China's first domestically built cruise ship begins maiden voyage
SHANGHAI, Jan 01: China's first domestically built cruise ship set sail on its maiden voyage from Shanghai on Monday, a sign of the nation's growing prowess in sophisticated construction as it seeks self-sufficiency in key technologies. The Adora Magic City left port on its first commercial cruise late afternoon, en route to South Korea and Japan. Equipped with a mahjong lounge and hotpot restaurant, the luxury vessel is aimed squarely at China's expanding middle class and their appetite for international travel. State media have hailed the 16-deck behemoth as a "major milestone for the country's shipbuilding industry" and a "crown jewel". — AFP
Putin calls for unity in New Year address
MOSCOW, Jan 01: Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered New Year address on Sunday, calling for national unity. "We have proven time and time again that we can solve even the most difficult problems, and we will never back down, because there is no force that can divide us, make us forget the memory and faith of our fathers, or stop our development," he said. The president also wished Russian families all the best. "We are one country, one big family," he said. "We will ensure the confident development of the fatherland, the well-being of our citizens, and we will become even stronger," said Putin. — Xinhua
Iran executes five for armed robberies
TEHRAN, Jan 01: Iran on Monday executed five people convicted of multiple "armed robberies and banditry which rendered roads unsafe and spread terror among people," the judiciary's Mizan Online website said. The five stole livestock and building materials in several areas, including Alborz province west of Tehran, Mizan added without saying when they were arrested, tried and sentenced. — AFP
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