Xiaomi Corp has announced it will unveil a new self-developed smartphone chip, the Xuanjie O1, later this month. The move signals the Chinese tech giant\'s renewed push into semiconductor development, a key area for achieving greater technological self-reliance. CEO Lei Jun revealed the news on Sina Weibo, underscoring Xiaomi\'s long-term commitment to building a vertically integrated ecosystem for its devices.

The development of a proprietary system-on-chip (SoC) highlights Xiaomi’s ambition to challenge established chipmakers and reduce dependence on foreign technology. While Xiaomi previously introduced the Surge S1 chip in 2017, it did not see widespread commercial use. The Xuanjie O1 is expected to support advanced AI and imaging capabilities tailored for next-generation Xiaomi smartphones, potentially enhancing performance and customization.

The announcement comes at a time when China is ramping up efforts to bolster its domestic chip industry amid ongoing U.S. export restrictions. Analysts see Xiaomi\'s chip strategy as aligning with Beijing’s broader tech self-sufficiency goals. If successful, Xuanjie O1 could position Xiaomi alongside Huawei in the small but growing group of Chinese firms with in-house smartphone SoC capabilities.

Tehran, May 13 – Iran has ordered a two-week halt to cement and steel production across the country in a bid to curb electricity consumption, as soaring temperatures drive unprecedented demand for air conditioning and residential cooling systems.

According to the directive issued by Iran’s Ministry of Interior, regional energy providers have been instructed to drastically reduce electricity supply to major industrial producers. Cement and steel factories are required to cut their power usage to just 10% of typical levels for a 15-day period. The Cement Producers Association confirmed the order, warning of significant disruptions and losses in the manufacturing sector. Two major steel plants have already announced the likelihood of temporary shutdowns.

The move comes amid a nationwide power crunch, triggered by a record-breaking heatwave that has led to an early surge in energy demand from the residential sector. Electricity consumption reached a peak of 60.7 GW this Tuesday—6 GW higher than the same time last year. Last summer, the country witnessed a historic peak of 85 GW. Industry Minister Mohammad Atabak criticized the decision, calling it a severe blow to Iran’s vital cement, steel, and aluminum industries. However, the Ministry of Energy has indicated that power supply is expected to stabilize by mid-June following maintenance at key power plants.

Beijing, May 13 – Chinese President Xi Jinping has responded to a letter from the founder of the Danish Chamber of Commerce in China, expressing appreciation for the long-standing commitment of Danish enterprises to the Chinese market. In his message, Xi emphasized the importance of fostering friendship and mutual understanding between China, Denmark, and the broader European community.

Xi praised the founder’s confidence in China\'s future development and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to providing a secure, open, and promising environment for foreign investment. “To invest in China is to invest in the future,” Xi stated, highlighting the continued attractiveness of the Chinese market to global businesses despite complex global dynamics.

The Chinese president expressed hope that the Danish Chamber of Commerce and its member companies will continue to act as a vital bridge between China and Denmark, and between China and Europe. He emphasized their role in promoting dialogue, friendship, and mutually beneficial cooperation. The letter also coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Denmark, a milestone marked by shared congratulations and a mutual desire for stronger ties.

India has reportedly \"paused\" its military actions against Pakistan, according to a statement from Prime Minister Modi. This development comes amidst a fragile ceasefire between the two nations, following a period of heightened tensions that included drone and missile strikes, as well as cross-border shelling. While Modi asserted that India is closely monitoring Pakistan\'s actions, the cessation of hostilities has eased concerns about a potential full-scale war in the region. The initial escalation was triggered by a militant attack in Kashmir, prompting India\'s retaliatory strikes.

Looking ahead, Pakistan has proposed future negotiations in a neutral third country, such as the UAE. While Modi mentioned the possibility of talks, he emphasized that any discussions would be solely focused on the issues of terrorism and Kashmir, a long-standing point of contention between the two countries. Modi stated that Pakistan was the first to request a cessation of hostilities.

Since the ceasefire agreement, a delicate calm has prevailed, with no reports of renewed cross-border firing. India has reopened the 32 airports that were closed during the escalation, signaling a move towards normalcy. Furthermore, both sides have reportedly agreed to reduce troop presence along their shared border. In Kashmir, teams of experts have been deployed to safely dispose of unexploded ordnance, and displaced residents have begun to return to their homes.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has emphasized the importance of expanding relations between Iran and Uzbekistan, stating that closer cooperation will contribute to regional peace and security. During high-level talks, Pezeshkian highlighted the deep historical, cultural, linguistic, and ideological ties between the two nations, asserting that geographical boundaries cannot divide them. He stressed the need for increased exchanges of official delegations and people-to-people interactions to further solidify bilateral relations.

Uzbekistan’s Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov acknowledged the effective efforts by both countries\' leaders in advancing mutual cooperation and praised Iran’s progress in scientific, industrial, and technological fields. His remarks came during a visit to an exhibition showcasing Iran’s achievements in these sectors. The discussions underscored both nations’ commitment to deepening economic and diplomatic collaboration as part of a broader strategy to enhance stability in the region.

The meetings culminated in the signing of four key agreements aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. The documents were formalized in the presence of Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref and Prime Minister Aripov, marking a significant step forward in the strategic partnership between Tehran and Tashkent. These agreements reflect a shared vision for regional development and signal a new phase in Iran-Uzbekistan relations, with both sides pledging to translate their historical ties into concrete economic and security benefits.

Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and the United Arab Emirates’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, engaged in a constructive telephone conversation on May 12, underscoring the strength of the strategic partnership between their countries. The dialogue reflected the ongoing commitment of both nations to deepen bilateral relations and promote mutual interests across a range of sectors.

The ministers discussed avenues to expand cooperation not only in political and diplomatic arenas but also in vital sectors such as trade, energy, tourism, and the economy. Both sides acknowledged the value of coordinated efforts and mutual support in international forums, which continue to reinforce the positive trajectory of their relationship. Their exchange highlighted the potential for enhanced collaboration in multilateral settings, emphasizing a shared interest in maintaining regional and international stability.

Beyond formal cooperation, the conversation also included a broader exchange of views on issues of mutual concern. This reaffirmed the importance both countries place on open dialogue and diplomatic engagement as tools to strengthen understanding and foster regional connectivity. The call served as a testament to the enduring friendship and shared vision that guide Azerbaijan-UAE relations in an evolving global landscape.

The idea of establishing an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) corridor across Eurasia is gaining momentum. Rather than framing AI through divisive or racial metaphors, experts suggest that constructive cooperation—particularly between China and Russia—can better harness the region’s potential. Strategic collaboration is seen as more beneficial than rivalry, enabling talent mobility and facilitating joint ventures that align with both countries\' complementary tech ecosystems.

Concrete partnerships are already in motion. Sber and Huawei have launched a \"Smart Campus\" pilot project, while Skoltech’s AI Center and Harbin Institute of Technology are preparing for the SMILES-2025 summer school. Additionally, scientific cooperation is expanding: Skoltech and the University of Science and Technology of China are working on superconducting quantum technologies, and a molecular biology center has been established with Zhejiang University. These initiatives illustrate how shared projects can drive innovation and strengthen bilateral ties.

State-level support is also evolving. Bilateral computing vouchers and an open data charter for weather forecasting signal a new era of policy-driven tech collaboration. Joint doctoral programs with dual-language training and co-supervision models are preparing the next generation of scientists. As national ecosystems grow stronger and interconnected, Eurasia is positioning itself to become a leading global hub in AI research and development.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has cautioned Europe against adopting a \"confrontation strategy\" regarding Tehran’s nuclear program, warning that such an approach could trigger a nuclear proliferation crisis. The warning comes after Britain, France, and Germany threatened to activate the snapback mechanism under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Araghchi argued that a confrontational stance would ultimately harm European interests, urging the E3 (France, Germany, and the UK) to reconsider their position rather than escalate tensions.

The Iranian minister criticized the E3 for using the snapback mechanism as a diplomatic tool rather than a means to resolve disputes, warning that its misuse could lead to Europe’s exclusion from the JCPOA and further escalation. In response, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that France, Germany, and the UK would reimpose sanctions if Iran’s nuclear activities threatened European security. Araghchi, however, emphasized that Iran would deliver a firm and proportionate response to any \"snapback\" measures taken by the E3, underscoring Tehran’s readiness to defend its position.

Amid rising tensions with Europe, Iran and the US held a fourth round of nuclear negotiations in Muscat, facilitated by Oman. Both sides described the talks as \"positive\" and \"progressing forward,\" expressing satisfaction with the developments. While challenges remain, the discussions signal a potential pathway to de-escalation, contrasting with the hardening stance between Iran and European powers. The outcome of these talks could significantly influence the future of the JCPOA and regional stability.

A senior Iranian military commander has emphasized the country’s unwavering commitment to defending the Persian Gulf, declaring that \"no threat will go unanswered.\" Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, stated that Iranian forces remain \"fully prepared\" for any scenario, underscoring Tehran’s determination to safeguard its territorial waters and national resources. His remarks came during a high-profile visit to Bandar Abbas, where he led a military delegation to assess operational readiness in the strategic region.

During the inspection, General Bagheri highlighted the critical role of Iran’s Navy and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Naval Forces in securing both Iranian and international waters. The visit included on-the-ground evaluations to ensure the armed forces can effectively execute defense plans if necessary. Iranian officials have repeatedly criticized the presence of foreign naval forces in the Persian Gulf, particularly U.S. warships, which they argue undermines regional stability and escalates tensions.

Iran’s firm stance comes amid ongoing geopolitical friction in the vital waterway, through which a significant portion of global oil shipments passes. General Bagheri’s statements signal Tehran’s resolve to counter perceived external threats while asserting its role as a regional security guarantor. The visit also serves as a demonstration of Iran’s military preparedness, reinforcing its message that any hostile actions will be met with a decisive response.

Jeddah, May 10 - Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, during an official visit to Saudi Arabia aimed at enhancing Tehran’s ties with its neighbors. The two diplomats discussed key bilateral and regional developments, underscoring a shared interest in stabilizing the Middle East. Araghchi’s visit forms part of a broader diplomatic outreach by Iran to engage more closely with regional players.

In their discussions, Araghchi called on the Muslim world to unite in confronting common threats and challenges, with a strong focus on the ongoing crisis in Gaza. He condemned what he described as the \"Israeli genocide\" and warned against efforts to \"colonially erase Palestine.\" The ministers also exchanged views on broader regional tensions, including indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States over nuclear and security issues.

Araghchi briefed Prince Faisal on the status of the Iran-U.S. talks, noting progress made in three earlier rounds held in Muscat and Rome. A fourth round is scheduled for Sunday in Oman after a brief delay due to logistical reasons. As part of his regional tour, Araghchi will visit Qatar on Saturday, emphasizing that Iran remains in continuous communication with neighboring states to ensure transparency in its diplomatic efforts. Both Iran and Saudi Arabia reiterated their commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.

Tensions flared across South Asia as India confirmed a series of missile strikes targeting locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, actions it claims were in response to a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that left 26 dead. India has accused Pakistan of harboring militants responsible for the assault, citing alleged cross-border links, while Pakistan vehemently denied involvement and labeled the strikes a violation of its sovereignty. In response, Islamabad warned it reserves the right to retaliate, raising fears of a broader military confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbors.

China reacted swiftly, expressing deep concern over the escalation and calling the Indian military action \"regrettable.\" In a statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry underscored the importance of restraint, stressing that India and Pakistan, as perpetual neighbors, must prioritize peace and stability in the region. While reaffirming its opposition to terrorism in all forms, Beijing urged both nations to avoid further actions that could inflame the situation and jeopardize regional security.

Echoing similar sentiments, Japan called for immediate dialogue between the two nations. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi condemned the April 22 attack but warned that retaliatory measures risk spiraling into a full-scale conflict. Emphasizing the broader implications for South Asian peace, he urged both sides to resolve their differences diplomatically. The international community continues to watch the developments closely, hoping diplomatic efforts can de-escalate a potentially dangerous standoff.

Former Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has strongly condemned what he described as a “cowardly and unprovoked” Indian attack on Pakistani territory. In a statement issued following the incident, Bilawal warned that India’s aggression would not go unanswered, calling it a dangerous escalation that demands a firm and immediate response from Islamabad.

Bilawal praised the courage and determination of Pakistan’s armed forces, highlighting their swift reaction to the cross-border aggression. He specifically denounced India’s targeting of civilian areas in Muridke, Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad, labeling the strikes as acts of war and barbarism aimed at innocent women and children. Such actions, he said, represent a blatant violation of international norms and human rights.

Emphasizing Pakistan’s resolve, Bilawal declared that the country’s military is fully prepared to respond decisively to any further Indian hostilities. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unity, pride, and unwavering readiness to defend its sovereignty and territory. \"Pakistan will not tolerate any infringement on its soil,\" he asserted, urging the international community to take note of the escalating Indian aggression.