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China plans space-based AI data centres

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China plans space-based AI data centres

BEIJING, Jan 29 (ABC): China plans to build space-based artificial intelligence data centres over the next five years, state media reported on Thursday, as the country steps up efforts to expand its digital and space capabilities.

China’s main space contractor, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), said it aims to construct “gigawatt-class space digital-intelligence infrastructure,” according to a five-year development plan cited by China Central Television (CCTV).

Processing data in orbit

According to the report, the planned space-based data centres will integrate cloud, edge and device-level computing systems. This approach will allow data generated on Earth to be processed directly in space.

The system will combine computing power, storage capacity and transmission bandwidth. As a result, China aims to reduce pressure on land-based energy systems while supporting the rapid growth of AI technologies.

Comparison with SpaceX plans

Meanwhile, U.S. company SpaceX has also announced plans to develop orbital AI data centres. Its founder, Elon Musk, said the company plans to launch solar-powered AI data centre satellites within the next two to three years.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos last week, Musk said space offers a cost-effective solution for AI due to abundant solar energy. He added that solar generation in orbit can produce significantly more power than ground-based systems.

SpaceX expects to use funds from its planned initial public offering to support the development of orbital AI infrastructure.

China’s long-term space strategy

China also plans to shift energy-intensive AI processing into orbit by developing large solar-powered hubs. According to a December CASC policy document, the country aims to build an industrial-scale “Space Cloud” by 2030.

The document identifies the integration of space-based solar power with AI computing as a core element of China’s upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan. The strategy aligns with broader goals to strengthen the country’s digital economy and space industry.

Beyond data centres

In addition, CASC said it plans to begin suborbital space tourism operations within the next five years. Over time, the programme will expand into orbital space tourism, CCTV reported.

China and the United States continue to compete as both countries seek to turn space exploration into a commercially viable industry. Beyond economic potential, space is also viewed as a domain with strategic and security importance.

CASC has said it aims to transform China into a world-leading space power by 2045.

Launch capacity and future ambitions

Although China has made rapid progress in launch capacity, it continues to work on reusable rocket technology. Reusability is critical to reducing launch costs and expanding access to space.

China carried out a record 93 space launches last year, according to official data. The growth was supported by the country’s expanding commercial spaceflight sector.

Earlier this week, China inaugurated its first School of Interstellar Navigation at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The institute aims to train future experts in deep space navigation and propulsion.

According to Xinhua, the next decade will be a key period for technological breakthroughs that could reshape deep space exploration.

Army fully prepared to defend Pakistan against all threats: COAS

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Army fully prepared to defend Pakistan against all threats: COAS

ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (ABC): Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces (COAS & CDF), Syed Asim Munir, on Wednesday said the Pakistan Armed Forces remain fully prepared to defend Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against all threats.

He made the remarks during his visit to Bahawalpur Garrison, where he reviewed operational readiness and future security planning.

Briefing on operational preparedness

During the visit, the army chief received a detailed briefing on operational, training and administrative matters of Bahawalpur Corps. The briefing focused on readiness for future battlefields and the growing role of technology in warfare.

Officials highlighted measures taken to improve coordination, training standards and rapid response capability. They also shared updates on preparations for multi-domain operations.

Field exercise demonstrates combat capability

Later, the COAS & CDF witnessed a high-intensity field exercise, “Steadfast Resolve,” at Khairpur Tamewali. The exercise demonstrated the armed forces’ ability to operate in a modern combat environment.

The drill featured:

  • unmanned aerial systems, including drones

  • advanced surveillance assets

  • electronic warfare capabilities

  • modern command-and-control systems

According to ISPR, the exercise reflected the armed forces’ focus on technology-based and multi-domain operations.

Troops praised for morale and professionalism

While addressing officers and troops, the army chief praised their high morale and professional skills. He said strong training and discipline remain vital for national defence.

Moreover, he stressed the need to maintain high readiness levels to meet future security challenges. He added that threats continue to evolve and demand constant preparedness.

Focus on future warfare and transformation

The COAS & CDF said the nature of warfare has changed due to rapid technological progress. He noted that future conflicts will rely more on technological manoeuvres than physical movement.

Therefore, he said, the Pakistan Armed Forces are undergoing a major transformation across multiple domains. He added that innovation, indigenisation and adaptation remain central to this process.

Education and digital skills initiatives

Earlier, the army chief inaugurated the ROHI eSkills Learning Hub (STP). The facility aims to promote digital skills among students, especially in Southern Punjab.

He also inaugurated the APS Abbasia Campus. Through this initiative, the Pakistan Army reaffirmed its commitment to quality education and character building.

Review of maintenance and support systems

Later, the COAS & CDF visited the EME Regional Workshop. There, he reviewed maintenance systems used to sustain modern military platforms.

Officials briefed him on advanced technologies, indigenisation efforts and combat support measures that help ensure operational readiness.

Tribute to martyrs

Upon arrival at Bahawalpur Garrison, the army chief was received by the Commander Bahawalpur Corps. He laid a floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada and offered Fateha.

Through this gesture, he paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the defence of the country.

Pakistan’s New Domestic Violence Law

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Pakistan’s New Domestic Violence Law

By Dure Zahra Malik

For many years, domestic violence in Pakistan remained hidden inside homes. Although people knew it existed, the law rarely intervened unless extreme harm occurred. As a result, many victims stayed silent and unprotected.

However, this situation has now changed.

With the enforcement of the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) law, Islamabad has taken a clear legal step to address abuse inside the home. The law defines domestic violence, sets punishments, and explains how victims can seek immediate protection.

How the law defines domestic violence

Previously, abuse was often understood only as physical harm. Now, the law clearly expands that definition.

Domestic violence includes physical harm, but it also covers emotional and psychological abuse, verbal humiliation, sexual coercion, economic control, stalking, harassment, and threats that create fear. As a result, victims no longer need visible injuries to seek legal help.

In simple terms, the law recognises that violence can be emotional, financial, or psychological as well.

Punishment under the new law

The law clearly explains the consequences for offenders when domestic violence does not already fall under the Pakistan Penal Code.

  • The offender can face six months to three years in jail

  • A fine between Rs20,000 and Rs100,000 may also be imposed

  • This fine is paid directly to the victim as compensation

In addition, anyone who helps or encourages domestic violence can receive the same punishment.

Meanwhile, if a court issues a protection order and the offender violates it, that violation becomes a separate crime. In such cases, the offender can face up to one year in prison along with a fine of up to Rs100,000.

How quickly courts must act

Speed plays a critical role in domestic violence cases. Therefore, the law sets clear timelines to prevent delays.

Courts must fix the first hearing within seven days. The accused must respond within seven days, and the court should decide the case within 90 days.

Moreover, judges can issue interim protection orders immediately if they believe further violence is likely. As a result, victims do not have to wait for prolonged court proceedings to feel safe.

Right to stay in the home

Another major change relates to housing.

Under the new law, victims have the legal right to stay in the shared household, even if the property is not registered in their name. At the same time, courts can order the offender to leave the house, stay away from the victim, or stop all forms of contact, including phone calls and messages.

Although shelter homes remain available, the law makes it clear that victims should not be forced out of their homes because of abuse.

Financial relief and child protection

Domestic violence often involves financial pressure. Therefore, the law allows courts to order offenders to pay for medical treatment, loss of income, maintenance, and child support.

If the offender refuses to comply, courts can direct employers or other debtors to transfer money directly to the victim.

In addition, the law protects children, elderly persons, and persons with disabilities. Courts can issue temporary custody or protection orders to ensure their safety.

Support beyond the courtroom

To support victims further, the law establishes Protection Officers and Protection Committees. These bodies help survivors access legal aid, medical care, and shelter services. As a result, victims are not left to navigate the system alone.

Why this law marks a turning point

This law does not claim to end domestic violence overnight. However, it removes the silence that allowed abuse to remain hidden for decades.

For the first time in Islamabad, domestic violence is defined clearly, punished clearly, and addressed through a structured legal process. As a result, abuse inside the home is no longer treated as a private issue beyond the reach of the law.

For now, the law applies only to Islamabad. However, its impact may shape future legal reforms across the country.

UK PM, China’s Xi meet to ‘reset’ bilateral ties

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UK PM, China’s Xi meet to ‘reset’ bilateral ties

BEIJING, Jan 29 (ABC): British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday to advance bilateral relations and expand economic cooperation.

President Xi welcomed Starmer at the Great Hall of the People. The leaders held talks lasting about 40 minutes. They later shared lunch. Starmer was also scheduled to meet Premier Li Qiang the same day.

The meeting marked the first visit by a British prime minister to China since 2018.

Economic ties at the centre of talks

Starmer has made closer engagement with China a priority for his government. He hopes stronger ties will support growth and trade.

“China is a vital global partner,” Starmer said at the meeting. He added that Britain wants a practical and forward-looking relationship.

President Xi said relations between the two countries have changed over time. He said China remains ready to build a stable and long-term partnership with Britain.

Shift toward renewed engagement

Relations between Britain and China slowed in recent years. However, Starmer has signalled a return to dialogue since taking office.

He said Britain must stay connected to the world. According to him, global events affect daily life at home, including prices and jobs.

Analysts said the visit reflects a wider effort by European countries to deepen engagement with China.

Positive expectations from both sides

Kerry Brown, a professor of Chinese studies at King’s College London, said both sides wanted the meeting to show progress.

He said neither country sought public disagreement. Instead, they aimed to highlight cooperation and shared goals.

China described the visit as timely and constructive. Officials said Beijing welcomes stronger political trust and practical cooperation.

Business delegation highlights priorities

More than 50 British business leaders joined Starmer on the trip. Their presence underscored the economic focus of the visit.

Speaking to business representatives, Starmer called for a “mature” relationship with China. He said cooperation should deliver clear benefits for both countries.

The visit also included informal cultural exchanges. Officials said these moments help build mutual understanding.

Cooperation on shared challenges

Downing Street said Britain and China would work together on issues linked to illegal migration.

Officials said the effort will focus on disrupting criminal networks. British and Chinese teams will share information and coordinate actions.

The cooperation aims to prevent criminal misuse of legitimate supply chains.

Dialogue remains a priority

Starmer said he would raise important issues during meetings. At the same time, he stressed the value of open communication.

Observers noted that the visit’s structure showed clear priorities. Meetings with senior leaders and business groups took centre stage.

As global conditions change, both Britain and China appear keen to keep dialogue open. Officials on both sides said cooperation remains important.

Online platforms roll out filters to curb AI slop

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Online platforms roll out filters to curb AI slop

NEW YORK, Jan 29 (ABC): As low-quality artificial intelligence content spreads rapidly online, major platforms are introducing new tools to help users limit what many now call “AI slop.”

Easy-to-use AI tools now allow anyone to create realistic images and videos using only short text prompts. As a result, social media feeds are increasingly filled with synthetic content.

Images of animals doing human tasks, fake celebrity scenes, and cartoon characters promoting products have become common across platforms.

Concerns grow over quality and authenticity

YouTube chief executive Neal Mohan said the rise of AI has raised concerns about low-quality, mass-produced content.

Many users share that concern. A Swiss engineer named Yves described AI slop as cheap and bland. He said it feels repetitive and lacks purpose. Similar views appear widely on online forums.

Meanwhile, some brands have turned frustration into marketing. Companies such as Equinox gyms and Almond Breeze have promoted themselves as real and human alternatives to synthetic content.

Tech leaders defend AI creativity

Not everyone agrees that AI-generated content lacks value.

Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella has urged people to focus less on labels and more on how AI can support creativity and productivity.

Some creators also defend the technology. Bob Doyle, a YouTube creator who works with AI tools, said criticism of AI slop often dismisses early creative ideas.

He added that what looks useless to one person may be the starting point for someone else.

Platforms respond with user controls

Still, online platforms are responding to user demand for more control.

Pinterest introduced a filter late last year that allows users to limit AI-generated images. The company said users asked to see fewer synthetic visuals.

TikTok rolled out a similar option on its video platform. Users can now reduce how often AI-created videos appear in their feeds.

YouTube, along with Instagram and Facebook, offers ways to lower exposure to synthetic imagery. However, these platforms do not provide a single filter dedicated only to AI content.

Earlier efforts focused on labels to warn viewers about AI-made videos. However, much synthetic content still appears without clear markings.

Smaller platforms take tougher action

Some smaller platforms have adopted stricter rules.

Streaming service Coda Music lets users report AI-generated tracks. Once confirmed, the platform labels those accounts as AI artists.

Coda founder Randy Fusee said many users actively help identify such content. He added that most listeners prefer music made by humans.

Coda also allows users to block AI-generated music from playlists entirely.

Artists seek human connection

Cara, a social network for artists and designers, also limits AI-generated content. The platform uses both automated tools and human moderators.

Cara founder Jingna Zhang said users value intention and emotion in creative work. She added that people connect more easily with human-made art, even when it is imperfect.

Balancing innovation with user trust

As AI tools grow more powerful, platforms face rising pressure to balance innovation with user expectations.

While some creators embrace AI, many users want clearer choices and stronger filters. As a result, content controls are becoming a key feature of online platforms.

Why some people keep the same coffee mug for years

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Why some people keep the same coffee mug for years

ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (ABC): Many people replace everyday items without thinking twice. A coffee mug cracks, fades, or goes out of style, and it is quickly replaced. However, some people do the opposite. They hold on to the same mug for years and use it every single morning.

At first, this may seem like a small habit. In reality, psychology suggests it reflects deeper personality traits and life choices.

They prefer familiarity over constant change

Some people enjoy new designs and trends. Others, however, find comfort in what they already know. Long-term mug users usually fall into the second group.

Instead of chasing novelty, they value stability. As a result, they feel less pressure to keep updating small things in life. Research in consumer psychology shows that people who resist frequent upgrades often feel calmer and more satisfied with what they own.

In other words, they understand that new is not always better.

They build emotional connections with objects

For them, the mug is more than a kitchen item. It holds memories. It may have been there during early mornings, stressful workdays, or quiet weekends.

Psychologists describe this as emotional attachment to objects. Over time, wear and tear add meaning rather than reduce value. Because of this, these individuals often extend the same care and loyalty to their relationships with people.

They remember moments. They keep letters. They value history.

They consume less and think more

In today’s world, people are encouraged to buy more and replace things quickly. However, those who keep the same mug often practice mindful consumption.

Before buying something new, they pause. They ask whether they truly need it. As a result, they avoid unnecessary spending and clutter.

Studies show that people who buy less but buy intentionally often report greater life satisfaction. This mindset usually applies to other areas too, such as clothing, stationery, or electronics.

They rely on daily rituals

Morning routines play an important role in emotional balance. Pouring coffee into the same mug each day creates a sense of order.

Behavioral psychology suggests that simple rituals help reduce anxiety. Therefore, when life feels uncertain, familiar actions offer comfort. For many, that morning coffee becomes a small moment of control in an unpredictable world.

Importantly, these rituals do not need to be complex. Even a single repeated habit can make a difference.

They are less affected by peer pressure

People who keep using an old mug often hear comments about it. Still, they continue.

This shows an ability to make personal choices without seeking approval. They know what works for them, and they are comfortable with it.

As a result, they tend to have clear boundaries and steady self-confidence. Whether it is about a mug or a major decision, they trust their judgment.

They value quality over quantity

Most long-term mug users chose their mug carefully at the start. They paid attention to weight, shape, and durability.

Because of this, they often prefer well-made items in general. Instead of buying cheap products repeatedly, they wait and invest in quality. Over time, this saves money and reduces waste.

More importantly, it reflects patience and long-term thinking.

They notice small sensory details

The feel of ceramic. The balance of the handle. The warmth against the hands.

People who stick with one mug are often sensitive to these details. They know what feels right to them. As a result, once they find it, they see no reason to keep searching.

This awareness suggests presence and attentiveness rather than pickiness.

They understand what “enough” really means

Perhaps the most important trait is their sense of sufficiency. One mug is enough. More options are unnecessary.

Psychologists link this idea to voluntary simplicity. People who practice it often feel less stressed and more content. Too many choices do not excite them. Instead, simplicity brings peace.

Overall, they understand that happiness does not increase with excess.

A small habit with a bigger meaning

Next time you see someone protecting their favorite mug in a shared kitchen, take a closer look.

This habit is not about resisting change. Instead, it reflects self-awareness, balance, and intentional living.

Sometimes, the most meaningful lessons come from ordinary routines. Even something as simple as choosing the same coffee mug every morning can reveal how a person approaches life.

Nipah Virus Explained: What You Need to Know

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Nipah Virus Explained: What You Need to Know

ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (ABC): Nipah virus is a rare but highly dangerous infectious disease that can spread from animals to humans and, in some cases, from person to person. Although outbreaks are uncommon, the virus is closely monitored by health authorities because it can cause severe illness, including brain inflammation and respiratory failure, and has recorded high fatality rates during past outbreaks.

The disease is classified as zoonotic, meaning it originates in animals and can spill over to humans under certain conditions. Over the past two decades, Nipah virus has caused several outbreaks in South and Southeast Asia, prompting governments and health agencies to maintain surveillance systems and emergency response plans.

What is Nipah virus and where does it come from

Nipah virus belongs to a group of viruses known as henipaviruses. Its natural hosts are fruit bats of the Pteropus genus, commonly referred to as flying foxes. These bats can carry the virus without showing signs of illness and shed it through saliva, urine, and droppings.

The virus was first identified in 1998–99 during an outbreak in Malaysia and Singapore. In that outbreak, fruit bats transmitted the virus to pigs, which acted as an intermediate host. People who worked closely with infected pigs, particularly farmers and slaughterhouse workers, became ill.

Subsequent outbreaks in Bangladesh and India revealed a different pattern, with infections often linked to contaminated food and limited human-to-human transmission.

Where outbreaks have occurred

Confirmed human outbreaks of Nipah virus have been reported in Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines. While outbreaks have been geographically limited, the bats that carry the virus are widely distributed across Asia, the South Pacific, and parts of Australia.

This wide natural range of the animal reservoir means the risk of spillover exists beyond the countries that have already reported cases, particularly in regions where people live or work close to bat habitats.

Symptoms and clinical features

Nipah virus infection can range from mild illness to severe, life-threatening disease. Some infected individuals may show few symptoms, while others deteriorate rapidly.

Early symptoms usually appear as a general viral illness and may include fever, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, cough, and difficulty breathing. Because these signs are non-specific, early cases can be difficult to identify without a clear exposure history.

In more severe cases, the virus affects the brain, leading to encephalitis. Symptoms at this stage can include confusion, drowsiness, disorientation, and seizures. Some patients progress to coma within 24 to 48 hours of neurological symptoms appearing.

Respiratory complications, including pneumonia and acute respiratory distress, have also been reported, particularly in outbreaks involving person-to-person transmission.

Incubation period

The incubation period for Nipah virus is typically between four and 14 days. In rare cases, symptoms have appeared several weeks after exposure. This long and variable incubation period complicates contact tracing and outbreak control.

How Nipah virus spreads

Nipah virus can spread in several ways.

Animal-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with infected animals such as fruit bats or pigs, or through exposure to their bodily fluids.

Food-borne transmission has been a major factor in some outbreaks. People have become infected after consuming raw date palm sap or fruit contaminated with saliva or urine from infected bats. This type of spillover from animals to humans is known as a spillover event.

Human-to-human transmission has been documented, particularly among family members, caregivers, and healthcare workers. The virus spreads through close contact with respiratory secretions or other body fluids of an infected person. While sustained community transmission has not been observed, clusters linked to close care have occurred.

Who is most at risk

People at higher risk of infection include those who live in or travel to areas with known outbreaks, individuals who have close contact with bats or pigs, and those who consume raw or unprocessed food products that may be contaminated.

Healthcare workers and caregivers are also at increased risk if appropriate infection-control measures are not followed, especially when treating patients with respiratory symptoms.

Testing and diagnosis

Because early symptoms resemble many common infections, doctors consider Nipah virus primarily in patients with relevant exposure histories. Laboratory testing is used to confirm infection, usually while the patient is still ill. Testing may also be performed after recovery for surveillance purposes.

Prompt diagnosis is critical, as early supportive care can improve outcomes and help prevent further spread.

Treatment and patient care

There is currently no licensed, widely available antiviral treatment specifically approved for Nipah virus infection. Care is mainly supportive and focuses on managing symptoms and complications.

Treatment may include rest, hydration, fever control, respiratory support, and management of neurological symptoms such as seizures. Severe cases often require intensive care.

Because the disease can worsen quickly, early medical attention is essential when Nipah virus is suspected.

Prevention and risk reduction

Reducing the risk of Nipah virus infection depends largely on minimizing exposure.

People living in or visiting affected areas are advised to practice good hand hygiene, avoid contact with bats and sick animals, and stay away from areas where bats roost.

Consumption of raw date palm sap should be avoided, and fruits should be washed thoroughly and peeled before eating. Fruit that appears partially eaten or contaminated should not be consumed.

Close contact with the blood or body fluids of anyone suspected of having Nipah virus should be avoided unless proper protective measures are in place.

Infection control in healthcare settings

Patients suspected or confirmed to have Nipah virus infection are managed under strict infection-control protocols in healthcare facilities. These include isolation, use of personal protective equipment, and controlled handling of waste and contaminated materials.

Such measures are essential to protect healthcare workers and prevent hospital-based transmission.

Vaccines and future research

At present, there is no licensed vaccine for general public use against Nipah virus. However, several vaccine candidates are under development, and international efforts are ongoing to improve preparedness against potential outbreaks.

Researchers are also studying antiviral therapies and monoclonal antibodies, though these are not yet widely available.

Why Nipah virus remains a global concern

Nipah virus continues to draw attention because of its high fatality rate in past outbreaks, its ability to infect the brain and respiratory system, and the absence of a specific, widely available treatment.

Health experts warn that environmental changes, human encroachment into wildlife habitats, and increased interaction between humans and animals could increase the risk of future spillover events.

For this reason, surveillance, public awareness, and rapid response remain key tools in preventing and controlling Nipah virus outbreaks.

Punjab wheat, oilseeds to benefit from winter rainfall

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Punjab wheat, oilseeds to benefit from winter rainfall

LAHORE, Jan 28 (ABC): Winter rains are bringing relief to Rabi crops across Punjab, especially wheat and oilseeds, as farmers face reduced water availability due to seasonal canal closures.

Agriculture and irrigation experts say the rainfall has improved soil moisture and supported crop growth at a critical stage. They add that the rains have eased pressure on farmers who rely on limited canal supplies during winter.

Wheat output outlook improves

The wheat crop, sown on more than 1.65 million acres across Punjab, is expected to produce around 20 million tonnes this year.

Large areas are also under oilseeds, including rapeseed, mustard and sunflower. Pulses such as gram have also been cultivated widely across the province.

“These rains reduce the need for artificial irrigation,” said Dr Ghulam Zakir Hassan Sial, Director of the Irrigation Research Institute, Punjab. He said rainfall of three to four millimetres can save the cost of one irrigation for farmers.

Relief for rain-fed and arid areas

Talking to Wealth Pakistan, Dr Sial said winter rains are especially important for barani, or rain-fed, areas because they directly affect the national food supply.

He said recent rainfall in Thal districts, including Mianwali, Bhakkar, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, Khushab, Sargodha and Jhang, has improved conditions in the arid belt.

He added that even canal-commanded areas have benefited after a prolonged dry spell. In the Pothohar region, he said, two to three rainfall spells during January and February are vital for achieving good wheat yields.

Rainfall offsets canal closures

Punjab has faced water shortages since December 26 after the closure of 21 major canals under the Tarbela and Mangla commands.

Experts say the winter rains have helped offset the impact of these closures on agriculture.

Agriculture specialists describe winter rain as a tonic for Rabi crops. The rainfall lowers temperatures and supplies natural nutrients, said Dr Anjum Ali Buttar, a consultant at the Punjab Agriculture Department.

He said smog during November and December blocked sunlight and slowed plant growth across Punjab. Rainfall reduced smog levels and improved photosynthesis, helping crops recover.

Dr Buttar added that rainwater deposits natural nitrogen into the soil, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers and lowering production costs. He said wheat grows best in cool weather with moderate rainfall, with ideal winter temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.

“With favourable weather conditions, the wheat crop in Punjab is growing well,” he said, expressing hope for a good harvest.

Trump warns Iran time is running out to avoid US military action

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Trump warns Iran time is running out to avoid US military action

PARIS, Jan 29 (ABC): United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned Iran that time was running out to prevent American military action, as Tehran rejected negotiations under what it described as military threats.

Trump said Iran must return to talks over its nuclear programme, which Western countries believe aims to develop atomic weapons. Iran has repeatedly denied seeking nuclear arms.

Trump issues warning on nuclear talks

In a post on Truth Social, Trump urged Iran to negotiate what he called a fair deal.

He said Iran should agree to a settlement with “no nuclear weapons” and warned that delays could trigger military consequences.

Trump referred to US strikes on Iranian nuclear targets during the June conflict between Iran and Israel, which Washington supported and joined.

“The next attack will be far worse,” Trump said, warning Tehran not to repeat past actions.

US military presence increases

Trump said a US naval strike group was operating in the region. He described it as an “armada” led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln.

The carrier group has entered Middle Eastern waters, according to US officials, although they did not disclose its exact location.

Trump has never ruled out new strikes on Iran, especially after its crackdown on protests earlier this month.

Iran rejects talks under threat

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said diplomacy cannot succeed under military pressure.

He said Iran would not negotiate while facing threats or what he described as excessive demands.

Araghchi added that Iran had not sought talks and had no recent contact with US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.

Iran’s armed forces chief of staff Habibollah Sayyari warned the United States against miscalculation, saying any attack would also cause damage to US forces.

Regional diplomacy intensifies

Iran has meanwhile stepped up diplomatic contacts with US allies in the region.

President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in an effort to reduce tensions.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani also held talks with Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.

Qatar said it supported efforts to reduce escalation and seek peaceful solutions.

Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty also spoke separately with Iranian and US officials, calling for steps to ease tensions and revive dialogue.

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticised renewed military threats, saying a new war against Iran would be wrong.

Rights groups report rising toll

Meanwhile, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported that more than 6,200 people had been killed during Iran’s recent unrest.

The group said most of the victims were protesters. It added that tens of thousands had been arrested.

Rights groups warned that Iranian security forces were searching hospitals for wounded protesters. They said this reflected an escalation in the crackdown.

Iran also executed a man accused of spying for Israel this week, raising fears that some detained protesters could face the death penalty.

Xi Jinping praises Zimbabwe liberation war veterans in letter

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Xi Jinping praises Zimbabwe liberation war veterans in letter

BEIJING, Jan 28 (ABC): Chinese President Xi Jinping has written to veterans of Zimbabwe’s national liberation war, praising their lifelong commitment to friendship between China and Africa.

In his letter, Xi said the veterans devoted their youth to the struggle for national liberation. He noted that they left their homeland and forged a deep bond with China during that period.

He said their continued dedication to China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa relations remains deeply moving.

Xi highlights China-Africa ties

Xi said 2026 will mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and African countries. He also described the year as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

Over the past seven decades, he said, China has stood as a reliable partner in Africa’s efforts for national liberation, development and renewal.

Xi added that China and African countries have supported each other, faced challenges together and advanced cooperation toward modernization.

Focus on future cooperation

Xi said China is ready to use the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation as an opportunity to deepen traditional friendship.

He said both sides should work together to build a stronger future for China-Africa relations.

Xi also expressed hope that the veterans would inspire more African youth to support China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa friendship.

Message ahead of Chinese New Year

As the Chinese New Year of the Horse approaches, Xi said China and Africa should carry forward the tireless spirit symbolized by the dragon and the horse.

He said both sides should work together to build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era.

Veterans express appreciation

The veterans recently wrote to Xi to thank China for its support during Zimbabwe’s national liberation struggle.

They praised his leadership of the Communist Party of China and the Chinese people in achieving major development progress.

They also expressed pride in the all-weather Zimbabwe-China community with a shared future and pledged to continue promoting friendship between the two countries.

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