Global Updates: Modi Honored, China's AI Push, Delhi Smog Halts Cricket

• PM Modi received the 'Order of Oman', Oman's highest civilian award, strengthening bilateral ties.
• China launched a "Manhattan Project" to achieve self-reliance in AI semiconductors, challenging Western dominance.
• US H-1B visa interview wait times for Indian professionals extended to October 2026, deepening the visa crisis.
• India vs South Africa T20 in Lucknow was abandoned due to severe smog, prompting BCCI to reassess future scheduling.
• India-Oman trade pact offers longer visa stays for Indian professionals; India excluded dairy and gold from the FTA.

Why It Matters: Major global, national, business, and sports events shape December 2025 news.