Direct air connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh was restored on Thursday after a 14-year gap, as Biman Bangladesh Airlines operated its inaugural non-stop flight from Dhaka to Karachi. The resumption marks a major step toward strengthening bilateral ties and improving people-to-people connectivity between the two countries. The inaugural flight, which was fully booked, departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka, and landed at Jinnah International Airport, Karachi. The launch ceremony in Dhaka was attended by Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism Sk. Bashir Uddin, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider, and senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, and Biman Bangladesh Airlines. Speaking at the event, Sk. Bashir Uddin described the Dhaka–Karachi route as a long-awaited and positive development. He said the restored service would improve regional connectivity, encourage tourism, and deepen people-to-people relations.“This route will boost connectivity, promote tourism and strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries,” he said. The adviser also announced that Biman Bangladesh Airlines plans to gradually increase flight frequency and reduce fares to make travel more affordable. He expressed hope that Bangladeshi travellers would visit Pakistan to explore its natural landscapes, cultural heritage and diverse cuisine, noting that improved air access could unlock new tourism and business opportunities. Pakistan’s High Commissioner Imran Haider said the resumption of direct flights reflects a shared vision between Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to enhance bilateral connectivity.“The operationalisation of this route will significantly enhance youth, academic, cultural, business and family exchanges,” he said. Haider recalled that during the visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar to Dhaka in August last year, both countries agreed to take immediate steps to restore direct air links. The launch of the Dhaka–Karachi flight, he added, was the outcome of that understanding. The High Commissioner thanked the Government of Bangladesh, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh for their cooperation in facilitating the route. Passengers on the inaugural flight welcomed the move, calling it a milestone that brings the two countries closer after years of indirect travel through third-country hubs. Many said the non-stop connection would save time, reduce costs, and encourage more frequent travel for family visits, education and business. With the return of direct flights, both countries are expected to see renewed momentum in bilateral engagement, signalling a positive shift in regional connectivity and cooperation.
Seven Years Later: Pakistan End T20I Curse Against Australia in Lahore
Pakistan broke a seven-year Twenty20 International (T20I) drought against Australia on January 29, 2026, securing a statement victory in the first match of the three-game series at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The 22-run win lifted Pakistani spirits ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup and marked a rare triumph over the Aussies in the shortest format. Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted 168 for 8 in their 20 overs, with key contributions from their top order and middle order. The team’s total proved competitive enough on a wicket that offered assistance to both batters and bowlers. All-rounder Saim Ayub was the standout performer with both bat and ball. He scored a rapid 40 runs, anchoring the innings and providing impetus at crucial stages. Alongside him, Salman Agha added valuable runs to help Pakistan post a defendable total. Pakistan’s bowling attack then stepped up to defend their score. Abrar Ahmed bowled with great discipline, dismissing key Australian batters and applying pressure with tight lines. Consistent breakthroughs ensured Australia could not fully recover after a steady start. Despite some resistance from Australian batters, Pakistan’s bowlers kept the run-rate in check. The visitors finished on 146 for 8 in their 20 overs, falling short by 22 runs. The disciplined performance by the Pakistani bowling unit earned them a vital first win in the series. This result is particularly significant for Pakistan cricket because their last T20I win over Australia was recorded in 2019. For seven years, Australia had maintained the upper hand in this format, making this victory both rare and morale-boosting. The series in Lahore also serves as Pakistan’s final competitive action before the T20 World Cup, which begins in early February 2026 in Sri Lanka. This win not only delivers confidence but also provides momentum for the team ahead of the global tournament. Pakistan’s squad for the series includes a blend of experience and youthful talent led by captain Salman Ali Agha. For Pakistan, the win in Lahore represents a turning point. It not only ends a long T20I losing streak against a formidable opponent but also sends a strong message about their readiness and resilience as they prepare to compete at the highest level in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
No New Clothes, No New Gadgets: Why This Swedish Mall Is Going Viral
When most travelers think of Sweden, thoughts turn to fjords, Scandinavian design, or Stockholm’s museums. But just outside the quiet city of Eskilstuna, about 100 km west of Stockholm, lies a truly unique travel experience: a mall where absolutely nothing new is sold. Instead, every product has lived a previous life. ReTuna Återbruksgalleria is not a thrift store tucked away in a basement. It’s the world’s first shopping mall fully dedicated to reused, recycled, refurbished, or upcycled goods. Opened in 2015 and operated by the municipality, it spans about 3,000 square meters and houses 14 specialty shops. Each store offers a different class of second-hand items — from fashion and furniture to electronics and gardening tools. What sets ReTuna apart is its circular retail ecosystem. The mall sits right next to the town’s recycling centre. Locals and visitors alike can drop off unwanted furniture, clothes, toys, or electronics. Instead of being discarded as waste, these items are sorted and sent to shops inside ReTuna where skilled staff repair, restore, repurpose or upcycle them before selling. The interior feels strikingly modern and welcoming. Bright displays and clean spaces make it easy to forget you’re browsing pre-owned goods. Many travelers report that the experience feels more like visiting a design gallery than a second-hand shop. ReTuna also goes beyond retail. The mall doubles as a public education hub where workshops, lectures, and events focus on sustainability, design, and circular economy concepts. Local schools even run programs within the mall to teach students how to transform waste into usable products. Economically, ReTuna has proved that sustainable shopping can work commercially. According to reports, it averages over 700 visitors a day and generates around $1.8 million in annual turnover — all from goods that once would have ended up in landfills. For travelers who want more than a typical tourist stop, ReTuna offers a cultural insight into Sweden’s environmental values. Instead of collecting souvenirs like magnets or postcards, visitors leave with items that tell a story — revealing both Swedish design sensibility and an optimistic vision for how retail might evolve globally. With sustainability rising on many travelers’ priority lists, ReTuna is more than a mall— it’s a living experiment in conscious consumption. It shows that a shopping experience can be both meaningful and stylish, proving that reused goods can be desirable, quality products with personality.
From Silence to Response: How Classmates’ Voices Helped Boy Come Out of 55-Day Coma
An 8-year-old Chinese boy has woken from a 55-day coma after his classmates’ heartfelt video messages and familiar school sounds were played beside his hospital bed, sparking what his family and doctors describe as a remarkable recovery. The boy, identified as Liu Chuxi, is a second-grader from Yueyang city in Hunan province, central China. He fell into a coma following a severe traffic accident in November 2025, when a car collision left him with major brain damage and lung injuries. Doctors initially warned his family that his odds of regaining consciousness were “extremely slim.” Refusing to give up, Liu’s mother traveled with him to a series of hospitals, hoping to find treatments that might trigger a response. A doctor eventually suggested that familiar sounds and memories sometimes help stimulate brain activity in coma patients. Acting on this advice, she began playing recordings of the school’s morning music, exercise tunes, and classroom sounds near his hospital bed at Xiangya Hospital in Changsha. At the same time, Liu’s teacher rallied classmates to record short video messages for him. In those clips, classmates urged their friend to wake up and return to school. One boy said, “Chuxi, wake up soon, let’s go play football together.” Another classmate shared, “We all miss you, Chuxi. If you can hear us, please open your eyes.” For weeks, Liu showed little reaction. But around the 45th day of his coma, subtle signs of life emerged. He began to move his eyelids and gradually respond to familiar sounds. A few days later, he smiled upon hearing his teacher’s voice. On the 55th day, Liu unexpectedly regained consciousness and was even able to move his left hand. His classmates and teacher visited him in the hospital afterward, bringing toys and handmade cards. According to reports, his teacher jokingly told him he would be exempt from homework, prompting Liu to try opening his eyes wider and wave in response. Medical experts caution that each coma case differs and that one recovery does not guarantee similar outcomes for others. Still, many say Liu’s case highlights the potential value of using familiar stimuli and emotional support alongside traditional medical care. Liu’s family continues to support his ongoing recovery, and his case has offered hope to other families facing similar tragedies.
Apple’s Big 2026: Over 20 New Devices Including Foldable iPhone and AR Glasses
Apple Inc. is gearing up for what could be one of its most ambitious product years in 2026, with industry reports suggesting an extensive rollout of over 20 new devices across multiple categories. This anticipated lineup goes beyond incremental updates and includes entirely new product categories that could reshape Apple’s ecosystem. According to recent coverage, Apple’s 2026 calendar may feature a long-rumoured foldable iPhone, augmented reality (AR) glasses, updated MacBook models, a smart home hub, and upgrades to the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and AirPods lines. Among the most talked-about devices is the foldable iPhone, often described in leaks as a book-style design with a large inner display and cover screen. Many analysts expect Apple’s entry into the foldable category to rival offerings from competitors, combining Apple’s polish with innovative hinge and screen technology. Early reports suggest the foldable device could launch alongside the iPhone 18 series in the fall of 2026. Another new product attracting attention is Apple’s smart home hub — internally referred to as HomePad in supply-chain code leaks. This device is expected to serve as a central command center for Apple Home devices, featuring Apple’s A18 chip, a 6- to 7-inch touchscreen display, and deep integration with Apple Intelligence, the company’s evolving AI platform. Its launch may coincide with spring 2026 to capitalise on the rollout of iOS 26.4 and enhanced Siri features. Apple’s augmented reality glasses also remain a key part of 2026 speculation. These glasses are expected to offer immersive AR experiences that build on the capabilities of Apple’s Vision Pro spatial computer — itself Apple’s first major new product category since the Apple Watch. While fully immersive AR may arrive later, prototypes and initial versions could surface this year. The Mac lineup is also poised for upgrades. Rumours indicate Apple plans to introduce a lower-cost MacBook powered by an A-series chip, as well as refreshed M5-powered MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. These updates could expand access to Apple Silicon’s performance while broadening device options for consumers. Beyond hardware, Apple’s evolving focus on AI and smart assistants is expected to influence many devices in 2026, further enhancing user experiences across the ecosystem. As Apple nears its 50th anniversary, many analysts consider this year a pivotal moment that could shape the company’s direction for years to come.
Pakistan Tightens Traveller Screening to Block Nipah Virus Entry
Pakistan has ordered strict and enhanced health screening of all travellers at international borders, airports, seaports and land crossings to guard against the Nipah virus threat, authorities announced this week. The move aims to prevent cross-border transmission after recent confirmed cases in West Bengal, India. The Border Health Services-Pakistan (BHS-P) under the Ministry of National Health Services issued a comprehensive advisory directing 100% health screening for arriving travellers, including passengers, crew members, drivers and support staff. Travel and transit histories from the past 21 days must be verified for everyone entering the country, regardless of nationality or status. The enhanced screenings will involve thermal checks and clinical assessments to detect early symptoms such as fever, headache, respiratory distress and neurological signs like confusion or altered consciousness. Anyone showing signs consistent with Nipah virus infection will be isolated immediately and restricted from onward travel, and then referred to designated isolation facilities or tertiary care hospitals. Officials emphasised that every traveller must be granted health clearance by BHS-P before entering Pakistan. False declarations of travel origins or concealment of travel history will be treated seriously and reported for further action. Nipah virus, carried naturally by fruit bats and sometimes pigs, is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a priority pathogen due to its high fatality rate — ranging from 40% to 75% — and potential for human-to-human spread through close contact. There is currently no approved vaccine or specific cure. Health authorities have also urged provincial labs to strengthen capabilities for safe sample handling and transport, and rapid response teams are to be placed on standby for contact tracing and cluster investigations if a suspected infection emerges. While no human cases have been reported in Pakistan so far, the National Institute of Health (NIH) issued alerts to healthcare providers and authorities, warning that outbreaks in neighbouring regions could pose risks. Reuters reported that India has confirmed Nipah virus cases in West Bengal, prompting increased screening across the region. Experts have stressed vigilance but also cautioned against panic. Prof Dr Javaid Usman, a microbiologist, noted that the virus spreads through droppings from fruit bats and pig contacts, meaning any introduction to Pakistan would likely occur via carriers rather than community transmission. Infectious disease expert Dr Rana Safdar explained that Nipah outbreaks have occurred sporadically in South and Southeast Asia. “The risk of spread to surrounding countries thus far remains moderate to low, but surveillance and preparedness must stay strong,” he told Dawn. Public health authorities are urging returning travellers who develop symptoms within 21 days of exposure to self-isolate, seek medical care early and share their travel history with providers.
Travis Head to Lead Aussies in Crucial Series Against Pakistan
As Australia ramps up preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, an Ashes championship star is poised to take on a new leadership role in a key warm-up series. Travis Head, fresh from his outstanding performances in the 2025–26 Ashes series, is expected to captain the Australian side in at least the opening match of the three-game T20I tour of Pakistan beginning January 29 in Lahore. The three-match series at Gaddafi Stadium is set to serve as one of Australia’s final competitive outings before the global tournament, which starts February 7 in Colombo and India. While Mitchell Marsh remains Australia’s official T20I captain, selectors have announced that Marsh will rest for the first match due to workload management after a hectic domestic season, allowing Head — the dynamic left-hander — to step in. Head’s elevation to captaincy comes as no surprise. The 31-year-old was Australia’s highest run-scorer in the 2025 Ashes, accumulating 629 runs — the most of any batter in that series — including three centuries and a powerful all-round showing that helped Australia retain the urn. His Cricket Australia profile notes that he also became the No.1 ICC T20I batter after strong performances in 2024 and 2025. The Australian squad for the Pakistan tour blends experienced internationals with emerging talent. Alongside Head and regular captain Marsh, players like Cameron Green and Josh Inglis are included, while fresh faces such as Mahli Beardman and Jack Edwards are set to make their T20I debuts. Matthew Renshaw also returns to the T20 fold after representing Australia in Tests and ODIs. Several key stars, including Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Glenn Maxwell and Tim David, have been rested for the Pakistan series to protect their fitness heading into the World Cup. Cummins, who missed parts of the Ashes due to a lower-back issue, is expected to return later in the World Cup, much like Hazlewood, who has recovered from hamstring and Achilles concerns. Australia’s preparation reflects its desire to fine-tune combinations and give match exposure to key players before the championship. Marsh, speaking ahead of the tour, said the team was “ready to go” despite a quick turnaround after the Big Bash League. “Some of us have obviously flown in a little bit later due to Big Bash commitments, but we’re certainly ready to go, and we’re looking forward to a great series,” he added. On the other side, Pakistan has strengthened its lineup with the return of experienced stars Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi for this series. Their inclusion bolsters Pakistan’s bid for momentum before opening their T20 World Cup campaign against the Netherlands. With cricket fans around the world watching, this Pakistan–Australia T20I series offers a compelling preview of how both sides might fare on the larger stage in the T20 World Cup.
Pancreatic Cancer: The Silent Killer and the Science Breakthrough No One Expected
Scientists in Spain have taken a major step forward in the fight against pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest forms of the disease. Researchers led by Dr. Mariano Barbacid, a prominent Spanish molecular biochemist, have developed a triple-drug combination therapy that completely erased pancreatic tumors in mice — an achievement that could pave the way for future human treatments. Pancreatic cancer is notoriously aggressive, with most patients diagnosed at a late stage and fewer than 10% surviving five years after diagnosis. This poor prognosis is due in part to the cancer’s resistance to traditional therapies and its complex biology. The new study, conducted at the Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) in Madrid, used a combination of three drugs that together target key pathways in tumor growth. In laboratory mice with the most common and lethal type of pancreatic cancer — pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) — the therapy not only eliminated tumors but also prevented them from returning over extended observation periods. 🚨🇪🇸 BREAKING — Spanish Scientists Cured Pancreatic Cancer in Rats. pic.twitter.com/F4GSpN8Ed7— Pamphlets (@PamphletsY) January 28, 2026 What makes this development particularly remarkable is that the triple therapy appears to work without significant toxicity. In the mouse models, animals remained tumor-free for months after treatment and showed few side effects. The research was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), emphasizing its scientific significance. Dr. Barbacid is not new to cancer research. He is widely recognised for his earlier work isolating the first human oncogene — a gene that can transform normal cells into cancer cells — which laid the foundation for understanding malignant growth at a molecular level. Experts caution that success in animal models does not guarantee a cure for humans yet, but the results are undeniably promising. Translating these findings into clinical trials will require careful safety evaluation, regulatory approvals and likely several years of additional research. Still, the progress marks a critical milestone in pancreatic cancer science. Pancreatic cancer research is advancing on multiple fronts. Other groups worldwide are exploring innovative treatments such as immunotherapy combinations, targeted gene inhibitors, and new diagnostic tools for early detection — all aimed at overcoming the disease’s biological defenses. For example, novel immunotherapy strategies are showing promise in preclinical models by encouraging tumor regression, and new blood tests may help detect pancreatic cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage. The CNIO breakthrough adds a powerful new candidate to the growing list of experimental therapies. If future research confirms these results in human clinical trials, it could one day transform treatment for a cancer type that today offers patients very limited options.
Dubai Unveils Dubai+ to Transform Family Entertainment and Digital Media
Dubai has launched a major family-focused digital media platform called Dubai+, aimed at transforming how residents and global audiences access entertainment, news, and cultural content. The platform was approved during the first meeting of the Dubai Media Council in 2026, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the council. Dubai+ is designed to offer a comprehensive digital media ecosystem with a wide selection of local, Arab and international series and films. According to the council’s announcement, the platform will showcase over 30,000 hours of high-quality content, including exclusive original productions, live streaming of major sporting events, championships, and cultural experiences from Dubai. The launch reflects Dubai’s strategy to respond to changing digital consumption habits, particularly among families seeking safe, engaging, and diverse content. The platform aims to support the city’s role as a regional hub for creative content production and distribution, helping local and international storytellers reach wider audiences. Sheikh Ahmed highlighted that Dubai+ plays a crucial role in strengthening the emirate’s media ecosystem and creative economy. “We believe media is a strategic force that shapes awareness, supports development and builds trust,” he said. “The launch of Dubai+, combined with the rapid development of our media ecosystem, is set to further strengthen Dubai’s position at the forefront of global digital media.” Officials also outlined plans to expand local content production, support filmmakers, and promote the cinema industry as a cultural expression. This includes initiatives that invest in creative talent and economic growth while providing audiences with diverse offerings that reflect Dubai’s multicultural identity. The Dubai Media Council also discussed the UAE–Kuwait Media Celebration, which aims to build on the strong media cooperation between the two countries and reinforce cultural ties in the Arab world. The event will showcase collaborative media projects and help cement partnerships among regional media institutions. Dubai+ sits within a broader push by authorities to enhance digital services and community engagement. In recent years, Dubai has introduced AI-powered initiatives such as the Emirati Virtual Family — a digital character project to promote government digital services in relatable ways — reflecting a people-centered approach to digital transformation. The new platform arrives as digital consumption rises across the GCC, driven by robust internet penetration and demand for family-friendly entertainment. With its diverse content library and streaming capabilities, Dubai+ is poised to become a key destination for audiences in the UAE, the wider Middle East, and beyond.
Why Melania Trump’s Documentary Is Controversial Before It Opens
An eagerly anticipated documentary about First Lady Melania Trump is set to open in theaters this week — but early buzz has been dominated by criticism, surprisingly low ticket sales and sharp media responses. The film, titled “Melania,” premiered at the Kennedy Center on January 29, 2026, ahead of its wide release on January 30, with a planned global theatrical run followed by streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Directed by Brett Ratner and co-produced by Melania Trump herself, the documentary chronicles the 20 days leading up to her husband Donald Trump’s 2025 presidential inauguration. The film was produced by Amazon MGM Studios in a deal reportedly worth $40 million, with an additional $35 million spent on marketing — making it one of the most expensive documentary releases in recent memory. In a statement tied to the film’s premiere, Melania said the project offers a rare look inside her life and responsibilities as First Lady. She pitched the film as a chance to show “a private, unfiltered look” at her role as a businessperson, wife and mother during a high-profile transition. Despite the high-profile launch and heavy investment, early ticket sales have sparked controversy and ridicule. On The Late Show, host Stephen Colbert noted screenshots of “zero tickets sold” at some early screenings and joked about underperformance. “Usually to see Trump bomb this hard, you’d have to be on a Venezuelan fishing boat,” he quipped, underscoring the host’s view that the documentary is failing to attract audiences even in major markets like New York City. Critics and online commenters have also weighed in. Some review-bombing activity on platforms like Letterboxd suggests strong political backlash, with users posting dismissive ratings and comments before the film’s official release. Analysts note that partisanship and polarization could be shaping these early reactions, even if they don’t always reflect the film’s actual quality. The documentary’s release comes at a politically charged time in the United States. Melania Trump remains a somewhat enigmatic public figure, and public opinion about her has varied widely, with some polls showing significant numbers of adults unsure or unfamiliar with her role. Critics argue the film may attempt to reshape her public image, while supporters see it as a historic glimpse into a First Lady’s personal perspective. Whether “Melania” will recover at the box office or find an audience on streaming platforms remains unclear. What is certain is that the documentary has already become a cultural talking point — not just for its content, but for the polarized reactions it has sparked across media and public discourse.
