Rain Turns Sea Red on Iran’s Hormuz Island
Rainfall on Iran’s Hormuz Island turned the Red Beach waters deep crimson as iron-rich soil washed into the Persian Gulf, creating a rare natural spectacle.
Hainan Free Trade Port Boosts Chinese Mainland Market Connectivity
Discover how Hainan Free Trade Port’s Special Customs Operations and modernized ports & airways are powering the Chinese mainland’s connections to global markets.
Asia News Wrap: Thailand’s Feb 8, 2026 Elections & More
Thailand’s parliament dissolves, setting February 8, 2026 elections. Plus Japan’s AI robot, South Korea’s EV startup surge and Vietnam’s e-commerce boom in this week’s Asia News Wrap.
Russia sues Euroclear as EU debates frozen assets for Ukraine
Russia has sued Euroclear over frozen assets as EU leaders meet in Brussels to discuss using those funds to support Ukraine.
UNSC to Meet on Venezuela After U.S. Oil Blockade Claims
The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on December 23 after Venezuela accused the U.S. of an illegal oil blockade, raising tensions over sovereignty and regional stability.
TikTok Secures US Joint Venture with Oracle, Silver Lake & MGX
TikTok has signed binding agreements with Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX to form a 50% American-owned US joint venture, protecting data and securing its future in the United States.
Viruses Hijack Bacteria with Hidden RNA Messages
New research reveals how tiny viral RNAs act as Trojan horses to hijack bacterial DNA replication, opening doors to novel antimicrobial strategies.
Chinese Mainland and Ukraine Hold Political Consultations in Beijing
Chinese mainland’s Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Bin and Ukraine’s Serhiy Kyslytsya met in Beijing to discuss deepening bilateral cooperation and exchange views on the Ukraine crisis.
Ocean Flower Island: Danzhou’s Seaside Gem Fuels Hainan Free Trade Port
Discover Ocean Flower Island in Danzhou, Hainan: a stunning artificial paradise blending seaside living, culture and business as the Hainan Free Trade Port officially launches in 2025.
EU to lend €90bn to Ukraine for defense, freezes plan to tap Russian assets
EU leaders agreed this Friday to borrow €90bn from the EU budget to lend to Ukraine for defense, sidestepping plans to tap frozen Russian assets for now.