing has been deeply involved in mediation as the fighting impacts border stability and disrupts trade, and puts its substantial infrastructure investment in Myanmar at risk.
In early January last year, the two sides signed their first ceasefire in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan – the southwestern Chinese province bordering Myanmar. But the deal fell apart within six months.
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European fintech firms eyeing Hong Kong as Asia base, Paul Chan says
一些欧洲领先的金融科技公司计划将香港作为其在亚洲的基地。香港财政司司长陈茂波在瑞士全球经济论坛期间指出，此行旨在扩大香港的国际网络，并强调北京对合作的支持为全球经济提供了稳定性。
陈茂波在为期五天的行程中与多位金融官员和商界领袖会面，邀请他们带领代表团访问香港及大湾区，探讨商业机会。他透露，欧洲的金融科技公司在会议上表达了希望在香港落户的意向，尽管未透露具体公司名称。他表示，香港将继续加大宣传力度，让更多国内外朋友了解并参与香港的发展。
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一些欧洲领先的金融科技公司计划将香港作为其在亚洲的基地。香港财政司司长陈茂波在瑞士全球经济论坛期间指出，此行旨在扩大香港的国际网络，并强调北京对合作的支持为全球经济提供了稳定性。
陈茂波在为期五天的行程中与多位金融官员和商界领袖会面，邀请他们带领代表团访问香港及大湾区，探讨商业机会。他透露，欧洲的金融科技公司在会议上表达了希望在香港落户的意向，尽管未透露具体公司名称。他表示，香港将继续加大宣传力度，让更多国内外朋友了解并参与香港的发展。
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In Malaysia, a Rohingya bodybuilder chases Mr Olympia glory: ‘anything is possible’
在经历了家乡缅甸若开邦的暴力和贫困后，30岁的罗兴亚难民法鲁克·阿里安正在追求成为首位在国际健美赛事“奥林匹亚”比赛的罗兴亚健美运动员的梦想。他在青少年时期曾遭到缅甸军队的枪击，随后逃往马来西亚，最终在吉隆坡找到安全。在他看来，身体的力量象征着他对自己民族的重新定义和抗争。
法鲁克的故事不仅仅是个人的奋斗，他的经历反映了罗兴亚社区在过去几年中所遭受的苦难与歧视。年轻时目睹同胞权利被剥夺，他感受到社区的无力与绝望。如今，通过健美运动，他不仅在塑造自己的身体，也在努力改变外界对罗兴亚人的看法，力求展示出他们的韧性与力量。
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在经历了家乡缅甸若开邦的暴力和贫困后，30岁的罗兴亚难民法鲁克·阿里安正在追求成为首位在国际健美赛事“奥林匹亚”比赛的罗兴亚健美运动员的梦想。他在青少年时期曾遭到缅甸军队的枪击，随后逃往马来西亚，最终在吉隆坡找到安全。在他看来，身体的力量象征着他对自己民族的重新定义和抗争。
法鲁克的故事不仅仅是个人的奋斗，他的经历反映了罗兴亚社区在过去几年中所遭受的苦难与歧视。年轻时目睹同胞权利被剥夺，他感受到社区的无力与绝望。如今，通过健美运动，他不仅在塑造自己的身体，也在努力改变外界对罗兴亚人的看法，力求展示出他们的韧性与力量。
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‘Deficit woes won’t affect first stage of Hong Kong’s hospital development push’
香港的首个为期十年的医疗基础设施升级计划将不会受到政府预算赤字的影响。这一消息由即将卸任的香港公立医院系统负责人高拔陞宣布。他表示，尽管政府预计会有近1000亿港元的赤字，但这一计划的第一阶段已经进入了后期阶段，建设工作不会因此受到影响。此外，他也提到，计划中的惩罚机制以减少医疗事故，并不会影响医护人员的士气。
高拔陞在接受电视采访时解释说，第一阶段的建设计划是一个长期项目，医院的使用寿命通常在40至80年，因此无法在现阶段判断赤字对第二阶段计划的影响。他还谈到正在审查的医护人员薪酬机制，包括奖励和惩罚制度，并强调这与财政赤字无关。这显示政府在预算压力下仍然重视长远的医疗发展，致力于提升公共医疗服务的质量和安全。
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香港的首个为期十年的医疗基础设施升级计划将不会受到政府预算赤字的影响。这一消息由即将卸任的香港公立医院系统负责人高拔陞宣布。他表示，尽管政府预计会有近1000亿港元的赤字，但这一计划的第一阶段已经进入了后期阶段，建设工作不会因此受到影响。此外，他也提到，计划中的惩罚机制以减少医疗事故，并不会影响医护人员的士气。
高拔陞在接受电视采访时解释说，第一阶段的建设计划是一个长期项目，医院的使用寿命通常在40至80年，因此无法在现阶段判断赤字对第二阶段计划的影响。他还谈到正在审查的医护人员薪酬机制，包括奖励和惩罚制度，并强调这与财政赤字无关。这显示政府在预算压力下仍然重视长远的医疗发展，致力于提升公共医疗服务的质量和安全。
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Thailand’s plan to legalise casinos opposed by most citizens: poll
Many Thais disapprove of the government's plan to allow investments in casinos and legalize online gambling, despite promises of economic benefits. According to a survey by the National Institute of Development Administration, 59% of respondents oppose the development of casinos and entertainment complexes in Thailand. While 29% support both initiatives, a significant portion of the population remains cautious about the potential societal impacts.
The government's push for legalizing gambling is met with resistance, as 69% of those surveyed oppose online gambling aimed at supporting casinos. This opposition has become more vocal, with public demonstrations highlighting concerns about the potential harm to future generations. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra argues that these entertainment complexes could become major tourist attractions, creating jobs and boosting the economy, but it remains to be seen if these assurances will alleviate public concerns.
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Many Thais disapprove of the government's plan to allow investments in casinos and legalize online gambling, despite promises of economic benefits. According to a survey by the National Institute of Development Administration, 59% of respondents oppose the development of casinos and entertainment complexes in Thailand. While 29% support both initiatives, a significant portion of the population remains cautious about the potential societal impacts.
The government's push for legalizing gambling is met with resistance, as 69% of those surveyed oppose online gambling aimed at supporting casinos. This opposition has become more vocal, with public demonstrations highlighting concerns about the potential harm to future generations. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra argues that these entertainment complexes could become major tourist attractions, creating jobs and boosting the economy, but it remains to be seen if these assurances will alleviate public concerns.
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As China’s rural healthcare loses out to cities, villagers, many elderly, are suffering
David Wei's struggle to secure timely medical care for his nephew highlights the severe healthcare access challenges in rural China. Wei had to carry his nephew for 3 kilometers to reach help after a heart attack, a journey that underscored the critical delays in emergency response. Despite improvements in infrastructure, such as road repairs, the delays persisted due to the time taken for ambulances to arrive from urban centers, ultimately contributing to the dire outcome when his nephew had a second cardiac arrest.
This incident is emblematic of the broader healthcare access issues facing China's ageing rural population, where approximately 120 million people are over 60. The disparity between urban and rural healthcare services poses a critical challenge as the nation navigates its development priorities. Experts emphasize the need for a balanced approach between enhancing pensions and healthcare for the elderly and pursuing industrial growth and urbanization, goals that Beijing pledged to address simultaneously at a major Communist Party meeting. The situation in places like Duan Yao county illustrates the urgency of these healthcare improvements in supporting rural communities.
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David Wei's struggle to secure timely medical care for his nephew highlights the severe healthcare access challenges in rural China. Wei had to carry his nephew for 3 kilometers to reach help after a heart attack, a journey that underscored the critical delays in emergency response. Despite improvements in infrastructure, such as road repairs, the delays persisted due to the time taken for ambulances to arrive from urban centers, ultimately contributing to the dire outcome when his nephew had a second cardiac arrest.
This incident is emblematic of the broader healthcare access issues facing China's ageing rural population, where approximately 120 million people are over 60. The disparity between urban and rural healthcare services poses a critical challenge as the nation navigates its development priorities. Experts emphasize the need for a balanced approach between enhancing pensions and healthcare for the elderly and pursuing industrial growth and urbanization, goals that Beijing pledged to address simultaneously at a major Communist Party meeting. The situation in places like Duan Yao county illustrates the urgency of these healthcare improvements in supporting rural communities.
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Bloom and gloom: China’s Spring Festival flower sales hit by weak demand, warm weather
随着农历新年的临近，中国的消费趋势面临挑战。在这个国家最大的节日之一，超过十亿人出行、购物、用餐和赠送礼物，反映出经济的脉动。然而，花卉市场的销售前景却不容乐观，花商们对今年的销售持谨慎态度，主要由于消费者对庆祝活动和节日装饰的支出意愿减弱。
在广东和香港，热闹的花卉博览会是农历新年的传统之一，各种花卉和柑橘植物象征着吉祥与繁荣。比如，金橘和其他盆栽水果被认为能带来好运，而兰花则代表着繁荣与奢华。尽管如此，花卉供应的增加和零售价格的下降（较去年下降约10%至20%）显示出消费者的购买力正在减弱，这可能影响到整个春节期间的消费信心。
花卉博览会、票房、旅游收入和餐饮业的表现，都是评估春节期间消费兴趣的重要指标。随着即将到来的蛇年，市场的低迷状况可能预示着国内需求的疲软，这对经济复苏的前景构成了挑战。
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随着农历新年的临近，中国的消费趋势面临挑战。在这个国家最大的节日之一，超过十亿人出行、购物、用餐和赠送礼物，反映出经济的脉动。然而，花卉市场的销售前景却不容乐观，花商们对今年的销售持谨慎态度，主要由于消费者对庆祝活动和节日装饰的支出意愿减弱。
在广东和香港，热闹的花卉博览会是农历新年的传统之一，各种花卉和柑橘植物象征着吉祥与繁荣。比如，金橘和其他盆栽水果被认为能带来好运，而兰花则代表着繁荣与奢华。尽管如此，花卉供应的增加和零售价格的下降（较去年下降约10%至20%）显示出消费者的购买力正在减弱，这可能影响到整个春节期间的消费信心。
花卉博览会、票房、旅游收入和餐饮业的表现，都是评估春节期间消费兴趣的重要指标。随着即将到来的蛇年，市场的低迷状况可能预示着国内需求的疲软，这对经济复苏的前景构成了挑战。
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US Starbucks slaps ban on toilet use by non-patrons, raises concerns over China policy
星巴克在北美门店实施的新政策禁止非付费顾客进入，引发了中国社交媒体的热议。这一政策于1月13日宣布，结束了自2018年以来允许顾客进入店内使用洗手间或避难的“开放政策”。
这一政策的出台源于2018年美国一间星巴克门店因阻止两名黑人男性使用洗手间并报警而引发的公关危机。此后，星巴克实施的开放政策被视为重要举措，尤其是在公共厕所不足的地区。此次政策变动引发了对品牌在中国市场是否会采取类似措施的讨论，许多中国城市，包括首都北京，法律规定商家在营业时间内必须为非顾客提供免费厕所使用权。
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星巴克在北美门店实施的新政策禁止非付费顾客进入，引发了中国社交媒体的热议。这一政策于1月13日宣布，结束了自2018年以来允许顾客进入店内使用洗手间或避难的“开放政策”。
这一政策的出台源于2018年美国一间星巴克门店因阻止两名黑人男性使用洗手间并报警而引发的公关危机。此后，星巴克实施的开放政策被视为重要举措，尤其是在公共厕所不足的地区。此次政策变动引发了对品牌在中国市场是否会采取类似措施的讨论，许多中国城市，包括首都北京，法律规定商家在营业时间内必须为非顾客提供免费厕所使用权。
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