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Beijing’s Show of Force: China Launches Major Drills Around Taiwan

  A ship fires a weapon during drills east of Taiwan in this screenshot from a video released by the Eastern Theater Command of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Dec. 29, 2025. China has initiated large‑scale military exercises around Taiwan, framing the operation as a direct warning to what it calls separatist forces and foreign supporters. The drills, conducted by the Eastern Theatre Command, involve naval vessels, fighter jets, and missile units operating across multiple zones encircling the island. According to Chinese military statements, the exercises are designed to test joint combat readiness and simulate scenarios such as blockades and precision strikes. The move follows heightened tensions over international engagement with Taiwan, including recent arms sales and diplomatic exchanges that Beijing views as challenges to its sovereignty claims. Taiwan’s defense ministry denounced the drills as coercive and destabilizing, placing its military on alert and trac...
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Celebrating the New Year Around the World


As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, cities across the globe will light up with vibrant celebrations, each infused with unique local traditions. From the iconic fireworks over Sydney Harbour to the joyous bell-ringing ceremonies in Tokyo, the world is ready to welcome 2025 with open arms.

Sydney, Australia

In Sydney, over a million people are expected to gather along the harbour to witness the spectacular fireworks display. This year, British pop star Robbie Williams will lead a singalong, and Indigenous ceremonies will honor Australia's first people.

Tokyo, Japan

In Japan, the New Year is welcomed with the ringing of temple bells, a tradition known as "joya no kane." This ceremony, believed to have originated in China, involves ringing the bell 108 times to symbolize the 108 earthly desires and anxieties mentioned in Buddhism.

 Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland was the first major city to welcome 2025, with thousands of revelers gathering at Sky Tower for a dazzling fireworks display and a light show recognizing the city's Indigenous tribes.

Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta will feature a spectacular fireworks display and a drone show featuring 800 drones. The countdown to midnight will take place at the iconic Hotel Indonesia Roundabout.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

In Brazil, people will light candles and throw white flowers into the ocean as an offering to Yemoja, the Queen of the Ocean. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.

Edinburgh, Scotland

In Scotland, the tradition of "first footing" is observed, where the first person to cross the threshold of a home after midnight brings gifts of coal, salt, shortbread, and whiskey to ensure good luck for the household.

These diverse celebrations reflect the rich cultural heritage and traditions of each region, making New Year's Eve a truly global event. As we bid farewell to 2024, let's embrace the new year with hope, joy, and a sense of unity.



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