Daily World Briefing, Nov. 3

Xi's attendance at 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting guides Asia-Pacific cooperation: Chinese FM

The participation of Chinese President Xi Jinping at more than 10 bilateral and multilateral events during the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and his state visit to South Korea has guided the Asia-Pacific cooperation, demonstrated the responsibility of a major country and consolidated good-neighborly friendship, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks while briefing reporters on the conclusion of Xi's trip.

Hamas rejects U.S. accusations of looting humanitarian aid

Hamas on Sunday rejected U.S. accusations that its members looted humanitarian aid bound for the Gaza Strip, calling the claims false and politically motivated.

"We strongly condemn the false accusations made by U.S. Central Command regarding the alleged looting of an aid truck," Hamas said in a statement. It described the U.S. allegations as "baseless and unjustified," accusing Washington of trying to justify "further reductions of already limited humanitarian aid."

Israel announces comprehensive reform in high-tech taxation

Israel announced on Sunday a comprehensive reform in high-tech taxation aimed at boosting investment, reducing bureaucracy, and encouraging skilled professionals abroad to return home, according to a joint statement issued by the Finance Ministry, the Tax Authority, and the Israel Innovation Authority.

The reform seeks to increase tax certainty, remove barriers for investors, and support the continued growth of Israel's hi-tech sector.

Delhi faces "severe" air pollution levels

Several areas in the Indian capital faced "Severe" air pollution levels on Sunday, even as the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed the 400-mark and a dense smog enveloped the city.

Experts said that people living in Delhi should regularly use air-purifiers. There was said to be a surge in the number of people suffering from respiratory problems, said doctors.

Iran's president pledges full support for "peaceful" nuclear industry

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Sunday his government is fully committed to supporting the development of the country's "peaceful" nuclear program, according to a statement from his office.

Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran's nuclear program is intended to meet domestic needs and improve living standards, not to develop weapons.■