Chinese ambassador’s ‘grandstanding’ advice for Australia raises eyebrows

China just pulled off a solar energy first by launching a fully seawater-based solar power system—something no one’s done at an industrial scale before. This floating solar station in Qingdao is part of a bigger push to harness renewable energy in coastal areas, support ocean-related industries, and drive tech innovation. It’s the latest step in Sinopec’s growing portfolio of offshore solar projects, signaling a major leap for clean energy in maritime zones.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another solar farm—it’s a game-changer for coastal and marine industries that have struggled to integrate renewables. By tapping into seawater-based solar, China’s addressing two big challenges: land scarcity for solar farms and the need for cleaner energy in maritime economies. If this scales up, it could set a blueprint for other nations with crowded coastlines or ambitious green energy goals. Plus, it’s a solid win for industrial innovation in the renewables race.

A ride-hail driver in China got slapped with a 21-day suspension after a female passenger accused him of sexual harassment for repeatedly asking if she was wearing perfume and saying she "smells good." The incident, which happened in Hangzhou, sparked debate online—was it just awkward small talk or crossing a line? The platform took action, but the story’s blowing up because it taps into bigger conversations about boundaries and what counts as inappropriate behavior in shared spaces.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one awkward car ride—it’s part of a growing global reckoning over what’s considered harmless vs. harassing behavior, especially in service jobs where power dynamics are uneven. In China, where #MeToo has faced pushback but still influenced public discourse, cases like this test how companies and society respond to gray-area interactions. Whether you think the driver was out of line or just socially clumsy, the fallout shows how quickly these situations can escalate in the digital age.

Donald Trump called Vladimir Putin "a professional" while acknowledging Russia's ability to weather Western sanctions. The brief remark, made during an unspecified context, highlights Trump's continued tendency to offer measured praise for the Russian leader, even amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Editor’s Note: Trump's comments aren't exactly new—he's long been criticized for his softer tone on Putin—but they’re still noteworthy given the current backdrop of sanctions and Ukraine-related tensions. It’s a reminder that, regardless of political climate, Trump’s personal views on Russia often diverge from the harder line taken by many in Washington. For readers, it’s another data point in the ongoing saga of how these two leaders’ dynamic shapes global diplomacy.

The Dalai Lama, who turns 90 this Sunday, joked during a prayer ceremony for his longevity that he hopes to live past 130—far exceeding typical human lifespans. The spiritual leader made the lighthearted remark while devotees gathered to wish him a long life.

Editor’s Note: While the Dalai Lama’s comment was likely tongue-in-cheek, it reflects both his enduring influence and the devotion of his followers. His longevity is symbolically important to Tibetan Buddhism, and his humor here underscores his characteristic warmth—even as he approaches a milestone birthday.

A devastating flood in Texas has killed at least 24 people, with rescue teams urgently searching for survivors—including a group of girls from a summer camp who are still missing. Torrential rains caused flash flooding along the Guadalupe River, trapping people in rising waters and leaving many unaccounted for.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another weather story—it’s a life-and-death situation for families waiting to hear about loved ones. The fact that children at a summer camp are among the missing makes it even more heartbreaking. It’s a stark reminder of how quickly extreme weather can turn deadly, especially in areas prone to sudden flooding.