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Alibaba's Qwen3-Omni multimodal AI system has topped the Hugging Face AI ranking, challenging closed systems from OpenAI and Google. The Qwen3-Omni series, unveiled by Alibaba's cloud computing unit, is described as the first native end-to-end multimodal system unifying text, images, audio, and video in one model. This development underscores the growing popularity of Chinese open AI systems. Qwen3-Omni-30B-A3B, a variant from the series, ranked top on Hugging Face's trending model list. Alibaba's open-source models make up half of the top 10 spots on Hugging Face's trending rankings. The Qwen3 series has expanded into a family of models with various capabilities and multimodal systems for real-world applications. The enhancements in Qwen3-Omni are attributed to improvements in foundational projects related to audio and images.

The article discusses the recent meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui in Beijing, where they pledged to strengthen ties and deepen alignment against unilateralism and hegemonism. The meeting comes ahead of a possible China-US leadership meeting and follows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's high-profile visit to Beijing for the World War II 80th anniversary military parade. The talks were seen as a signal of firm ties between the socialist neighbors, despite speculation of strains over Pyongyang's deepening security links with Moscow. Choe expressed Pyongyang's willingness to work closely with Beijing in multilateral cooperation to oppose unilateralism and power politics, and to establish a fairer and just world order.

Goldman Sachs analysts predict that China's central bank is likely to ease its monetary stance in the fourth quarter due to slowing economic momentum and pressure to support growth. The forecast includes a 10-basis-point policy rate cut and a 50-basis-point reduction in the reserve requirement ratio. However, if China meets its economic growth target of 'around 5 per cent', the risk of no action remains. The People's Bank of China's (PBOC) Monetary Policy Committee meeting maintained a dovish bias but offered few new signals, with a subtle shift in tone suggesting a more cautious outlook on the economy.

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker BYD is struggling to gain traction in the Japanese market despite various efforts, including opening new sales locations and introducing new models. To boost sales, BYD has started offering discounts of up to 1 million yen (US$6,700), which can slash sticker prices by as much as 50%. However, this tactic may backfire as Japanese consumers tend to be loyal to local brands and are sensitive to price cuts, which can hurt resale value. BYD's experience in Japan contrasts with its success in China and Europe, where it has become a popular EV brand.

The Communist Party of China is set to hold its annual conclave between October 20 and 23 in Beijing to discuss the country's next five-year plan, which will outline economic, political, and social goals amid tensions with the United States. The meeting, attended by President Xi Jinping and over 370 members of the party's Central Committee, will review and endorse a draft proposal of the 15th five-year plan. The plan is expected to emphasize 'new quality productive forces,' highlighting the need for hi-tech innovation and sustainable development. This comes as the 14th five-year plan nears its end, and the new plan will cover the period from 2026 to 2030.

Fifa has imposed a fine and one-year ban on seven Malaysian footballers for allegedly falsifying nationality documents, sparking outrage and speculation about the involvement of regional rivals. The players, who were naturalised through ancestral ties, had their eligibility previously approved by Fifa before the decision was reversed. Former Malaysian minister Khairy Jamaluddin questioned the reversal, suggesting that the documents were properly vetted. The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) was fined 350,000 Swiss francs, and pundits speculate that complaints from Indonesia or Vietnam may have triggered Fifa's action.

Hong Kong's Environment Secretary Tse Chin-wan stated that the government has not abandoned its 'pay-as-you-throw' waste charging scheme and 'zero landfill' goal by 2035, despite temporarily deferring the scheme due to public opposition and operational issues. The government will continue to promote waste reduction and recycling efforts while the scheme is on hold.

The delivery of China's C919 passenger jet to its top three domestic airlines may be delayed due to potential disruptions in the engine supply chain. Financial reports from Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines indicate that they have received fewer C919 aircraft than expected in 2025. The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac), the manufacturer of the C919, had received orders for hundreds of units from these airlines in 2024. The C919 is designed to compete with the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft families. Independent aviation analyst Li Hanming suggests that Comac may be facing challenges in securing engines for the C919, which could be causing the delays.

The article discusses the recent mutual defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and its implications for India's diplomatic efforts in the Gulf region. The agreement, signed on September 17, declares that aggression against either signatory will be considered aggression against both. Analysts say the deal exposes the limits of New Delhi's ambitions in a region where Beijing is also deepening its economic and military ties. India's response to the agreement has been measured caution, given its years-long strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia. The article highlights the complexities of India's diplomatic balancing act in the Gulf, particularly in light of recent tensions between India and Pakistan, as well as Israel's air strikes on Qatar.

The US has deployed a new air defence system, dubbed 'America's Iron Dome', in South Korea, which analysts see as a response to potential drone operations by China or North Korea in the event of a conflict. The Indirect Fire Protection Capability (IFPC) system is a mobile, ground-based weapon system designed to counter cruise missiles, unmanned aircraft systems, and other threats. This marks the first known deployment of such a system at an American base overseas.

The article provides predictions for the 12 Chinese zodiac signs during the eighth lunar month, according to feng shui master Andrew Kwan. The Mid-Autumn Festival, which falls in this month, is a time for gatherings and meeting new people, but also a good opportunity for medical check-ups. The article breaks down the prospects for love, career, health, and finance for each zodiac sign, offering advice on how to navigate the month.

The UN has reimposed economic and military sanctions on Iran, 10 years after they were lifted as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear deal. The UK, France, and Germany activated the 'snapback' mechanism, citing Iran's 'continued nuclear escalation' and lack of cooperation. Iran had suspended inspections of its nuclear facilities after Israel and the US bombed its nuclear sites in June. The reimposition of sanctions is seen as a blow to the JCPOA, which was intended to limit Iran's nuclear activities. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has described the sanctions as 'unfair, unjust, and illegal'. Talks between the E3 (UK, France, and Germany) and Iran failed to produce a deal to delay the sanctions.

The Namibian government has deployed hundreds of soldiers and helicopters to combat a fire that has ravaged a third of the Etosha National Park, a key tourist attraction and home to critically endangered black rhinos. The fire, believed to have started at a charcoal production site outside the park, has killed at least nine antelope and destroyed wildlife habitats. Opposition MP Likando Rodrick has criticized the government for failing to contain the fire, while Prime Minister Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare announced the deployment of 500 additional troops to aid firefighters and volunteers. The park, covering 22,935 sq km, is one of Africa's largest and attracts 200,000 tourists annually. Experts believe that while wildfires can occur naturally in arid savannah, they must be managed closely to maintain ecosystem health.

The state of Oregon has sued the Trump administration over plans to deploy National Guard troops to Portland, citing the move as 'unlawful' and 'provocative'. The deployment is in response to ongoing protests targeting immigration detention centers, which Trump claims are under siege by 'Antifa and other domestic terrorists'. Oregon's governor and attorney general argue that there is no national security threat in Portland and that the deployment will undermine public safety. The lawsuit comes amid a wider crackdown by the Trump administration on illegal immigration and the designation of Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.

US pop star and actress Selena Gomez has married music producer Benny Blanco in a ceremony in California. The couple exchanged vows in Santa Barbara on Saturday in front of around 170 guests, including singer-songwriter Taylor Swift and actor Paul Rudd. Gomez posted pictures to Instagram of her wearing a white halter-neck wedding gown and Blanco in a dark tuxedo. The couple became engaged in December 2024 after a year of dating and have collaborated on several music projects together, including the album 'I Said I Love You First' released in March. Gomez has starred in various TV shows and films, including 'Wizards of Waverly Place' and 'Emilia Perez', while Blanco has produced records for artists like Katy Perry and Britney Spears.

Swiss voters have narrowly approved a plan to introduce voluntary electronic identity cards, with 50.4% voting in favor and 49.6% against. The proposal, which had been rejected in 2021, has been revised to keep the system in government hands and store data only on individual users' smartphones. The digital IDs will be optional, and citizens can continue to use their national identity cards if they choose. The decision has been met with both support and opposition, with some arguing it will make life easier and others expressing concerns about privacy. The Swiss government had backed the proposal, and it had also been approved by both houses of parliament. The outcome is notable given Switzerland's strong tradition of protecting citizens' privacy.

A US citizen, Amir Amiry, has been released by the Taliban after being detained in Afghanistan for nine months. The release followed negotiations led by Qatari mediators. Amiry is the fifth American to be freed from detention in Afghanistan this year. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio thanked Qatar for its diplomatic efforts, which were crucial in securing Amiry's release. The reason for Amiry's detention remains unclear, but Rubio stated that he had been 'wrongfully detained'. More US citizens remain detained in Afghanistan, and the Trump administration is working to secure their release.

A German coffee chain, LAP Coffee, has been making headlines after being featured on a popular German news broadcast, Tagesthemen. The company has rapidly expanded its operations, opening 16 outlets in Berlin, four in Munich, and its first outlet in Hamburg within just two years. The article discusses the chain's growth and its impact on the coffee shop scene in Germany.

The article discusses the poor performance of Deutsche Bahn, Germany's state-owned rail giant, with barely 60% of long-distance trains arriving on time last year. The situation has become a national concern, with Germans and visitors alike expressing frustration at the delays. The national auditors have described Deutsche Bahn as being in a 'deepening, permanent crisis'. The article highlights that Germany's trains were once known for their punctuality, but now the country ranks near the bottom in Europe for train reliability. The issue has become a symbol of a broader perception that things are not working as they should in Germany.

NATO allies agreed to a new target of spending 3.5% of GDP on defence and 1.5% on cyber-security and infrastructure at the June summit in The Hague. Spain was the lone holdout against the spending pledge. The article discusses the new target and the calculations behind it, highlighting the contrast between the beaming NATO secretary-general Mark Rutte and the unhappy-looking Spanish prime minister Pedro Sánchez.

The article discusses Europe's proposal to use frozen Russian assets to provide Ukraine with financial support to counter Russia's ongoing aggression. The idea involves securitizing future Russian war reparations to Ukraine, allowing Ukraine to receive immediate financial assistance. This concept is compared to financial innovations used by David Bowie and American states to monetize future income. The article explores the potential for using anticipated Russian reparations as collateral to secure upfront funding for Ukraine.

The article discusses the recent decline in the market value of Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, two major pharmaceutical companies that produce weight-loss drugs. Novo Nordisk's market value dropped by a quarter in a day after it cut sales and profit forecasts, while Eli Lilly's share price fell by 14% the following week. The companies have lost around half a trillion dollars in value over the past 63 weeks. Novo Nordisk has also undergone a leadership change. The article questions whether the two companies can regain investor excitement.

France is considering introducing a new tax on the ultra-rich to help curb its budget deficit. The proposal has sparked a national debate, with critics, including Bernard Arnault, the head of LVMH and France's richest man, arguing that it would 'destroy' the economy. The discussion comes as France grapples with its financial challenges and seeks ways to address them. The potential new tax is part of a broader conversation about how to manage the country's finances and the role of the wealthy in contributing to the state's coffers.

Amir Amiri, an American citizen detained in Afghanistan for nine months, was released on Sunday, September 28, and is on his way back to the United States. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the release, thanking Qatar for their help in securing Amiri's freedom. Qatari diplomats had been negotiating for Amiri's release since March and had maintained close communication with U.S. officials throughout his detention. Amiri was detained in December 2023. This is the latest in a series of releases of American citizens from Afghanistan, with Qatar playing a key role in facilitating these releases since taking over representation of U.S. interests in the country in 2021.

At least 19 people have died in Russia's Leningrad region due to suspected alcohol poisoning, with eight cases confirmed as methanol poisoning. The incident is not isolated, as Russia has struggled with high levels of alcoholism and mass deaths from drinking cheap homemade alcohol substitutes. Authorities have detained a man and a woman in connection with the poisoning, and a criminal case has been opened. This incident is part of a larger pattern of tainted alcohol-related deaths in Russia and other countries, including India, Turkey, and Laos. Russia has toughened its legislation on alcohol production and sale after previous incidents, but cheap homemade spirits remain widely available, particularly in rural areas.

Prince William has called 2024 the 'hardest year' of his life due to his wife Kate and father King Charles being diagnosed with cancer. In a preview for an Apple TV+ show, 'The Reluctant Traveler,' William shared his experiences with actor Eugene Levy, discussing how life's challenges shape who we are. The royal family has been dealing with health issues and personal struggles, including William's distant relationship with his brother Prince Harry. Kate completed chemotherapy and returned to public duties, while King Charles resumed public appearances after his treatment.

The article discusses the performance of Asia-Pacific markets, with a focus on the Nikkei 225, Kospi, and ASX 200 indices. Sony Financial Group's shares soared 36% on its Tokyo debut after being spun off from its parent company, Sony Group. The Reserve Bank of Australia is set to hold its cash rate steady at 3.6% during its two-day policy meeting. The article also covers the performance of other markets in the region, including South Korea's Kospi, Hong Kong's Hang Seng index, and mainland China's CSI 300. The overall tone is neutral/informative, with a slightly positive sentiment due to the gains in some markets. The primary intent is to inform readers about the current state of the Asia-Pacific markets.

European stocks are expected to open higher on Monday as investors monitor the potential impact of a U.S. government shutdown. Lufthansa plans to cut 4,000 jobs through digitalization and automation by 2030 and has set earnings targets of 8%-10% over the next two years. Danish biotech company Genmab is acquiring Utrecht-based cancer drugmaker Merus in an $8 billion deal. Other key events include the release of Spanish inflation data and the EU's economic sentiment indicator, as well as a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Congressional representatives to discuss government funding.

A mass shooting and fire occurred at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on September 28, 2025, resulting in at least four deaths and eight injuries. The suspect, Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, rammed his truck into the chapel, set it on fire, and fired at worshippers before being killed in a shootout with police. The FBI is investigating the attack as an act of targeted violence. The church was holding a 'fast Sunday' service, where members were encouraged to fast and donate to the poor. The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents at places of worship in the US.

The article discusses President Donald Trump's executive action to impose a $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas, a program for temporary foreign workers. CNN's Clare Duffy explains the H-1B visa program and why the new rules could hurt American jobs. The article highlights the potential negative impact of the visa hike on US employment.

Hungary is poised to follow the US in designating Antifa as a terrorist organization, according to Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó. The move is seen as a sign of strengthening ties between the US and Hungary under the Trump administration. Szijjártó praised Trump's approach to NATO and his call for increased defense spending among alliance members. He also expressed hope that Trump could help broker peace between NATO and Russia, citing the importance of US-Russia talks for global security. The Hungarian government's decision to designate Antifa as a terrorist organization is in line with Trump's previous statements on the matter.

The United Nations Security Council rejected a resolution proposed by China and Russia to extend sanctions relief for Iran under the nuclear deal. The vote was 9 against, 4 in favor, and 2 abstentions. The sanctions, which will be reinstated unless a last-minute deal is reached, include freezing Iranian assets abroad and halting arms deals with Tehran. The decision was triggered by Britain, France, and Germany after stalled talks on Iran's nuclear program. Iranian leaders, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have criticized the move, with Pezeshkian calling it 'unfair, unjust, and illegal.'

The former head of MI5, Baroness Manningham-Buller, has stated that those who believe the UK is already at war with Russia 'may be right'. She cited the various hostile actions taken by Russia, including sabotage, intelligence collection, and cyber attacks. Baroness Manningham-Buller served in MI5 for 34 years and met Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2005. She expressed regret that the West had hoped for a partnership with Russia after the Soviet Union, but Russia has proven to be 'extremely hostile to the West'. The former MI5 chief also discussed the importance of the West's soft power, warning that cutting foreign aid could allow China to fill the void.

A stampede at a political rally in Tamil Nadu, India, organized by actor-turned-politician Vijay's party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), resulted in 40 deaths and over 124 injuries. The rally was attended by more than double the expected number of people, with TVK initially seeking permission for 10,000 attendees. The incident is under investigation, with a case filed against TVK's senior leaders. Vijay expressed being 'heartbroken' and pledged support for the victims' families. The state government announced compensation for the affected families and appointed a commission to investigate the cause of the stampede.

The Ryder Cup 2025 took place at Bethpage, where Team Europe secured a thrilling victory over the United States with a final score of 15-13. Shane Lowry clinched the win for Europe with a six-foot putt, marking the first time either side has won on foreign soil since 2012. The competition was intense, with the US team attempting a comeback on Sunday but ultimately falling short. Europe's victory extends their winning streak to two consecutive Ryder Cups and 11 out of 15 since 1995.

The article discusses the impact of President Trump's new policy imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, a work permit that has brought millions of Indians to the United States. The policy has shattered the dreams of many young Indians who were planning to move to the US for better opportunities. The article highlights the concerns of students, visa holders, and companies like Tata Consultancy Services, which sends thousands of Indian nationals to the US on assignment. The policy is expected to force companies to hire fewer foreigners and be choosier about whom they hire, potentially creating demand for American workers and pushing up wages. Many Indians are now considering alternative countries like Germany, Canada, and China for their careers.

The Kremlin has stated that while initial nuclear disarmament talks should be between Russia and the US, the nuclear arsenals of Britain and France must ultimately be included in these negotiations. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made this statement as Russia proposed to the US that they maintain the limits on deployed strategic nuclear weapons set out in the New Start treaty, which is set to expire in 2026. The US and Russia possess the largest nuclear arsenals, while France and Britain have significantly smaller ones. The proposal comes as Ukraine seeks harsher sanctions on Russia from the US over its invasion in February 2022.

Malaysia is experiencing a resurgence in train travel, with the national rail operator Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) providing both intercity and local train services across Peninsular Malaysia. The Komuter Utara service, launched in 2015, has benefited many Malaysians, including workers like Nuhairi Ismail who commute to Penang's industrial parks from rural areas. The KTM network stretches from Singapore to the Thai border, with various rail arteries, including the East Coast Railway Line and the high-speed Electric Train Service (ETS). The ETS is set to be extended to Johor Bahru by end-2025, reducing travel time between Johor state and Kuala Lumpur to around 3½ hours. The rail revival is not only attracting commuters but also adventurers and nostalgia seekers who enjoy the scenic views and cultural experiences offered by train travel.

The National Football League, Apple Music, and Roc Nation announced that Puerto Rican rapper and singer Bad Bunny will headline the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. The announcement was made during halftime of the Sunday night game between the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys. Bad Bunny, a three-time Grammy winner, expressed his gratitude and pride in being chosen, stating that it's not just about him, but also about his people, culture, and history. The Super Bowl halftime show announcement comes after Bad Bunny's successful residency in Puerto Rico, which was attended by half a million fans, and just before he hosts the season premiere of Saturday Night Live. Bad Bunny had previously stated that he chose not to tour in the 50 U.S. states due to concerns about ICE immigration agents showing up at his concert venues.

The article discusses the recent suspension of Eric Adams' re-election campaign for New York City mayor and urges New Yorkers to vote against Zohran Mamdani, who is now likely to win the election according to a recent poll. The author argues that Mamdani's potential mayoralty is undesirable and that voters should overcome their apathy to prevent this outcome. The article criticizes Mamdani and expresses concern about his possible victory, suggesting that a low voter turnout could lead to an undesirable result.

New Zealand's annual bird election, run by the conservation group Forest & Bird, has crowned the Kārearea, or New Zealand falcon, as Bird of the Year. The Kārearea is a mysterious and fierce bird of prey that is native to New Zealand and is known for its hunting prowess. The election is an online poll that is open to the public, and this year's result was announced on Monday. The Kārearea's win is seen as a significant achievement, given its reputation as a formidable hunter. The bird has cultural significance for the Indigenous Māori people, who consider it a symbol of strength and courage. The election is an important event in New Zealand's conservation calendar, highlighting the importance of protecting native bird species and their habitats.