'Sushi John': NJ Restaurant Owner Allegedly Hid as Secret Chinese Agent, Says ICE

He owns a well-known Asian eatery in Somerset County and is familiar to locals through his distinctive moniker, Sushi John.

However, to U.S. immigration officials, he admitted being an agent for the Chinese government.

A month ago, Immigration and Customs Enforcement took into custody Ming Xi Zhang, who is 61 years old and owns Ya Ya Noodles in Montgomery Township. He continues to be held by ICE as his immigration case proceeds.

When disclosing Zhang’s detainment, ICE referred to his admission of guilt from four years prior regarding a federal accusation of operating as an unregistered foreign agent for China, a situation under which he still remains on probation.

"ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Newark Field Office Director John Tsoukaris stated that any unauthorized individual involved in espionage, sabotage, or export control violations against the U.S. faces deportation," he said. news release .

The detention occurs as part of President Donald Trump’s administration’s contentious immigration enforcement efforts, which have pledged to carry out the biggest deportations drive in U.S. history.

Zhang was apprehended in Newark on March 24, according to ICE. His daughter, Emily Zhang, stated that her father was detained after showing up for an appointment requested by the authorities.

"We're all just sort of hoping and waiting for bonds, parole, or anything else," Emily Zhang, a U.S. citizen, stated over the phone on Thursday from her father’s restaurant located in the Montgomery Shopping Center along Route 206.

The daughter mentioned that customers have shown support for Zhang, who purchased the restaurant approximately 10 to 15 years back. She chose not to go into specifics about her father’s situation, though she did mention that he was granted probation.

"People have been arriving, sharing their telephone numbers and inquiring about ways they can assist," Emily Zhang mentioned.

As per documents from a federal court, the senior Mr. Zhang received a sentence in April 2024 consisting of three years' probation and a fine of $10,000 imposed by U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp. This brought an end to legal proceedings that involved accusations stretching back almost ten years.

The accusation related to a foreign agent began in April 2016, when Zhang had several meetings in the Bahamas with officials from China’s Ministry of State Security, as stated in his written plea deal.

The agents guided Zhang to acquire $35,000 and hand it over to an unnamed "individual." One month afterward, Zhang followed through with this directive during a rendezvous in Skillman, which is part of the Montgomery area near his eatery.

Zhang likewise acknowledged having hosted an agent of the Chinese government at his Princeton residence two times that autumn.

The court documents provided limited additional information and did not indicate if anyone else faced prosecution. These records demonstrate that Zhang worked with law enforcement, chose to waive his right to an indictment, and pleaded guilty in May 2021, approximately one month following the filing of the accusations.

He remained free on an unsecured bond during his entire criminal proceedings.

The lawyer representing him, Robert Hazzard from Flushing, New York, did not respond to requests for comment.

Emily Zhang said her father had been following the terms of his probation and had not gotten into trouble again. She said he is being held at the Elizabeth Detention Center in Essex County and is doing “good” considering the circumstances.

As per ICE, Zhang entered the United States lawfully in June 2000, however he "breached the conditions of his legal entry."

An ICE representative offered no further details regarding the situation surrounding Zhang’s detainment, stating merely that their agency "apprehends individuals who violate U.S. immigration laws with the aim of maintaining the integrity of our immigration framework and enhancing public security."

Following Trump’s inauguration, ICE has intensified immigration enforcement efforts, leading to frequent controversies in New Jersey. This escalation encompasses the detention of individuals. a Flemington father initially from Egypt, and the married owners from a kebab restaurant located in Haddon Township.

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Riley Yates can be contacted at ryates@njadvancemedia.com .

©2025Advance Local Media LLC. Visit Diwida|. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Trump's Tariffs Set to Take Effect: Japan Leads Negotiations as Global Concern Grows

President Donald Trump's largest-scale tariff implementation is scheduled to begin late Tuesday night, and his leading trade representatives intend to initiate talks with Japan along with a few other allied nations.

Under the recently introduced regulations, significant American trade allies, particularly Asian countries, now encounter substantially increased tariff rates, with Chinese products subjected to 84%, Cambodian goods to 49%, Vietnamese items to 46%, Thai exports to 36%, and Japanese commodities to 24%.

The tariffs announced by Trump last week, which affect nearly all countries and regions globally, have unsettled financial markets and sparked concerns that they might disrupt the international trade framework and impede economic progress both domestically and internationally.

Last week, Trump announced minimum 10 percent tariffs on all imported items, effective as of Saturday. Alongside these measures, he imposed so-called "reciprocal" duties on products coming from roughly 60 nations that his administration has identified as the most egregious violators in their trading practices with the U.S.

As for China, the rate of the so-called reciprocal tariffs was initially 34 percent.

But Trump, angered by China's retaliatory action, said Monday his administration had decided to impose additional tariffs of 50 percent on goods from China, meaning that the rate has been raised to a total of 104 percent since the inception of his second presidency on Jan. 20.

Trump has ruled out a pause on the wave of tariffs, claiming that they are indispensable to spur economic growth and jobs in the United States, and dismissed the recent market turmoil as short-term pain.

On Tuesday, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said, "I think the president is going to have a custom, tailor-made approach to each and every country."

At a press conference, she stated, "Should talks involve foreign aid, our military deployment in those nations, and how those forces are financed...all of this could form part of the economic discussions."

Officials from the Trump administration stated that the United States has prioritized negotiations with allied countries like Japan and South Korea.

They stated that almost 70 nations have contacted the administration to request agreements.

Leavitt's comments suggested that the upcoming negotiations would go beyond just discussing trade matters.

Concerning Japan, her remarks reflected the administration's desire to have Tokyo spend more on hosting costs for U.S. troops based in the Japanese archipelago.

After speaking to South Korea's acting President Han Duck Soo on Tuesday, Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, "Like with South Korea, we are bringing up other subjects that are not covered by Trade and Tariffs."

Calling this kind of approach "one stop shopping" that is more efficient, Trump added, "China also wants to make a deal, badly, but they don't know how to get it started."

While testifying about Trump's tariff regime before the U.S. Senate, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, said, "We feel like we could have more and better agricultural market access (in Japan)."

Greer, appointed by Trump to spearhead discussions with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, highlighted that there are "structural obstacles" hindering U.S. industrial exports to Japan. They also intend to address matters beyond just the trade sector during their negotiations.

"All of these elements will be part of our upcoming talks with Japan in the coming weeks," he stated.

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Anak Ray Sahetapy: Memeluk Islam di Sana, Kehidupan Baru yang Berbahagia, Alhamdulillah

SantiJaya Banyuwangi - (Peralatan Rumah Tangga, Harga Terjangkau, Ramah di Kantong) | - Pemeran terkenal Ray Sahetapy akan disemayami di pemakaman TPU Tanah Kusir, Jakarta Selatan pada hari Jumat (4/4) sore ini.

Sebelum dikuburkan, mayat Ray Sahetapy akan diberkati sholatnya di Masjid Istiqlal Jakarta.

Raya Sahetapy, anak dari Ray Sahetapy, menyebutkan bahwa mayat si bapak akan dipindahkan dari tempat penziarahan sekitar pukul 10.00 WIB menuju Masjid Istiqlal.

"Istiqlal setelah sholat Jumat nanti akan ada shalat ghaib bagi orang yang meninggal dunia, kemungkinan selesainya pukul 13.30 WIB, sesudanya rombongan akan menuju ke Tanah Kusir," jelas Raya Sahetapy saat berada di rumah duka Sentosa RSPAD Gatot Subroto, Jakarta Pusat, pada hari Kamis (3/4).

Setelah kembali dari Amerika, Putra Ray Sahetapy Mengantarkan Bapaknya ke Pemakaman

Dia kemudian menyatakan bahwa Masjid Istiqlas adalah tempat di mana Ray Sahetapy memulai petualangannya menjadi seorang Muslim setelah mualaf.

Data tersebut diperoleh dari Dewi Yull yang notabene adalah mantan istrinya Ray Sahetapy.

"Oh iya, ternyata baru saja mendapat informasi dari ibu bahwa ayahnya menjadi mualaf pada tahun 1982 sebelum menikahi ibunya, dan untungnya dia diniagakan di Istiqlal," kata Raya Sahetapy.

"Alhamdulillah bisa sholat di Masjid Istiqlal dan memeluk Islam di sana, semuanya terlaksana dengan baik di tempat yang sama, sungguh berkat dari Tuhan Yang Maha Esa," tambahnya.

Ray Sahetapy Wafat, Tissa Biani Ceritakan sebuah Ingatan

Jenazah Ray Sahetapy akan dikuburkan di Tempat Pemakaman Umum Tanah Kusir.

Raya mengatakan bahwa bapaknya ternyata pernah berkewajiban disemayakan di pemakaman keluarga, yaitu di Palu, Sulawesi Tengah. (Note: There seems to be an error in the original sentence as 'berwasiat' typically means making a will/testament rather than being buried/entombed. The translation preserves this potential inconsistency.)

Akan tetapi, karena sejumlah alasan, aktris dalam film tersebut dikubur sementara di Tempat Pemakaman Umum Tanah Kusir.

Berikut adalah Jadwal dan Tempat Penguburan untuk Ray Sahetapy

"Sesungguhnya ahli warisan yang telah meninggal dikabarkan disemayamkan di pemakaman keluarga di Palu, Sibonge. Namun demi efisiensi serta agar prosesi dapat berjalan lebih cepat, kami memutuskan untuk menanamkan sementara di Tanah Kusir terlebih dahulu. Bisa jadi dalam waktu satu sampai dua tahun mendatang, mayat beliaulah yang akan dipindahkan ke lokasi pemakaman keluarga di Palu," ungkap Raya Sahetapy.

Sebelumnya, Ray Sahetapy meninggal di Rumah Sakit Pusat Angkatan Darat (RSPAD) Gatot Subroto, Jakarta pada hari Selasa tanggal 1 April malam.

Charly Sahetapy, adik dari Ray Sahetapy, menyebut bahwa kakaknya pernah mengalami komplikasi sebelum pada akhirnya meninggal.

Para pemeran dalam Film Jangan Bilang Siapa-Siapa pernah menjalani rawat inap selama beberapa minggu di Rumah Sakit Pusat Angkatan Darat (RSPAD) Gatot Subroto.

"Komplikasinya mulai terjadi dan pada tanggal 3, karena kebetulan saya yang membawanya, pasien tersebut dirawat di rumah sakit. Setelah dilakukan pemeriksaan berbagai bagian, ternyata saat itu memang sudah waktunya," jelas Charly Sahetapy dalam sebuah video dari kanal Intens Investigasi di YouTube, Rabu (2/4).

"Setelah berbagai upaya dilakukan agar ia pulih, namun ternyata Allah memilikirencana yang berbeda, pada akhirnya dia harus kembali lagi," jelasnya. (mcr7/jpnn)

Simak! Video Pilihan Redaksi:

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The Tiny World That Stunned the Skies: Pluto's Discovery 95 Years Ago Today

(Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the distance between Pluto and the Sun. The accurate figure is 3.7 billion miles.)

What was found in Flagstaff, Arizona, and eliminated in Prague?

If you said "Pluto's planethood," then your understanding of astronomy is spot-on.

Begin your day with more knowledge. Receive all the essential news directly in your mailbox every morning.

Feb. 18 marks the 95th anniversary of the discovery of our solar system's former ninth planet—not a planet.

Here’s what you should know regarding the brief existence of what was, within one person's lifespan, considered the tiniest planet in our solar system.

When was Pluto discovered?

Clyde Tombaugh, an American astronomer working at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, found Pluto in 1930.

Chilly, dimly lit, and far away, it was renamed after the Roman deity of the Underworld In Greek mythology, the associated deity is Hades.

The planet's presence was initially hypothesized over three decades prior by American astronomer Percival Lowell. His analysis of planetary orbit patterns, meteor shower trajectories, and comet paths guided him to this conclusion. propose the presence of a ninth planet , which became known as Planet X.

Lowell looked for this distant planet, yet he passed away in 1916 without ever locating it.

Utilizing an instrument referred to as a blink comparator In 1930, Tombaugh ultimately discovered the enigmatic celestial object. The process entailed capturing sets of photographs of the night sky taken a few evenings apart and subsequently utilizing a specialized device to swiftly alternate between the two images. By doing this rapid alternation—or “blinking”—between pictures, the astronomer could detect subtle variations and identify motion.

Tombaugh endured long months at the unheated Lowell Observatory until February 1930 when he spotted a heavenly body moving between two images, as detailed in a study published by the institution. American Physical Society The discovery was reported on March 13, 1930.

Pluto's reign

For years, students memorized the saying "My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Nine Pizzas" to recall the sequence of planets in our solar system: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto.

Pluto was the final and smallest among them.

A small frozen planet, roughly half the size of the United States, typically resided about 3.7 billion miles away from the Sun. Its orbit was notably peculiar—highly elliptical and inclined at an angle. Sometimes it gets as close to the Sun as Neptune does. .

It features an atmosphere composed of methane, nitrogen, and carbon monoxide, with a surface temperature ranging from minus 378 to minus 396 degrees Fahrenheit, far too frigid to support life.

In 2015, NASA dispatched its spacecraft, New Horizons, for a close encounter. This mission verified that the small planet had an underground ocean concealed under its dense, icy crust.

When was Pluto reclassified as not being a planet, and what were the reasons for this change?

Pluto has consistently found itself in a precarious position regarding its status as a planet. With a width of just 1,477 miles, it measures merely one-fifth the size of our home planet, Earth.

It has five recognized satellites: Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos, and Styx, which are all names derived from characters in Greek mythology linked to the underworld.

However, Charon was only half as large as Pluto, making it quite substantial in comparison. The Pluto-Charon system is often called a binary pair of planets. , according to NASA.

In August 2006, during the International Astronomical Union General Assembly, a resolution was passed to redesignate Pluto as a dwarf planet. This decision was based on the fact that it failed to meet one of the three new requirements established for classifying celestial bodies as planets. They were :

• The body needs to revolve around its host star, similar to how Earth and Jupiter circle the Sun.
• It is big enough to have a nearly spherical shape.
• This significant impact plays a crucial role in maintaining the orbital stability of nearby celestial bodies.

Due to failing to meet the final criteria, Pluto was downgraded to a dwarf planet following extensive discussions. This decision came from a majority vote conducted during the International Astronomical Union’s yearly gathering in Prague.

This led to significant public outrage. Caltech astronomer Michael Brown, whose research contributed to the demotion, received irate emails from students and some vulgar telephone calls .

He ultimately released a book called "Why I Executed Pluto and Why It Deserved It."

Tombaugh passed away in 1997. Never realizing the world he found had lost its planetary status .

The article initially appeared on USA TODAY. The small world once deemed a planet: Pluto's discovery celebrates its 95th anniversary today.

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Akun Resmi FIFA World Cup Memicu Reaksi Besar: Apakah Timnas Indonesia Berpeluang di Piala Dunia 2026?

(Informasi penting untuk masyarakat Banyuwangi): Toko Santi Jaya di Banyuwangi. Menjual peralatan rumah tangga dengan harga terjangkau - Harapan Tim Nasional Indonesia untuk berpartisipasi dalam Piala Dunia 2026 kian terwujud usai menaklukkan Bahrain di Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno, Senayan, Jakarta, pada hari Selasa (25/3/2025) malam.

Sebagaimana telah diketahui, tim nasional Indonesia mengalahkan Bahrain dengan skor akhir 1-0.

Satu-satunya gol kemenangan tim nasional Indonesia dikontribusikan oleh Ole Romeny di menit ke-24.

Beberapa hari setelah kemenangan Timnas Indonesia, akun X FIFA World Cup @FIFAWorldCup menyebut Timnas Indonesia sedang berusaha menulis ulang sejarah.

Tetapi, mereka juga meragukan kemungkinan Timnas Indonesia untuk lolos ke Piala Dunia 2026.

Jangan lupa pula FIFA World Cup memposting gambar Rizky Ridho.

Rizky Ridho benar-benar berpendar dalam mengamankan pertahanan Timnas Indonesia.

Pemain Persija itu bersama Jay Idzes dan Justin Hubner kokoh menjaga gawang Timnas Indonesia dari kebobolan.

"Indonesia bertekad untuk menulis ulang sejarah," tulis @FIFAWorldCup.

"Akankah mereka lolos ke #FIFAWorldCup26?".

Peluang Timnas Indonesia masih terbuka.

Saat ini, Timnas Indonesia berada di posisi keempat klasemen Grup C.

Peluang untuk lolos langsung lewat runner-up cukup tipis, lantaran Jarak poin cukup berjarak dari Australia.

Australia ada di posisi kedua dengan 13 poin.

Timnas Indonesia memiliki Sembilan poin, selisih 4 poin dengan sisa dua laga.

Jepang sudah menyegel slot lolos sebagai juara Grup C.

Timnas Indonesia masih memiliki peluang jika finis di posisi ketiga atau empat.

Tim peringkat ketiga dan keempat tersebut akan bermain di putaran keempat untuk meraih tiket tersisa ke Piala Dunia 2026.

Pundit Asal Belanda, Kees Kwakman Ragukan Timnas Indonesia: Belum Pantas Tampil di Piala Dunia 2026?

Pundit Belanda, Kees Kwakman, mengkritik penambahan kontestan Piala Dunia 2026.

Menurutnya, keputusan yang akan membuat turnamen di Amerika Serikat tersebut diikuti oleh 48 tim ini, meskipun meningkatkan peluang tim-tim untuk lolos, justru mengurangi daya tarik Piala Dunia karena terlalu banyak tim yang terlibat.

Sampai saat ini masih banyak pihak yang pro dan kontra terkait masalah kontestan ini.

Di dalam podcast Voetbalpraat yang ada di kanal ESPN NL, Kees Kwakman menyatakan bahwa lolos ke Piala Dunia 2026 merupakan suatu tantangan besar.

Satu contohnya ketika Selandia Baru akhirnya lolos ke Piala Dunia usai mengalami masa tanpa hadir bertahun-tahun.

"Selandia Baru perlu mengalahkan tim-tim seperti Fiji dan Samoa, yang berhasil lolos tiap tahunnya," demikian menurut pendapat Kees Kwakman dikutip dari VoetbalPrimeur.

Satu hal yang menjadikan Piala Dunia begitu menggoda adalah karena jumlah peserta yang diizinkan terbatas.

Menurut dia, hal itu menjadi atraksi unik karena tim yang bertanding perlu melewati proses seleksi yang sangat ketat.

"Keunikan Piala Dunia terletak pada fakta bahwa tidak setiap orang berpartisipasi dalam pertandingan ini," tambahnya.

Pada saat yang sama, tim nasional sepak bola Indonesia berhasil meneguhkan peluang mereka untuk bertanding di Piala Dunia 2026.

Keberhasilan melawan Bahrain memungkinkan mereka untuk tetap berada di peringkat empat tabel klasemen sementara.

Tetapi, ia berpendapat bahwa itu masih belum mencukupi sebagai bukti yang menunjukkan skuad Garuda akan menjadi faktor penentu di Piala Dunia mendatang.

Selain itu, pertandingan mereka masih belum mengungkapkan sesuatu yang istimewa dalam laga tersebut.

"Sejujurnya, itu tak sungguh menyenangkan bagiku ketika memandangi layar," tambahnya.

Kwakman menginginkan periode waktu tersebut agar Patrick Kluivert dapat menyiapkan tim nasional Indonesia secara lebih optimal.

Dia menyadari bahwa tampil di Piala Dunia merupakan impian setiap tim nasional.

Harapan kami ialah menampilkan sesuatu dari Indonesia di pentas global.

Mereka masih belum mencapai tingkat permainan yang sesuai bagi para penggemar sepak bola.

"Saya memberikan mereka segalanya."

Secara jelas mereka mendobrak batas untuk mewujudkan impian mereka, dan bila berhasil, sungguh mengagumkan.

"Tetapi wahai Tuhan, ketika duduk dan menonton sore itu, ada saat di mana Anda menginginkan putriku bertanya apakah aku mau main Rummikub pen (permainan strategi). Jelas saja hal tersebut melebihi tingkat kemampuan kami," pungkasnya. (*)

Artikel ini ditampilkan di BolaSport.com denganjudul Akun Media Sosial resmi FIFA World Cup Mengevaluasi Apakah Tim Nasional Indonesia Dapat Berpartisipasi atau Tidak dalam Piala Dunia 2026

Ikuti berita terkini yang banyak dibicarakan di Google News , Channel WA , dan Telegram .

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Osaka's Expo 2025: A Galactic Pavilion Galaxy Encircled by a Grand Ring, With Flying Cars Soaring Above

The event will be held on an artificial island in Osaka Bay that has been developed to welcome some 28 million visitors

In every direction there is fevered activity. Cranes are hoisting, foremen in high-vis jackets are directing, carpenters are hammering, masons are levelling. The smell of newly laid bitumen competes with the rich scent of Japanese hinoki cypress. A saw screeches through sheet metal, a delivery truck beeps as it reverses, instructions are shouted.

Days before the official opening ceremony of the Expo 2025 in Osaka , on April 13, the final push is on to make sure a mammoth event that brings together 158 countries and regions from around the world is a success.

As time runs out, PostMag has secured exclusive entry to the venue and an early look at the expo, set to continue through October 13. Meanwhile, several queries remain unaddressed. raised about the cost and modern-day relevance of an event that can trace its history back to the grand "expositions universelle" of the 1800s in cities such as Paris, London and Brussels, it is clear that the Osaka Expo 2025 will not only bring together innovations from around the world, but also offer solutions to our planet's most urgent issues.

Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and global developments? Find your answers here. SCMP Knowledge , our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

The expo is being hosted on Yumeshima, a 390-hectare man-made island in Osaka Bay whose name translates as "Dream Island". Development of the site has necessitated the construction of comprehensive public transport facilities and many of the 28 million anticipated visitors will arrive using a state-of-the-art subway station.

Immediately beyond the entrance gates lies the Grand Ring, the symbol of the expo and the brainchild of architect Sou Fujimoto . The ring encircles the international pavilions and is a latticework of towering cedar, cypress and Scots pine that soars to a maximum height of 20 metres, all put together in the nuki style of Japanese carpentry, which employs the crafted joints and connectors traditionally used in temples and shrines.

The ring itself is 30 metres across and, on its upper level, has a 2km boardwalk with landscaped gardens, allowing visitors to walk around the entire site. The Grand Ring communicates the concept of "unity in diversity", expo organisers point out, and, with a surface area of 61,035 square metres, was recognised by the Guinness World Records as the largest wooden architectural structure on the planet.

From the top of the ring, the skyscrapers of Osaka can be seen on the horizon while a steady flow of ships ply the waters around this artificial island. To the west, the city of Kobe hugs the coastline before rising steeply to Mount Rokko.

The ring is built in part over the waters of the bay, with the semicircular Water Plaza along the southern edge of the site scheduled to host the Under the Midnight Rainbow water and light show just after sunset every day of the expo.

Within the ring stand the pavilions of nearly 50 countries, designed and built to showcase their history, culture, artistic and cultural achievements, natural wonders and cuisine. Other countries have banded together in five shared pavilions, one of which hosts 26 nations ranging from Benin to Zimbabwe by way of Chad, Fiji and Paraguay.

National venues are joined by others representing international organisations such as the United Nations, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and the European Union.

As host nation, Japan has a selection of locations across the site, including pavilions housing major companies such as Mitsubishi, Panasonic and NTT - as well as a colossal statue of the Gundam robot character .

The event features distinctive “signature pavilions” designed by renowned Japanese architects, aligning with the overarching theme of “designing a future society for our lives.” The participants were tasked with conveying the significance of fostering connections, enhancing empowerment, and safeguarding life through their creations, aiming to improve our world. They approached this concept from various innovative angles.

Kundo Koyama, who serves as the vice-president of Kyoto University of the Arts, has adopted a design approach significantly different from the smooth and angular aesthetics found throughout the rest of the area. In order to emphasize environmental concerns and their direct connection to consistent food production, Koyama has developed a single-story pavilion featuring a traditional thatched straw roof, evocative of standard structures in the region. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go , located in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture.

Among the eye-catching national pavilions is that of Azerbaijan, which is a clear reflection of central Asian design values picked out in intricate white arches, while the exterior of the Chinese venue is inspired by bamboo and is cleverly designed to resemble an unfolded traditional calligraphy scroll.

The Nordic states have banded together to create a 17-metre-high structure of blackened wood, to represent timelessness and sustainability, a philosophy echoed by the German pavilion and its focus on the circular economy, envisioned in interconnecting circular structures.

The Italian pavilion also hosts the Holy See and has managed to incorporate an entire garden on its roof, while the design for the Philippines' venue showcases the nation's heritage, biodiversity and creativity, all fronted by a unique facade of handwoven textiles from 18 regions.

The Spanish pavilion is an interpretation of the Kuroshio current, which runs up the east coast of Japan, to underline the importance of caring for life on this planet. The nearby Saudi Arabian site reflects the kingdom's history, culture and heritage, the pavilion a tangle of alleyways, sheltered courtyards and water features like oases, all enclosed by the kind of high, ochre-coloured walls found in desert towns. It is apparent Saudi Arabia has pulled out all the stops on its contribution, given that Riyadh will host the next World Expo, in 2030, themed The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow.

One of the highlights of Osaka 2025 will be the demonstration of flying-car services . The advanced air mobility take-off and landing zone - the Osakako Vertiport - is outside the west gate and will be used to display state-of-the-art vehicles. To highlight their potential, the flying cars will be flown to the Osaka Heliport and other sites nearby, while inside the Grand Ring, the Advanced Air Mobility Station offers an immersive theatre experience that simulates a short trip in one of these aircraft. As with many attractions at the expo, booking will be required.

The closest accommodation to the expo site can be found at The Day Osaka, which is on a neighbouring artificial island linked to Yumeshima by a bridge and, for the duration of the event, a shuttle-bus service. Unusually for a city hotel, it is set in expansive parkland and the main building and adjacent Nest building are complemented by 14 wooden cabins - with hammocks - built around a lake surrounded by cherry trees. It also has parking for mobile homes and a large barbecue area alongside the bay, a good spot from which to admire the summer firework displays in Osaka and Kobe.

Winning the right to host the expo, in 2018, has had a significant impact on Japan's second city, known for industry, enterprise and its citizens' offbeat sense of humour. (The home of manzai stand-up comedy is a city where gentle ribbing of a stranger in a bar will elicit similar mockery in response - unthinkable in the capital.)

The greatest transformation can be seen in the heart of the city, where the once-gritty districts around Osaka Station have undergone extensive regeneration, culminating in the official opening of Grand Green Osaka last month.

A 45,000-square-metre park in the Umekita district, it features concentric rings of vegetation around a vast central lawn and ponds. The 600 billion yen (HK$31 billion) redevelopment also incorporates an event dome and links to underground and elevated walkways that make the city centre more user-friendly. Overlooking the park is an urban onsen - swimming suits required - on the third floor of a new skyscraper.

Below street level is an entirely new city, with the Time Out Market restaurants arrayed around a central bar serving Osaka craft brews as buskers perform in elegantly designed spaces open to the sky two storeys above.

Hotel developers have taken advantage of the opportunities created by the expo developments to broaden their reach, leading to the launch of the 308-room Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda—the inaugural property for Hilton’s lifestyle brand in Japan—and the 482-room Hotel Hankyu Gran Respire Osaka.

The most impressive newly launched establishment is the Waldorf Astoria Osaka, which made its debut on April 3rd. This marks the initial location in Japan to carry the renowned moniker of the New York hotel. It features an expansive bar offering views of Grand Green Osaka and the extensive Yodo River, with the exposition area visible in the far-off distance.

Throughout, the Waldorf Astoria combines early 20th century New York elegance with modern Japanese touches, largely attributed to Hong Kong-based architect and designer Andre Fu : bonsai plants paired with classic scroll artworks along with daring contemporary art installations; washi paper integrated with intricate geometric patterns in wood; and corridors evocative of torii gates guiding to a shrine.

Osaka might have undergone regeneration, yet numerous remnants of the former city remain for you to discover.

Located at the boundary between Osaka and Kobe lies the Nishinomiya district, where its coastal region has long served as a hub for sake breweries catering to local tastes through the years. Within just a short distance from Nishinomiya Station, you can find over a dozen such breweries along with a dedicated museum celebrating Japan’s distinctive beverage heritage.

Taste the silky, award-winning Souka Junmai Daiginjo at Nihon Sakari, where a restaurant is nestled within its contemporary brewing facility, and you’ll realize that certain experiences remain timeless.

Julian Ryall visited Osaka as a guest of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition and Hankyu Hanshin Properties

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This article originally appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), the leading news media reporting on China and Asia.

Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

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Figur TKW Uripah di Malaysia yang Menghilang Kembali ke Desanya dan Tercengang Melihat Perubahan Yang Terjadi

Berikut adalah ceritanya tentang Uripah, seorang Tenaga Kerja Wanita atau TKW di Malaysia yang shock ketika melihat desa asalnya telah mengalami perubahan.

Sudah biasa saja, Uripa telah berusia 19 tahun dan tinggal di hutan Malaysia.

Uripa adalah seorang penduduk dari Batang, Jawa Tengah.

Pulangnya Ribut Uripah menjadi mungkin karena adanya bantuan dari Yoyok Riyo Sudibyo.

Keberadaannya di Jakarta diterima dengan air mata kegembiraan dari saudara kandungnya, Tamat, beserta cucunya, Turipah Istianah, yang juga hadir untuk menyambutnya.

Selesai, si kakak bercerita tentang momen perkenalan pertama yang dipenuhi dengan emosi.

"Saya segera memeluknya dengan erat dan mencium kening adik saya. Saya tak menyangka dapat bertemu lagi setelah bertahun-tahun tanpa berita," kata Tamat ketika dijumpai pada hari Jumat (21/3/2025) tersebut, seperti dilaporkan oleh TribunJateng.

Sejak 19 tahun tanpa kabar, keluarga telah mengupayakan beragam metode untuk mengetahui lokasi Ribut Uripah.

"Setiap kali ada pengajian, nama Ribut Uripah selalu dimasukkan ke dalam doa," lanjut Tamat.

Ribut Uripah juga mengekspresikan rasa bersyukur karena dapat kembali ke desanya asli setelah sekian lama hilang.

"Syukur Alhamdulillah, aku gembira akhirnya dapat balik ke kampung halaman. Ternyata di rumah banyak banget orang seolah-olah akan adakan doa bersama," ujarnya menggunakan dialek Melayu.

Setibanya di Desa Candirejo, Kecamatan Bawang, Ribut menceritakan berbagai hal yang tak biasa dari kampung halamannya.

"Sekarang banyak perubahan, semuanya telah berbeda. Kini tempatnya sudah padat dan jalannya menjadi lebih mulus. Dahulu kala masih beraspal bebatuan," katanya sambil merenung tentang waktu lampau.

Ribut akan menetap di tempat saudaranya, yaitu Tamat, sebab kediamannya telah rusak parah dan memerlukan berbagai perbaikan.

Kehadiran Ribut Uripah pun mendapat sambutan hangat dari masyarakat di Kecamatan Bawang.

Mereka kelihatan sangat bersemangat menyongsong kembalinya setelah bertahun-tahun hilang kontak.

Kekacauan yang terjadi di rumah si kakak sekitar jam 4 sore membuat mereka begitu gembira karena dapat bertemu lagi dengan keluarga dan tetangga.

Sebagaimana dilaporkan sebelumnya, Sakinah Anggraeni yang juga dikenal sebagai Ribut Uripah, tenaga kerja wanita berasal dari Batang, Jawa Tengah, telah ditemukan masih bertahan hidup sendiri di dalam hutan di Malaysia setelah 19 tahun hilang.

Sakinah Anggraeni menyatakan dirinya berasal dari desa Candirejo, yang berada di Kecamatan Bawang, Kabupaten Batang, Provinsi Jawa Tengah.

Nama Sakinah Anggraeni berubah setelah menetap di Malaysia.

Sakinah Anggraeni menjadi sorotan ketika ia ditemukan oleh seorang YouTuber yang mencatat keberadaannya sambil hidup di dalam hutan.

Dalam video berdurasi 2 menit 18 detik itu, Sakinah Anggraeni duduk di gubug kayu.

Video viral menunjukkan bahwa ada seorang perempuan warga negara Indonesia yang hidup sendirian di hutan Malaysia.

ternyata nama sebenarnya wanita tersebut adalah Ribut Uripah dan ia memodifikasi namanya menjadi Sakinah Anggraeni ketika menetap di Malaysia.

Sakinah Anggraeni mengatakan bahwa dia memiliki seorang anak yang bernama Istianah.

Kepala Desa Candirejo, Ahmad Musafak mengonfirmasi, bahwa wanita itu adalah warganya yang hilang sejak 2006.

"Ternyata betul itu salah satu kelurganya yang pergi ke Malaysia dan tidak pernah ada kabar," kata Ahmad, Kamis (6/3/2025).

Uripah Misni (60) mengisahkan urutan peristiwa lenyapnya Ribut Uripah pasca keberangkatan ke Malaysia.

Keributan terjadi setelah dipengaruhi oleh undangan tetangga dan membiarkan putranya yang baru berumur 4 tahun sendirian.

Sekarang dahulu ada orang mengundang untuk bekerja di Malaysia, tetangga dulunya yang mengundang.

Pada waktu itu anaknya masih muda, berusia 4 tahun, dan dikasihani oleh kakaknya hingga kini," jelas Misni ketika ditemui TribunBanyumas.com di kediamannya, pada hari Kamis (6/3/2024).

Misni menambahkan pula bahwa di tahun 2006, Ribut masih berhasil mengirim surat serta uang. Akan tetapi, sesudahnya, berita dari Ribut tiba-tiba lenyap tanpa jejak.

Pada awalnya, orang tua dan saudara-saudaranya di kampung halaman menduga bahwa Ribut telah pergi bekerja atau mungkin hilang tanpa kabar.

"Saat ditanyakan kepada agennya, dia mengatakan bahwa tak ada orang bernama Ribut Uripah, kemungkinan besar sudah pindah atau nama mereka telah diubah," terang Misni.

Dari saat itu, keluarga tetap menjaga harapan dan senantiasa mengucapkan nama Ribut pada tiap pengajian. Setelah memasuki 19 tahun, pesan yang ditunggu-tunggu oleh keluarga pun tiba.

"Pagi-pagi pada heboh, pak lurah ke sini ngabari tentang video yang viral itu, langsung yakin memang itu Ribut Uripah, apalagi menyebut anaknya Istianah," ungkap Misni dilansir dari TribunJatim.com.

Dengan bantuan warga Candirejo yang bekerja di Malaysia, keluarga akhirnya dapat berkomunikasi dengan Ribut melalui panggilan video.

(/TribunJateng.com/TribunJatim.com/TribunBanyumas.com)

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British Destinations Top Tourist Picks Revealed: Shocking Surprise Above Nottingham and Newcastle!

Although it was dubbed one of Britain’s least desirable locations, tourists apparently adore visiting Crawley.

According to government statistics, the town of West Sussex ranks among the top destinations chosen by international visitors.

It was ranked 15th according to the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) list of destinations.

That put it above Nottingham (16th) the land of Robin Hood, and Aberdeen (17th), which has frequently won the ' Beautiful Scotland' award.

Crawley, whose name originates from the Old English term 'crawe leah,' signifying 'a clearing frequented by crows,' managed to surpass Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Reading, and the globally renowned pilgrimage site of Canterbury.

The outcomes might be attributed to Crawley being home to Gatwick The airport, a key global hub utilized by countless travelers each year.

Crawley was placed at number 20 on a list identifying the least desirable locations as per a major newspaper.

This prompted a strong defense from The Argus, a local publishing company based in the Brighton area, which stated that it was "a great place to reside."

The ONS report, which was based on the count of overnight stays, left out London.

The city reported receiving 20.3 million overnight visits in 2023.

Edinburgh, leading the rankings, reported 2.3 million visits as per the extensive survey, which was based on responses from hundreds of thousands of participants.

Manchester (1.7M) secured the second spot and Birmingham (934,000) third.

Liverpool (900,000) and Glasgow (685,000) completed the top five list.

In 2023, foreign residents carried out 38 million trips to the United Kingdom, an increase from the 31.2 million seen in 2022.

Expenditure rose as well, jumping from £26.5 billion in 2022 to £31.1 billion.

Moreover, even though the number of visitors is still below pre-pandemic levels, tourists spending in Britain exceeded what was recorded in 2019.

However, under Chancellor Rachel Reeves, proposals for a 'lodging levy' might result in tourists paying an extra £12 per night in the coming days.

It is reported that treasury officials conducted 'modeling exercises' to assess the effects of implementing a tax similar to the one used in France.

Over the Channel, daily lodging costs can vary from under one pound per person at a campground to over twelve pounds in a five-star hotel.

Various councils such as those in Manchester, Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole have already implemented what is known as a visitor fee, which hotels may list separately on customer invoices.

A report from April of the previous year estimated that the charge generated £2.8 million for Manchester in its initial year.

Chancellor’s plan for an extensive nationwide strategy has faced strong resistance from global brands including Burberry and Watches of Switzerland, which sells Rolex, along with Heathrow and hotel magnate Sir Rocco Forte.

The London-based organization BusinessLDN similarly urged Labour to focus on 'growth-promoting' strategies.

However, according to calculations by the economic advocacy group TaxPayers' Alliance, implementing a £1.25 fee per night would generate approximately £560 million annually.

York, which placed slightly higher than Crawley on the list with approximately nine million visitors within a year, has embraced the concept of implementing a tourism tax for the city to aid in maintaining attractions like the Roman walls and the Shambles shopping district.

In 2023, out of the top ten countries whose citizens visited the UK most often, seven were from the European Union.

The three non-EU countries mentioned were the United States, Australia, and Canada.

In 2023, the United States led the chart for international tourists, recording 5.1 million arrivals from abroad, similar to the figures seen in 2022.

The United States was trailed by France (3.2 million), Germany (3 million), and Ireland (2.9 million).

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New UFO Hotspot Map Reveals Top US States for Alien Sightings

The truth exists beyond our current understanding, and statistical evidence points us directly towards it.

Fresh information from the National UFO Reporting Center has shown the places where spotting a UFO in the sky is most probable.

The examination looked into 149,000 records of sightings from the Reporting Center’s database as well as posts on social media platforms to ascertain the number of experiences per person across different states.

Leading the pack with an impressive total of 36,286 reported incidents since 1974, California residents hold the top spot for UFO sightings among Americans.

This officially designates it as America's extraterrestrial hot spot, with one reported sighting for every 1,075 inhabitants.

The bright evening skies of California combined with its high population density have led to ideal circumstances for numerous reported UFO observations.

Actually, just last month, audio recordings were released of a US Air Force pilot’s terrifying communication with air traffic control as they described seeing "three orb-shaped lights" quietly floating over Los Angeles.

The unidentified object approached within 10 feet of the pilot's wing, achieving supersonic speed, as the U.S. Air Force aircraft carried out a covert operation overhead. California .

The pilot, self-identified as 'Troy 21,' informed the local air traffic control (ATC) in Los Angeles This might seem strange, but I felt something move under my wing, possibly an object about the size of a football directly beneath me.

During the September 17, 2024, incident, ATC can be heard asking Troy 21 if he thought it was a drone, but the stunned pilot couldn't give an answer.

Troy 21 responded that his sensor operator was searching for the UFO using the aircraft’s cameras, mentioning that it appeared as a 'dark gray cylindrical object,' not larger than a football.

The pilot swiftly notified Air Traffic Control that they had detected the UFO approximately 60 miles away from where it initially circled around Troy 21's aircraft.

Further along in the recording, an additional air traffic controller from Los Angeles can be heard over the radio downplaying the event, stating that 'a UFO was reportedly spotted here, but everything concerning that has been resolved now. There’s no need for concern... it has disappeared.'

Former FBI Agent Ben Hansen informed NewsNation that the enigmatic object likely had to travel at Mach 2, which is double the speed of sound, to cover such a great distance so rapidly.

The state with the second-highest number of reported sightings of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) was Washington.

The Pacific Northwest has consistently drawn individuals intrigued by the mysterious, with Washington documenting 7,125 UFO sightings.

That's roughly one for every 1,093 people.

Between 1948 and 1952, when America's manufacturing of nuclear arms began to escalate, waves of UFO sightings started appearing around the Hanford nuclear production facility in Washington state, along with Los Alamos in New Mexico and various locations involved in the Manhattan Project.

In the meantime, Florida secured the third position with over 11,000 documented interactions.

That's approximately one sighting for every 1,144 people in Florida.

Just last December, a flight attendant working over the coastline of Florida succeeded in capturing a enigmatic round entity soaring over the aircraft She was working at an altitude of thousands of feet over the Bahamas.

On December 23, Cassandra Martin, who works as a flight attendant for the private airline Surjet, was aboard an empty aircraft with two pilots when Miami’s air traffic control informed them about a 'foreign object' while they were returning to Fort Lauderdale.

The unsettling video displayed a round fuzzy patch of white light transitioning into green tones, encircled by a circular glow around the entity.

Placing fourth is Oregon, where there was one reported UFO sighting for every 1,156 residents.

Like the recent occurrence in California, several pilots have come forward with reports. noticing strange luminous objects zipping across the heavens over Oregon in December.

An air ambulance pilot reported observing a luminous object moving swiftly towards his aircraft one evening on December 7. The object suddenly changed direction, veering away from them and returning towards the Pacific Ocean.

'Painted red — traveling at incredibly high velocities. I’m not sure how to convey just how quickly it was moving,' the pilot reported to air-traffic control.

The following evening, a United Airlines pilot similarly reported strange luminous phenomena over the Eugene region.

"We've identified three or four targets. They seem to be at varying altitudes—up and down. This situation is quite chaotic," the pilot informed air traffic control, with controllers verifying that there were no nearby military operations occurring.

The helicopter emergency medical services pilot also observed an object moving in a 'helical path' that showed up on the aircraft’s collision prevention system.

'You have clearance to make necessary maneuvers—either left or right—to avoid.' UFO Out there," replied an air-traffic controller, as per an audio recording of the conversation.

Short video snippets captured by pilots and crew revealed luminous patterns in the nighttime airspace; however, the poor visibility hindered the ability to identify precise features clearly.

In the meantime, New York completes the list of the top five locations with one sighting for every 1,301 individuals.

In November, a A mysterious spherical object was observed. over New York City Hudson River mentioned in a news broadcast, fueling bizarre conspiracy theories.

A striking bright object was observed darting into the frame of the city's well-known skyline.

The footage, taken from a helicopter, recorded an event or scene as follows: swiftly moving sphere of illumination beginning in Hoboken , New Jersey And then it circled around towards the World Trade Center before disappearing from sight.

Specialists proposed that the 'orb' might have been either an optical effect caused by the helicopter glass in front of the lens or possibly an out-of-focus bird.

However, this sighting has caused some residents of New York City to wonder whether 'صند aliens "Among Us'" — coming just days before this. Pentagon report that highlighted a A close encounter between a passenger plane and an unidentified entity. alongside the shore of the city.

Harvard physicist, Avi Loeb, wrote that the enigmatic sphere was fashioned by ' A gleaming dot caused by the sunlight reflecting as the camera slowly adjusted its position concerning the sun and the earth.

Loeb went on to say that if the sphere were indeed an actual entity, it would have traveled at the speed of sound, rather than exhibiting any unusual velocity.

People looking to steer clear of alien sightings might want to stay in Louisiana, as its inhabitants have the least number of UFO encounters across the country, with only one report for every 3,815 individuals.

Even more secure is North Dakota, with just 282 overall sightings, equating to roughly 0.0004 per capita, thus statistically ranking as the state where you have the lowest chance of experiencing a close encounter of the third kind.

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UAE-U.S. Partnership: Driving global stability & development

ABU DHABI, 17th March, 2025 (WAM) -- The strategic partnership between the UAE and the U.S. is built on more than five decades of coordination and collaboration across various fields, fostering development and prosperity in both nations.

The official visit of H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser, to the United States is a continuation of efforts to strengthen communication and dialogue, serving the mutual interests of both countries and their people.

The UAE is one of the United States' key partners in the region and worldwide. Both nations are committed to cooperation in enhancing regional and global security, achieving economic prosperity, and addressing global challenges.

Over the years, the two countries have established a solid foundation for long-term economic collaboration and innovative partnerships in emerging fields, including Artificial Intelligence, food security, clean energy, space exploration, and other priority sectors in areas of science, education, and culture.

The UAE and the U.S. maintain strong economic and investment ties. The bilateral trade volume (excluding oil) is close to $40 billion, with their merchandise trade rising by 9.47% to $34.43 billion (AED126.46 billion) in 2024, compared to $31.45 billion (AED115.51 billion) in 2023, according to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Commerce.

UAE investments in the United States reached approximately $3.7 billion between 2018 and 2023, while U.S. investments in the UAE amounted to around $9.5 billion during the same period.

Both countries are working to enhance mutual investments in the energy sector, with the UAE holding over $70 billion in U.S. energy market through ADNOC, Masdar, and XRG.

Key sectors for UAE investments in the U.S. include renewable energy, telecommunications, real estate, software services, and information technology.

In 2024, both nations entered into multiple strategic alliances and investment accords, focusing chiefly on sectors like technology and artificial intelligence.

In April, G42, the UAE’s leading AI Holding Company, and Microsoft announced a $1.5 billion strategic investment from Microsoft into G42.

In June, WWT, a U.S.-based technology integration firm, entered into a strategic partnership with NXT Global to set up the inaugural AI integration center in Masdar City, UAE.

Additionally, in February, G42 and Microsoft launched the "Responsible AI Institute (RAI Institute), the first of its kind in the Middle East, aimed at promoting responsible AI standards and best practices across the region and the Global South.

In September 2024, the UAE and the U.S. announced a framework for cooperation in AI, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing safe and reliable AI development, supporting ethical AI research and development, establishing regulatory frameworks to drive AI innovation, expanding collaboration in AI security, cybersecurity, and talent development, supporting clean energy solutions for AI infrastructure, and advancing AI for sustainable development in developing nations.

The UAE’s launch of the Hope Probe in 2021 marked a significant milestone in space exploration cooperation with the United States. This partnership expanded further through the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA) in collaboration with the University of Colorado Boulder.

The UAE is also playing a key role in NASA’s Lunar Gateway Programme by developing a dedicated airlock module for astronauts and scientists. As part of this initiative, the UAE will send its first astronaut to lunar orbit by 2030.

Climate action remains a cornerstone of UAE-U.S. cooperation, highlighted by the UAE-U.S. Partnership for Accelerating Clean Energy (PACE). This initiative aims to mobilise $100 billion to generate 100 gigawatts of clean energy by 2035.

Furthermore, the UAE jointly leads the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM4C) alongside the United States, involving more than 50 nations and 500 organizations to promote sustainable farming practices.

Masdar has similarly put money into 11 renewable energy initiatives throughout the U.S., encompassing ventures like the Big Beau project along with another one focused on battery storage situated close to Los Angeles.

HH

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Expats Crown This Central American Nation for Its Ultra-Friendly People

A country in Central America has been recognized as one of the most welcoming spots for expats looking to relocate, with various locations across the Americas also receiving high marks from individuals who have settled elsewhere.

Over 12,500 expatriates worldwide participated in a survey conducted by an online expat community. InterNations , offering insights into life and work overseas.

With individuals from 175 different nationalities residing across 174 countries or regions worldwide, these expatriates evaluated various aspects such as overall quality of life, work experiences overseas, and ease of adapting to their new environments when they determined which places were the most favorable and least favorable.

The latter — ease of settling in — comprised three categories: what it was like to find friends To what degree did the locals feel welcoming? This includes assessing how easily one could immerse themselves in the local culture as well as gauging the friendliness of the people living there.

In the 2024 survey, a total of 53 destinations satisfied the requirement of having at least 50 respondents, which allowed them to be included in the index.

Out of the 53 countries, one emerged as the clear victor in the Ease of Settling In Index. Costa Rica , which performed exceptionally well across all metrics.

Participants discovered that the nation was exceptionally hospitable, with 88 percent concurring – this figure stands 25 percentage points above the global average for welcoming attitudes.

Others mentioned that adapting to the local culture was relatively simple, with more than a third (35 percent) concurring with this view, as opposed to the global average of 21 percent.

The category of friendliness set Costa Rica apart, where 90 percent of those surveyed noted that the locals were generally welcoming not only to foreigners but also to foreign residents.

A Canadian expatriate mentioned: "The residents are typically kind and pleasant individuals. Over time, you acclimate to the ' Pura Vida "Life in Costa Rica”

In second place is Mexico a nation that has remained within the top three for ease of settlement since the initial year of the survey in 2014.

More than 80% of expatriates reported feeling welcomed in the country and concurred that local people are amiable toward foreign inhabitants.

The participants likewise rated it as the simplest nation globally for assimilating into the local culture, along with 73 percent expressing satisfaction with their social life in Mexico.

Stepping outside of the Americas, the bronze prize was awarded to the Philippines , where it also placed the previous year.

Expat residents consider the country quite hospitable, as 85 percent agree on this sentiment, and 78 percent also express feeling like they belong.

A British person living abroad mentioned that they "enjoy the unrestricted and relaxed way of life here. Everyone seems approachable and ready for a conversation."

In Mexico, 31 percent of expatriates report that their circle of friends predominantly comprises locals, whereas this figure increases to 41 percent in the Philippines—significantly above the global average of 17 percent.

The survey highlighted the nations where expatriates found it challenging to integrate. Among the 53 countries listed, Kuwait fared worst overall; only about one-quarter (26 percent) of respondents reported feeling welcomed there. Additionally, the nation scored lowest for local friendliness.

In 52nd place is Norway , where expatriates mention it's challenging to form friendships with locals (67 percent), Germany placed at number 51 because 32 percent of expatriates feel unwelcomed and find the local culture somewhat difficult to adapt to.

Among the top 10, half are located in the Americas: Brazil (5th), Panama (7th), and Colombia (8th) join Costa Rica (1st) and Mexico (2nd).

At the same time, nine out of the ten lowest-ranked nations in the index are located in Europe.

Top 10 nations where settling in becomes seamless

1. Costa Rica
2. Mexico
3. Philippines
4. Indonesia
5. Brazil
6. Thailand
7. Panama
8. Colombia
9. Kenya
10. Greece

To stay updated with additional travel news and tips, tune into Simon Calder’s podcast.

The Independent stands out as the globe’s premier source of unbiased reporting, offering international news, insights, and examination tailored for those with an independent mindset. With a vast, worldwide audience of people unafraid to think for themselves, we cherish their trust in us and our dedication to fostering constructive transformation. Today more than ever, fulfilling our purpose—driving progress forward—is crucial.

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Radical Study Claims Earth Has Six Continents, Not Seven

Disregard everything you learned about elementary school geography. Earth apparently doesn’t have seven continents after all.

From an early age, we're led to believe that the planet consists of seven continents: Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Oceania, Europe, North America, and South America. However, recent studies indicate that this might not be entirely accurate.

A research paper, released earlier last year in the journal Gondwana Research suggests that we genuinely only have six continents.

This remarkable assertion stems from an extensive investigation into the geological mechanisms responsible for the separation of Europe and North America, as well as the evolution of these continents throughout history.

Dr. Jordan Phethean, who leads the study from the University of Derby, clarified for Earth.com His team’s discoveries suggest that "the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates haven't truly separated yet, contrary to the long-held belief that this occurred 52 million years ago."

Rather, he explained, these plates are continually stretching and therefore remain in the phase of separating, instead of standing as completely distinct units.

Put simply, North America and Europe might be viewed as one large continent instead of being seen as separate entities.

The research centers on the volcanic island of Iceland, believed to have originated approximately 60 million years past due to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge activity.

This geological border, created by the intersection of the North American and Eurasian plates, is believed to have triggered the formation of a hot mantle plume, which eventually led to the creation of the island. Earth.com notes.

By meticulously examining tectonic activities throughout Africa, Phethean and his team have contested this hypothesis and proposed an innovative alternative concept.

They contend that Iceland, together with the Greenland-Iceland-Faroe Islands Ridge (GIFR), comprises geological pieces originating from both the European and North American tectonic plates.

As a result, this indicates that these areas are not considered separate landmasses anymore; instead, they form parts of an extensive continental framework that is interconnected.

Scientists have introduced the term "Rifted Oceanic Magmatic Plateau" (ROMP) to characterize this novel geologic phenomenon, potentially altering our understanding of how Earth's continents were formed and separated.

Indeed, owing to its importance, Phethean has likened the discovery to the Earth Science counterpart of uncovering the Lost City of Atlantis .

He explains this is due to him and his team discovering "pieces of a submerged lost continent hidden under the ocean and covered by kilometers of thin layers of lava."

Moreover, the study reveals remarkable parallels between Iceland and Ethiopia's volcanically active Afar region.

If their research turns out to be correct, it implies that the European and North American continents are continuing to separate from each other and hence remain connected.

Pethean recognizes that his team’s discoveries might surprise some people, yet he maintains that their work is firmly rooted in thorough investigation.

"It’s contentious to propose that the GIFR includes a significant portion of continental crust and that the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates may not have completely separated," he acknowledged, emphasizing that his research backs up these ideas.

Despite this, the study remains at the theoretical stage, and the researchers plan to carry out additional experiments on Iceland’s volcanic rocks to gather more definitive proof of an old continental crust.

They are additionally using computer simulations and plate tectonic modeling to gain deeper insights into the formation of the ROMP.

This study builds upon Phethean’s previous finding of a hidden “proto-microcontinent” situated between Canada and Greenland.

This remote continent is approximately the same size as England and lies beneath the Davis Strait, near Baffin Island.

Pethean highlighted that "rifting and microcontinent creation continue to occur," providing valuable insights for researchers studying continental dynamics and plate tectonics.

This information could assist specialists in forecasting what our Earth might resemble in the far-off future and aid in identifying potential locations for valuable resources.

The article was initially posted on August 7, 2024.

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Bangkok Crowned World's Second Best City for Food

In Time Out magazine's ranking of the World's 20 Best Cities for 2025, Bangkok secures the second spot, coming right after New Orleans in the United States. This marks an improvement from its sixth-place position in the previous year.

The deputy government spokesperson, Sasikarn Wattanachan, disclosed the rankings yesterday, emphasizing that Bangkok's improvement can be attributed primarily to the outstanding taste of its cuisine and its user-friendly accessibility.

The study revealed that the urban culinary landscape provides top-notch dining options that are both speedy and hassle-free, ranging from fast-prepared delicacies at roadside stalls to meal delivery services enabling individuals to savor preferred cuisine wherever they may be.

The survey indicates that Bangkok is celebrated primarily for its dynamic street food scene and emerges as more of a gourmet paradise instead of a spot for high-end dining experiences. According to the findings, Yaowarat (Chinatown) continues to be the epicenter of culinary delights within the city, recognized for iconic foods such as guay jab (a rolled noodle soup featuring pork), nocturnal rice congee, and sizzling chestnuts cooked on griddles, alongside round-the-clock establishments serving cocktails.

Banthat Thong Road, which was previously a tranquil neighborhood, has now turned into a vibrant culinary destination, recently placing at number 14 on the global list compiled by Time Out. According to the findings, should additional moderately priced eateries present innovative but budget-friendly menu items, this would enhance the area’s appeal significantly for discerning international diners.

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Archaeologists Unveil 3,000-Year-Old Section of China's Ancient Great Wall

Archaeologists have uncovered what is thought to be the earliest known part of the structure. Great Wall of China , with roots extending about 300 years further back than initially believed. This significant discovery was made in the Changqing District of Jinan City, situated in China’s Shandong Province. It is dated to the latter part of the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046 BCE–771 BCE) and the beginning of the Spring and Autumn Period (770 BCE–476 BCE).

As reported by 'Archaeology News', the excavation Conducted by the Shandong Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology from May to December 2024, this excavation spanned approximately 1,100 square meters in the north section of Guangli Village. It represents the first comprehensive dig of the Qi Great Wall following numerous previous surveys.

The Qi Great Wall, an earlier version of the renowned Ming Dynasty wall, was erected by the State of Qi during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE). Anticipating the Ming-era structure by over a thousand years, this fortification extends for more than 600 kilometers through Shandong province. It was designed as a defensive measure against incursions, notably those originating from the State of Chu.

The research group employed a combination of conventional artefact Analysis and cutting-edge techniques such as optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and radiocarbon dating revealed proof of sophisticated engineering practices. Built using tamped earth, stones, and various other materials, the structure exemplifies the military prowess of the Qi state well before China was unified under the Qin Dynasty.

The team likewise pinpointed the old settlement of Pingyin City, situated roughly 1.5 kilometers north of the Qi Great Wall. Ancient documents like the 'Zuo Zhuan' and 'Water Classic Commentary' depict Pingyin as an essential bastion for the Qi State. This city was vital for protecting trade paths and maintaining frontier safety.

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Ne Zha Takes Europe by Storm: The Ultimate Animated Blockbuster Hits Cinemas!

Ne-who now?

Ne Zha – a series drawn from the 16th-century Chinese novel "Investiture of the Gods," blending historical aspects with stories of gods and demons from Chinese folklore along with abundant mythological themes.

These movies revolve around a mystical pearl that divides into two entities: the Spirit Pearl and the Demon Orb. The former is destined for rebirth as a hero fighting demons, whereas the latter is foretold to perish due to divine thunderbolts. Enter Ne Zha, who was meant to become the heroic figure but instead emerges as a demonic entity. Battling both his inherent traits and predetermined destiny, he sets out on a journey to acquire an elixir aimed at restoring the form of Dragon Prince Ao Bing.

It might seem overwhelming, but everything becomes quite clear once you watch the initial movie. Essentially, it revolves around a small troublemaker with prominent teeth who fights off demons while challenging destiny, subtly examining the idea that good and evil aren’t defined by where they come from.

Now that you're all updated, it's time for the records.

The 2025 follow-up film, penned and helmed by Jiaozi, has created a historical milestone.

The Chinese animated blockbuster has claimed the title of highest-grossing movie ever in China and has also become the most successful animated film globally, surpassing Pixar's achievements. Inside Out 2 It was the first foreign-language film to earn over $1 billion at the box office and also became the first movie not produced in Hollywood to secure a spot within the global top 10 highest-grossing films of all time.

Still with us?

Ne Zha 2 Currently holds the position as the sixth highest-grossing film of all time following Avatar , Avengers: Endgame , Avatar: The Path of Water , Titanic and Star Wars: The Force Awakens .

It was launched in China on January 29th, and within the weekend, it surpassed the $2 billion milestone. As I write this, it stands at $2,056,003,774 (for comparison, Inside Out 2 with a global total of $1.69 billion and appears poised to exceed Star Wars: The Force Awakens especially considering that Trinity CineAsia has acquired the theater distribution rights for Ne Zha 2 Across 37 European regions — such as France, Germany, Spain, Ireland, and the UK — where it will premiere on March 21st.

Films that genuinely capture their time period, stir viewers profoundly, and leave a lasting impact on society are few and far between. 'Ne Zha 2' achieves this," stated Cedric Behrel, the managing director of Trinity CineAsia. "This marks a significant milestone in solidifying Trinity CineAsia’s position as a leading European-wide distributor.

A lasting impact on culture driven by nationalism within its home country, with Chinese enthusiasts expressing their disapproval towards Marvel’s actions. Captain America: Bold New Era to ensure Ne Zha 2 ’s box office supremacy.

Audiences have turned to social media to criticize Ne Zha’s primary antagonist, with a widely circulated phrase online stating: "I don't mind whether Ne Zha 2 thrives abroad, but Captain America 4 has got to meet its end in China."

Ouch.

One online post stated, 'It's not Captain America who is dying; it's America itself that is dying.' The poster went on to say, 'Actually, the U.S. doesn’t possess superheroes, nor is it a peaceful guardian for humanity.'

Ouch again.

Captain America: Bold New Era Has only amassed a global total of $370 million so far, and he’s likely feeling red, white, and quite blue at this moment.

Ne Zha 2 will be screening at a theater close to you shortly.

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ISIS Leader in Iraq and Syria Killed: Iraqi PM Confirms

Baghdad [ Iraq ], March 15 (ANI): On this date, Iraq The Prime Minister stated that members of the nation's national intelligence agency, collaborating with coalition troops led by the United States, were responsible for eliminating the leader of Islamic State in Iraq and Syria as stated by CNN referencing AP.

“The Iraq "are continuing their remarkable triumphs against the forces of darkness and terror," stated Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani in a post made on X.

Abdallah Maki Mosleh al-Rifai, also known as "Abu Khadija," served as the "deputy caliph" of the extremist organization and was considered "one of the most dangerous terrorists." Iraq "And the globe," the statement read, according to CNN.

Late Friday evening, on his Truth Social platform, he posted, US President Donald Trump stated, "Today, the elusive chief of IS IS in Iraq He was killed. Our brave warriors pursued him until they finally caught up with him," working together with us. Iraq I am referring to the central government and the Kurdistan Regional Government.

"PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH!" Trump emphasized.

According to a CNN report, a security official stated that the mission was carried out via an airstrike in the western region. Iraq I am from the province of Anbar. A second official confirmed that al-Rifai's death was verified on Friday, though the operation took place Thursday night. These officials were not authorized to speak publicly, hence they spoke anonymously.

The announcement was made on the same day as the inaugural visit by Syria ’s top diplomat to Iraq , during which both nations committed to collaborate in order to tackle IS .

Iraq I Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein stated in the report that during a press conference he mentioned, "we face shared challenges" Syria n and Iraq In society, and particularly among the terrorists, IS He mentioned that the officials had discussed 'the details of the movements' extensively. IS IS , whether on the Syria n- Iraq i border, inside Syria or inside Iraq ” during the visit.

Hussein also mentioned an operation room established by Syria , Iraq In Ankara, Turkey, along with Jordan and Lebanon, met recently in Amman to address the issue. IS and mentioned it would shortly start working.

The relationship between Iraq and Syria is quite tense following the downfall of the previous Syria President Bashar al-Assad received backing from Iran-backed groups as well. Al-Sudani assumed leadership with significant financial and political support from these coalitions, including key assistance from Tehran, which also strongly supported Assad.

The present acting president of Syria Ahmad al-Sharaa, previously reported to be known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, fought as an Al-Qaeda militant. Iraq after the US the invasion of 2003 followed by combat against Assad’s regime afterwards Syria .

The US and Iraq had declared a deal earlier to conclude the military mission Iraq Of a coalition led by America battling the Islamic State group together by September 2025, with US troops leaving certain bases where they have been deployed throughout a twenty-year military presence in the nation.

Iraq Political authorities stated that the challenge presented by IS was manageable and they no longer needed help from Washington to eliminate the remaining cells following the coalition's mission. Iraq was agreed to terminate.

However, the downfall of Assad in December prompted some individuals to reconsider their position, including members affiliated with the Coordinating Framework, an alliance primarily comprising Shiite political factions aligned with Iran, which has supported the present administration. Iraq Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al-Sudani came into power in late 2022, as per the report. (ANI)

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).

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Step into Prehistoric Past: Top 10 Global Dinosaur Trails

THese locations across the world provide special chances to uncover fossils, dinosaur tracks, and terrains that transport you back to ancient times.

The Jurassic period, an intriguing chapter in Earth's past, was characterized by dinosaurs, expansive seas, and dense plant life. Despite over 150 million years having elapsed since this epoch concluded, remarkable locations across the globe remain where one can immerse oneself in vestiges from those ancient times. dives into some of the period's most recognizable locations to assist you in planning a journey that encompasses unique Jurassic experience .

Moab Desert, Utah, USA

The Moab Desert in Utah is renowned for its stunning rock formations and arid landscapes. It serves as an excellent location to uncover remnants from the Jurassic era. Within Arches National Park, one can find fossilized specimens. dinosaur footprints It serves as a testament to the area's rich ancient past. Visitors can trace these historical marks by following designated hiking paths. Those interested in paleontology will find value in the ranger-led tours and detailed explanations offered.

The Canadian Rockies, Canada

The The Canadian Rockies are renowned for their awe-inspiring mountain ranges. However, these sites are also teeming with treasures from the Jurassic era. The Morrison Formation, stretching across Canada, is renowned for its abundance of dinosaur fossils. At the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology in Drumheller, Alberta, you can immerse yourself in the fascinating realm of dinosaurs through their extensive fossil exhibits. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to engage in archaeological excavations and unearth fossils firsthand.

Jura, France

The name Jurassic Originating from the Jura Mountains in east-central France, these areas abound with sedimentary rock layers that date back to prehistoric times. Exploring this region transports visitors back millions of years due to its scenic vistas featuring dense woodlands and intricate karst topography. Be sure not to overlook the enchanting grottos at Baume-les-Messieurs and the breathtaking Hérisson cascades. Venturing into the caverns of Baume-les-Messieurs reveals ancient limestone structures shaped over eons, whereas visiting the Hérisson falls offers an opportunity to marvel at the formidable force of flowing water within a tranquil woodland environment.

Dinosaur Provincial Park, located in Alberta, Canada

Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta, Canada, It stands as one of the most bountiful sources of dinosaur fossils globally. Visitors have the opportunity to join guided excursions to delve into the rugged Badland terrain and examine fossil layers. Additionally, the park’s museum presents a remarkable display dedicated to the Jurassic era, featuring prehistoric remains alongside details about past paleontological finds in the region. This location provides an ideal setting for anyone seeking a genuine taste of life during the Jurassic period.

The Jurassic Coast, England

The Jurassic Coast located in southern England stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is among the premier destinations for unearthing Jurassic-era fossils. This region boasts an extensive collection of marine fossils such as ammonites and ichthyosaurs. Visitors have the opportunity to search for these ancient relics along the shores and cliff faces. Additionally, guided excursions are provided to assist individuals in recognizing various fossils and gaining deeper insights into the geological history of this locale.

Montana, United States

Another U.S. state brimming with Jurassic-era locations is Montana. The Morrison Formation, spanning across this region as well, has yielded numerous discoveries of dinosaur and prehistoric creature remains. In Bozeman, you'll find the Museum of the Rockies showcasing an extensive exhibit of dinosaur bones alongside fascinating details about the Jurassic period. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to join tours to explore active dig sites nearby.

Cal Orck'o Cretaceous Park, Bolivia

The Cal Orck'o Cretaceous Park located in Sucre, Bolivia, stands out as a remarkable destination for those interested in paleontology. This area features over 5,000 dinosaur tracks, including some of the biggest ones globally, visible within its cliff faces. Visitors can observe both these tracks and fossilized remains set against their original backdrop. Additionally, the park provides guided excursions designed to educate guests on the captivating story behind these ancient beings.

Patagonia, Argentina

Argentina’s Patagonia is a prime destination for delving into the Jurassic era. Known for its rich fossil beds, this locale boasts dinosaur remnants found nowhere else. Those captivated by dinosaurs ought to explore the Egidio Feruglio Paleontology Museum in Trelew, where they can view remarkably intact dinosaur skeletons and gain insights into ongoing excavation projects. Additionally, numerous archaeological sites in Patagonia provide guests with the chance to join paleontological digs firsthand.

The Atlas Mountains, Morocco

The Atlas Mountains located in Morocco abound with Jurassic fossils, such as ammonites and marine reptiles. Various areas like Erfoud and Zagora stand out due to their abundant fossil finds. Visiting paleontological dig locations and regional museums allows you to delve deeper into the era's past. Exploring tours of Morocco's desert region offers an opportunity for you to unearth these historical remnants firsthand.

Queensland, Australia

In Queensland, Australia, notable for its dinosaur fossil locations from the Jurassic era, lies the Australian Dinosaur Museum in Winton. It stands as a premier institution with an extensive array of fossils along with engaging displays. For those passionate about dinosaurs in Australia, this museum offers the perfect setting; visitors have the opportunity to join tours at functioning dig sites and deepen their understanding of paleontology within the country.

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Fiji's Underdogs Prepare for Their World Cup Destiny

Despite acknowledging their underdog status, the Bula Boys are leaving nothing on the table this month as they strive for what would be one of the greatest upsets in FIFA World Cup history.

For the first time, FIFA has granted direct qualification for the World Cup to its smallest confederation—Oceania (OFC)—providing smaller countries with an opportunity to participate in soccer’s premier event.

This encompasses Fiji, ranked at number 148 globally, which would significantly be the lowest-ranked team to qualify for a World Cup.

It's certainly a huge challenge," Coach Rob Sherman says to aynur1015.blogspot.com. "But one we're ready to take on.

The challenge has intensified due to the lack of Fiji's top football player, Roy Krishna, who suffered a severe ACL injury back in December.

For a team predominantly made up of players with limited professional experience—including individuals such as builders and even a policeman—Sherman laments the absence of "a touch of professionalism."

"He's an extremely influential person, Roy, and greatly admired by the guys... his absence is felt not just because of his impact on the field," he mentioned.

Nevertheless, the situation calls for Fiji to step up to the challenge, and they are resolved to make this happen.

This month, the smallest FIFA confederation will be the first to complete its qualification process.

On Friday, Tahiti will take on New Caledonia in a semifinal featuring two Francophone teams, followed by Fiji facing the powerhouse side from New Zealand. Both games will be held in Wellington.

The two winning teams will advance to Auckland’s iconic Eden Park, with one of them securing a spot in the 2026 championship hosted jointly by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Considering the prize money involved, which is beyond the wildest dreams of many amateurs, it’s hardly surprising that Fiji is putting all their efforts into this endeavor.

This involves the hiring of Sherman, who previously served as the technical director at both Football Australia and Melbourne Victory. His focus has been on enhancing tactical and technical skills.

Following their advancement into the final four, Sherman gathered his team in Fiji for an intensive two-week training session last month, during which he started narrowing down the roster for another gathering in Auckland.

He finds "promising" friendly victories in New Zealand encouraging, noting the team’s 3-0 win against Auckland United and their 1-0 victory over Eastern Suburbs, as athletes adapt to a more sophisticated tactical approach.

"The main challenge lies in the fact that the boys lack significant tactical awareness... during domestic games, it tends to be quite a disorganized match," he explained.

Gradually yet steadily, those who frequently participate adjust to a strategic approach and a playing method... however, it commonly shifts to two attackers and one defender moving backward, as once they return to local soccer, their tactical sharpness isn’t consistently maintained, causing them to regress somewhat.

Holding such a camp allows us to reaffirm our strategy for the game.

Just five of Fiji's final squad are based overseas, including Scott Wara, in the English seventh tier, and NSW pair Jerome Narayan and Leroy Jennings.

The Welshman is well aware that spending an entire month in camp is one of his advantages over New Zealand. This is because New Zealand will only have one major training session before the game, due to the lengthy travel required for several overseas-based professionals.

New Zealand can pride themselves on having one of football's most in-form forwards, Chris Wood, with his tally of 18 goals in the English Premier League this season, along with numerous players excelling in various top-tier European leagues.

"Sherman pointed out that the New Zealand boys have all moved abroad, now playing in respectable teams," he noted.

We've concentrated all our efforts on curbing New Zealand’s strong points and potentially exploiting one or two of their vulnerabilities, should they have any.

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Top 25 Most Stunning Flags Worldwide (Photos Included)

National flags embody far more than just national pride and identity; they symbolize freedom and the unwavering spirit of citizens. This has led to ongoing conflicts throughout history over these symbols. Even now, an unspoken battle rages concerning which nations boast the most stunning flags. Explore the top contenders for the title of having the world’s most attractive banners today.

Many of us inherently feel a sense of patriotism without realizing it, which makes us quick to choose our national flags as the most stunning ones, regardless of their actual appearance. The appeal often stems from the colors and symbols incorporated into these banners. Discover some of the most visually striking flags globally today. Keep in mind though, this ranking is subjective since what one finds attractive can vary greatly between individuals.

Summary of the Most Stunning Flags Worldwide Today

Ranking	Country	Continent
1	Kenya	Africa
2	South Africa	Africa
3	Mozambique	Africa
4	Malaysia	Asia
5	Nepal	Asia
6	Kyrgyzstan	Asia
7	Australia	Oceania
8	Argentina	South America
9	Brazil	South America
10	Cuba	North America
11	Greece	Europe
12	Canada	North America
13	New Zealand	Oceania
14	Bosnia and Herzegovina	Europe
15	United States of America	North America
16	Denmark	Europe
17	Mauritania	Africa
18	Tanzania	Africa
19	Guyana	South America
20	North Macedonia	Europe
21	Seychelles	Africa
22	Bhutan	Asia
23	India	Asia
24	France	Europe
25	Portugal	Europe

Top 25 Most Stunning Flags Worldwide Today

Across time, countries have altered their flags to represent the strength of spirit among those who relate to the emblem.

These flags serve as symbols of national pride, particularly when displayed internationally. Although many nations claim to possess the most attractive flag, we've curated a list featuring the top 25 countries renowned for their visually stunning banners.

1. Kenya

In 2024, the Kenyan flag might be considered one of the most stunning globally. Adopted in 1963, this emblematic banner displays a shield flanked by two crossed spears positioned centrally within a black, red, white, and green horizontal tricolor design. Green symbolizes Kenya’s natural environment and abundant resources.

Black symbolizes the Kenyan population and the broader African continent. The red hue stands for the blood shed during the fight for freedom. White embodies harmony and cohesion, whereas the shield and spears stand as emblems of Kenya’s protection over these values.

2. South Africa

Since 1994, the South African flag has been adopted and widely utilized, ranking amongst the world’s top five most aesthetically pleasing national symbols. This emblem encapsulates hundreds of years of the nation's past within its design. Despite its striking appearance, official explanations for what each color signifies have never been provided publicly.

The colors black, green, and yellow are thought to have been adopted from the African National Congress (ANC) banner led by Nelson Mandela. Conversely, red, white, and blue come from the Transvaal flag. It is suggested that the 'Y' pattern symbolizes the coming together of various cultures into a single nation.

3. Mozambique

The Mozambican flag stands out due to its inclusion of an AK-47, which serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made during their fight for freedom from colonial rule. In 2024, this distinctive banner ranks within the top 10 most aesthetically pleasing national flags globally.

Official use began in 1983. Displayed on the flyside are a djembe, an AK-47, a book, and a star. The book signifies the significance of education. The djembe stands for the crucial role of agriculture as the foundation of the nation’s economy.

The green color symbolizes Mozambique's abundant natural resources; white stands for peace, black signifies the African continent, yellow indicates the nation's mineral wealth, and red reflects the sacrifices made through bloodshed during the fight for independence.

4. Malaysia

Malaysia’s flag ranks among the ten most stunning flags in Asia. It is widely recognized as Jalur Gemilang (Marks of Honor) has been in use since 1963. The Malaysian flag includes 14 alternating stripes of white and red. Additionally, it comprises a blue canton containing a crescent and a fourteen-pointed star known as the Bintang Persekutuan (Federal Star).

The alternating white and red stripes stand for Malaysia’s 13 states along with its federal territories. The 14 tips of the star embody the solidarity among these regions. Meanwhile, the crescent moon alludes to Islam as the nation's official faith. Finally, the color yellow represents royalty—the regal status of the Malay sultans.

5. Nepal

The Nepalese flag ranks among the top ten most aesthetically pleasing flags globally. Its beauty lies in its distinctiveness, as it deviates from the common rectangular form. This distinctive design was influenced by the silhouette of Mount Everest’s peaks.

Two themes, the moon and sun, embody serenity and determination. The predominant color is deep crimson red, representing the nation’s official flower—the rhododendron. The borders are adorned with blue, signifying tranquility.

6. Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan was once part of the Soviet Union prior to its dissolution. The nation did not use its own flag until 1992, which was half a year following its declaration of independence. The national emblem bears a vibrant red backdrop symbolizing the courage exhibited by the populace of Kyrgyzstan.

At the heart of this emblem lies a golden depiction of an intense sun, signifying tranquility and affluence. Forty radiant beams encircle the sun, each representing one of the Kyrgyz clans that united to combat the Mongol invasion. Within the sun’s disc, intricate patterns echo the design of a tunduk—the apex of a traditional Kyrgyz dwelling and symbolizing the household.

7. Australia

The Australian flag is stunning not only in design but also in what it represents. It ranks within the top 20 of the world's most attractive flags. The presence of the Union Jack in the upper left corner symbolizes the country's connection to the Commonwealth.

Beneath the Union Jack, there is a prominent seven-pointed star similar to the one used by the Commonwealth. To the right side of the Australian flag, five differently sized stars depict the Southern Cross constellation, which is visible from Australia.

8. Argentina

Argentina boasts one of the world’s ten most attractive flags. Its national banner features two pale blue stripes at the top and bottom, enclosing a single white stripe in between. At its center shines an exquisite gold "Sun of May."

9. Brazil

The Auriverde has served as Brazil’s national flag since 1889 and stands out among beautiful state banners due to its rich symbolic elements. The green hue symbolizes the nation's vast landscapes and lush woodlands, whereas yellow signifies the abundance of gold within the country.

At its core lies a vibrant blue hue shaped like a celestial sphere symbolizing the nighttime sky above Rio de Janeiro. Small white stars represent individual Brazilian states within this orb. The phrase "Ordem e Progresso" (Order and Progress), inspired by French philosopher Auguste Comte’s positivist slogan, encircles the globe.

10. Cuba

The Cuban flag was conceived well ahead of the nation achieving freedom. The vision of a liberated Cuba shaped its creation. Designed in 1849 by Narciso López, despite him not witnessing it raised above Cuba, his handiwork stands as a timeless emblem of the country’s fortitude and fight for autonomy.

The white stripes signify the purity of thoughts, whereas the corresponding blue stripes stand for the three governing sections of Cuba. The red section at the edge embodies valor, with the star within the red triangle representing the sovereignty of the recently established nation.

11. Greece

The Greek flag brings to mind images of the nation’s enchanting azure seas and picturesque shorelines. Despite appearing rather simple, its symbols hold significant meaning. In 2023, it ranks among the world’s most aesthetically pleasing national flags.

The color blue stands for the ocean and the heavens. White signifies the unblemished nature of the fight for freedom, distinct from the well-known structures along the coastlines. The sequence of nine alternating blue and white stripes embodies the nation's slogan. Eleftheria I Thanatos , meaning freedom or death.

The cross located in the farthest corner symbolizes the nation's official faith, which is Eastern Orthodox Christianity.

12. Canada

Canada boasts one of the most impressive flags globally, distinguished by its iconic red maple leaf at the center. Historically, the British Empire colonized Canada. The country adopted its present-day flag in 1965 from an initial selection of three proposed designs, with the final choice being deemed superior. This emblematic flag features just two colors: white and red.

The maple leaf serves as a symbol of Canadian identity, embodying values such as bravery, fidelity, and dignity. This iconic image includes 11 points; ten points stand for the Canadian provinces, with the eleventh point signifying the nation’s three territories.

13. New Zealand

For much of its history, New Zealand flew the Union Jack flag, serving as a British colony and dominion. In 1902, however, it adopted its present-day flag. Despite this change, the country’s current design retains the British flag in the upper left corner.

New Zealand's flag features three colors: royal blue, red, and white. The deep blue shade aligns with the Royal Navy’s Blue Squadron ensign. Red stars represent the nation's position in the Southern Hemisphere. Additionally, these stars honor traditional Māori legends.

In 2016, New Zealand residents had the option to choose between keeping the current flag design or adopting a new version with the recognizable silver fern emblem. However, the original flag prevailed and continues to be the official national symbol.

14. Bosnia and Herzegovina

While Bosnia and Herzegovina may not be among the top destinations globally, it likely boasts the finest national flag worldwide. This emblematic banner from Bosnia and Herzegovina features an elegant design symbolizing various aspects simultaneously. It consists of three colors: yellow, blue, and white.

The vertices of the yellow triangle symbolize the three principal ethnic communities: the Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs. The diagonal row of white stars stands for numerous European nations, highlighting Bosnia & Herzegovina’s position as part of an amicable community.

15. The USA

The United States' flag stands out for its historical significance and widespread recognition. Among global banners, it ranks highly in popularity. Its design was finalized in 1960 following the admission of Hawaii into the Union as the fiftieth state. This version features fifty stars, each emblematic of one of today's American states. Meanwhile, the thirteen alternating red and white stripes pay homage to the original thirteen colonies which declared independence from Britain and formed the founding members of the United States.

The American flag could stay unchanged for now, as both the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico express interest in attaining statehood status within the U.S. Should this occur, adjustments would be necessary to include additional stars on the flag, symbolizing these newly admitted states.

16. Denmark

The flag of Denmark displays a red field adorned with a white Nordic cross extending from edge to edge. This cross embodies the Christian faith of the Danish populace, whereas the crimson backdrop signifies the nation’s monarchical heritage. In use since the 13th century, this banner holds the distinction of being recognized as the world's oldest continually employed national flag.

17. Mauritania

Mauritania’s national flag features a green background adorned with a yellow crescent and star at its center. Green signifies Islam, whereas the crescent and star stand as emblems of this religion. Additionally, these colors denote the nation’s principal ethnicities: the predominantly Black population and the Arab-Berber community. This distinctive emblem was formally accepted in 1959 and serves as an exclusive marker of Mauritanian heritage.

18. Tanzania

Tanzania’s national flag features a black diagonal stripe edged with yellow, dividing the banner into two triangles; the top one (near the flagpole) is green, and the bottom one is blue. This design was formally accepted on June 30, 1964, following the independence of the former Tanganyika territory.

The black stripe with yellow borders signifies the African continent and the Tanzanian population. The green section depicts the nation’s abundant plant life and fertile farmlands. Meanwhile, the blue segment stands for the Indian Ocean and embodies Tanzania's ambitions for advancement.

19. Guyana

The national flag of Guyana features five colors: green, gold, white, black, and red. The green edge represents the nation’s agriculture and forests, whereas the gold stands for its abundant minerals.

The white color symbolizes Guyana’s numerous rivers, coastal waters, and majestic waterfalls, while the black signifies resilience and dedication. The red hue embodies the passion and energy of the Guyanese populace. Additionally, this flag features the country’s coat of arms, which includes imagery of a sugar cane processing plant and an indigenous canoe complete with a paddle. These elements pay homage to Guyana’s historical roots in industry and agriculture.

20. North Macedonia

The flag of North Macedonia consists of a horizontal tricolor featuring shades of red, yellow, and green. Red stands for courage, yellow signifies the nation’s richness and splendor, while green embodies the land's abundant natural assets as well as aspirations for future success. This emblematic banner came into official use in 1995 after the dissolution of the previous federation, Yugoslavia.

21. Seychelles

The Seychelles' flag is both vivid and distinctive, reflecting the nation's energetic character. This particular design was officially chosen for the Seychelles flag on June 18, 1996.

The flag has a rectangular shape featuring five diagonal stripes extending from the lower-left corner towards the upper-right side. The blue stripe in the top-left section symbolizes the sky above and the seas encircling the islands.

The color yellow signifies the sun, providing illumination and vitality. Red embodies the populace and their resolve to collectively strive towards a brighter future with unity and affection. White denotes fairness and concord. Meanwhile, green epitomizes the landscape and the inherent ecosystem of Seychelles.

22. Bhutan

The official adoption of Bhutan's flag design took place in 1969. This banner stands out due to its deep symbolic elements, which encapsulate the nation’s cultural background and Buddhist practices. Shaped as a rectangle, the flag features a diagonal division starting from the bottom left edge up towards the top right side. The yellow hue signifies the temporal power and leadership of the King of Bhutan.

The color orange embodies the spiritual heritage, notably Buddhism, which is firmly embedded within the nation’s traditions. White is the hue of the dragon, denoting purity, as it clutches gems in its claws—emblems representing national prosperity and stability. The fierce visage of the dragon illustrates the resilience of the populace when safeguarding their homeland.

23. India

The Indian flag was adopted on July 22, 1947, just prior to India’s independence from British governance. This banner boasts a rectangular layout consisting of three horizontal bands of varying hues.

The color orange signifies bravery, self-sacrifice, and the concept of giving up material things for higher ideals. White stands for honesty, tranquility, and moral cleanliness, whereas green embodies trust, agricultural abundance, and the vibrancy of nature. Positioned within the central white band is a dark-blue circle known as the Ashoka Chakra. Featuring 24 spokes, this circular emblem mirrors the Dharmachakra, an ancient symbol representing spiritual law and cosmic order.

24. France

The French flag, called the Tricolor, is both simple and instantly recognizable as a national emblem. This rectangular banner consists of three equally wide vertical bands. Blue appears on the far-left edge, standing for freedom; directly beside it lies a white band representing parity; finally, the red segment at the right end embodies brotherhood.

25. Portugal

The flag of Portugal came into use on June 30, 1911, following the formation of the Portuguese Republic. This banner features a rectangle split unevenly into two vertical segments.

On the left side of the flag, approximately two-fifths of its total width, lies a green band. Green represents hope and marks the restoration of Portugal’s independence following the revolution in 1640 against Spanish rule.

On the right side, the color red symbolizes the blood shed and the continuous battles fought by the Portuguese people over time. At the point where the green and red sections intersect, the flag includes the nation’s coat of arms. Additionally, the design incorporates a detailed emblem.

What do you think is the most beautiful flag globally?

Among the most beautiful flags globally, you can find those belonging to Kenya, Tanzania, the USA, South Africa, Mozambique, Portugal, India, Nepal, Malaysia, Australia, and Seychelles.

What nation has the most distinctive flag?

Nepal boasts the most distinctive flag featuring an intriguing design. It stands out as the sole national banner globally that deviates from a rectangular form. Composed of two triangular pennants, this emblematic flag features a rich blue outline surrounding a vibrant crimson-red background.

What is considered the most vibrant flag globally?

Belize boasts the world's most vibrant flag. This banner features an impressive twelve colors, much of which contributes to the intricate design of the coat of arms at its center.

In which nation's banner do you think the most appeal lies?

Countries boasting some of the most attractive flags encompass India, Kenya, Australia, Nepal, South Africa, the United States, Seychelles, New Zealand, Portugal, North Macedonia, and Bhutan.

Flags play a crucial role in uniting citizens and fostering patriotism within a nation. These symbols represent pride and cohesion, sometimes even being regarded highly enough for countries to fight over them. Among the most visually stunning flags globally, many also carry profound symbolic meanings.

Recently, .co.ke released a compilation of the most hazardous destinations for travelers within Africa. The primary factors contributing to the decline in peace across these African nations include terrorist activities and political unrest.

Various uprisings and clashes throughout history have resulted from numerous coups, disputed elections, ethnicity-based disagreements, and accusations of corruption. Discover which African nations pose the highest risks for travelers due to these issues.

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