Algeria Apologizes for Amoura’s AFCON 2025 Gesture
Algeria’s Football Federation has apologised to DR Congo after Mohamed Amoura’s post-match gesture at AFCON 2025 sparked debate over respect and cultural sensitivity.
Singapore: US Intervention in Venezuela Worries Small States
Singapore’s Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong warns that the US intervention in Venezuela poses risks for small states, challenging international law and UN principles.
Tianjin Fantasy Express: China’s First Immersive Cultural Train
China’s first immersive cultural train, the Tianjin Fantasy Express, debuts in Jan 2026, featuring 10 themed carriages from Peking Opera to panoramic cinema on the Tianjin–Beijing route.
Aussie Biosensor Detects ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Water Fast
A portable biosensor from Australia’s La Trobe University can detect PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ on the spot, giving fast yes/no answers for safer water testing.
‘Long Way Home’: Reclaiming Africa’s Cultural Heritage Through Performance
Nigerian artist Jelili Atticu uses performance art in European museums to spark a fresh dialogue on Africa’s looted artifacts, cultural ownership, and the push for repatriation.
Xi Chairs CPC Meeting on State Institutions’ Reports
Xi Jinping chaired a CPC leadership meeting on Jan 8 to hear work reports from major state institutions, aiming to align 2026 goals across legislature, government, advisory, judiciary, and procuratorate.
China’s Commerce Ministry Probes Meta’s AI Startup Manus Deal
China’s Ministry of Commerce is probing Meta’s acquisition of AI startup Manus over export controls and investment rules, marking a key tech deal review in Beijing.
Inside South Korea’s China Visit: Chips, Batteries & EVs
Learn how South Korea’s recent state visit to China is driving deeper cooperation in semiconductors, batteries, and EVs, promising stronger supply chains and tech growth across Asia.
China Tightens Export Controls on Dual-Use Items to Japan
China has tightened export controls on dual-use items to Japan. Here’s a quick breakdown of what dual-use means and why it matters for tech and startups.
Ne Zha 2 Becomes 2025’s Top-Grossing Film with $2.24B
Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2 grossed $2.244B worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing film released in 2025, per Box Office Mojo.