当然，平心而论，任何一门语言，都会有自己的俗语、典故。例如英文、拉丁语中的潘多拉的盒子（Pandora's box）、达摩克利斯剑（the Swords of Damocles）、多米诺骨牌（Dominoes）等等。毕竟，任何文明经过了几百年了，谁家还没几个老祖宗传下来典故啊。只不过咱中国因为历史长了一点，所以咱的“引用库”也就比别家稍微丰富了那么“亿点点”······
当然，平心而论，任何一门语言，都会有自己的俗语、典故。例如英文、拉丁语中的潘多拉的盒子（Pandora's box）、达摩克利斯剑（the Swords of Damocles）、多米诺骨牌（Dominoes）等等。毕竟，任何文明经过了几百年了，谁家还没几个老祖宗传下来典故啊。只不过咱中国因为历史长了一点，所以咱的“引用库”也就比别家稍微丰富了那么“亿点点”······
在将观测到的星系团质量分布与 X 射线信号反映出的可见物质分布对比之后，天文学家们发现这两种分布是不重合的。如下图所示，图中蓝色部分是由引力透镜效应反推出的总质量分布，红色部分是可见物质分布。这表明可见物质并不能主导星系团的质量，它们只占星系团总物质的一小部分，星系团的大部分质量是由不可见的暗物质提供的。这一结果是修改引力理论很难解释的，因此它为暗物质的存在提供了非常坚实的证据，重要指数可以给到 ★★★ .
在将观测到的星系团质量分布与 X 射线信号反映出的可见物质分布对比之后，天文学家们发现这两种分布是不重合的。如下图所示，图中蓝色部分是由引力透镜效应反推出的总质量分布，红色部分是可见物质分布。这表明可见物质并不能主导星系团的质量，它们只占星系团总物质的一小部分，星系团的大部分质量是由不可见的暗物质提供的。这一结果是修改引力理论很难解释的，因此它为暗物质的存在提供了非常坚实的证据，重要指数可以给到 ★★★ .
China's top securities regulator vowed over the weekend to step up law-based supervision and make strong efforts to advance high-quality capital market development, following the announcement that its former chairman is under investigation.
\n
Financial experts said the pledge reflects the country's firm determination to address the remaining structural challenges in the capital market to foster steady, long-lasting market growth, with greater fairness and transparency at the core.
\n
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection of the Communist Party of China and the National Supervisory Commission announced on Saturday that Yi Huiman, former chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, is under investigation for suspected severe violations of discipline and laws.
\n
The CSRC said in a statement on Saturday that it firmly supports the move of the country's top anti-corruption watchdogs and pledged to make a resolute push to win the tough battle against corruption, strengthen oversight of public power and curb new, hidden forms of graft, following a meeting to convey the decision to conduct the investigation.
\n
Presided over by CSRC Chairman Wu Qing, who took over for Yi in February last year, the meeting vowed to strengthen law-based supervision, effectively guard against risks, and vigorously promote high-quality capital market development to better serve China's economic recovery and modernization drive.
\n
Yi, 61, a native of Zhejiang province, currently serves as the deputy director of the Committee on Economic Affairs of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top political advisory body.
\n
Before that, Yi served as chairman of the CSRC from January 2019 to February 2024, after working in China's banking system for decades.
\n
During his five-year tenure, the number of A-share listed companies rose by about 1,700, according to financial media outlet Yicai. Over the same period, the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index fell below the 3,000-point threshold roughly 20 times by the measurement of closing price, data from market tracker Wind Info showed.
\n
Tian Xuan, president of Tsinghua University's National Institute of Financial Research and associate dean of Tsinghua University's PBC School of Finance, said that further improving fundamental institutions is key to strengthening the internal stability and sustainable momentum of the A-share market.
\n
"After a rapid rise, the market has seen a notable correction, reflecting subtle shifts in investor expectations and sentiment. The development also points to the inherent volatility and uncertainty facing the market, as well as lingering structural challenges yet to be fully resolved," Tian said.
\n
Tian underlined the need to improve expectation management, enhance policy transparency and predictability and send timely positive signals to stabilize investor sentiment, while enforcing stricter information disclosure and refining the delisting mechanism to raise quality of listed companies.
\n
China ramped up efforts to intensify the crackdown on securities violations and strengthen investor protection as it released a high-level guideline in April last year, rolling out nine measures to promote the high-quality development of the capital market.
\n
As the latest step to strengthen the market, the CSRC proposed the first overhaul in 12 years of the rules on mutual fund sales commissions on Friday, aiming to sharply reduce investor costs and encourage long-term holdings.
\n
Liu Jipeng, a senior expert on the capital markets and a professor at China University of Political Science and Law, said that further closing regulatory gaps to safeguard market fairness and investor interest will hold the key to future capital market reforms and steady market growth.
\n
"A slow bull trend has taken shape. The goal should be making it steady and long-lasting so that the capital market can serve as a platform for common prosperity, where the majority of investors can share returns, rather than only a few getting rich overnight," Liu said.
\n
Richard Tang, an equity research analyst for Asia at Swiss wealth management group Julius Baer, said the A-share market is far from a bubble despite a strong catch-up in performance.
\n
"Valuation remains reasonable, and liquidity indicators suggest that market activity has increased but is not overheated. We expect further upside," Tang said.
\n
zhoulanxv@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
China's top securities regulator vowed over the weekend to step up law-based supervision and make strong efforts to advance high-quality capital market development, following the announcement that its former chairman is under investigation.
\n
Financial experts said the pledge reflects the country's firm determination to address the remaining structural challenges in the capital market to foster steady, long-lasting market growth, with greater fairness and transparency at the core.
\n
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection of the Communist Party of China and the National Supervisory Commission announced on Saturday that Yi Huiman, former chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, is under investigation for suspected severe violations of discipline and laws.
\n
The CSRC said in a statement on Saturday that it firmly supports the move of the country's top anti-corruption watchdogs and pledged to make a resolute push to win the tough battle against corruption, strengthen oversight of public power and curb new, hidden forms of graft, following a meeting to convey the decision to conduct the investigation.
\n
Presided over by CSRC Chairman Wu Qing, who took over for Yi in February last year, the meeting vowed to strengthen law-based supervision, effectively guard against risks, and vigorously promote high-quality capital market development to better serve China's economic recovery and modernization drive.
\n
Yi, 61, a native of Zhejiang province, currently serves as the deputy director of the Committee on Economic Affairs of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top political advisory body.
\n
Before that, Yi served as chairman of the CSRC from January 2019 to February 2024, after working in China's banking system for decades.
\n
During his five-year tenure, the number of A-share listed companies rose by about 1,700, according to financial media outlet Yicai. Over the same period, the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index fell below the 3,000-point threshold roughly 20 times by the measurement of closing price, data from market tracker Wind Info showed.
\n
Tian Xuan, president of Tsinghua University's National Institute of Financial Research and associate dean of Tsinghua University's PBC School of Finance, said that further improving fundamental institutions is key to strengthening the internal stability and sustainable momentum of the A-share market.
\n
"After a rapid rise, the market has seen a notable correction, reflecting subtle shifts in investor expectations and sentiment. The development also points to the inherent volatility and uncertainty facing the market, as well as lingering structural challenges yet to be fully resolved," Tian said.
\n
Tian underlined the need to improve expectation management, enhance policy transparency and predictability and send timely positive signals to stabilize investor sentiment, while enforcing stricter information disclosure and refining the delisting mechanism to raise quality of listed companies.
\n
China ramped up efforts to intensify the crackdown on securities violations and strengthen investor protection as it released a high-level guideline in April last year, rolling out nine measures to promote the high-quality development of the capital market.
\n
As the latest step to strengthen the market, the CSRC proposed the first overhaul in 12 years of the rules on mutual fund sales commissions on Friday, aiming to sharply reduce investor costs and encourage long-term holdings.
\n
Liu Jipeng, a senior expert on the capital markets and a professor at China University of Political Science and Law, said that further closing regulatory gaps to safeguard market fairness and investor interest will hold the key to future capital market reforms and steady market growth.
\n
"A slow bull trend has taken shape. The goal should be making it steady and long-lasting so that the capital market can serve as a platform for common prosperity, where the majority of investors can share returns, rather than only a few getting rich overnight," Liu said.
\n
Richard Tang, an equity research analyst for Asia at Swiss wealth management group Julius Baer, said the A-share market is far from a bubble despite a strong catch-up in performance.
\n
"Valuation remains reasonable, and liquidity indicators suggest that market activity has increased but is not overheated. We expect further upside," Tang said.
At the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President Xi Jinping will participate in the BRICS Leaders Virtual Meeting via video link in Beijing on Monday and deliver an important address.
\n
During the virtual meeting, the BRICS leaders will reportedly discuss the challenges facing the emerging multipolar world order, as well as a joint response by the group to the United States' unilateral moves, including tariff measures.
\n
Brazil, which currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, hosted the two-day 17th BRICS Summit, with the theme of "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance", in July in Rio de Janeiro.
\n
BRICS, established in 2006, now has 11 full members and 10 partner countries, accounting for over half of the world's population, nearly 30 percent of global GDP, and more than 50 percent of global economic growth.
\n
According to the Brazilian newspaper Valor Economico, the preparations for the online summit have been led by Chief Advisor to the Presidency of Brazil Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim.
\n
On Thursday, Amorim met with Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing and handed over a letter from Lula to Xi. Amorim highlighted the importance of strengthening unity and cooperation among the Global South and BRICS countries during talks with Wang.
\n
zhaojia@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
At the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President Xi Jinping will participate in the BRICS Leaders Virtual Meeting via video link in Beijing on Monday and deliver an important address.
\n
During the virtual meeting, the BRICS leaders will reportedly discuss the challenges facing the emerging multipolar world order, as well as a joint response by the group to the United States' unilateral moves, including tariff measures.
\n
Brazil, which currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, hosted the two-day 17th BRICS Summit, with the theme of "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance", in July in Rio de Janeiro.
\n
BRICS, established in 2006, now has 11 full members and 10 partner countries, accounting for over half of the world's population, nearly 30 percent of global GDP, and more than 50 percent of global economic growth.
\n
According to the Brazilian newspaper Valor Economico, the preparations for the online summit have been led by Chief Advisor to the Presidency of Brazil Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim.
\n
On Thursday, Amorim met with Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing and handed over a letter from Lula to Xi. Amorim highlighted the importance of strengthening unity and cooperation among the Global South and BRICS countries during talks with Wang.
President Xi Jinping, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, along with foreign leaders and guests, walks toward the Tian'anmen Rostrum in Beijing on Wednesday ahead of a grand event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
President Xi Jinping chats with members of a local farmer's family during a visit with his wife, Peng Liyuan, in Costa Rica, on June 3, 2013.
\n
An aerial drone photo taken on June 17, 2022, shows the headquarters of the New Development Bank in East China's Shanghai.
\n
At Beijing's Tian'anmen Square, President Xi Jinping, together with world leaders, attended a grand military parade on Wednesday morning honoring both China's victory and the collective triumph of nations that overcame fascism 80 years ago.
\n
Standing on the Tian'anmen Rostrum, Xi delivered a speech marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. He called on nations across the world to eliminate the root cause of war and prevent historical tragedies from recurring.
\n
Xi said common security can only be safeguarded when nations across the world treat each other as equals, live in harmony and mutually support one another.
\n
For Xi, this solemn observance was more than a tribute to history; it signaled a vision for the future, where humanity can peacefully share a more just, equitable and prosperous world.
\n
Ahead of the ceremony, Xi and world leaders stepped onto the Tian'anmen Rostrum, shaking hands with Chinese war veterans in turn.
\n
Moments later, under Xi's gaze, People's Liberation Army troops in various formations marched through the vast square.
\n
That same gaze was present in May when he watched PLA troops march across Moscow's Red Square during commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory in its Great Patriotic War.
\n
Shortly afterward, Xi joined Russian President Vladimir Putin and other leaders to lay red flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin Wall, pausing in silence for those who died in the fight against fascism.
\n
Ahead of the trip, a signed article by Xi titled "Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future" was published in the newspaper Russian Gazette. He wrote, "The world needs justice, not hegemonism."
\n
Xi's appeal has roots in history. In 2017, during a visit to the Memorial of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Shanghai, he lingered before three images capturing China's suffering more than a century ago: a late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) cartoon showing foreign powers carving up China, a chart of the crippling indemnities China was forced to pay, and Karl Marx's sharp critique of then China's isolationist complacency.
\n
"How much humiliation. How much disgrace. China back then was a fat sheep awaiting slaughter," Xi said.
\n
The end of the World Anti-Fascist War, or WWII, set the stage for a rebirth of the international order. From the ruins emerged the United Nations in 1945, with its Charter enshrining sovereign equality, noninterference and the peaceful settlement of disputes — a landmark break from centuries of the law of the jungle where "might is right".
\n
As this year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Xi has urged revitalizing the world body under the new circumstances, enabling it to serve as the primary platform for countries to coordinate actions and jointly address challenges.
\n
His message also reflects some acute present challenges facing the world order today. As Xi has observed, unilateralism, hegemonism, as well as bullying and coercive practices are severely undermining peace, justice and equality in the world.
\n
Xi offered his explicit perspective. "The strong should not bully the weak," he said. "Decisions should not be made by simply showing off strong muscles or waving a big fist. Selective multilateralism should not be our option."
\n
Under Xi's leadership, China has stepped up global peace efforts by following true multilateralism — taking part in UN peacekeeping missions, advancing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's anti-extremism convention, mediating Saudi-Iran reconciliation, supporting the establishment of the "Friends for Peace" Group on the Ukraine Crisis, and co-founding the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong with 32 nations.
\n
"China will never seek hegemony, nor does it believe in a zero-sum," Xi has vowed. "Such notions have never been part of China's cultural DNA, nor is there any such ambition."
\n
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva once remarked on Xi's strong sense of justice.
\n
He told Xi: "You have been an inspiration for the profound changes humanity must pursue — to speak more of peace than of war, to cooperate more than compete, and to create more than destroy."
\n
No one left behind
\n
It is Xi's conviction that "only when countries develop together can there be true development".
\n
Last year in Rio de Janeiro, Xi joined world leaders at the G20 summit, whose theme-"Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet" — sought to confront the persistent inequalities in global development.
\n
Back in 2016, Xi chaired the G20 summit in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. The summit for the first time in history placed development at the center of the group's macroeconomic policy coordination.
\n
Sharing development experience, Xi told his colleagues in Rio that "China's story is proof that developing countries can eliminate poverty".
\n
In 2020, Xi led China, the world's largest developing country, in eliminating absolute poverty, a full decade ahead of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda's timeline.
\n
"If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too," Xi said.
\n
Fighting poverty has always been a central focus of Xi's work for more than 40 years, over the course of his career from county and city posts to provincial and national leadership. "I have devoted most of my energy to it," he once said.
\n
Xi championed several initiatives to end poverty, including Juncao technology — a grass used to cultivate edible mushrooms, feed livestock, and prevent soil erosion. Starting from the days Xi was a provincial official, he has begun to promote the technology to countries across the South Pacific, Africa and South America.
\n
Part of this unprecedented journey is documented in Up and Out of Poverty, a collection of Xi's speeches, articles and interviews from 1988 to 1990 during his tenure in Ningde city, China's southeastern Fujian province.
\n
In 2023, the Uzbek-language edition of the book was published, with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev writing a foreword entitled "A True Chinese Miracle".
\n
With a clear-eyed understanding of the world's predicaments, Xi has traced the turbulence in economic globalization to a major source: the lack of inclusive growth. To characterize the contradictions of today's world, he quoted Charles Dickens, "It was the best of times; it was the worst of times."
\n
In recent years, economic globalization has encountered setbacks, with the gap between the Global North and South and the technological divide becoming more pronounced. The gap between the rich and the poor is widening rather than receding, and 60 percent of people in the world have grown poorer, equating to almost 5 billion people, according to a research paper from Oxfam, the UK-based charity, released last year.
\n
"Development," Xi once said, "is an inalienable right of all countries, not a privilege reserved for a few." This explains why Xi has pushed for universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.
\n
Months after taking over the Chinese presidency in 2013, Xi traveled halfway across the world and paid a state visit to Costa Rica. During the trip, he chose a coffee farm as one of his stops. Sipping a freshly brewed cup, he said: "Seems to me, there's room to export more coffee to China."
\n
The remark foreshadowed a broader pledge. China will keep its doors open and share the dividends of growth, Xi vowed. "Welcome aboard the fast train of China's development," he stated on several occasions.
\n
Also in 2013, Xi unveiled his signature Belt and Road Initiative. More than a decade on, the results are tangible. Freight trains now thunder between Chinese cities and European capitals. Kenya's modern railways and revitalized ports are remaking the East African landscape.
\n
On top of deepening economic linkages, Xi promotes a governance model that breaks with what he views as an outdated relic of colonialism, the Wall Street Journal once commented.
\n
Xi has consistently argued that development holds the master key to achieving that goal — a conviction shaped by his own life experiences. In the late 1960s, as one of China's "educated youth" sent to the countryside, Xi lived among struggling villagers in northwestern China's Shaanxi province.
\n
"One thing I wished most all the time," he recalled decades later in a speech in the US city of Seattle, "was to make it possible for the villagers to eat meat to their heart's content."
\n
Today, Xi is leading China on the path toward modernization. As a leader with a global vision, he also hopes that China can walk the path of modernization with all countries.
\n
"On the road to the well-being of all mankind, no country or nation should be left behind," Xi said.
\n
Equitable order
\n
At the just concluded SCO summit in Tianjin, Xi put forward the Global Governance Initiative.
\n
The aim of proposing the initiative is to "work together with all like-minded countries to resolutely safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and build a more just and equitable global governance system", he explained.
\n
Xi's proposing the initiative stands as a reflection of his sharp perception of the profound transformations that are reshaping the global landscape.
\n
"The collective rise of the Global South," Xi observed, "is a distinctive feature of the great transformation across the world." He has pledged that China will always keep the Global South in its heart, and maintain its roots in the Global South.
\n
In April 2015, the Indonesian city of Bandung — once called the "Paris of Java" — witnessed a moment where the past and present converged.
\n
From the 19th-century Savoy Homann Hotel, leaders of nearly 100 nations set out toward the Independence Building, retracing the footsteps of a generation that had defied colonial domination six decades earlier.
\n
At the head of the procession walked Xi and then Indonesian president Joko Widodo. It was a living echo of the 1955 Bandung Conference, the first meeting of Asian and African nations free of colonial powers, now hailed as a landmark event in the rise of the Global South.
\n
Through perseverance and huge sacrifice, emerging markets and developing countries have succeeded in gaining independence and shaking off the yoke of colonialism. These nations have been seeking development paths tailored to their own national circumstances rather than following models imposed by the outside. "Everything we do is to deliver better lives to our people," Xi once said.
\n
Driven by Xi's global vision, the legacy born in Bandung is quickly becoming a reality, where developing nations speak not as isolated voices but as a united force.
\n
The historic expansion of BRICS and the creation of forums linking China with Africa, Latin America, the Arab world and ASEAN all bear Xi's imprint, offering the Global South channels to coordinate and amplify their say in global affairs.
\n
In April 2025, during a visit to the BRICS New Development Bank in China's financial hub Shanghai — the first multilateral bank initiated and led by developing nations — Xi called it a pioneering effort for the Global South to join forces in improving global governance.
\n
The origins of his vision can be traced back to Xi's youth. He pored over The Communist Manifesto, Das Kapital and other Marxist classics, laying the intellectual foundation for what he later described as his abiding belief: "Marxism is broad and profound; ultimately, it is about seeking liberation for humanity."
\n
Decades on, as humanity is facing changes rarely seen in a century, Xi keeps pondering on the world: "What has happened to the world and how should we respond?"
\n
Xi first proposed building a community with a shared future for humanity in Moscow during his inaugural overseas visit as Chinese president. Two years later, on the stage of the UN headquarters in New York, Xi elaborated his thoughts on building such a community that involves partnerships, security, development, civilization and ecological cooperation.
\n
Xi's vision of building a community with a shared future reminded Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of an aphorism from the renowned ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius.
\n
"Si hai zhi nei jie xiong di — within the four seas, all men are brothers," Anwar uttered the maxim in Chinese during his reception held for Xi in Putrajaya this April.
\n
"President Xi is known as a capable political leader, as an economist, but more so and prouder profoundly, a great human being with strong, clear vision and understanding civilizational of values," he said.
\n
Over the years 2021 to 2023, Xi launched the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. Along with the Global Governance Initiative, these proposals are designed to enhance and improve the present international system.
\n
Tajik President Emomali Rahmon has said that Xi is a great leader with profound historical insight and a broad global vision. He said, "The many global initiatives he has proposed are conducive to advancing peace and progress for humanity."
President Xi Jinping, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, along with foreign leaders and guests, walks toward the Tian'anmen Rostrum in Beijing on Wednesday ahead of a grand event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
President Xi Jinping chats with members of a local farmer's family during a visit with his wife, Peng Liyuan, in Costa Rica, on June 3, 2013.
\n
An aerial drone photo taken on June 17, 2022, shows the headquarters of the New Development Bank in East China's Shanghai.
\n
At Beijing's Tian'anmen Square, President Xi Jinping, together with world leaders, attended a grand military parade on Wednesday morning honoring both China's victory and the collective triumph of nations that overcame fascism 80 years ago.
\n
Standing on the Tian'anmen Rostrum, Xi delivered a speech marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. He called on nations across the world to eliminate the root cause of war and prevent historical tragedies from recurring.
\n
Xi said common security can only be safeguarded when nations across the world treat each other as equals, live in harmony and mutually support one another.
\n
For Xi, this solemn observance was more than a tribute to history; it signaled a vision for the future, where humanity can peacefully share a more just, equitable and prosperous world.
\n
Ahead of the ceremony, Xi and world leaders stepped onto the Tian'anmen Rostrum, shaking hands with Chinese war veterans in turn.
\n
Moments later, under Xi's gaze, People's Liberation Army troops in various formations marched through the vast square.
\n
That same gaze was present in May when he watched PLA troops march across Moscow's Red Square during commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory in its Great Patriotic War.
\n
Shortly afterward, Xi joined Russian President Vladimir Putin and other leaders to lay red flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin Wall, pausing in silence for those who died in the fight against fascism.
\n
Ahead of the trip, a signed article by Xi titled "Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future" was published in the newspaper Russian Gazette. He wrote, "The world needs justice, not hegemonism."
\n
Xi's appeal has roots in history. In 2017, during a visit to the Memorial of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Shanghai, he lingered before three images capturing China's suffering more than a century ago: a late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) cartoon showing foreign powers carving up China, a chart of the crippling indemnities China was forced to pay, and Karl Marx's sharp critique of then China's isolationist complacency.
\n
"How much humiliation. How much disgrace. China back then was a fat sheep awaiting slaughter," Xi said.
\n
The end of the World Anti-Fascist War, or WWII, set the stage for a rebirth of the international order. From the ruins emerged the United Nations in 1945, with its Charter enshrining sovereign equality, noninterference and the peaceful settlement of disputes — a landmark break from centuries of the law of the jungle where "might is right".
\n
As this year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Xi has urged revitalizing the world body under the new circumstances, enabling it to serve as the primary platform for countries to coordinate actions and jointly address challenges.
\n
His message also reflects some acute present challenges facing the world order today. As Xi has observed, unilateralism, hegemonism, as well as bullying and coercive practices are severely undermining peace, justice and equality in the world.
\n
Xi offered his explicit perspective. "The strong should not bully the weak," he said. "Decisions should not be made by simply showing off strong muscles or waving a big fist. Selective multilateralism should not be our option."
\n
Under Xi's leadership, China has stepped up global peace efforts by following true multilateralism — taking part in UN peacekeeping missions, advancing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's anti-extremism convention, mediating Saudi-Iran reconciliation, supporting the establishment of the "Friends for Peace" Group on the Ukraine Crisis, and co-founding the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong with 32 nations.
\n
"China will never seek hegemony, nor does it believe in a zero-sum," Xi has vowed. "Such notions have never been part of China's cultural DNA, nor is there any such ambition."
\n
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva once remarked on Xi's strong sense of justice.
\n
He told Xi: "You have been an inspiration for the profound changes humanity must pursue — to speak more of peace than of war, to cooperate more than compete, and to create more than destroy."
\n
No one left behind
\n
It is Xi's conviction that "only when countries develop together can there be true development".
\n
Last year in Rio de Janeiro, Xi joined world leaders at the G20 summit, whose theme-"Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet" — sought to confront the persistent inequalities in global development.
\n
Back in 2016, Xi chaired the G20 summit in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. The summit for the first time in history placed development at the center of the group's macroeconomic policy coordination.
\n
Sharing development experience, Xi told his colleagues in Rio that "China's story is proof that developing countries can eliminate poverty".
\n
In 2020, Xi led China, the world's largest developing country, in eliminating absolute poverty, a full decade ahead of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda's timeline.
\n
"If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too," Xi said.
\n
Fighting poverty has always been a central focus of Xi's work for more than 40 years, over the course of his career from county and city posts to provincial and national leadership. "I have devoted most of my energy to it," he once said.
\n
Xi championed several initiatives to end poverty, including Juncao technology — a grass used to cultivate edible mushrooms, feed livestock, and prevent soil erosion. Starting from the days Xi was a provincial official, he has begun to promote the technology to countries across the South Pacific, Africa and South America.
\n
Part of this unprecedented journey is documented in Up and Out of Poverty, a collection of Xi's speeches, articles and interviews from 1988 to 1990 during his tenure in Ningde city, China's southeastern Fujian province.
\n
In 2023, the Uzbek-language edition of the book was published, with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev writing a foreword entitled "A True Chinese Miracle".
\n
With a clear-eyed understanding of the world's predicaments, Xi has traced the turbulence in economic globalization to a major source: the lack of inclusive growth. To characterize the contradictions of today's world, he quoted Charles Dickens, "It was the best of times; it was the worst of times."
\n
In recent years, economic globalization has encountered setbacks, with the gap between the Global North and South and the technological divide becoming more pronounced. The gap between the rich and the poor is widening rather than receding, and 60 percent of people in the world have grown poorer, equating to almost 5 billion people, according to a research paper from Oxfam, the UK-based charity, released last year.
\n
"Development," Xi once said, "is an inalienable right of all countries, not a privilege reserved for a few." This explains why Xi has pushed for universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.
\n
Months after taking over the Chinese presidency in 2013, Xi traveled halfway across the world and paid a state visit to Costa Rica. During the trip, he chose a coffee farm as one of his stops. Sipping a freshly brewed cup, he said: "Seems to me, there's room to export more coffee to China."
\n
The remark foreshadowed a broader pledge. China will keep its doors open and share the dividends of growth, Xi vowed. "Welcome aboard the fast train of China's development," he stated on several occasions.
\n
Also in 2013, Xi unveiled his signature Belt and Road Initiative. More than a decade on, the results are tangible. Freight trains now thunder between Chinese cities and European capitals. Kenya's modern railways and revitalized ports are remaking the East African landscape.
\n
On top of deepening economic linkages, Xi promotes a governance model that breaks with what he views as an outdated relic of colonialism, the Wall Street Journal once commented.
\n
Xi has consistently argued that development holds the master key to achieving that goal — a conviction shaped by his own life experiences. In the late 1960s, as one of China's "educated youth" sent to the countryside, Xi lived among struggling villagers in northwestern China's Shaanxi province.
\n
"One thing I wished most all the time," he recalled decades later in a speech in the US city of Seattle, "was to make it possible for the villagers to eat meat to their heart's content."
\n
Today, Xi is leading China on the path toward modernization. As a leader with a global vision, he also hopes that China can walk the path of modernization with all countries.
\n
"On the road to the well-being of all mankind, no country or nation should be left behind," Xi said.
\n
Equitable order
\n
At the just concluded SCO summit in Tianjin, Xi put forward the Global Governance Initiative.
\n
The aim of proposing the initiative is to "work together with all like-minded countries to resolutely safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and build a more just and equitable global governance system", he explained.
\n
Xi's proposing the initiative stands as a reflection of his sharp perception of the profound transformations that are reshaping the global landscape.
\n
"The collective rise of the Global South," Xi observed, "is a distinctive feature of the great transformation across the world." He has pledged that China will always keep the Global South in its heart, and maintain its roots in the Global South.
\n
In April 2015, the Indonesian city of Bandung — once called the "Paris of Java" — witnessed a moment where the past and present converged.
\n
From the 19th-century Savoy Homann Hotel, leaders of nearly 100 nations set out toward the Independence Building, retracing the footsteps of a generation that had defied colonial domination six decades earlier.
\n
At the head of the procession walked Xi and then Indonesian president Joko Widodo. It was a living echo of the 1955 Bandung Conference, the first meeting of Asian and African nations free of colonial powers, now hailed as a landmark event in the rise of the Global South.
\n
Through perseverance and huge sacrifice, emerging markets and developing countries have succeeded in gaining independence and shaking off the yoke of colonialism. These nations have been seeking development paths tailored to their own national circumstances rather than following models imposed by the outside. "Everything we do is to deliver better lives to our people," Xi once said.
\n
Driven by Xi's global vision, the legacy born in Bandung is quickly becoming a reality, where developing nations speak not as isolated voices but as a united force.
\n
The historic expansion of BRICS and the creation of forums linking China with Africa, Latin America, the Arab world and ASEAN all bear Xi's imprint, offering the Global South channels to coordinate and amplify their say in global affairs.
\n
In April 2025, during a visit to the BRICS New Development Bank in China's financial hub Shanghai — the first multilateral bank initiated and led by developing nations — Xi called it a pioneering effort for the Global South to join forces in improving global governance.
\n
The origins of his vision can be traced back to Xi's youth. He pored over The Communist Manifesto, Das Kapital and other Marxist classics, laying the intellectual foundation for what he later described as his abiding belief: "Marxism is broad and profound; ultimately, it is about seeking liberation for humanity."
\n
Decades on, as humanity is facing changes rarely seen in a century, Xi keeps pondering on the world: "What has happened to the world and how should we respond?"
\n
Xi first proposed building a community with a shared future for humanity in Moscow during his inaugural overseas visit as Chinese president. Two years later, on the stage of the UN headquarters in New York, Xi elaborated his thoughts on building such a community that involves partnerships, security, development, civilization and ecological cooperation.
\n
Xi's vision of building a community with a shared future reminded Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of an aphorism from the renowned ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius.
\n
"Si hai zhi nei jie xiong di — within the four seas, all men are brothers," Anwar uttered the maxim in Chinese during his reception held for Xi in Putrajaya this April.
\n
"President Xi is known as a capable political leader, as an economist, but more so and prouder profoundly, a great human being with strong, clear vision and understanding civilizational of values," he said.
\n
Over the years 2021 to 2023, Xi launched the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. Along with the Global Governance Initiative, these proposals are designed to enhance and improve the present international system.
\n
Tajik President Emomali Rahmon has said that Xi is a great leader with profound historical insight and a broad global vision. He said, "The many global initiatives he has proposed are conducive to advancing peace and progress for humanity."
Tug-of-war contestants pull on a rope with all their might during a horse racing festival on Saturday in Nagqu, the Xizang autonomous region. The three-day festival, which kicked off on Friday, is a traditional affair in the northern Tibetan Plateau. In addition to horse racing, the festival also features a variety of ethnic sports competitions, art performances and cultural tourism activities.
\n",
+ "content": "
Tug-of-war contestants pull on a rope with all their might during a horse racing festival on Saturday in Nagqu, the Xizang autonomous region. The three-day festival, which kicked off on Friday, is a traditional affair in the northern Tibetan Plateau. In addition to horse racing, the festival also features a variety of ethnic sports competitions, art performances and cultural tourism activities.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addresses a press conference where he announced his decision to resign, on Sunday in Tokyo, Japan.
\n
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced on Sunday that he will step down as the head of the Liberal Democratic Party, amid growing calls for him to take responsibility for the party-led ruling coalition's election setback in both houses of parliament.
\n
Addressing a news conference at the prime minister's office in Tokyo, Ishiba said he has "made the painful decision to resign despite still having unfinished tasks", emphasizing that the LDP must undergo genuine renewal and remain a tolerant and inclusive force.
\n
He added that he would not stand as a candidate in the expected LDP leadership election triggered by his resignation.
\n
Ishiba's announcement came a day before the LDP was scheduled to decide whether to hold an early party leadership election, which would essentially be demanding his resignation, according to Japanese media platform Nikkei Asia.
\n
It also followed a formal agreement reached on Thursday with the administration of United States President Donald Trump on 15 percent reciprocal tariffs on Japanese exports to the US.
\n
At Sunday's news conference, Ishiba said he had long considered tariff negotiations with the US a responsibility of his administration. With the signing of a memorandum of understanding last week, Ishiba said the negotiations reached a milestone, which made him decide to make way for his successor.
\n
In September 2024, Ishiba was elected president of the LDP for a term of three years. In October last year, the LDP and its junior coalition partner, the Komeito, lost their majority in the House of Representatives, the lower house of the National Diet of Japan. In July this year, the ruling coalition also lost its majority in the House of Councillors, or the upper house.
\n
In postwar Japan, the head of the LDP — the country's dominant political force since the party's founding in 1955 — has almost always become the prime minister, because the party commands the largest share of seats in the Diet. When an LDP president resigns or is replaced, the post of prime minister typically changes hands as well.
\n
According to the LDP's rules, a new leadership election can be held before the incumbent president's term expires. A majority of LDP members in the Diet and a majority of representatives in the LDP's prefectural branches can jointly request an election for a new president.
\n
Following Ishiba's formal resignation announcement, the LDP is expected to hold an extraordinary executive meeting on Monday morning, at which it will likely decide to cancel the submission of documents for an early party leadership election, according to TBS News, a commercial broadcasting company based in Tokyo.
\n
The Associated Press reported that the LDP is expected to set a date for a party leadership election, likely to be held in early October.
\n
Xinhua contributed to this story.
\n
houjunjie@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addresses a press conference where he announced his decision to resign, on Sunday in Tokyo, Japan.
\n
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced on Sunday that he will step down as the head of the Liberal Democratic Party, amid growing calls for him to take responsibility for the party-led ruling coalition's election setback in both houses of parliament.
\n
Addressing a news conference at the prime minister's office in Tokyo, Ishiba said he has "made the painful decision to resign despite still having unfinished tasks", emphasizing that the LDP must undergo genuine renewal and remain a tolerant and inclusive force.
\n
He added that he would not stand as a candidate in the expected LDP leadership election triggered by his resignation.
\n
Ishiba's announcement came a day before the LDP was scheduled to decide whether to hold an early party leadership election, which would essentially be demanding his resignation, according to Japanese media platform Nikkei Asia.
\n
It also followed a formal agreement reached on Thursday with the administration of United States President Donald Trump on 15 percent reciprocal tariffs on Japanese exports to the US.
\n
At Sunday's news conference, Ishiba said he had long considered tariff negotiations with the US a responsibility of his administration. With the signing of a memorandum of understanding last week, Ishiba said the negotiations reached a milestone, which made him decide to make way for his successor.
\n
In September 2024, Ishiba was elected president of the LDP for a term of three years. In October last year, the LDP and its junior coalition partner, the Komeito, lost their majority in the House of Representatives, the lower house of the National Diet of Japan. In July this year, the ruling coalition also lost its majority in the House of Councillors, or the upper house.
\n
In postwar Japan, the head of the LDP — the country's dominant political force since the party's founding in 1955 — has almost always become the prime minister, because the party commands the largest share of seats in the Diet. When an LDP president resigns or is replaced, the post of prime minister typically changes hands as well.
\n
According to the LDP's rules, a new leadership election can be held before the incumbent president's term expires. A majority of LDP members in the Diet and a majority of representatives in the LDP's prefectural branches can jointly request an election for a new president.
\n
Following Ishiba's formal resignation announcement, the LDP is expected to hold an extraordinary executive meeting on Monday morning, at which it will likely decide to cancel the submission of documents for an early party leadership election, according to TBS News, a commercial broadcasting company based in Tokyo.
\n
The Associated Press reported that the LDP is expected to set a date for a party leadership election, likely to be held in early October.
Chinese actress Xin Zhilei holds her Best Actress trophy which she won for The Sun Rises on Us All during the closing ceremony of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on Saturday in Venice, Italy.
\n
Chinese star Xin Zhilei won the Best Actress award at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on Saturday, becoming the second actress from the Chinese mainland to receive the honor, more than three decades after Gong Li's historic win in 1992.
\n
With her vivid portrayal of a woman trapped in a love triangle in the arthouse flick The Sun Rises on Us All, Xin received the Volpi Cup for Best Actress from Zhao Tao, also a famous Chinese actress who served as one of this year's international jurors.
\n
Directed by Cai Shangjun, who is regarded as a leading figure in Chinese neo-noir cinema, the film — shot in multiple cities across South China's Guangdong province — tells the story of two former lovers who reunite after seven years, only to find their encounter ending in tragedy at the hands of an inescapable fate.
\n
Overcome with joy, Xin, the 39-year-old actress, tearfully said in her acceptance speech: "This feels like a dream. Over a decade ago, when I first started in the film industry, I made a bold claim — I wanted to become an international superstar on a world-class stage. Back then, I faced a lot of ridicule."
\n
Having begun her showbiz career in 2005, the actress overcame many difficulties to stand on the award stage in Venice, one of the three most prestigious film festivals in Europe. She said she felt proud of herself and encouraged all women by saying: "If you have a dream, dare to dream big and dare to go for it. Who knows — one day it might just come true, just like it did for me."
\n
The film's title is inspired by a line from a Cantonese Opera, which is based on a script by Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) playwright Tang Xianzu. The original work depicts a tragic romance between a poet and a young woman during the Tang Dynasty (618-907).
\n
Xin revealed she was captivated by her character — an ordinary person striving to overcome a painful past and build a better life. She explained that the character is difficult to define as simply "good" or "bad", and that audiences may find her choices challenging to understand.
\n
Recounted through a delicate and nuanced narrative, the film focuses not on a dramatic plotline, but on the inner emotional journey of a woman grappling with her own tsunami-like feelings, added Xin.
\n
According to her agency, filming in Guangdong was challenging due to the humid temperatures, which frequently left Xin's costume and hair drenched. Despite this, she gave her best performance in every scene.
\n
A native of Northeast China's Heilongjiang province, Xin first earned international recognition for the 2016 Chinese film Crosscurrent, which won the Silver Bear for Outstanding Artistic Contribution for Cinematography at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival. Her most popular roles include an emperor's favored concubine in the hit costume drama Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace (2018) and a mysterious restaurant operator in Hong Kong auteur Wong Kar-wai's directorial TV debut Blossoms Shanghai (2023).
\n
In an earlier interview, director Cai recalled that because the film is told from a woman's perspective, it placed particularly high demands on casting the female lead. After an initial struggle — having reached out to around 20 actresses and 10 actors for the two leading roles — Cai finally chose Xin, with the recommendation from his wife and co-writer, Han Nianjin, who saw Xin on a variety show and was impressed by her natural, easygoing and decisive temperament.
\n
Cai said that China's film industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, challenged by a shrinking box office, as well as the unprecedented expansion of short videos and micro-dramas. In this climate, an enduring event like the Venice International Film Festival becomes a cherished destination for artists, he added.
\n
xufan@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Chinese actress Xin Zhilei holds her Best Actress trophy which she won for The Sun Rises on Us All during the closing ceremony of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on Saturday in Venice, Italy.
\n
Chinese star Xin Zhilei won the Best Actress award at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on Saturday, becoming the second actress from the Chinese mainland to receive the honor, more than three decades after Gong Li's historic win in 1992.
\n
With her vivid portrayal of a woman trapped in a love triangle in the arthouse flick The Sun Rises on Us All, Xin received the Volpi Cup for Best Actress from Zhao Tao, also a famous Chinese actress who served as one of this year's international jurors.
\n
Directed by Cai Shangjun, who is regarded as a leading figure in Chinese neo-noir cinema, the film — shot in multiple cities across South China's Guangdong province — tells the story of two former lovers who reunite after seven years, only to find their encounter ending in tragedy at the hands of an inescapable fate.
\n
Overcome with joy, Xin, the 39-year-old actress, tearfully said in her acceptance speech: "This feels like a dream. Over a decade ago, when I first started in the film industry, I made a bold claim — I wanted to become an international superstar on a world-class stage. Back then, I faced a lot of ridicule."
\n
Having begun her showbiz career in 2005, the actress overcame many difficulties to stand on the award stage in Venice, one of the three most prestigious film festivals in Europe. She said she felt proud of herself and encouraged all women by saying: "If you have a dream, dare to dream big and dare to go for it. Who knows — one day it might just come true, just like it did for me."
\n
The film's title is inspired by a line from a Cantonese Opera, which is based on a script by Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) playwright Tang Xianzu. The original work depicts a tragic romance between a poet and a young woman during the Tang Dynasty (618-907).
\n
Xin revealed she was captivated by her character — an ordinary person striving to overcome a painful past and build a better life. She explained that the character is difficult to define as simply "good" or "bad", and that audiences may find her choices challenging to understand.
\n
Recounted through a delicate and nuanced narrative, the film focuses not on a dramatic plotline, but on the inner emotional journey of a woman grappling with her own tsunami-like feelings, added Xin.
\n
According to her agency, filming in Guangdong was challenging due to the humid temperatures, which frequently left Xin's costume and hair drenched. Despite this, she gave her best performance in every scene.
\n
A native of Northeast China's Heilongjiang province, Xin first earned international recognition for the 2016 Chinese film Crosscurrent, which won the Silver Bear for Outstanding Artistic Contribution for Cinematography at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival. Her most popular roles include an emperor's favored concubine in the hit costume drama Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace (2018) and a mysterious restaurant operator in Hong Kong auteur Wong Kar-wai's directorial TV debut Blossoms Shanghai (2023).
\n
In an earlier interview, director Cai recalled that because the film is told from a woman's perspective, it placed particularly high demands on casting the female lead. After an initial struggle — having reached out to around 20 actresses and 10 actors for the two leading roles — Cai finally chose Xin, with the recommendation from his wife and co-writer, Han Nianjin, who saw Xin on a variety show and was impressed by her natural, easygoing and decisive temperament.
\n
Cai said that China's film industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, challenged by a shrinking box office, as well as the unprecedented expansion of short videos and micro-dramas. In this climate, an enduring event like the Venice International Film Festival becomes a cherished destination for artists, he added.
Beijing's Chaoyang district has launched what it calls a "Business Plus Technology" dual-engine strategy to leverage its advantages in international engagement, artificial intelligence, the digital economy and commercial prosperity, said Nie Jieying, head of the district.
\n
In the first half of 2025, the number of foreign-funded companies in the district increased by 265, a 23.8 percent year-on-year rise, ranking first in the city.
\n
During the same period, the amount of foreign capital actually utilized reached $1.14 billion, up 2 percent year-on-year. The district ranked first in this category, accounting for 42.2 percent of the city's total.
\n
"At the forefront of China's modernization efforts, Chaoyang has strategically focused on openness and innovation to transform itself into a hub that is livable, business-friendly and a leader in technological advancement," Nie said.
\n
Chaoyang has a population of 3.4 million people and a total area of 470 square kilometers, the largest among Beijing's six major districts.
\n
The district is home to nearly all foreign embassies in China, 80 percent of international organizations and chambers of commerce, 70 percent of multinational company headquarters and 65 percent of foreign financial institutions in Beijing. It has also staged more than half the city's international conferences and one-third of its exhibitions annually.
\n
Against that backdrop, Chaoyang has aligned itself with international trade standards as it carries out Beijing's "Twin Zones" initiatives — an effort begun in 2020 to build the capital into a national service industry demonstration zone and a free trade pilot zone.
\n
Over the past five years, Chaoyang has taken 87 reform and innovation steps, several of which have been replicated nationwide.
\n
These moves have reshaped the district's commercial landscape and set plans to develop world-class consumer landmarks and a vibrant commercial ecosystem, spotlighting areas such as the central business district and Sanlitun.
\n
The CBD was recently selected to lead the Global Business Districts Innovation Club for the 2025-27 term.
\n
In the north of Chaoyang, a technology innovation development belt is being created. In the east, the Beihang Chaoyang Science Park is under construction. And in the south, the Shan-He Wan-Gu Innovation Zone is taking shape.
\n
Chaoyang has also become home to the nation's first international science organization headquarters cluster, Beijing's only international venture capital hub and the city's first Internet 3.0 industrial park.
\n
In another sign of its growing role, the World Humanoid Robot Games were held at the National Stadium and National Speed Skating Oval in the district last month, drawing leading international robotics companies.
\n
In August, the city's first industrial park dedicated to the business of AI-generated content opened in Chaoyang.
\n
"All these efforts prove that the city's strategy is paying off," Nie said. "We've placed high emphasis on building Beijing into an international communication center, improving the international environment, promoting institutionalized openness and actively creating a window to showcase China's high-level openness to the world."
\n
She added, "We are establishing a benchmark zone to create a world-class business environment, leveraging the strengths of the world's top three rating agencies, nine of the top 10 global law firms, eight of the top 10 consulting firms and more than 2,000 commercial human resource service providers in the district."
\n
Chaoyang's GDP surpassed 900 billion yuan ($125.3 billion) in 2024, accounting for 18.5 percent of Beijing's total. In the first half of 2025 alone, the district's GDP reached 462 billion yuan, a year-on-year growth of 5.1 percent.
\n
yangcheng@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Nie Jieying
\n
Beijing's Chaoyang district has launched what it calls a "Business Plus Technology" dual-engine strategy to leverage its advantages in international engagement, artificial intelligence, the digital economy and commercial prosperity, said Nie Jieying, head of the district.
\n
In the first half of 2025, the number of foreign-funded companies in the district increased by 265, a 23.8 percent year-on-year rise, ranking first in the city.
\n
During the same period, the amount of foreign capital actually utilized reached $1.14 billion, up 2 percent year-on-year. The district ranked first in this category, accounting for 42.2 percent of the city's total.
\n
"At the forefront of China's modernization efforts, Chaoyang has strategically focused on openness and innovation to transform itself into a hub that is livable, business-friendly and a leader in technological advancement," Nie said.
\n
Chaoyang has a population of 3.4 million people and a total area of 470 square kilometers, the largest among Beijing's six major districts.
\n
The district is home to nearly all foreign embassies in China, 80 percent of international organizations and chambers of commerce, 70 percent of multinational company headquarters and 65 percent of foreign financial institutions in Beijing. It has also staged more than half the city's international conferences and one-third of its exhibitions annually.
\n
Against that backdrop, Chaoyang has aligned itself with international trade standards as it carries out Beijing's "Twin Zones" initiatives — an effort begun in 2020 to build the capital into a national service industry demonstration zone and a free trade pilot zone.
\n
Over the past five years, Chaoyang has taken 87 reform and innovation steps, several of which have been replicated nationwide.
\n
These moves have reshaped the district's commercial landscape and set plans to develop world-class consumer landmarks and a vibrant commercial ecosystem, spotlighting areas such as the central business district and Sanlitun.
\n
The CBD was recently selected to lead the Global Business Districts Innovation Club for the 2025-27 term.
\n
In the north of Chaoyang, a technology innovation development belt is being created. In the east, the Beihang Chaoyang Science Park is under construction. And in the south, the Shan-He Wan-Gu Innovation Zone is taking shape.
\n
Chaoyang has also become home to the nation's first international science organization headquarters cluster, Beijing's only international venture capital hub and the city's first Internet 3.0 industrial park.
\n
In another sign of its growing role, the World Humanoid Robot Games were held at the National Stadium and National Speed Skating Oval in the district last month, drawing leading international robotics companies.
\n
In August, the city's first industrial park dedicated to the business of AI-generated content opened in Chaoyang.
\n
"All these efforts prove that the city's strategy is paying off," Nie said. "We've placed high emphasis on building Beijing into an international communication center, improving the international environment, promoting institutionalized openness and actively creating a window to showcase China's high-level openness to the world."
\n
She added, "We are establishing a benchmark zone to create a world-class business environment, leveraging the strengths of the world's top three rating agencies, nine of the top 10 global law firms, eight of the top 10 consulting firms and more than 2,000 commercial human resource service providers in the district."
\n
Chaoyang's GDP surpassed 900 billion yuan ($125.3 billion) in 2024, accounting for 18.5 percent of Beijing's total. In the first half of 2025 alone, the district's GDP reached 462 billion yuan, a year-on-year growth of 5.1 percent.
Ge Ge, a giant panda at Tianjin Zoo, sniffs flowers during her birthday feast on Saturday. The zoo prepared a special meal to celebrate her 22nd birthday. Born in Sichuan province, Ge Ge arrived in Tianjin in 2018.
\n",
+ "content": "
Ge Ge, a giant panda at Tianjin Zoo, sniffs flowers during her birthday feast on Saturday. The zoo prepared a special meal to celebrate her 22nd birthday. Born in Sichuan province, Ge Ge arrived in Tianjin in 2018.
Amid the bustle of Changsha, capital of Hunan province, a coffee shop run by two baristas with hearing impairments and one volunteer is transforming the simple act of ordering coffee into an exercise in empathy and inclusion.
\n
The cafe, called Sign Planet, was initiated by Wang Han, president of the Hunan Foundation for Disabled Persons and a well-known host from Hunan Television, along with his friends. It follows a collaborative business model in which the community provides the venue, social organizations offer training and social workers participate.
\n
"If we wish for people with hearing disabilities in China to have equitable access to public cultural resources, everyone must consciously empathize with them," Wang said. "The first step is to make them visible — to allow more people to see their struggles and efforts, to witness their love for life, their aspirations for a better future, their desire for success, and their resilience to face challenges."
\n
He added that for people with disabilities, true happiness comes from equal employment opportunities, learning and access to public cultural resources.
\n
"Education and employment are the most important, because economic independence through employment leads to independence in many other aspects. That's why we believe creating employment opportunities is crucial," Wang said.
\n
To support the effort, the organizers invited an international coffee competition judge from Shenzhen, Guangdong province, to train the baristas for about a week.
\n
The local community has also rallied around the project. Wang said the original monthly rent for the cafe was between 5,000 and 6,000 yuan ($700 to $840), but the landlord reduced it to 1,000 yuan in recognition of its mission to support employment for people with disabilities.
\n
Wang noted that hearing-impaired youth are well-suited for such work, as they have full physical mobility, strong focus and learn quickly.
\n
One of the baristas, Qu Yuxian, joined the shop after graduating from university through a college recommendation. Qu and her colleagues received training in coffee preparation and hand-brewing techniques, with sign language interpreters assisting.
\n
At first, workers communicated with customers through handwritten notes, which proved inefficient during busy hours. Volunteers later began helping with operations, cleaning and learning basic sign language to ease communication.
\n
Qu said she and her colleagues felt immense warmth and gained a sense of purpose in their work. She recalled moments when customers ordered an Americano or latte using sign language — encounters that inspired her to teach them a few simple gestures in return.
\n
To attract more customers, the cafe hosts concerts every weekend, inviting people with disabilities to perform. The events have drawn large crowds and strengthened community engagement.
\n
For Qu, the cafe is more than a workplace. It provides opportunities for the hearing impaired and promotes an inclusive environment. She also hopes to create cultural products that incorporate sign language elements to draw in more customers and promote sign language culture.
\n
"I want to be a more professional and excellent barista. I even want to take part in barista competitions and show someone the ropes in the future," she said. "The coffee shop provides us with chances, and that's why we hope to grow with it."
\n
Contact the writers at wangsongsong@chinadaily.com.cn
Amid the bustle of Changsha, capital of Hunan province, a coffee shop run by two baristas with hearing impairments and one volunteer is transforming the simple act of ordering coffee into an exercise in empathy and inclusion.
\n
The cafe, called Sign Planet, was initiated by Wang Han, president of the Hunan Foundation for Disabled Persons and a well-known host from Hunan Television, along with his friends. It follows a collaborative business model in which the community provides the venue, social organizations offer training and social workers participate.
\n
"If we wish for people with hearing disabilities in China to have equitable access to public cultural resources, everyone must consciously empathize with them," Wang said. "The first step is to make them visible — to allow more people to see their struggles and efforts, to witness their love for life, their aspirations for a better future, their desire for success, and their resilience to face challenges."
\n
He added that for people with disabilities, true happiness comes from equal employment opportunities, learning and access to public cultural resources.
\n
"Education and employment are the most important, because economic independence through employment leads to independence in many other aspects. That's why we believe creating employment opportunities is crucial," Wang said.
\n
To support the effort, the organizers invited an international coffee competition judge from Shenzhen, Guangdong province, to train the baristas for about a week.
\n
The local community has also rallied around the project. Wang said the original monthly rent for the cafe was between 5,000 and 6,000 yuan ($700 to $840), but the landlord reduced it to 1,000 yuan in recognition of its mission to support employment for people with disabilities.
\n
Wang noted that hearing-impaired youth are well-suited for such work, as they have full physical mobility, strong focus and learn quickly.
\n
One of the baristas, Qu Yuxian, joined the shop after graduating from university through a college recommendation. Qu and her colleagues received training in coffee preparation and hand-brewing techniques, with sign language interpreters assisting.
\n
At first, workers communicated with customers through handwritten notes, which proved inefficient during busy hours. Volunteers later began helping with operations, cleaning and learning basic sign language to ease communication.
\n
Qu said she and her colleagues felt immense warmth and gained a sense of purpose in their work. She recalled moments when customers ordered an Americano or latte using sign language — encounters that inspired her to teach them a few simple gestures in return.
\n
To attract more customers, the cafe hosts concerts every weekend, inviting people with disabilities to perform. The events have drawn large crowds and strengthened community engagement.
\n
For Qu, the cafe is more than a workplace. It provides opportunities for the hearing impaired and promotes an inclusive environment. She also hopes to create cultural products that incorporate sign language elements to draw in more customers and promote sign language culture.
\n
"I want to be a more professional and excellent barista. I even want to take part in barista competitions and show someone the ropes in the future," she said. "The coffee shop provides us with chances, and that's why we hope to grow with it."
\n
Contact the writers at wangsongsong@chinadaily.com.cn
Students and parents join a science month event at Wenwangge Woodwork Museum in Beijing's Tongzhou district on Sunday. The event featured science experiments, exhibitions, interactive activities and a hands-on session making models of the Tongzhou Lighthouse Pagoda.
\n",
+ "content": "
Students and parents join a science month event at Wenwangge Woodwork Museum in Beijing's Tongzhou district on Sunday. The event featured science experiments, exhibitions, interactive activities and a hands-on session making models of the Tongzhou Lighthouse Pagoda.
China launched a new group of remote sensing satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi province on Sunday. The satellites of the Yaogan-40 03 group were launched at 12:34 am aboard a modified Long March-6 carrier rocket, and they entered their preset orbits successfully. They will be used to carry out electromagnetic environment detection and related technical tests. The launch marked the 593rd mission of the Long March carrier rockets.
\n
PLA on alert as foreign ships navigate Strait
\n
The Chinese People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command remains on high alert and is fully prepared to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and security, as well as regional peace and stability, a spokesperson said on Saturday. Shi Yi, a representative of the command, made the remarks while commenting on Canadian and Australian warships sailing through the Taiwan Strait. On Saturday, the Canadian frigate Quebec and the Australian destroyer Brisbane transited through the Taiwan Strait and engaged in provocative actions, which sent wrong signals and heightened security risks, Shi said. The command's naval and air forces closely tracked and monitored the Canadian and Australian military vessels' passage through the Taiwan Strait from start to finish, and took effective responses accordingly, said Shi.
\n",
+ "content": "
New remote sensing satellites launched
\n
China launched a new group of remote sensing satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi province on Sunday. The satellites of the Yaogan-40 03 group were launched at 12:34 am aboard a modified Long March-6 carrier rocket, and they entered their preset orbits successfully. They will be used to carry out electromagnetic environment detection and related technical tests. The launch marked the 593rd mission of the Long March carrier rockets.
\n
PLA on alert as foreign ships navigate Strait
\n
The Chinese People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command remains on high alert and is fully prepared to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and security, as well as regional peace and stability, a spokesperson said on Saturday. Shi Yi, a representative of the command, made the remarks while commenting on Canadian and Australian warships sailing through the Taiwan Strait. On Saturday, the Canadian frigate Quebec and the Australian destroyer Brisbane transited through the Taiwan Strait and engaged in provocative actions, which sent wrong signals and heightened security risks, Shi said. The command's naval and air forces closely tracked and monitored the Canadian and Australian military vessels' passage through the Taiwan Strait from start to finish, and took effective responses accordingly, said Shi.
The jumbo flying squid, or Dosidicus gigas, is a critical fishery resource and the most harvested invertebrate species in the South Pacific, but its yield has dropped substantially in recent years, suggesting the stock could be in decline and spurring calls for stronger international cooperation on monitoring, assessment and management, experts said.
\n
The appeal was published on Thursday in the journal Science, with Chen Xinjun and Li Gang, professors at the College of Marine Living Resource Sciences and Management at Shanghai Ocean University, among its authors.
\n
The jumbo flying squid is one of the larger squid species. It can grow up to 1.5 meters in length and weigh 40 to 60 kilograms in about a year. It inhabits the open ocean, primarily in the eastern central Pacific Ocean, along the coasts of Peru and Chile, and in offshore waters with abundant resources. With strong predatory capabilities, adaptability and a short life cycle, it has become a significant economic fishery resource in the region and is consumed worldwide.
\n
Nearly 1 million metric tons of jumbo flying squid are caught in the Southeast Pacific annually. As a transnational stock, it is harvested by thousands of artisanal vessels in Ecuadorian, Peruvian and Chilean waters, as well as by hundreds of Chinese industrial vessels in the high seas. However, the stock has never been assessed across its entire distribution in the Southeast Pacific, and key population data remains unknown, the article said.
\n
"The jumbo flying squid is vulnerable to climate change and human activities especially due to its short life cycle. We have seen substantial fluctuations in its harvest in recent years, which urgently requires further international collaboration and scientific assessment to figure out the reasons," Chen said.
\n
The jumbo flying squid stock supports the livelihood of thousands and provides food security to millions globally, with participants from a wide range of nations involved in its harvest. The South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation, or SPRFMO, regulates high seas harvests of jumbo flying squid. The organization has placed caps on the number of fishing vessels and implemented protocols for data collection by observers on vessels operating in the high seas.
\n
But the lack of international cooperation has hindered efforts to build a regional database and ensure that SPRFMO members share biological samples for regional stock assessments, the article said.
\n
Chen, Li and co-authors from Spain, Chile, Peru, New Zealand, the United States and the United Kingdom called for stronger international scientific collaboration to protect the stock before it requires a recovery plan.
\n
"Building such a regional database for stock assessment of the jumbo flying squid is essential. Knowing more precisely about its population can help set a reasonable catch limit for the participants, and ultimately help achieve the sustainable utilization and conservation of the fishery resource," Chen said.
\n
As an SPRFMO member, China has been making efforts to promote sustainable development of marine fishery resources. According to the Development of China's Distant-Water Fisheries released in October 2023, China has voluntarily imposed three-month fishing moratoriums on certain high seas fisheries targeting squid since 2020.
\n
Voluntary fishing moratoriums on the high seas are temporary or periodic bans proactively implemented by nations or regions in areas beyond their jurisdiction to conserve resources and ecosystems over the long term. In the central and eastern Pacific high seas, China imposes a voluntary fishing moratorium from Sept 1 to Nov 30 annually. The area is a critical habitat for jumbo flying squid, and the moratorium aims to protect spawning populations.
\n
In June, Shanghai Ocean University hosted an international symposium on conservation and management of squid resources, where global scholars agreed on a Shanghai proposal to enhance international cooperation on the sustainable development of global squid fisheries.
\n
wangxin2@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
The jumbo flying squid, or Dosidicus gigas, is a critical fishery resource and the most harvested invertebrate species in the South Pacific, but its yield has dropped substantially in recent years, suggesting the stock could be in decline and spurring calls for stronger international cooperation on monitoring, assessment and management, experts said.
\n
The appeal was published on Thursday in the journal Science, with Chen Xinjun and Li Gang, professors at the College of Marine Living Resource Sciences and Management at Shanghai Ocean University, among its authors.
\n
The jumbo flying squid is one of the larger squid species. It can grow up to 1.5 meters in length and weigh 40 to 60 kilograms in about a year. It inhabits the open ocean, primarily in the eastern central Pacific Ocean, along the coasts of Peru and Chile, and in offshore waters with abundant resources. With strong predatory capabilities, adaptability and a short life cycle, it has become a significant economic fishery resource in the region and is consumed worldwide.
\n
Nearly 1 million metric tons of jumbo flying squid are caught in the Southeast Pacific annually. As a transnational stock, it is harvested by thousands of artisanal vessels in Ecuadorian, Peruvian and Chilean waters, as well as by hundreds of Chinese industrial vessels in the high seas. However, the stock has never been assessed across its entire distribution in the Southeast Pacific, and key population data remains unknown, the article said.
\n
"The jumbo flying squid is vulnerable to climate change and human activities especially due to its short life cycle. We have seen substantial fluctuations in its harvest in recent years, which urgently requires further international collaboration and scientific assessment to figure out the reasons," Chen said.
\n
The jumbo flying squid stock supports the livelihood of thousands and provides food security to millions globally, with participants from a wide range of nations involved in its harvest. The South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation, or SPRFMO, regulates high seas harvests of jumbo flying squid. The organization has placed caps on the number of fishing vessels and implemented protocols for data collection by observers on vessels operating in the high seas.
\n
But the lack of international cooperation has hindered efforts to build a regional database and ensure that SPRFMO members share biological samples for regional stock assessments, the article said.
\n
Chen, Li and co-authors from Spain, Chile, Peru, New Zealand, the United States and the United Kingdom called for stronger international scientific collaboration to protect the stock before it requires a recovery plan.
\n
"Building such a regional database for stock assessment of the jumbo flying squid is essential. Knowing more precisely about its population can help set a reasonable catch limit for the participants, and ultimately help achieve the sustainable utilization and conservation of the fishery resource," Chen said.
\n
As an SPRFMO member, China has been making efforts to promote sustainable development of marine fishery resources. According to the Development of China's Distant-Water Fisheries released in October 2023, China has voluntarily imposed three-month fishing moratoriums on certain high seas fisheries targeting squid since 2020.
\n
Voluntary fishing moratoriums on the high seas are temporary or periodic bans proactively implemented by nations or regions in areas beyond their jurisdiction to conserve resources and ecosystems over the long term. In the central and eastern Pacific high seas, China imposes a voluntary fishing moratorium from Sept 1 to Nov 30 annually. The area is a critical habitat for jumbo flying squid, and the moratorium aims to protect spawning populations.
\n
In June, Shanghai Ocean University hosted an international symposium on conservation and management of squid resources, where global scholars agreed on a Shanghai proposal to enhance international cooperation on the sustainable development of global squid fisheries.
China is planning a kinetic impact demonstration mission to test the feasibility of defending Earth against potentially hazardous asteroids, a senior space scientist revealed at an international conference on Friday.
\n
Speaking at the opening of the third International Deep Space Exploration Conference (Tiandu Forum) in Hefei, Anhui province, Wu Weiren, chief designer of China's lunar exploration program and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, gave a comprehensive overview of the country's asteroid exploration and defense strategy.
\n
Wu said the mission will follow a "fly-along-impact-fly-along" model, involving both an observer and an impactor spacecraft. The observer will arrive first to conduct close-up surveys of the target asteroid, collecting detailed physical parameters. The impactor will then strike the asteroid at a distance of 10 million kilometers from Earth at high speed, while both spacecraft, together with ground- and space-based assets, record the event using advanced imaging technologies to precisely assess the results.
\n
The strike is expected to alter the asteroid's orbit by 3 to 5 centimeters, ensuring that it will not pose a collision threat to Earth for at least several decades to 100 years.
\n
"Asteroids number in the billions in our solar system, and they are often called 'fossils' of its formation and evolution," Wu said. "While rich in metals such as iron, nickel and platinum group elements, as well as water ice, near-Earth asteroids are also considered one of the top existential threats to humanity."
\n
Research indicates that near-Earth objects with diameters exceeding 140 meters strike the Earth on average every 11,000 years. Although such impacts are rare, they can have catastrophic consequences, with their severity closely correlated to the asteroid's size. Scientists generally accept that an impact 66 million years ago caused the extinction of around 75 percent of global species, including the dinosaurs.
\n
At the end of last year, a near-Earth asteroid named 2024 YR4, with a diameter ranging from 40 to 90 meters, drew global attention as the probability of it colliding with Earth in 2032 once reached as high as 3.1 percent. However, as more observational data became available, scientists confirmed that 2024 YR4 would not collide with Earth, though the probability of it impacting the moon in 2032 remains at 4.3 percent.
\n
In recent years, the China National Space Administration has initiated projects on near-Earth asteroid exploration and defense, with plans to establish a national defense system against small celestial bodies. On May 29, China's Tianwen 2 probe was launched with the dual mission of collecting samples from near-Earth asteroid 2016 HO3 and later conducting a fly-along study of main-belt comet 311P.
\n
Wu said Chinese scientists envision a relatively complete defense system, which would provide early warnings of collisions, in-orbit responses and system-level preparedness. The plan includes building an integrated space-ground monitoring and alert network capable of cataloging asteroids, issuing risk assessments and providing early warnings.
\n
On the operational side, the strategy emphasizes "kinetic impact as the primary method, complemented by multiple technologies". A variety of spacecraft would be developed to evaluate or deal with threatening asteroids, supported by a task library of defense missions tailored to different risk scenarios.
\n
"The goal is to ensure that once a threat is discovered, we already have a plan in place, and once a risk arises, we can respond effectively," Wu said, adding that China will also launch cooperation initiatives with global partners for the common good in areas such as ground-based monitoring, co-development and payload integration, as well as data and achievement sharing.
\n
limenghan@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
China is planning a kinetic impact demonstration mission to test the feasibility of defending Earth against potentially hazardous asteroids, a senior space scientist revealed at an international conference on Friday.
\n
Speaking at the opening of the third International Deep Space Exploration Conference (Tiandu Forum) in Hefei, Anhui province, Wu Weiren, chief designer of China's lunar exploration program and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, gave a comprehensive overview of the country's asteroid exploration and defense strategy.
\n
Wu said the mission will follow a "fly-along-impact-fly-along" model, involving both an observer and an impactor spacecraft. The observer will arrive first to conduct close-up surveys of the target asteroid, collecting detailed physical parameters. The impactor will then strike the asteroid at a distance of 10 million kilometers from Earth at high speed, while both spacecraft, together with ground- and space-based assets, record the event using advanced imaging technologies to precisely assess the results.
\n
The strike is expected to alter the asteroid's orbit by 3 to 5 centimeters, ensuring that it will not pose a collision threat to Earth for at least several decades to 100 years.
\n
"Asteroids number in the billions in our solar system, and they are often called 'fossils' of its formation and evolution," Wu said. "While rich in metals such as iron, nickel and platinum group elements, as well as water ice, near-Earth asteroids are also considered one of the top existential threats to humanity."
\n
Research indicates that near-Earth objects with diameters exceeding 140 meters strike the Earth on average every 11,000 years. Although such impacts are rare, they can have catastrophic consequences, with their severity closely correlated to the asteroid's size. Scientists generally accept that an impact 66 million years ago caused the extinction of around 75 percent of global species, including the dinosaurs.
\n
At the end of last year, a near-Earth asteroid named 2024 YR4, with a diameter ranging from 40 to 90 meters, drew global attention as the probability of it colliding with Earth in 2032 once reached as high as 3.1 percent. However, as more observational data became available, scientists confirmed that 2024 YR4 would not collide with Earth, though the probability of it impacting the moon in 2032 remains at 4.3 percent.
\n
In recent years, the China National Space Administration has initiated projects on near-Earth asteroid exploration and defense, with plans to establish a national defense system against small celestial bodies. On May 29, China's Tianwen 2 probe was launched with the dual mission of collecting samples from near-Earth asteroid 2016 HO3 and later conducting a fly-along study of main-belt comet 311P.
\n
Wu said Chinese scientists envision a relatively complete defense system, which would provide early warnings of collisions, in-orbit responses and system-level preparedness. The plan includes building an integrated space-ground monitoring and alert network capable of cataloging asteroids, issuing risk assessments and providing early warnings.
\n
On the operational side, the strategy emphasizes "kinetic impact as the primary method, complemented by multiple technologies". A variety of spacecraft would be developed to evaluate or deal with threatening asteroids, supported by a task library of defense missions tailored to different risk scenarios.
\n
"The goal is to ensure that once a threat is discovered, we already have a plan in place, and once a risk arises, we can respond effectively," Wu said, adding that China will also launch cooperation initiatives with global partners for the common good in areas such as ground-based monitoring, co-development and payload integration, as well as data and achievement sharing.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu strikes the ceremonial gong to announce the opening of the 2025/26 Hong Kong racing season as jockeys and other dignitaries applaud at the opening ceremony at Sha Tin Racecourse, Hong Kong, on Sunday.
\n",
+ "content": "
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu strikes the ceremonial gong to announce the opening of the 2025/26 Hong Kong racing season as jockeys and other dignitaries applaud at the opening ceremony at Sha Tin Racecourse, Hong Kong, on Sunday.
Erxat Ibrayim (third from right) welcomes visitors to his workshop in Hotan prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.
\n
Online See more by scanning the code.
\n
Stepping into the courtyard of Erxat Ibrayim's walnut wood processing workshop in Bageqi town, a group of Uygur women sit at a long table polishing freshly carved walnut wood bowls that give off a faint, resinous scent.
\n
Propped on a stand, a smartphone livestreams the scene to an unseen audience. Behind them, shelves stacked high with wooden pots, ladles and trays form a textured backdrop.
\n
Every few seconds, a message flashes across the screen, inquiring about the size and color of these walnut wood items. The Uygur women answer enthusiastically, lifting each piece toward the lens for closer inspection.
\n
"We have found an unexpected yet devoted audience across the country," said Erxat, who opened the walnut wood processing workshop in Hotan prefecture in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region about five years ago.
\n
The products range from small kitchen utensils, such as rolling pins, selling for 19 yuan ($2.66), to large custom cutting boards priced at over 1,000 yuan.
\n
The most popular items are midsized boards, often retailing from 140 to 400 yuan, depending on width.
\n
"Each piece is more than a kitchen tool. They are made from solid, pure, natural wood, free of glue, laminate, paint or chemical coatings," said Erxat, a man in his 30s originally from Urumqi, the region's capital.
\n
"The wider the board, the older the tree, and the harder the wood is to source without flaws," he said, emphasizing the value of the products.
\n
Stepping into the backyard, the air grows heavier with the raw, earthy scent of walnut wood. Towering stacks of thick, rough-hewn planks lean against the walls, their dark grain glinting under the sun.
\n
A few artisans sit cross-legged on low stools, chisels in hand, carving shapes out of the dense wood. The steady tap of mallets echoes like a heartbeat, while walnut shavings curl to the ground, gathering at their feet like scattered petals.
\n
One man bends over a half-finished teapot, rubbing the surface with a cloth until it catches the light to reveal veins of gold within the dark wood.
\n
Their concentration contrasts with the lively chatter from the front courtyard, rendering the workshop both a digital marketplace and ancient stage presenting a centuries-old craft.
\n
Walnut wood carving stands as one of the region's most treasured intangible cultural traditions. For more than 200 years, artisans have shaped this resilient, close-grained wood into bowls, spoons and ornaments, following time-honored methods that rely entirely on hand tools and patience.
\n
"Each piece of walnut wood must dry naturally for one to one-and-a-half years. This slow-aging process allows the wood to release internal stresses, reducing the risk of later warping or cracking," Erxat said.
\n
"There's no technological shortcut to stability, and time is the only thing that makes wood reliable," he added.
\n
After the drying period, only the best pieces are selected for carving. Artisans, many of whom are third- or fourth-generation woodcrafters, shape the products using hand-forged tools — some made from recycled railway springs — because standard equipment won't suffice.
\n
Yet, with the rise of new materials and waning interest from younger generations, this centuries-old craft slipped into decline.
\n
In 2020, Erxat and his wife stepped away from the stability of their lives in Urumqi — where they had steady careers and comfortable salaries — and set out on an entrepreneurial journey across southern Xinjiang.
\n
In Hotan, they stumbled upon workshops that had once buzzed with the rhythm of chisels and carving knives but stood quiet upon their arrival.
\n
"Many of the artisans had given up their benches and tools, taking jobs as security guards or day laborers just to get by," Erxat said.
\n
Struck by both the fragility and the beauty of this fading craft, the couple made the decision to build a career in reviving it.
\n
They began by selling existing inventory through Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, while promoting the profound history and culture behind walnut woodcrafting.
\n
The response was overwhelming.
\n
Within months, the local artisans' stock sold out. They decided to open their own workshop, employing more than 20 people, including more than a dozen heritage craftsmen.
\n
In addition to opening online sales channels, the couple hired master wood carvers to refine the craftsmanship and brought in professional designers to infuse walnut wood products with modern elements that appeal to contemporary tastes.
\n
They also established a full production base, giving the intangible heritage a new lease on life.
\n
Four years later, the monthly output value of their production has grown from 30,000 yuan to several hundred thousand, and annual turnover has reached tens of millions of yuan.
\n
Their success created ripple effects. Other workshops have emerged in the region, making the price of walnut wood quadruple.
\n
The craftsmen now earn stable incomes of around 7,000 yuan per month, which has enabled them to buy apartments and cars, Erxat said.
\n
Most importantly, younger generations have joined in carrying the craft forward.
\n
Alim Mamatimin, in his 20s, joined Erxat's workshop in 2021.
\n
He had been learning the traditional walnut wood production process since his childhood from his father and has since mastered the craft.
\n
"I can produce more than 20 handmade walnut wood products every day," he said.
\n
With exquisite craftsmanship and hard work, his monthly income has reached over 15,000 yuan.
\n
"Since working here, our lives are becoming increasingly better," Alim added.
\n
Erxat still remembers how, just a few years ago, walnut wood was considered little more than discarded waste in the surrounding rural areas.
\n
Today, however, as the wood carving industry flourishes, the timber cut from walnut groves has become highly sought-after, with purchasing prices climbing steadily.
\n
"Walnut wood handicrafts are not only of great ornamental value, but they also carry profound cultural significance. They are true treasures of Chinese heritage. Some pieces sell at high prices, bringing artisans considerable incomes and improving their living conditions," Erxat said.
\n
To further boost rural vitalization, Erxat has registered the handicraft brand Hehemumu and established supply-and-sell partnerships with more than a dozen nearby artisan households, coordinating with personnel in townships to collect raw walnut wood.
\n
A new facility is currently under construction at Erxat's workshop.
\n
"We want the production process to be more engaging, something that can be vividly shared through livestreaming," Erxat said.
\n
Looking ahead, he plans to open a craft-themed guesthouse next year, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of walnut wood carving.
\n
"Imagine making your own cup or a pair of chopsticks by hand. You'd gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of our traditional culture," he said.
\n
yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "\n
Erxat Ibrayim (third from right) welcomes visitors to his workshop in Hotan prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.
\n
Online See more by scanning the code.
\n
Stepping into the courtyard of Erxat Ibrayim's walnut wood processing workshop in Bageqi town, a group of Uygur women sit at a long table polishing freshly carved walnut wood bowls that give off a faint, resinous scent.
\n
Propped on a stand, a smartphone livestreams the scene to an unseen audience. Behind them, shelves stacked high with wooden pots, ladles and trays form a textured backdrop.
\n
Every few seconds, a message flashes across the screen, inquiring about the size and color of these walnut wood items. The Uygur women answer enthusiastically, lifting each piece toward the lens for closer inspection.
\n
"We have found an unexpected yet devoted audience across the country," said Erxat, who opened the walnut wood processing workshop in Hotan prefecture in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region about five years ago.
\n
The products range from small kitchen utensils, such as rolling pins, selling for 19 yuan ($2.66), to large custom cutting boards priced at over 1,000 yuan.
\n
The most popular items are midsized boards, often retailing from 140 to 400 yuan, depending on width.
\n
"Each piece is more than a kitchen tool. They are made from solid, pure, natural wood, free of glue, laminate, paint or chemical coatings," said Erxat, a man in his 30s originally from Urumqi, the region's capital.
\n
"The wider the board, the older the tree, and the harder the wood is to source without flaws," he said, emphasizing the value of the products.
\n
Stepping into the backyard, the air grows heavier with the raw, earthy scent of walnut wood. Towering stacks of thick, rough-hewn planks lean against the walls, their dark grain glinting under the sun.
\n
A few artisans sit cross-legged on low stools, chisels in hand, carving shapes out of the dense wood. The steady tap of mallets echoes like a heartbeat, while walnut shavings curl to the ground, gathering at their feet like scattered petals.
\n
One man bends over a half-finished teapot, rubbing the surface with a cloth until it catches the light to reveal veins of gold within the dark wood.
\n
Their concentration contrasts with the lively chatter from the front courtyard, rendering the workshop both a digital marketplace and ancient stage presenting a centuries-old craft.
\n
Walnut wood carving stands as one of the region's most treasured intangible cultural traditions. For more than 200 years, artisans have shaped this resilient, close-grained wood into bowls, spoons and ornaments, following time-honored methods that rely entirely on hand tools and patience.
\n
"Each piece of walnut wood must dry naturally for one to one-and-a-half years. This slow-aging process allows the wood to release internal stresses, reducing the risk of later warping or cracking," Erxat said.
\n
"There's no technological shortcut to stability, and time is the only thing that makes wood reliable," he added.
\n
After the drying period, only the best pieces are selected for carving. Artisans, many of whom are third- or fourth-generation woodcrafters, shape the products using hand-forged tools — some made from recycled railway springs — because standard equipment won't suffice.
\n
Yet, with the rise of new materials and waning interest from younger generations, this centuries-old craft slipped into decline.
\n
In 2020, Erxat and his wife stepped away from the stability of their lives in Urumqi — where they had steady careers and comfortable salaries — and set out on an entrepreneurial journey across southern Xinjiang.
\n
In Hotan, they stumbled upon workshops that had once buzzed with the rhythm of chisels and carving knives but stood quiet upon their arrival.
\n
"Many of the artisans had given up their benches and tools, taking jobs as security guards or day laborers just to get by," Erxat said.
\n
Struck by both the fragility and the beauty of this fading craft, the couple made the decision to build a career in reviving it.
\n
They began by selling existing inventory through Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, while promoting the profound history and culture behind walnut woodcrafting.
\n
The response was overwhelming.
\n
Within months, the local artisans' stock sold out. They decided to open their own workshop, employing more than 20 people, including more than a dozen heritage craftsmen.
\n
In addition to opening online sales channels, the couple hired master wood carvers to refine the craftsmanship and brought in professional designers to infuse walnut wood products with modern elements that appeal to contemporary tastes.
\n
They also established a full production base, giving the intangible heritage a new lease on life.
\n
Four years later, the monthly output value of their production has grown from 30,000 yuan to several hundred thousand, and annual turnover has reached tens of millions of yuan.
\n
Their success created ripple effects. Other workshops have emerged in the region, making the price of walnut wood quadruple.
\n
The craftsmen now earn stable incomes of around 7,000 yuan per month, which has enabled them to buy apartments and cars, Erxat said.
\n
Most importantly, younger generations have joined in carrying the craft forward.
\n
Alim Mamatimin, in his 20s, joined Erxat's workshop in 2021.
\n
He had been learning the traditional walnut wood production process since his childhood from his father and has since mastered the craft.
\n
"I can produce more than 20 handmade walnut wood products every day," he said.
\n
With exquisite craftsmanship and hard work, his monthly income has reached over 15,000 yuan.
\n
"Since working here, our lives are becoming increasingly better," Alim added.
\n
Erxat still remembers how, just a few years ago, walnut wood was considered little more than discarded waste in the surrounding rural areas.
\n
Today, however, as the wood carving industry flourishes, the timber cut from walnut groves has become highly sought-after, with purchasing prices climbing steadily.
\n
"Walnut wood handicrafts are not only of great ornamental value, but they also carry profound cultural significance. They are true treasures of Chinese heritage. Some pieces sell at high prices, bringing artisans considerable incomes and improving their living conditions," Erxat said.
\n
To further boost rural vitalization, Erxat has registered the handicraft brand Hehemumu and established supply-and-sell partnerships with more than a dozen nearby artisan households, coordinating with personnel in townships to collect raw walnut wood.
\n
A new facility is currently under construction at Erxat's workshop.
\n
"We want the production process to be more engaging, something that can be vividly shared through livestreaming," Erxat said.
\n
Looking ahead, he plans to open a craft-themed guesthouse next year, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of walnut wood carving.
\n
"Imagine making your own cup or a pair of chopsticks by hand. You'd gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of our traditional culture," he said.
Clockwise from top: A worker moves mandarin duck eggs from an artificial nest box at the Yuan'an Juhe National Wetland Park in Yuan'an county, Hubei province. One of the eight mandarin ducks swims in a pond at the park. The ducks are ready to be released into the wild.
\n
Thanks to a caring hen, eight mandarin ducklings have survived and are growing at a wetland park in Yuan'an county, Yichang city in Hubei province, after their mother left. Recently, in the waters of Dayan Forest Farm in the county, the ducklings were seen swimming, foraging and playing. They are expected to be released into the wild by the end of this month.
\n
The story of the mandarin ducks is the first case of successful human-assisted incubation at the Yuan'an Juhe National Wetland Park.
\n
Last winter, the park installed 26 artificial nest boxes in the forest, 20 of which were equipped with smart monitoring systems for staff to observe the breeding activities of birds via a mobile app.
\n
In late March, the system showed that a wild mandarin duck had occupied a box and laid an egg, followed by seven more in the next few days. It began incubation on April 10.
\n
Li Jie, who is in charge of the planning and construction department at the park, checked on them every day through the surveillance system. "Watching the mother mandarin duck carefully incubate her eggs filled my heart with anticipation for the new lives," she said.
\n
However, early on April 30, she noticed the mother duck had left to forage but never returned. "It may have met a natural predator," she said.
\n
After consulting experts, they decided to move the eggs out and borrowed a hen from a farmer to incubate them. "The size of a mandarin duck's egg is similar to that of a chicken egg, so the hen, driven by its instinct to incubate, didn't refuse to do the job," said Jing Shunhua, deputy director of the wild animals and plants protection station in Yuan'an.
\n
On May 12, eight healthy baby birds hatched. Because of the large temperature fluctuations during day and night, the park set aside a constant-temperature room to take care of them.
\n
"Later, we placed an inflatable baby pool in the room and conducted daily water adaptation exercises," Jing said.
\n
On June 12, the one-month-old ducklings began wilderness training in a simulated natural habitat at Dayan Forest Farm. Through intensive adaptive drills such as aquatic activities and wild foraging, their swimming speed, foodlocating ability (demonstrated by circling designated areas multiple times), and regulated routines (gathering on rocks in the pool at night) improved significantly, according to Jing.
\n
"With an average weight of about 220 grams, they developed a solid foundation for survival in the wild," he said, adding that shortly after hatching, they flapped vigorously, brimming with energy.
\n
As they grew, their untamed nature became more apparent, though they remained notably affectionate toward long-term caretakers.
\n
"The eight ducklings preferred moving together. In early training, they slept huddled on a man-made 'stone island' at the pool's center. Later, they delighted in bathing, gliding and hunting in the water — a charming spectacle."
\n
Jing said the experts evaluated their growth and plan to release them later this month, adding that they believe the birds "came from and belong to nature, not the zoo".
\n
Chen Yayun, office director of the county's forestry bureau, said the artificial nest boxes aim to provide a safe and hidden breeding space for migrant birds. They were installed at a height of between 3 to 5 meters in the forest and simulate tree holes.
\n
More than 10 different species of birds have lived in the boxes, including owl and russet sparrow.
\n
In recent years, large numbers of wild birds have migrated to Yuan'an to stay, nest and breed during autumn and winter.
\n
The mandarin duck is a national second-class protected species. They have high ecological demands for their migratory habitats. In recent years, their numbers in Yuan'an have increased annually, according to local authorities.
\n
Contact the writers at chenmeiling@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "\n
Clockwise from top: A worker moves mandarin duck eggs from an artificial nest box at the Yuan'an Juhe National Wetland Park in Yuan'an county, Hubei province. One of the eight mandarin ducks swims in a pond at the park. The ducks are ready to be released into the wild.
\n
Thanks to a caring hen, eight mandarin ducklings have survived and are growing at a wetland park in Yuan'an county, Yichang city in Hubei province, after their mother left. Recently, in the waters of Dayan Forest Farm in the county, the ducklings were seen swimming, foraging and playing. They are expected to be released into the wild by the end of this month.
\n
The story of the mandarin ducks is the first case of successful human-assisted incubation at the Yuan'an Juhe National Wetland Park.
\n
Last winter, the park installed 26 artificial nest boxes in the forest, 20 of which were equipped with smart monitoring systems for staff to observe the breeding activities of birds via a mobile app.
\n
In late March, the system showed that a wild mandarin duck had occupied a box and laid an egg, followed by seven more in the next few days. It began incubation on April 10.
\n
Li Jie, who is in charge of the planning and construction department at the park, checked on them every day through the surveillance system. "Watching the mother mandarin duck carefully incubate her eggs filled my heart with anticipation for the new lives," she said.
\n
However, early on April 30, she noticed the mother duck had left to forage but never returned. "It may have met a natural predator," she said.
\n
After consulting experts, they decided to move the eggs out and borrowed a hen from a farmer to incubate them. "The size of a mandarin duck's egg is similar to that of a chicken egg, so the hen, driven by its instinct to incubate, didn't refuse to do the job," said Jing Shunhua, deputy director of the wild animals and plants protection station in Yuan'an.
\n
On May 12, eight healthy baby birds hatched. Because of the large temperature fluctuations during day and night, the park set aside a constant-temperature room to take care of them.
\n
"Later, we placed an inflatable baby pool in the room and conducted daily water adaptation exercises," Jing said.
\n
On June 12, the one-month-old ducklings began wilderness training in a simulated natural habitat at Dayan Forest Farm. Through intensive adaptive drills such as aquatic activities and wild foraging, their swimming speed, foodlocating ability (demonstrated by circling designated areas multiple times), and regulated routines (gathering on rocks in the pool at night) improved significantly, according to Jing.
\n
"With an average weight of about 220 grams, they developed a solid foundation for survival in the wild," he said, adding that shortly after hatching, they flapped vigorously, brimming with energy.
\n
As they grew, their untamed nature became more apparent, though they remained notably affectionate toward long-term caretakers.
\n
"The eight ducklings preferred moving together. In early training, they slept huddled on a man-made 'stone island' at the pool's center. Later, they delighted in bathing, gliding and hunting in the water — a charming spectacle."
\n
Jing said the experts evaluated their growth and plan to release them later this month, adding that they believe the birds "came from and belong to nature, not the zoo".
\n
Chen Yayun, office director of the county's forestry bureau, said the artificial nest boxes aim to provide a safe and hidden breeding space for migrant birds. They were installed at a height of between 3 to 5 meters in the forest and simulate tree holes.
\n
More than 10 different species of birds have lived in the boxes, including owl and russet sparrow.
\n
In recent years, large numbers of wild birds have migrated to Yuan'an to stay, nest and breed during autumn and winter.
\n
The mandarin duck is a national second-class protected species. They have high ecological demands for their migratory habitats. In recent years, their numbers in Yuan'an have increased annually, according to local authorities.
\n
Contact the writers at chenmeiling@chinadaily.com.cn
Participants of an e-commerce training program take a group photo in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region.
\n
An e-commerce training program in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region has brought together young entrepreneurs from China and abroad to boost digital trade and deepen cultural ties.
\n
The three-day event, held in mid-August in Guyuan city, drew more than 60 participants from Ningxia and countries including Yemen and Egypt.
\n
According to Ban Yanrong, director of the e-commerce and service trade division at the Department of Commerce of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the training aimed to enhance mutual understanding and friendship, strengthen e-commerce cooperation, upgrade local industries, and boost the digital economy.
\n
Among the trainees was Turkmenistan's Orazbayev Gurban, a student at Ningxia University, who expressed strong interest in China's e-commerce ecosystem — particularly livestreaming e-commerce and social e-commerce models.
\n
"China is a leader in this field. It's no longer just 'online shopping' — it's a complete ecosystem that integrates entertainment, social interaction and instant consumption. I'm eager to delve deeper and learn its core operational logic," he said.
\n
Gurban also highlighted Ningxia's strategic role as a pioneer in economic and trade exchanges between China and Arab countries. The region is developing a comprehensive pilot zone for cross-border e-commerce, offering an excellent platform for young entrepreneurs from Arab countries, he said and hoped his own experience would help promote e-commerce between China and Arab countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.
\n
He added that while e-commerce is growing rapidly in his motherland, it still relies on traditional shelf-based models.
\n
Livestreaming e-commerce is in its early stages, with significant gaps in content quality, interactivity and supply chain integration compared to China. Consumer trust in online payments also remains limited.
\n
The training proved highly beneficial for participants such as Gurban. Courses on short video production and livestreaming simulations were particularly useful. Through handson guidance in scriptwriting, camerawork, lighting, and live control techniques, trainees quickly grasped essential skills.
\n
After returning home, Gurban plans to serve as a business intermediary, introducing Chinese brands to the Arab market through localized e-commerce strategies. He also aims to help Arab brands enter China by offering end-to-end solutions covering market positioning, e-commerce operations, logistics, and customs clearance.
\n
Huang Yan, a specially invited expert from the China International Electronic Commerce Center, said there are several advantages for e-commerce development in Arab countries: a significant youth demographic with over 60 percent of users under 30, improving logistics and payment systems, and a growing pool of multilingual professionals skilled in livestreaming.
\n
"When we return home, our success stories and personal experiences will become powerful narratives that enhance mutual understanding and friendship between our peoples. This type of technology and business-driven exchanges, led by youth, is truly building an 'online Silk Road' for the digital age — bringing Chinese and Arab people closer together to create a shared and win-win future," Gurban said.
\n
Tian Zongke, head of a local agricultural company who participated in the training, said he studied overseas livestreaming shopping models and the innovative integration of China's "interest-based e-commerce" with livestreaming. He also explored ways to introduce high-quality Ningxia specialty products into Middle Eastern e-commerce channels.
\n
Together with streamers from countries including Yemen, Tian conducted a livestreaming session that resulted in 257 orders and a total transaction value of 20,100 yuan ($2,799), more than five times their usual sales.
\n
At the conclusion of the training, 12 participants including Gurban and Tian were selected to take part in the Seventh China-Arab States Expo, which was held in Yinchuan from Aug 28 to 31.
\n
These 12 individuals, comprising six from Ningxia and six from Arab countries, formed six teams to promote Ningxia products such as goji berries, wine and Tan sheep, as well as Arab commodities such as spices and handicrafts.
\n
They also conducted cultural interaction livestreams that blended product explanations with cultural stories, enhancing mutual understanding between Chinese and Arab consumers.
\n
Ban added that Ningxia will summarize the experience from this training and gradually expand similar programs to key countries involved in the BRI, including those in Central and Southeast Asia.
\n
By 2026, Ningxia will launch the "Silk Road Streamers" practical training project targeting Central Asian countries. This initiative will help establish a broader digital trade talent development network, supporting Ningxia's goal of becoming a new hub for cross-border e-commerce within its inland open economic pilot zone.
\n
Contact the writers at wangsongsong@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Participants of an e-commerce training program take a group photo in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region.
\n
An e-commerce training program in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region has brought together young entrepreneurs from China and abroad to boost digital trade and deepen cultural ties.
\n
The three-day event, held in mid-August in Guyuan city, drew more than 60 participants from Ningxia and countries including Yemen and Egypt.
\n
According to Ban Yanrong, director of the e-commerce and service trade division at the Department of Commerce of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the training aimed to enhance mutual understanding and friendship, strengthen e-commerce cooperation, upgrade local industries, and boost the digital economy.
\n
Among the trainees was Turkmenistan's Orazbayev Gurban, a student at Ningxia University, who expressed strong interest in China's e-commerce ecosystem — particularly livestreaming e-commerce and social e-commerce models.
\n
"China is a leader in this field. It's no longer just 'online shopping' — it's a complete ecosystem that integrates entertainment, social interaction and instant consumption. I'm eager to delve deeper and learn its core operational logic," he said.
\n
Gurban also highlighted Ningxia's strategic role as a pioneer in economic and trade exchanges between China and Arab countries. The region is developing a comprehensive pilot zone for cross-border e-commerce, offering an excellent platform for young entrepreneurs from Arab countries, he said and hoped his own experience would help promote e-commerce between China and Arab countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.
\n
He added that while e-commerce is growing rapidly in his motherland, it still relies on traditional shelf-based models.
\n
Livestreaming e-commerce is in its early stages, with significant gaps in content quality, interactivity and supply chain integration compared to China. Consumer trust in online payments also remains limited.
\n
The training proved highly beneficial for participants such as Gurban. Courses on short video production and livestreaming simulations were particularly useful. Through handson guidance in scriptwriting, camerawork, lighting, and live control techniques, trainees quickly grasped essential skills.
\n
After returning home, Gurban plans to serve as a business intermediary, introducing Chinese brands to the Arab market through localized e-commerce strategies. He also aims to help Arab brands enter China by offering end-to-end solutions covering market positioning, e-commerce operations, logistics, and customs clearance.
\n
Huang Yan, a specially invited expert from the China International Electronic Commerce Center, said there are several advantages for e-commerce development in Arab countries: a significant youth demographic with over 60 percent of users under 30, improving logistics and payment systems, and a growing pool of multilingual professionals skilled in livestreaming.
\n
"When we return home, our success stories and personal experiences will become powerful narratives that enhance mutual understanding and friendship between our peoples. This type of technology and business-driven exchanges, led by youth, is truly building an 'online Silk Road' for the digital age — bringing Chinese and Arab people closer together to create a shared and win-win future," Gurban said.
\n
Tian Zongke, head of a local agricultural company who participated in the training, said he studied overseas livestreaming shopping models and the innovative integration of China's "interest-based e-commerce" with livestreaming. He also explored ways to introduce high-quality Ningxia specialty products into Middle Eastern e-commerce channels.
\n
Together with streamers from countries including Yemen, Tian conducted a livestreaming session that resulted in 257 orders and a total transaction value of 20,100 yuan ($2,799), more than five times their usual sales.
\n
At the conclusion of the training, 12 participants including Gurban and Tian were selected to take part in the Seventh China-Arab States Expo, which was held in Yinchuan from Aug 28 to 31.
\n
These 12 individuals, comprising six from Ningxia and six from Arab countries, formed six teams to promote Ningxia products such as goji berries, wine and Tan sheep, as well as Arab commodities such as spices and handicrafts.
\n
They also conducted cultural interaction livestreams that blended product explanations with cultural stories, enhancing mutual understanding between Chinese and Arab consumers.
\n
Ban added that Ningxia will summarize the experience from this training and gradually expand similar programs to key countries involved in the BRI, including those in Central and Southeast Asia.
\n
By 2026, Ningxia will launch the "Silk Road Streamers" practical training project targeting Central Asian countries. This initiative will help establish a broader digital trade talent development network, supporting Ningxia's goal of becoming a new hub for cross-border e-commerce within its inland open economic pilot zone.
\n
Contact the writers at wangsongsong@chinadaily.com.cn
A job fair is held at a night market in Lanzhou, Gansu province.
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LANZHOU — As dusk descended on Lanzhou, the capital of Northwest China's Gansu province, the city's bustling streets transformed into vibrant hubs. What once began as simple food and merchandise stalls have now evolved into multifaceted nightlife destinations offering healthcare, employment, and cultural experiences.
\n
Recent graduate Zeng Fangyan navigated the vibrant market stalls with friends — not for snacks, but for potential job leads.
\n
"Night markets were strictly about food before," she noted. "Now I casually explore career opportunities here."
\n
Over the past two years, job fairs integrated into these markets have made job hunting less formal and more accessible. And it's not just jobs, with the likes of traditional Chinese medicine consultations and cultural heritage shows also emerging, thereby making the night market experience richer and more engaging.
\n
In a commercial district of Lanzhou, TCM practitioners offering pulse diagnoses, acupuncture and cupping consistently attract crowds.
\n
"It's convenient to relieve work stress while shopping at night," said a local resident surnamed Wang, who was undergoing moxibustion.
\n
Lu Runlan, president of Lanzhou Hospital of TCM, revealed that these pop-up clinics often match hospital attendance volumes, with many customers returning for repeat treatments.
\n
The informal "talent night markets" particularly resonate with job seekers like Hu Yifan, 31, who values the relaxed environment. Employers similarly benefit, as natural interactions facilitate spontaneous interviews and uncover overlooked talent, including older unemployed individuals or passive candidates.
\n
Cities across China are enhancing these evolving night spaces. Nantong in East China's Jiangsu province has partnered with major HR firms to incorporate livestreamed recruitment, artificial intelligence-powered interviews and interactive job discussions at night markets. Meanwhile, Southwest China's Chongqing offers experiential entrepreneurial booths, allowing young people to test business concepts in a dynamic marketplace.
\n
Cultural enrichment has become a defining feature of this urban transformation. At an ancient street in Lanzhou, events cater to specific demographics — pet owners, parents and seniors engage through interactive zones. Nighttime access to intangible cultural heritage exhibits, featuring intricate egg carvings, clay sculptures and paper cutting, add educational depth while outdoor stages host choir performances and fashion shows for retirees.
\n
Han Yulong, operations manager of this ancient street, documented a 45 percent year-on-year surge in visitors.
\n
Tea master Xu Wenxia has curated traditional tea making techniques at this venue, with such endeavors serving not only as a form of cultural preservation but also as a career showcase. Complementing these offerings, wellness-focused nighttime snacks featuring organic ingredients and herbal teas align with youth health trends.
\n
Lanzhou University economist Mao Jinhuang illuminates this paradigm shift: "Nighttime economy is evolving into a servicedriven ecosystem of functional experiences."
\n
He further highlights that night markets now serve as critical "urban interfaces" for healthcare and social programs, addressing public demand for accessibility through innovative municipal resource allocation.
\n
Mao envisions expansive possibilities: "Future night markets could expand further. Legal aid, counseling, skill workshops — any service tied to daily life might emerge under neon lights as cities creatively re-imagine social spaces after dark."
\n",
+ "content": "\n
A job fair is held at a night market in Lanzhou, Gansu province.
\n
LANZHOU — As dusk descended on Lanzhou, the capital of Northwest China's Gansu province, the city's bustling streets transformed into vibrant hubs. What once began as simple food and merchandise stalls have now evolved into multifaceted nightlife destinations offering healthcare, employment, and cultural experiences.
\n
Recent graduate Zeng Fangyan navigated the vibrant market stalls with friends — not for snacks, but for potential job leads.
\n
"Night markets were strictly about food before," she noted. "Now I casually explore career opportunities here."
\n
Over the past two years, job fairs integrated into these markets have made job hunting less formal and more accessible. And it's not just jobs, with the likes of traditional Chinese medicine consultations and cultural heritage shows also emerging, thereby making the night market experience richer and more engaging.
\n
In a commercial district of Lanzhou, TCM practitioners offering pulse diagnoses, acupuncture and cupping consistently attract crowds.
\n
"It's convenient to relieve work stress while shopping at night," said a local resident surnamed Wang, who was undergoing moxibustion.
\n
Lu Runlan, president of Lanzhou Hospital of TCM, revealed that these pop-up clinics often match hospital attendance volumes, with many customers returning for repeat treatments.
\n
The informal "talent night markets" particularly resonate with job seekers like Hu Yifan, 31, who values the relaxed environment. Employers similarly benefit, as natural interactions facilitate spontaneous interviews and uncover overlooked talent, including older unemployed individuals or passive candidates.
\n
Cities across China are enhancing these evolving night spaces. Nantong in East China's Jiangsu province has partnered with major HR firms to incorporate livestreamed recruitment, artificial intelligence-powered interviews and interactive job discussions at night markets. Meanwhile, Southwest China's Chongqing offers experiential entrepreneurial booths, allowing young people to test business concepts in a dynamic marketplace.
\n
Cultural enrichment has become a defining feature of this urban transformation. At an ancient street in Lanzhou, events cater to specific demographics — pet owners, parents and seniors engage through interactive zones. Nighttime access to intangible cultural heritage exhibits, featuring intricate egg carvings, clay sculptures and paper cutting, add educational depth while outdoor stages host choir performances and fashion shows for retirees.
\n
Han Yulong, operations manager of this ancient street, documented a 45 percent year-on-year surge in visitors.
\n
Tea master Xu Wenxia has curated traditional tea making techniques at this venue, with such endeavors serving not only as a form of cultural preservation but also as a career showcase. Complementing these offerings, wellness-focused nighttime snacks featuring organic ingredients and herbal teas align with youth health trends.
\n
Lanzhou University economist Mao Jinhuang illuminates this paradigm shift: "Nighttime economy is evolving into a servicedriven ecosystem of functional experiences."
\n
He further highlights that night markets now serve as critical "urban interfaces" for healthcare and social programs, addressing public demand for accessibility through innovative municipal resource allocation.
\n
Mao envisions expansive possibilities: "Future night markets could expand further. Legal aid, counseling, skill workshops — any service tied to daily life might emerge under neon lights as cities creatively re-imagine social spaces after dark."
Japan and Australia have tried to depict their strengthened security cooperation as a meaningful move to maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific. Yet what they have done by elevating their so-called special strategic partnership is actually stirring up tensions, making the region more insecure and unstable.
\n
In the 12th 2-plus-2 talks between their foreign and defense ministers that concluded on Friday, the two sides agreed to reinforce their command coordination while cooperating more closely in military exercises and in respect of logistics so as to "play a leading role in realizing a free and open 'Indo-Pacific'".
\n
Yet officials at the meeting — Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, as well as their respective Australian counterparts, Penny Wong and Richard Marles — did not stop at just parroting the hackneyed China-targeted phrases from the playbook of the United States' strategy in the region. They went further by seeking to provoke China on issues that concern its core interests.
\n
In a joint statement issued after their talks, the ministers underscored "the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" and expressed "serious concern at the increase in scale and frequency of provocative activities by China in Japan's maritime and air domain". They tried to justify the enhanced building of their collective deterrence with unfounded concern over what they claimed is China's "military assertiveness" in the region.
\n
Such remarks confuse right and wrong, as they wrongly ascribe China's routine patrolling of the territorial waters of its Diaoyu Islands in accordance with the law to the intent of pursuing "military dominance" in the region. They also turn a blind eye to Japan's extensive military buildup that belies Japan's pacifist Constitution and poses a large threat to regional peace and stability. It should not be forgotten that, in July last year, a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer ventured into Chinese territorial waters off the eastern province of Zhejiang, purportedly "unknowingly".
\n
Moreover, the mentioning of Taiwan in the statement also disregards China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This risks undermining relations between China and the two countries, as the one-China principle is the foundation for relations between China and other countries.
\n
As established in international law, the Taiwan question is an internal affair of China that brooks no external interference. By threatening to intervene in the Taiwan question in the name of "maintaining peace and stability", Japan and Australia are reneging on their formal recognition of Taiwan as part of China and degenerating into puppets on the geopolitical chessboard of the US that seems bent on playing the "Taiwan card" to contain China.
\n
Yet, as if Australia thinks what it has done is not damaging enough to bilateral ties, it sent a guided-missile destroyer to sail through the Taiwan Strait together with a Canadian warship on Saturday, in a move that was strongly criticized by the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command for being "trouble-making and provocative". The joint transit only served to increase security risks across the Strait and sent the wrong signal to separatists on the island.
\n
There is no fundamental conflict of interests between China and Australia, and the two countries have every reason to build on their vast common interests and expand their mutually beneficial pragmatic cooperation. It is thus incomprehensible that Canberra should implement a foreign policy that only serves the US' geopolitical interests while ignoring all the negative consequences.
\n
Former Labor prime minister of Australia Paul Keating has justifiably criticized some politicians in Canberra for having "no pride" and a "miserable view of themselves". Pointing to Australia's lack of strategic autonomy, he said it was not intelligent for the country to be "owned" by the US, and warned that Australia should not get involved if tensions over Taiwan boiled over into conflict. "Taiwan is not a vital Australian interest," Keating rightly said. Hopefully his words will knock some sense into the heads of some in Canberra.
Japan and Australia have tried to depict their strengthened security cooperation as a meaningful move to maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific. Yet what they have done by elevating their so-called special strategic partnership is actually stirring up tensions, making the region more insecure and unstable.
\n
In the 12th 2-plus-2 talks between their foreign and defense ministers that concluded on Friday, the two sides agreed to reinforce their command coordination while cooperating more closely in military exercises and in respect of logistics so as to "play a leading role in realizing a free and open 'Indo-Pacific'".
\n
Yet officials at the meeting — Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, as well as their respective Australian counterparts, Penny Wong and Richard Marles — did not stop at just parroting the hackneyed China-targeted phrases from the playbook of the United States' strategy in the region. They went further by seeking to provoke China on issues that concern its core interests.
\n
In a joint statement issued after their talks, the ministers underscored "the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" and expressed "serious concern at the increase in scale and frequency of provocative activities by China in Japan's maritime and air domain". They tried to justify the enhanced building of their collective deterrence with unfounded concern over what they claimed is China's "military assertiveness" in the region.
\n
Such remarks confuse right and wrong, as they wrongly ascribe China's routine patrolling of the territorial waters of its Diaoyu Islands in accordance with the law to the intent of pursuing "military dominance" in the region. They also turn a blind eye to Japan's extensive military buildup that belies Japan's pacifist Constitution and poses a large threat to regional peace and stability. It should not be forgotten that, in July last year, a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer ventured into Chinese territorial waters off the eastern province of Zhejiang, purportedly "unknowingly".
\n
Moreover, the mentioning of Taiwan in the statement also disregards China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This risks undermining relations between China and the two countries, as the one-China principle is the foundation for relations between China and other countries.
\n
As established in international law, the Taiwan question is an internal affair of China that brooks no external interference. By threatening to intervene in the Taiwan question in the name of "maintaining peace and stability", Japan and Australia are reneging on their formal recognition of Taiwan as part of China and degenerating into puppets on the geopolitical chessboard of the US that seems bent on playing the "Taiwan card" to contain China.
\n
Yet, as if Australia thinks what it has done is not damaging enough to bilateral ties, it sent a guided-missile destroyer to sail through the Taiwan Strait together with a Canadian warship on Saturday, in a move that was strongly criticized by the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command for being "trouble-making and provocative". The joint transit only served to increase security risks across the Strait and sent the wrong signal to separatists on the island.
\n
There is no fundamental conflict of interests between China and Australia, and the two countries have every reason to build on their vast common interests and expand their mutually beneficial pragmatic cooperation. It is thus incomprehensible that Canberra should implement a foreign policy that only serves the US' geopolitical interests while ignoring all the negative consequences.
\n
Former Labor prime minister of Australia Paul Keating has justifiably criticized some politicians in Canberra for having "no pride" and a "miserable view of themselves". Pointing to Australia's lack of strategic autonomy, he said it was not intelligent for the country to be "owned" by the US, and warned that Australia should not get involved if tensions over Taiwan boiled over into conflict. "Taiwan is not a vital Australian interest," Keating rightly said. Hopefully his words will knock some sense into the heads of some in Canberra.
As philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein observed, "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world." Words do not merely describe reality — they shape it. The United States is now offering its own example of this.
\n
On Friday, the US president signed an executive order restoring the historical title "Department of War" to the Pentagon. Even though Congress has yet to approve it to make the renaming permanent, the symbolism is powerful, revealing a shift in how Washington wishes to present itself to the world.
\n
The US changed the name of its War Department to the Department of Defense in 1949 after World War II and at the dawn of the nuclear age. At that time, the US lawmakers emphasized "defense" to signal restraint and deterrence, as new international institutions such as the United Nations were being established to safeguard peace. That choice of words carried weight. It underscored that military power was to be exercised with caution and with the aim of preventing conflict.
\n
The latest reversal, however, highlights a different mood in Washington. Supporters of the change argue that the original name reflects the US' history of strength and victory, pointing back to the world wars. Yet behind this rhetoric lies a message aligned with a more assertive and transactional view of security. The move fits into a wider policy pattern: the use of force in the Middle East, backing military offensives by allies, and calls for partners in Europe and Asia to assume greater financial burdens for US protection.
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Domestically, the decision has understandably provoked debate, if not strong opposition. Democrats in Congress quickly voiced their objections, calling the move "childish" or "dangerous". Think tanks and historians have also raised concerns that reintroducing the "Department of War" label risks undermining the US' "moral standing", particularly given the lessons of the nuclear age. Even among the public, the debate reflects fatigue with military campaigns abroad. Many Americans, after two decades of costly wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, fear that glorifying "war" rather than "defense" could mark a return to open-ended conflicts.
\n
In a survey carried out by CGTN among 14,071 respondents from 38 countries from 2023 to 2024, 61.3 percent of the respondents believed that the US is the most combative country in the world, and 70.1 percent thought that the US waging wars abroad has caused serious humanitarian crises worldwide.
\n
Allies are equally attentive. European governments, already unsettled by Washington's imposition of unilateral tariffs and its calls for higher defense spending, now face the additional challenge of explaining to the public why they should rally behind a "Department of War" of the US. And for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which has long presented itself as a defensive alliance, the optics of following a country that openly embraces the rhetoric of war may prove problematic.
\n
In Asia, too, US partners are watching closely. Some may fear that Washington is signaling a readiness to escalate conflicts in the region, while others may interpret the move as a prelude to shifting US resources inward. Reports that the Pentagon is drafting a new strategy, possibly downgrading the focus on the "Indo-Pacific" while prioritizing the Western Hemisphere and homeland security, will only add to the uncertainty, particularly among the US' regional pawns, such as the Philippines. If the allies and partners of the US sense that Washington is more aggressive in tone and less reliable in commitment, confidence in the US alliance system may weaken further.
\n
History offers perspective. The change of name from "War" to "Defense" was not mere semantics. It reflected a determination that in the nuclear age, stability depended on restraint, multilateral cooperation and an emphasis on peace. In today's uncertain world, that lesson remains valid. At a time when conflicts in Europe and the Middle East continue, and when the global community faces transnational challenges from climate change to public health, what is most needed is dialogue, coordination and restraint, not signals of confrontation.
\n
Language matters. The words governments choose shape perceptions, expectations and policy paths. The international community should therefore pay close attention to the implications of this renaming. It is a reminder that the US, as the world's largest military power, carries a special responsibility to lead not toward war, but toward peace. Only by upholding this responsibility can Washington, by giving the right answer to the fundamental question of war or peace, truly contribute to the common aspiration of all nations: a world defined not by conflict, but by peace and development.
\n",
+ "content": "
As philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein observed, "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world." Words do not merely describe reality — they shape it. The United States is now offering its own example of this.
\n
On Friday, the US president signed an executive order restoring the historical title "Department of War" to the Pentagon. Even though Congress has yet to approve it to make the renaming permanent, the symbolism is powerful, revealing a shift in how Washington wishes to present itself to the world.
\n
The US changed the name of its War Department to the Department of Defense in 1949 after World War II and at the dawn of the nuclear age. At that time, the US lawmakers emphasized "defense" to signal restraint and deterrence, as new international institutions such as the United Nations were being established to safeguard peace. That choice of words carried weight. It underscored that military power was to be exercised with caution and with the aim of preventing conflict.
\n
The latest reversal, however, highlights a different mood in Washington. Supporters of the change argue that the original name reflects the US' history of strength and victory, pointing back to the world wars. Yet behind this rhetoric lies a message aligned with a more assertive and transactional view of security. The move fits into a wider policy pattern: the use of force in the Middle East, backing military offensives by allies, and calls for partners in Europe and Asia to assume greater financial burdens for US protection.
\n
Domestically, the decision has understandably provoked debate, if not strong opposition. Democrats in Congress quickly voiced their objections, calling the move "childish" or "dangerous". Think tanks and historians have also raised concerns that reintroducing the "Department of War" label risks undermining the US' "moral standing", particularly given the lessons of the nuclear age. Even among the public, the debate reflects fatigue with military campaigns abroad. Many Americans, after two decades of costly wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, fear that glorifying "war" rather than "defense" could mark a return to open-ended conflicts.
\n
In a survey carried out by CGTN among 14,071 respondents from 38 countries from 2023 to 2024, 61.3 percent of the respondents believed that the US is the most combative country in the world, and 70.1 percent thought that the US waging wars abroad has caused serious humanitarian crises worldwide.
\n
Allies are equally attentive. European governments, already unsettled by Washington's imposition of unilateral tariffs and its calls for higher defense spending, now face the additional challenge of explaining to the public why they should rally behind a "Department of War" of the US. And for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which has long presented itself as a defensive alliance, the optics of following a country that openly embraces the rhetoric of war may prove problematic.
\n
In Asia, too, US partners are watching closely. Some may fear that Washington is signaling a readiness to escalate conflicts in the region, while others may interpret the move as a prelude to shifting US resources inward. Reports that the Pentagon is drafting a new strategy, possibly downgrading the focus on the "Indo-Pacific" while prioritizing the Western Hemisphere and homeland security, will only add to the uncertainty, particularly among the US' regional pawns, such as the Philippines. If the allies and partners of the US sense that Washington is more aggressive in tone and less reliable in commitment, confidence in the US alliance system may weaken further.
\n
History offers perspective. The change of name from "War" to "Defense" was not mere semantics. It reflected a determination that in the nuclear age, stability depended on restraint, multilateral cooperation and an emphasis on peace. In today's uncertain world, that lesson remains valid. At a time when conflicts in Europe and the Middle East continue, and when the global community faces transnational challenges from climate change to public health, what is most needed is dialogue, coordination and restraint, not signals of confrontation.
\n
Language matters. The words governments choose shape perceptions, expectations and policy paths. The international community should therefore pay close attention to the implications of this renaming. It is a reminder that the US, as the world's largest military power, carries a special responsibility to lead not toward war, but toward peace. Only by upholding this responsibility can Washington, by giving the right answer to the fundamental question of war or peace, truly contribute to the common aspiration of all nations: a world defined not by conflict, but by peace and development.
The United Nations General Assembly on Friday adopted a resolution with overwhelming support on cooperation between the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
\n
The resolution, entitled "Cooperation between the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization", was introduced by China and cosponsored by nearly 40 countries, including all the SCO member states. It highly commends the constructive role of the SCO in promoting regional peace, development, mutual trust and cooperation.
\n
The resolution speaks highly of the SCO's efforts to support the work of the UN and expresses support for strengthened dialogue and collaboration between the UN and the SCO.
\n
Since its founding 24 years ago, the SCO has continued to grow under the guidance of the Shanghai Spirit, namely mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development. There are now 27 participating countries cooperating in over 50 sectors under the SCO framework, and the SCO members have a combined annual economic output close to $30 trillion.
\n
The highlight of the SCO Tianjin Summit that concluded on Sept 1 was Chinese President Xi Jinping's proposal of the Global Governance Initiative. It calls on all countries to adhere to sovereign equality, abide by international rule of law, practice multilateralism, advocate the people-centered approach, and focus on taking real actions to jointly build a more just and equitable global governance system and a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
The initiative was warmly welcomed and actively supported by all parties attending the SCO Tianjin Summit. They agreed that the world today urgently needs more effective governance visions and systems, making China's proposal most opportune and relevant. They also agreed to strengthen their strategic coordination, uphold multilateralism, safeguard fairness and justice, and improve global governance.
\n
At Friday's UN General Assembly session, it was good to see representatives of Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Pakistan, Iran, Cambodia, Cuba, Venezuela and Serbia speak highly of the SCO Tianjin Summit and the work carried out by China during its rotating presidency.
\n
As they emphasized, the resolution's adoption by the UN General Assembly with overwhelming support also reflects the international community's recognition and support of the SCO. The representatives correctly noted that the Global Governance Initiative proposed by President Xi meets the needs of the times and will play a crucial role in addressing global challenges and enhancing global governance.
\n
As a matter of fact, one of the keywords at the SCO Tianjin Summit was the UN, with the UN referenced as many as 40 times in the declaration of the summit. The declaration explicitly underscores the importance of adhering to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, leveraging the UN's central, coordinating role, delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals, supporting necessary reforms of the UN, and expanding exchanges and cooperation with the UN and its specialized agencies.
\n
Marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN, the summit also issued a special statement calling for the defense of the international system with the UN at its core.
\n
Notably, the UN General Assembly has unanimously adopted resolutions on cooperation between the UN and the SCO on several occasions since 2009. The resolution adopted on Friday retains the structure of the previous resolutions focusing on major issues such as peace and development, but it highlights the positive contributions made by the SCO to the work of the UN and calls for further strengthening the cooperation between the two sides.
\n
As Geng Shuang, charge d'affaires of the Permanent Mission of China to the UN, said while introducing the draft resolution at the UN General Assembly, all UN member states should support this draft resolution and cosponsor it, thereby sending a strong signal to the world that, with a few notable exceptions, the UN family stands united in upholding multilateralism and strengthening solidarity and cooperation.
\n",
+ "content": "
The United Nations General Assembly on Friday adopted a resolution with overwhelming support on cooperation between the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
\n
The resolution, entitled "Cooperation between the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization", was introduced by China and cosponsored by nearly 40 countries, including all the SCO member states. It highly commends the constructive role of the SCO in promoting regional peace, development, mutual trust and cooperation.
\n
The resolution speaks highly of the SCO's efforts to support the work of the UN and expresses support for strengthened dialogue and collaboration between the UN and the SCO.
\n
Since its founding 24 years ago, the SCO has continued to grow under the guidance of the Shanghai Spirit, namely mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development. There are now 27 participating countries cooperating in over 50 sectors under the SCO framework, and the SCO members have a combined annual economic output close to $30 trillion.
\n
The highlight of the SCO Tianjin Summit that concluded on Sept 1 was Chinese President Xi Jinping's proposal of the Global Governance Initiative. It calls on all countries to adhere to sovereign equality, abide by international rule of law, practice multilateralism, advocate the people-centered approach, and focus on taking real actions to jointly build a more just and equitable global governance system and a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
The initiative was warmly welcomed and actively supported by all parties attending the SCO Tianjin Summit. They agreed that the world today urgently needs more effective governance visions and systems, making China's proposal most opportune and relevant. They also agreed to strengthen their strategic coordination, uphold multilateralism, safeguard fairness and justice, and improve global governance.
\n
At Friday's UN General Assembly session, it was good to see representatives of Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Pakistan, Iran, Cambodia, Cuba, Venezuela and Serbia speak highly of the SCO Tianjin Summit and the work carried out by China during its rotating presidency.
\n
As they emphasized, the resolution's adoption by the UN General Assembly with overwhelming support also reflects the international community's recognition and support of the SCO. The representatives correctly noted that the Global Governance Initiative proposed by President Xi meets the needs of the times and will play a crucial role in addressing global challenges and enhancing global governance.
\n
As a matter of fact, one of the keywords at the SCO Tianjin Summit was the UN, with the UN referenced as many as 40 times in the declaration of the summit. The declaration explicitly underscores the importance of adhering to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, leveraging the UN's central, coordinating role, delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals, supporting necessary reforms of the UN, and expanding exchanges and cooperation with the UN and its specialized agencies.
\n
Marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN, the summit also issued a special statement calling for the defense of the international system with the UN at its core.
\n
Notably, the UN General Assembly has unanimously adopted resolutions on cooperation between the UN and the SCO on several occasions since 2009. The resolution adopted on Friday retains the structure of the previous resolutions focusing on major issues such as peace and development, but it highlights the positive contributions made by the SCO to the work of the UN and calls for further strengthening the cooperation between the two sides.
\n
As Geng Shuang, charge d'affaires of the Permanent Mission of China to the UN, said while introducing the draft resolution at the UN General Assembly, all UN member states should support this draft resolution and cosponsor it, thereby sending a strong signal to the world that, with a few notable exceptions, the UN family stands united in upholding multilateralism and strengthening solidarity and cooperation.
Editor's note: On Friday, the US president said both India and Russia seem to have been "lost" to China. However, later the same day, he softened his tone, insisting that he did not think the US had lost India to China. Below are excerpts from an analysis on Niutanqin WeChat account. The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
\n
International politics is often absurd, some moves appearing well calculated, others not so. Take the case of US-India relations.
\n
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent meetings with the Chinese and Russian leaders during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin fueled criticism in the West that US President Donald Trump had committed a strategic blunder by driving India into the arms of China and Russia.
\n
In response, while talking with reporters on Friday, Trump underlined his long-standing friendship with Modi, praising him as a "great" leader, while simultaneously indicating he was "very disappointed" with India over its continued purchases of Russian oil, which had prompted him to slap "very big" tariffs on India.
\n
It all began with Trump's "mediation" during the India-Pakistan conflict. Trump has reiterated a few times now that he forced Modi to halt the hostilities within hours, and that because of his efforts he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. However, India's official position is the US had nothing to do with the ceasefire, which was the result of Pakistan's initiative. Acknowledging Trump's version would amount to undermining India's sovereignty and credibility.
\n
Now, once again, Trump has softened his tone, stressing his friendship with Modi. Modi reciprocated, praising Trump's remarks and reaffirming India and the US "have a very positive and forward-looking comprehensive and global strategic partnership".
\n
Whether US-India relations can be repaired remains uncertain. After all, long-standing contradictions between the two sides on issues such as the trade surplus, energy procurement and geopolitical security, intertwined with emotional rhetoric and interest-driven demands, make this relationship inherently difficult to stabilize. United States officials have applied harsh rhetoric against India in the past, and New Delhi has realized that US policies are such it will treat India as a rival whenever doing so suits it.
\n
For India, finding a balance among China, the US and Russia will help determine its future strategic direction. India needs Russian energy, hopes to improve relations with China, while also being unwilling to completely burn its bridges with the US. For the US, the challenge lies in balancing pressure with engagement and pursuing interests while saving face.
\n
The future of US-India relations will likely continue to fluctuate. In the short term, there may be a dramatic restoration, but in the long run, the trust between the two sides has been shaken and cooperation is likely to remain superficial. India will not easily abandon its strategic ties with Russia, nor will it rashly take a stance on China-related issues merely in response to US overtures.
\n
India has repeatedly experienced the oscillating dynamics of being both "a close friend" and "an adversary" of the US, which may lead to more cautious strategic choices in the future. Unlike the US, China has never put India in such awkward situations. How to avoid becoming a pawn in the strategic games of other nations is a question India must ponder deeply.
\n",
+ "content": "
Editor's note: On Friday, the US president said both India and Russia seem to have been "lost" to China. However, later the same day, he softened his tone, insisting that he did not think the US had lost India to China. Below are excerpts from an analysis on Niutanqin WeChat account. The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
\n
International politics is often absurd, some moves appearing well calculated, others not so. Take the case of US-India relations.
\n
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent meetings with the Chinese and Russian leaders during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin fueled criticism in the West that US President Donald Trump had committed a strategic blunder by driving India into the arms of China and Russia.
\n
In response, while talking with reporters on Friday, Trump underlined his long-standing friendship with Modi, praising him as a "great" leader, while simultaneously indicating he was "very disappointed" with India over its continued purchases of Russian oil, which had prompted him to slap "very big" tariffs on India.
\n
It all began with Trump's "mediation" during the India-Pakistan conflict. Trump has reiterated a few times now that he forced Modi to halt the hostilities within hours, and that because of his efforts he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. However, India's official position is the US had nothing to do with the ceasefire, which was the result of Pakistan's initiative. Acknowledging Trump's version would amount to undermining India's sovereignty and credibility.
\n
Now, once again, Trump has softened his tone, stressing his friendship with Modi. Modi reciprocated, praising Trump's remarks and reaffirming India and the US "have a very positive and forward-looking comprehensive and global strategic partnership".
\n
Whether US-India relations can be repaired remains uncertain. After all, long-standing contradictions between the two sides on issues such as the trade surplus, energy procurement and geopolitical security, intertwined with emotional rhetoric and interest-driven demands, make this relationship inherently difficult to stabilize. United States officials have applied harsh rhetoric against India in the past, and New Delhi has realized that US policies are such it will treat India as a rival whenever doing so suits it.
\n
For India, finding a balance among China, the US and Russia will help determine its future strategic direction. India needs Russian energy, hopes to improve relations with China, while also being unwilling to completely burn its bridges with the US. For the US, the challenge lies in balancing pressure with engagement and pursuing interests while saving face.
\n
The future of US-India relations will likely continue to fluctuate. In the short term, there may be a dramatic restoration, but in the long run, the trust between the two sides has been shaken and cooperation is likely to remain superficial. India will not easily abandon its strategic ties with Russia, nor will it rashly take a stance on China-related issues merely in response to US overtures.
\n
India has repeatedly experienced the oscillating dynamics of being both "a close friend" and "an adversary" of the US, which may lead to more cautious strategic choices in the future. Unlike the US, China has never put India in such awkward situations. How to avoid becoming a pawn in the strategic games of other nations is a question India must ponder deeply.
The author, a specialist in global affairs and Sinology, is the founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative.
\n\n
Editor's note: Over the past several years, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has grown into a comprehensive regional organization that contributes certainty and vitality to global economic landscape. And the SCO Summit in Tianjin further consolidates the foundation of security and pursues mutual benefit and win-win results to drive development. Three experts share their views on the issue with China Daily.
\n
Two recent diplomatic events in China — the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin and the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War in Beijing — have generated quite a few commentaries in the international media. Many of these have labeled the two events as being "anti-Western" demonstrations or symbols of a "growing anti-liberal axis".
\n
Yet this interpretation, while understandable for some Western observers in the context of current geopolitical tensions, oversimplifies the nature and intent of the events. Despite featuring prominent leaders who have grievances against the West, neither event was intrinsically designed to undermine the West. Rather, the events reflected China's evolving approach to a main role in global governance.
\n
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of multilateralism, inclusiveness and peaceful development — principles deeply aligned with those of the United Nations.
\n
The Global Governance Initiative he proposed does not advocate dismantling the existing order but reforming it to be more representative and equitable. He quoted an ancient Chinese saying-"Uphold the Great Principle, and the world will follow" — to underline his preference for moral suasion over hard-line confrontation.
\n
China is not building ideological blocs or attempting to force countries into an anti-Western camp.
\n
Instead, it is working to position itself as an indispensable node in a multipolar world, one that does not require binary choices between the East and the West. This nuanced strategy allows Beijing to maintain relations with a wide spectrum of countries, avoiding ideological rigidity and fostering diplomatic flexibility.
\n
This diplomatic balancing act was also visible during the Sept 3 commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the war of resistance against Japanese aggression and World War II. The military parade, to mark the occasion, was interpreted by some in the West as evidence of a "hostile posture".
\n
Rather than confronting or condemning the West, China staged an event of global significance and left the judgment to international observers. The absence of Western leaders lent weight to the perception, especially in the Global South, that the West no longer holds a monopoly on global moral authority or historical memory.
\n
Some, like the US president, were quick to call the gathering a "conspiracy" against the US.
\n
But such rhetoric rings hollow when one considers that the US president himself once dined with Kim Jong-un, the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is reportedly considering meeting him again, and recently invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to Alaska.
\n
The real issue is not whether these leaders meet, but the context of their engagement. While China continues to keep the diplomatic door open, it is the West that increasingly walks itself out of the room.
\n
China's path to modernization and global engagement is sovereign and deliberate. It will cooperate where it can, compete where it must, and avoid being drawn into binary frameworks. Its actions, at both the SCO Summit and the Sept 3 commemoration, reflected a long-term strategy of increasing global relevance, not exclusion.
\n
While Russia may assert its power, China appears more interested in shaping the architecture of global governance from within, leveraging its growing centrality rather than antagonizing the current system.
\n
Had the West chosen strategic engagement over short-term signaling in recent years, especially at critical junctures, it's conceivable that China could have been persuaded to use its influence to restrain some of its "disruptive" partners. The West failed to seize the opportunity. Yet it may not be too late for it to try even now.
\n
What the two events make clear is that while China's diplomatic choices reflect a changing world order, they are not inherently anti-Western. The door remains open for dialogue. The question is whether the West still has the foresight, and humility, to step back in.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
\n",
+ "content": "
The author, a specialist in global affairs and Sinology, is the founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative.
\n\n
Editor's note: Over the past several years, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has grown into a comprehensive regional organization that contributes certainty and vitality to global economic landscape. And the SCO Summit in Tianjin further consolidates the foundation of security and pursues mutual benefit and win-win results to drive development. Three experts share their views on the issue with China Daily.
\n
Two recent diplomatic events in China — the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin and the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War in Beijing — have generated quite a few commentaries in the international media. Many of these have labeled the two events as being "anti-Western" demonstrations or symbols of a "growing anti-liberal axis".
\n
Yet this interpretation, while understandable for some Western observers in the context of current geopolitical tensions, oversimplifies the nature and intent of the events. Despite featuring prominent leaders who have grievances against the West, neither event was intrinsically designed to undermine the West. Rather, the events reflected China's evolving approach to a main role in global governance.
\n
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of multilateralism, inclusiveness and peaceful development — principles deeply aligned with those of the United Nations.
\n
The Global Governance Initiative he proposed does not advocate dismantling the existing order but reforming it to be more representative and equitable. He quoted an ancient Chinese saying-"Uphold the Great Principle, and the world will follow" — to underline his preference for moral suasion over hard-line confrontation.
\n
China is not building ideological blocs or attempting to force countries into an anti-Western camp.
\n
Instead, it is working to position itself as an indispensable node in a multipolar world, one that does not require binary choices between the East and the West. This nuanced strategy allows Beijing to maintain relations with a wide spectrum of countries, avoiding ideological rigidity and fostering diplomatic flexibility.
\n
This diplomatic balancing act was also visible during the Sept 3 commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the war of resistance against Japanese aggression and World War II. The military parade, to mark the occasion, was interpreted by some in the West as evidence of a "hostile posture".
\n
Rather than confronting or condemning the West, China staged an event of global significance and left the judgment to international observers. The absence of Western leaders lent weight to the perception, especially in the Global South, that the West no longer holds a monopoly on global moral authority or historical memory.
\n
Some, like the US president, were quick to call the gathering a "conspiracy" against the US.
\n
But such rhetoric rings hollow when one considers that the US president himself once dined with Kim Jong-un, the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is reportedly considering meeting him again, and recently invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to Alaska.
\n
The real issue is not whether these leaders meet, but the context of their engagement. While China continues to keep the diplomatic door open, it is the West that increasingly walks itself out of the room.
\n
China's path to modernization and global engagement is sovereign and deliberate. It will cooperate where it can, compete where it must, and avoid being drawn into binary frameworks. Its actions, at both the SCO Summit and the Sept 3 commemoration, reflected a long-term strategy of increasing global relevance, not exclusion.
\n
While Russia may assert its power, China appears more interested in shaping the architecture of global governance from within, leveraging its growing centrality rather than antagonizing the current system.
\n
Had the West chosen strategic engagement over short-term signaling in recent years, especially at critical junctures, it's conceivable that China could have been persuaded to use its influence to restrain some of its "disruptive" partners. The West failed to seize the opportunity. Yet it may not be too late for it to try even now.
\n
What the two events make clear is that while China's diplomatic choices reflect a changing world order, they are not inherently anti-Western. The door remains open for dialogue. The question is whether the West still has the foresight, and humility, to step back in.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
The author is the founder and director of research and consulting company Sarmat AnalytiX, a Belarusian security and foreign policy analyst.
\n
The SCO Summit in Tianjin concluded on Sept 1, 2025. Leaders of the SCO member states approved a development strategy for the organization in the 2026-2035 period, agreed on a political decision to establish an SCO development bank, inaugurated four new SCO security centers, and endorsed a package of practical cooperation platforms and high-quality development action plans that China has offered to open to all SCO states.
\n
Belarus' journey to full membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization spanned more than a decade — from becoming a dialogue partner in 2009 to formally joining the organization in 2024. For Minsk, the SCO is not just a diplomatic forum but also a platform for economic diversification, political support and integration into an emerging multipolar world.
\n
The dialogue partner status in 2009 opened the door to trade and investment cooperation, customs coordination, regional and global security dialogues and foreign policy consultations for Belarus. And Belarus' emphasis on being a bridge between East and West made it a natural participant in interregional connectivity projects.
\n
Belarus was officially granted observer status at the SCO Summit in Ufa, Russia, in 2015, at a time when Belarus expressed strong interest in building a unified transport network, modernizing road and rail infrastructure, and developing multimodal transit routes to unlock its potential as a transit hub between Asia and the European Union.
\n
Hence, the SCO quickly became more than a dialogue platform — an entry point to Eurasian connectivity — for Belarus. Combined with the country's role in the Belt and Road Initiative, the result of improved connectivity was reflected in the Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park, which Chinese President Xi Jinping labeled the "Pearl of the Silk Road" during his visit to Belarus in 2015.
\n
Belarus formally applied for full SCO membership in 2022, when the world was undergoing dramatic geopolitical changes. The Western sanctions imposed on Belarus following the 2020 domestic political crisis and the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict cut off the country's Western vector. As such, full SCO membership became both a pragmatic necessity and a means to pivot toward Eurasia for Belarus.
\n
First, full SCO membership offered Belarus access to markets in China, India, Central Asian countries and Iran, reducing its dependence on Western markets. Second, it helped the country participate in projects that are alternatives to the Western financial system and trade routes. And third, it allowed Belarus to strengthen cooperation with SCO member states and garner political support against Western pressure.
\n
Full SCO membership also reflects Belarus' redefined diplomacy. The "multi-vector" approach — balancing East and West — has given way to a pivot to the East. With global economic activity shifting to Asia, Belarus now prioritizes the Eurasian Economic Union, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as reaching out to other Asian countries, along with those in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America.
\n
The SCO, along with Belarus' potential membership of BRICS, now anchors the country's new foreign policy identity. The SCO's strength is that it is a dialogue platform rather than a rigid bloc. While some observers interpret it as a counterweight to the West, its Shanghai Spirit emphasizes consensus, non-alignment and mutual respect.
\n
For Belarus, and other countries facing Western sanctions, including Russia and Iran, strengthening alternative economic, logistical and financial frameworks within the SCO is a priority.
\n
However, Belarus' full SCO membership comes with both promises and challenges. On the positive side, the organization provides Belarus with partners, markets and a sense of belonging in an increasingly multipolar world. On the other hand, the diversity of members, regional tensions and differences in foreign policy priorities may affect its potential.
\n
If the SCO is to widen its influence, it must demonstrate its capability to resolve crises across Eurasia. Genuine commitment to the Shanghai Spirit, the UN Charter and four global initiatives should become a concrete benchmark and guiding principle for resolving those crises.
\n
Despite the many challenges it faces, Belarus has the potential to create new development opportunities for the SCO. As a European Union neighbor, it adds a new geographic and political dimension to the organization. If it manages to step out of the shadow of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and if relations with the West are eventually normalized, it could once again serve as a bridge between Eurasia and Europe, offering SCO members greater access to European markets.
\n
The Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park shows Belarus' ability to host ambitious Belt and Road projects and promote the integration of European, Eurasian and Chinese strategies — what Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko once called the "integration of integrations".
\n
If Belarus realizes these goals, it could transform into a modern industrial and logistical hub at the crossroads of Eurasia — a key Eurasian hub linking Asia and Europe, connected to both Eurasian and European economies to the advantage of other SCO member states, too. The SCO, together with its individual members, can play a constructive role in supporting Belarus' development and regional connectivity, contributing to peace, stability, and economic cooperation across Eurasia.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
The author is the founder and director of research and consulting company Sarmat AnalytiX, a Belarusian security and foreign policy analyst.
\n
The SCO Summit in Tianjin concluded on Sept 1, 2025. Leaders of the SCO member states approved a development strategy for the organization in the 2026-2035 period, agreed on a political decision to establish an SCO development bank, inaugurated four new SCO security centers, and endorsed a package of practical cooperation platforms and high-quality development action plans that China has offered to open to all SCO states.
\n
Belarus' journey to full membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization spanned more than a decade — from becoming a dialogue partner in 2009 to formally joining the organization in 2024. For Minsk, the SCO is not just a diplomatic forum but also a platform for economic diversification, political support and integration into an emerging multipolar world.
\n
The dialogue partner status in 2009 opened the door to trade and investment cooperation, customs coordination, regional and global security dialogues and foreign policy consultations for Belarus. And Belarus' emphasis on being a bridge between East and West made it a natural participant in interregional connectivity projects.
\n
Belarus was officially granted observer status at the SCO Summit in Ufa, Russia, in 2015, at a time when Belarus expressed strong interest in building a unified transport network, modernizing road and rail infrastructure, and developing multimodal transit routes to unlock its potential as a transit hub between Asia and the European Union.
\n
Hence, the SCO quickly became more than a dialogue platform — an entry point to Eurasian connectivity — for Belarus. Combined with the country's role in the Belt and Road Initiative, the result of improved connectivity was reflected in the Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park, which Chinese President Xi Jinping labeled the "Pearl of the Silk Road" during his visit to Belarus in 2015.
\n
Belarus formally applied for full SCO membership in 2022, when the world was undergoing dramatic geopolitical changes. The Western sanctions imposed on Belarus following the 2020 domestic political crisis and the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict cut off the country's Western vector. As such, full SCO membership became both a pragmatic necessity and a means to pivot toward Eurasia for Belarus.
\n
First, full SCO membership offered Belarus access to markets in China, India, Central Asian countries and Iran, reducing its dependence on Western markets. Second, it helped the country participate in projects that are alternatives to the Western financial system and trade routes. And third, it allowed Belarus to strengthen cooperation with SCO member states and garner political support against Western pressure.
\n
Full SCO membership also reflects Belarus' redefined diplomacy. The "multi-vector" approach — balancing East and West — has given way to a pivot to the East. With global economic activity shifting to Asia, Belarus now prioritizes the Eurasian Economic Union, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as reaching out to other Asian countries, along with those in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America.
\n
The SCO, along with Belarus' potential membership of BRICS, now anchors the country's new foreign policy identity. The SCO's strength is that it is a dialogue platform rather than a rigid bloc. While some observers interpret it as a counterweight to the West, its Shanghai Spirit emphasizes consensus, non-alignment and mutual respect.
\n
For Belarus, and other countries facing Western sanctions, including Russia and Iran, strengthening alternative economic, logistical and financial frameworks within the SCO is a priority.
\n
However, Belarus' full SCO membership comes with both promises and challenges. On the positive side, the organization provides Belarus with partners, markets and a sense of belonging in an increasingly multipolar world. On the other hand, the diversity of members, regional tensions and differences in foreign policy priorities may affect its potential.
\n
If the SCO is to widen its influence, it must demonstrate its capability to resolve crises across Eurasia. Genuine commitment to the Shanghai Spirit, the UN Charter and four global initiatives should become a concrete benchmark and guiding principle for resolving those crises.
\n
Despite the many challenges it faces, Belarus has the potential to create new development opportunities for the SCO. As a European Union neighbor, it adds a new geographic and political dimension to the organization. If it manages to step out of the shadow of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and if relations with the West are eventually normalized, it could once again serve as a bridge between Eurasia and Europe, offering SCO members greater access to European markets.
\n
The Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park shows Belarus' ability to host ambitious Belt and Road projects and promote the integration of European, Eurasian and Chinese strategies — what Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko once called the "integration of integrations".
\n
If Belarus realizes these goals, it could transform into a modern industrial and logistical hub at the crossroads of Eurasia — a key Eurasian hub linking Asia and Europe, connected to both Eurasian and European economies to the advantage of other SCO member states, too. The SCO, together with its individual members, can play a constructive role in supporting Belarus' development and regional connectivity, contributing to peace, stability, and economic cooperation across Eurasia.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
The author is deputy head of the Institute for a Community with Shared Future and professor of The State Key Laboratory of Media Convergence and Communication at Communication University of China.
\n
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization has, in recent years, emerged as a dynamic grouping, shaping the evolving world order — not only through its focus on regional and international security, but increasingly through mutual respect, inclusive dialogue, shared innovation, and joint efforts to protect genuine multilateralism, equity and diversity of civilizations, and the critical role of the United Nations in global governance. Previously, China has already proposed three global initiatives, and at the summit in Tianjin, China proposed the Global Governance Initiative to open new space for collective understanding and coordinated behavior.
\n
With a growing agenda which now covers fields such as youth exchanges, science and technology, finance, education, digital technology and the economy, the SCO is becoming a stabilizing anchor, promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual enrichment.
\n
While attending the China-Central Asia Cooperation Development Forum in Astana, Kazakhstan, on June 22, I was struck by the city's modern infrastructure, and the vibrant energy of its people — youthful, optimistic, connected to both tradition and progress. The blend of historical depth and modern vitality in Central Asia reflects a broader SCO vision: to protect national sovereignty, promote the well-being for all, advance multi-dimensional cooperation, and respect diversity of civilizations.
\n
As the family members grow, the SCO is developing from a facilitator for multilateralism to an incubator for civilizational dialogue, cooperation and innovation. Civilizations achieve integration through exchanges, and progress through integration. That spirit is at the heart of the SCO, an organization that encompasses nearly half of the world's population and diverse cultures and traditions. This diversity is not a challenge; it's a strength that is fueling a wide range of grassroots and institutional efforts to deepen understanding and build trust. President Xi Jinping mentioned in his speech at the summit in Tianjin, we must continue to promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, and write a brilliant chapter of peaceful and harmonious coexistence among countries with different histories and cultures, different social systems, and different stages of development.
\n
A prime example of deepening understanding and mutual learning is the SCO Youth Camp, an initiative supported at the head-of-state level. Young people from SCO member states travel to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Qingdao, Shandong province, as well as the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region to see firsthand China's modern development and cultural diversity. By visiting different sites, holding group discussions, and attending cultural events, they develop grounded understanding and mutual friendship. But more importantly, these exchanges plant the seeds of a new generation of leaders who are expected to see difference and diversity not as a challenge, but as an opportunity.
\n
For many youths, the most valuable takeaway from these exchanges isn't a policy insight; it's a change in perception. The Youth Camp helps fill in cognitive gaps, dispels cultural stereotypes, and nurtures a sense of shared identity. In doing so, it promotes openness, inclusivity and optimism, values that will shape the SCO's future and facilitate strategic agreements.
\n
Technology exchange is another key frontier in the SCO's civilizational dialogue. As a grouping of developing countries, the SCO has been promoting innovation through initiatives such as the SCO Young Scientists Conclave, the science and technology partnership program, and working groups for start-ups and entrepreneurs. These platforms promote scientific thinking, the entrepreneurial spirit, as well as people-centered and innovation-driven cooperation.
\n
By linking scientific progress with human development, the SCO is laying the groundwork for a more equitable digital civilization. Such initiatives aim to protect technological sovereignty, safeguard regional security, improve people's livelihoods, and pioneer new models of shared governance in the digitally-connected world. We are happy to see that the Tianjin Declaration includes concrete steps to bridge digital gaps, promote the digital economy, and strengthen scientific and educational training, which will consolidate the existing ties among youths and scientists from the SCO member states.
\n
The SCO's ultimate strength lies in its philosophy of looking forward together, harnessing the modernization momentum and youth power, introspection and cooperation among diverse cultures. Whether through youth programs or tech partnerships, its efforts to build internal solidarity and global influence are essential to building a community with a shared future, which is necessary to jointly tackle transitions in the world and the regional political environment and deepen long-term bonds.
\n
In today's world of growing geopolitical uncertainty, the SCO's development reflects a broader truth: international cooperation must be rooted not only in realpolitik, but also in the sustainable development of each country and the well-being of its people. The future of global governance depends as much on mutual recognition and cultural empathy as on institutional frameworks.
\n
By fostering civilizational dialogue and encouraging inclusive exchanges, the SCO is not just adapting to a changing world; it is also helping shape it. In doing so, it offers a compelling vision of how humanity can move forward, not in uniformity, but in harmony.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
\n",
+ "content": "
The author is deputy head of the Institute for a Community with Shared Future and professor of The State Key Laboratory of Media Convergence and Communication at Communication University of China.
\n
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization has, in recent years, emerged as a dynamic grouping, shaping the evolving world order — not only through its focus on regional and international security, but increasingly through mutual respect, inclusive dialogue, shared innovation, and joint efforts to protect genuine multilateralism, equity and diversity of civilizations, and the critical role of the United Nations in global governance. Previously, China has already proposed three global initiatives, and at the summit in Tianjin, China proposed the Global Governance Initiative to open new space for collective understanding and coordinated behavior.
\n
With a growing agenda which now covers fields such as youth exchanges, science and technology, finance, education, digital technology and the economy, the SCO is becoming a stabilizing anchor, promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual enrichment.
\n
While attending the China-Central Asia Cooperation Development Forum in Astana, Kazakhstan, on June 22, I was struck by the city's modern infrastructure, and the vibrant energy of its people — youthful, optimistic, connected to both tradition and progress. The blend of historical depth and modern vitality in Central Asia reflects a broader SCO vision: to protect national sovereignty, promote the well-being for all, advance multi-dimensional cooperation, and respect diversity of civilizations.
\n
As the family members grow, the SCO is developing from a facilitator for multilateralism to an incubator for civilizational dialogue, cooperation and innovation. Civilizations achieve integration through exchanges, and progress through integration. That spirit is at the heart of the SCO, an organization that encompasses nearly half of the world's population and diverse cultures and traditions. This diversity is not a challenge; it's a strength that is fueling a wide range of grassroots and institutional efforts to deepen understanding and build trust. President Xi Jinping mentioned in his speech at the summit in Tianjin, we must continue to promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, and write a brilliant chapter of peaceful and harmonious coexistence among countries with different histories and cultures, different social systems, and different stages of development.
\n
A prime example of deepening understanding and mutual learning is the SCO Youth Camp, an initiative supported at the head-of-state level. Young people from SCO member states travel to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Qingdao, Shandong province, as well as the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region to see firsthand China's modern development and cultural diversity. By visiting different sites, holding group discussions, and attending cultural events, they develop grounded understanding and mutual friendship. But more importantly, these exchanges plant the seeds of a new generation of leaders who are expected to see difference and diversity not as a challenge, but as an opportunity.
\n
For many youths, the most valuable takeaway from these exchanges isn't a policy insight; it's a change in perception. The Youth Camp helps fill in cognitive gaps, dispels cultural stereotypes, and nurtures a sense of shared identity. In doing so, it promotes openness, inclusivity and optimism, values that will shape the SCO's future and facilitate strategic agreements.
\n
Technology exchange is another key frontier in the SCO's civilizational dialogue. As a grouping of developing countries, the SCO has been promoting innovation through initiatives such as the SCO Young Scientists Conclave, the science and technology partnership program, and working groups for start-ups and entrepreneurs. These platforms promote scientific thinking, the entrepreneurial spirit, as well as people-centered and innovation-driven cooperation.
\n
By linking scientific progress with human development, the SCO is laying the groundwork for a more equitable digital civilization. Such initiatives aim to protect technological sovereignty, safeguard regional security, improve people's livelihoods, and pioneer new models of shared governance in the digitally-connected world. We are happy to see that the Tianjin Declaration includes concrete steps to bridge digital gaps, promote the digital economy, and strengthen scientific and educational training, which will consolidate the existing ties among youths and scientists from the SCO member states.
\n
The SCO's ultimate strength lies in its philosophy of looking forward together, harnessing the modernization momentum and youth power, introspection and cooperation among diverse cultures. Whether through youth programs or tech partnerships, its efforts to build internal solidarity and global influence are essential to building a community with a shared future, which is necessary to jointly tackle transitions in the world and the regional political environment and deepen long-term bonds.
\n
In today's world of growing geopolitical uncertainty, the SCO's development reflects a broader truth: international cooperation must be rooted not only in realpolitik, but also in the sustainable development of each country and the well-being of its people. The future of global governance depends as much on mutual recognition and cultural empathy as on institutional frameworks.
\n
By fostering civilizational dialogue and encouraging inclusive exchanges, the SCO is not just adapting to a changing world; it is also helping shape it. In doing so, it offers a compelling vision of how humanity can move forward, not in uniformity, but in harmony.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
Thailand's new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul greets lawmakers from his Bhumjaithai Party in Bangkok on Sunday.
\n
BANGKOK — Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed Anutin Charnvirakul as the country's prime minister on Sunday, two days after he was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed his predecessor.
\n
Anutin, 58, succeeds Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai Party, dismissed last week after being found guilty of ethics violations over a politically compromising phone call with neighboring Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen.
\n
The new prime minister had served in Paetongtarn's Cabinet as a deputy prime minister and an interior minister, but resigned his positions and withdrew his party from her coalition government after news of the leaked phone call caused public uproar.
\n
Anutin received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at his party Bhumjaithai's headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties expected to join his coalition government. They wore white civil servants' uniforms used for royal and state ceremonies.
\n
"I'd like to take an oath that I determine to perform my duties to my fullest capabilities, with honesty and virtue," Anutin said after receiving the endorsement.
\n
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Anutin assured the public that his new government was fully committed to working tirelessly and with steadfast dedication to help Thailand swiftly overcome its current crises, despite several constraints in fulfilling duties.
\n
Priority areas
\n
He outlined four priority areas of action — the economy, the border conflict with Cambodia, natural disasters and crimes.
\n
To address economic challenges, he pledged immediate measures to reduce the cost of living, including expenses on energy, transportation and logistics.
\n
On national security, he said he would resolve Thai-Cambodian border disputes through peaceful means, ensuring that Thailand does not cede territory or compromise national interests.
\n
In addition, Anutin said his administration would actively promote transparency and expedite legal proceedings where appropriate, emphasizing that the justice system must operate independently, in accordance with mechanisms outlined in the constitution and relevant laws.
\n
"My government aims to amend the constitution, clearing the way for drafting a new charter through the prescribed legal process," he said, affirming the intention to dissolve parliament within the agreed time frame of four months after taking office.
\n
The prime minister expressed confidence in gaining support from all sectors, stating that his administration aims to lay a strong foundation for the next government to build upon, ensuring the people's well-being, stability and enduring prosperity.
\n
The royal endorsement paves the way for cabinet formation and policy address to the parliament, a formality required before the new government officially assumes office.
\n
Anutin won the vote in parliament on Friday with support from the main opposition People's Party, which said it would remain part of the opposition, leaving the new government potentially a minority one.
\n",
+ "content": "
Thailand's new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul greets lawmakers from his Bhumjaithai Party in Bangkok on Sunday.
\n
BANGKOK — Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed Anutin Charnvirakul as the country's prime minister on Sunday, two days after he was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed his predecessor.
\n
Anutin, 58, succeeds Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai Party, dismissed last week after being found guilty of ethics violations over a politically compromising phone call with neighboring Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen.
\n
The new prime minister had served in Paetongtarn's Cabinet as a deputy prime minister and an interior minister, but resigned his positions and withdrew his party from her coalition government after news of the leaked phone call caused public uproar.
\n
Anutin received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at his party Bhumjaithai's headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties expected to join his coalition government. They wore white civil servants' uniforms used for royal and state ceremonies.
\n
"I'd like to take an oath that I determine to perform my duties to my fullest capabilities, with honesty and virtue," Anutin said after receiving the endorsement.
\n
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Anutin assured the public that his new government was fully committed to working tirelessly and with steadfast dedication to help Thailand swiftly overcome its current crises, despite several constraints in fulfilling duties.
\n
Priority areas
\n
He outlined four priority areas of action — the economy, the border conflict with Cambodia, natural disasters and crimes.
\n
To address economic challenges, he pledged immediate measures to reduce the cost of living, including expenses on energy, transportation and logistics.
\n
On national security, he said he would resolve Thai-Cambodian border disputes through peaceful means, ensuring that Thailand does not cede territory or compromise national interests.
\n
In addition, Anutin said his administration would actively promote transparency and expedite legal proceedings where appropriate, emphasizing that the justice system must operate independently, in accordance with mechanisms outlined in the constitution and relevant laws.
\n
"My government aims to amend the constitution, clearing the way for drafting a new charter through the prescribed legal process," he said, affirming the intention to dissolve parliament within the agreed time frame of four months after taking office.
\n
The prime minister expressed confidence in gaining support from all sectors, stating that his administration aims to lay a strong foundation for the next government to build upon, ensuring the people's well-being, stability and enduring prosperity.
\n
The royal endorsement paves the way for cabinet formation and policy address to the parliament, a formality required before the new government officially assumes office.
\n
Anutin won the vote in parliament on Friday with support from the main opposition People's Party, which said it would remain part of the opposition, leaving the new government potentially a minority one.
Amid escalating climate crisis, African leaders and international partners are rallying around the conviction that Africa holds the potential to spearhead the global response.
\n
At a meeting ahead of the Second Africa Climate Summit, which opens on Monday in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, speakers highlighted the continent's abundant renewable energy resources, its youthful and dynamic population, and its growing culture of innovation as key advantages.
\n
They stressed, however, that ambition from Africa alone will not suffice. Unlocking this potential depends on fair climate finance, accessible technology transfer, and a justice-centered approach that ensures inclusivity and equity.
\n
Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie said Africa is poised to drive climate-resilient development, thanks to its wealth of critical minerals essential for clean technology.
\n
"With the right support, Africa's aspirations can fortify global climate action," he said.
\n
He also cautioned against repeating history, when unfair competition and unlawful resource extraction undermined the continent's progress.
\n
"It is critical that advocacy for climate action also addresses this comprehensive economic and just issue," he added.
\n
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chairman of the African Union Commission, underscored the importance of Africa speaking with one voice in global climate talks.
\n
"Time for decisive action is fleeting," he said. "We call for the international community to stand with Africa by ensuring climate finance is fair, transfer of technologies is effective, and capacity building is prioritized."
\n
Noura Hamladji, deputy executive secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, said the pledge to increase financial flows to developing countries to $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 must move beyond aspiration.
\n
"It must become implementable, delivered faster and designed for purpose," she said.
\n
"Bold climate action can drive immense human and economic benefits. Africa can show the world how this can be done."
\n
The upcoming Africa Climate Summit should "translate pledges into actions that deliver real benefits for communities", she said.
\n
Moral imperative
\n
Meanwhile, youth delegates reminded leaders of the moral imperative of climate action.
\n
Adela Tuy, a Kaqchikel Mayan from Solola, Guatemala, urged leaders to integrate indigenous knowledge into decision-making, declaring that without justice for indigenous people, there will be no climate justice for the planet.
\n
"Indigenous people have never been mere spectators in the climate crisis," she said.
\n
"For years they have cared for and protected their territories, passing knowledge from grandparents to grandchildren."
\n
Leyla Hasanova, a youth climate champion for the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, called on leaders to ensure that future generations inherit hope rather than fear, by honoring promises and embracing innovation.
\n
Nigar Arpadarai, the UN climate change high-level champion for the 29th UN Climate Change Conference, said technological innovation should be at the center of the green agenda, driven by human talent and economic opportunity rather than overreliance on regulation.
\n
"As we navigate the evolving global landscape marked by demographic shifts by trade tensions and the renewed arms race, we must also confront the transformative power of emerging technologies, in particular the ongoing revolution in artificial intelligence," she said.
\n
Anthony Nyong, director of climate change and green growth at the African Development Bank, highlighted the paradox of Africa's vast clean energy potential coexisting with 600 million people still without electricity and more than 900 million lacking access to clean cooking.
\n
He warned that climate effects are already costing Africa up to 9 percent of its GDP annually, and called for innovative financing and stronger international support to bridge the funding gap.
\n
edithmutethya@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Amid escalating climate crisis, African leaders and international partners are rallying around the conviction that Africa holds the potential to spearhead the global response.
\n
At a meeting ahead of the Second Africa Climate Summit, which opens on Monday in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, speakers highlighted the continent's abundant renewable energy resources, its youthful and dynamic population, and its growing culture of innovation as key advantages.
\n
They stressed, however, that ambition from Africa alone will not suffice. Unlocking this potential depends on fair climate finance, accessible technology transfer, and a justice-centered approach that ensures inclusivity and equity.
\n
Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie said Africa is poised to drive climate-resilient development, thanks to its wealth of critical minerals essential for clean technology.
\n
"With the right support, Africa's aspirations can fortify global climate action," he said.
\n
He also cautioned against repeating history, when unfair competition and unlawful resource extraction undermined the continent's progress.
\n
"It is critical that advocacy for climate action also addresses this comprehensive economic and just issue," he added.
\n
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chairman of the African Union Commission, underscored the importance of Africa speaking with one voice in global climate talks.
\n
"Time for decisive action is fleeting," he said. "We call for the international community to stand with Africa by ensuring climate finance is fair, transfer of technologies is effective, and capacity building is prioritized."
\n
Noura Hamladji, deputy executive secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, said the pledge to increase financial flows to developing countries to $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 must move beyond aspiration.
\n
"It must become implementable, delivered faster and designed for purpose," she said.
\n
"Bold climate action can drive immense human and economic benefits. Africa can show the world how this can be done."
\n
The upcoming Africa Climate Summit should "translate pledges into actions that deliver real benefits for communities", she said.
\n
Moral imperative
\n
Meanwhile, youth delegates reminded leaders of the moral imperative of climate action.
\n
Adela Tuy, a Kaqchikel Mayan from Solola, Guatemala, urged leaders to integrate indigenous knowledge into decision-making, declaring that without justice for indigenous people, there will be no climate justice for the planet.
\n
"Indigenous people have never been mere spectators in the climate crisis," she said.
\n
"For years they have cared for and protected their territories, passing knowledge from grandparents to grandchildren."
\n
Leyla Hasanova, a youth climate champion for the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, called on leaders to ensure that future generations inherit hope rather than fear, by honoring promises and embracing innovation.
\n
Nigar Arpadarai, the UN climate change high-level champion for the 29th UN Climate Change Conference, said technological innovation should be at the center of the green agenda, driven by human talent and economic opportunity rather than overreliance on regulation.
\n
"As we navigate the evolving global landscape marked by demographic shifts by trade tensions and the renewed arms race, we must also confront the transformative power of emerging technologies, in particular the ongoing revolution in artificial intelligence," she said.
\n
Anthony Nyong, director of climate change and green growth at the African Development Bank, highlighted the paradox of Africa's vast clean energy potential coexisting with 600 million people still without electricity and more than 900 million lacking access to clean cooking.
\n
He warned that climate effects are already costing Africa up to 9 percent of its GDP annually, and called for innovative financing and stronger international support to bridge the funding gap.
Residents flee as the Mushtaha Tower collapses after being hit by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City on Friday.
\n
GAZA CITY — An Israeli strike flattened a high-rise in Gaza City on Saturday — the second in as many days — after the military warned people to move to a "humanitarian zone" ahead of a planned offensive against the urban center.
\n
Israel has been warning for weeks of a new assault on the Palestinian territory's largest city, without issuing a timeline.
\n
It has stepped up airstrikes and ground operations on the city's outskirts, sparking fears it could worsen the already dire conditions.
\n
On Saturday, Israeli aircraft dropped thousands of leaflets on western neighborhoods calling on residents to evacuate, witnesses and an AFP journalist said.
\n
Nafez Anis, who has been living in a tent with his family in Gaza City, said he had read the leaflet, but was not planning to leave.
\n
"Where should we go?" he told AFP. "We will wait, and when we see Israeli tanks approaching here, we will leave."
\n
Gaza civil defense agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told AFP that 56 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli fire during the day, including 19 near an aid distribution center in the north.
\n
The military said on Saturday that it struck a Gaza City high-rise that Hamas was using "to monitor "Israeli troops and added that it had taken "measures to mitigate harm to civilians".
\n
Witnesses identified the building as the Sussi residential tower and said it was destroyed. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz shared a video showing the roughly 15-story structure collapsing in a cloud of dust and smoke.
\n
Hamas condemned the attack and denied using residential or civilian buildings for military purposes.
\n
Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar told reporters on Sunday that the conflict could end immediately if Hamas released the remaining hostages being held in Gaza and laid down its weapons.
\n
In response, senior Hamas official Basem Naim told Reuters that it would not lay down its arms but would release all of the hostages if Israel agreed to end the conflict and withdraw its forces from Gaza.
\n
Last month, Israel launched an assault on Gaza City and its forces are now just a few kilometers from the city center. Overnight, strikes killed 14 people across the city, health officials said, including a strike on a school sheltering displaced Palestinians.
Residents flee as the Mushtaha Tower collapses after being hit by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City on Friday.
\n
GAZA CITY — An Israeli strike flattened a high-rise in Gaza City on Saturday — the second in as many days — after the military warned people to move to a "humanitarian zone" ahead of a planned offensive against the urban center.
\n
Israel has been warning for weeks of a new assault on the Palestinian territory's largest city, without issuing a timeline.
\n
It has stepped up airstrikes and ground operations on the city's outskirts, sparking fears it could worsen the already dire conditions.
\n
On Saturday, Israeli aircraft dropped thousands of leaflets on western neighborhoods calling on residents to evacuate, witnesses and an AFP journalist said.
\n
Nafez Anis, who has been living in a tent with his family in Gaza City, said he had read the leaflet, but was not planning to leave.
\n
"Where should we go?" he told AFP. "We will wait, and when we see Israeli tanks approaching here, we will leave."
\n
Gaza civil defense agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told AFP that 56 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli fire during the day, including 19 near an aid distribution center in the north.
\n
The military said on Saturday that it struck a Gaza City high-rise that Hamas was using "to monitor "Israeli troops and added that it had taken "measures to mitigate harm to civilians".
\n
Witnesses identified the building as the Sussi residential tower and said it was destroyed. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz shared a video showing the roughly 15-story structure collapsing in a cloud of dust and smoke.
\n
Hamas condemned the attack and denied using residential or civilian buildings for military purposes.
\n
Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar told reporters on Sunday that the conflict could end immediately if Hamas released the remaining hostages being held in Gaza and laid down its weapons.
\n
In response, senior Hamas official Basem Naim told Reuters that it would not lay down its arms but would release all of the hostages if Israel agreed to end the conflict and withdraw its forces from Gaza.
\n
Last month, Israel launched an assault on Gaza City and its forces are now just a few kilometers from the city center. Overnight, strikes killed 14 people across the city, health officials said, including a strike on a school sheltering displaced Palestinians.
The Chinese embassy in Afghanistan on Friday handed over $200,000 in emergency humanitarian cash aid provided by the Red Cross Society of China to support Afghanistan's earthquake relief efforts. Bao Xuhui, charge d'affaires of the embassy, met President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society Shahabuddin Dilawar on Friday and conveyed China's deep condolences over the earthquake victims and sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and the injured.
\n
AUSTRALIA
\n
Masked gang kills boys aged 12, 15
\n
A gang of masked attackers armed with machetes stabbed and killed two boys aged 12 and 15 in a "horrific" attack in Melbourne, police said on Sunday. Up to eight people in a suspected youth gang attacked the children separately in nearby locations in western Melbourne on Saturday evening, they said. Police were first called to a street where they found a 12-year-old boy who had been stabbed, said Graham Banks, police detective inspector in the state of Victoria. "Despite resuscitation attempts by paramedics, he was unable to be revived," Banks told a news conference. Soon after, police found the boy's 15-year-old friend in a nearby street with "significant" stabbing wounds. He could not be saved.
The Chinese embassy in Afghanistan on Friday handed over $200,000 in emergency humanitarian cash aid provided by the Red Cross Society of China to support Afghanistan's earthquake relief efforts. Bao Xuhui, charge d'affaires of the embassy, met President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society Shahabuddin Dilawar on Friday and conveyed China's deep condolences over the earthquake victims and sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and the injured.
\n
AUSTRALIA
\n
Masked gang kills boys aged 12, 15
\n
A gang of masked attackers armed with machetes stabbed and killed two boys aged 12 and 15 in a "horrific" attack in Melbourne, police said on Sunday. Up to eight people in a suspected youth gang attacked the children separately in nearby locations in western Melbourne on Saturday evening, they said. Police were first called to a street where they found a 12-year-old boy who had been stabbed, said Graham Banks, police detective inspector in the state of Victoria. "Despite resuscitation attempts by paramedics, he was unable to be revived," Banks told a news conference. Soon after, police found the boy's 15-year-old friend in a nearby street with "significant" stabbing wounds. He could not be saved.
The Trump administration is facing a barrage of judicial pushback against its policies, highlighting a growing conflict between the US executive and judicial branches, which could undermine the credibility of the federal government, experts said.
\n
This clash was on full display last week, as US courts ruled against the administration on three high-profile cases, including the freezing of Harvard's research funding, the deployment of military to Los Angeles, and the imposition of reciprocal tariffs on multiple countries.
\n
Since taking office, the Trump administration has pushed numerous highly contentious policies, including strict immigration controls and extensive use of executive power to reshape the federal government. These moves have sparked a wave of litigation, with 337 active cases challenging the administration's actions as of Aug 28, according to data from Lawfare, a US nonprofit multimedia publication.
\n
Diao Daming, a professor of US studies at Renmin University of China's School of International Relations, said, "It's rare in US history to see such a large number of lawsuits targeting a newly elected president's major policies, and to see so many rulings go against the administration."
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He attributed this trend to the tension between the administration's unilateral approach to pushing a controversial agenda and the intensifying partisan polarization within the country.
\n
"The Trump administration has relied more heavily on unilateral actions than any previous administration, pushing policies through executive orders without legislative backing," Diao said. "Besides the unilateral approach, the policies the administration is trying to push are also quite contentious in nature, which has led to an unprecedented number of legal challenges."
\n
An article published by the Harvard Kennedy School on June 4 noted that Trump signed 147 executive orders in his first 100 days — a record high — while enacting only five laws, a record low.
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Wei Zongyou, a professor at the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, said this reliance on executive power is itself a symptom of a deeper legislative dysfunction.
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"Congressional gridlock, fueled by partisan divisions, makes it difficult to pass major legislation. This has forced the president to rely more heavily on executive orders to implement his policies," he said.
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According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in March, eight out of ten US adults say that when it comes to important issues facing the country, Republican and Democratic voters not only disagree on plans and policies, but also cannot agree on basic facts.
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Experts warned that escalating partisan polarization and social division have transformed the judicial arena into a key battleground in the ongoing partisan struggle.
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Diao observed the increasing politicization of the US judiciary. "While judges are not explicitly labeled as Republican or Democratic, the fact that judges are nominated by presidents with partisan affiliations inevitably leads to them being more aligned with the ideologies of the presidents who appointed them."
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Wei said the paralysis of Congress has led both sides to increasingly rely on the judiciary to advance or obstruct policy changes, turning the courts into "substitute legislative bodies".
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Politicization of courts
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"As both parties realize that controlling the power of judicial interpretation is as important as winning elections, the politicization of the courts is only set to escalate," he said.
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The ongoing conflict between the executive and judicial branches, fueled by partisan strife, is eroding public trust in the government and significantly increasing the uncertainty surrounding policy implementation, experts said.
\n
Diao said, "The Trump administration followed its own legal team's reading of the US Constitution. But the judiciary has its own interpretation, resulting in divergent interpretations of the Constitution and the powers it grants to different branches among different political forces."
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"This divergence is clearly aimed at furthering one's own interests, a manifestation of fragmentation of power within a partisan context." This situation, he argued, leads to fundamental legal principles, including the Constitution, being sacrificed to extreme partisanship, reducing government credibility.
\n
Wei echoed this sentiment, saying that frequent legal challenges and judicial injunctions against newly issued executive orders and policies foster a perception of governmental paralysis.
\n
"Regardless of the legal validity of these rulings, the constant policy reversals confuse and disappoint citizens, undermining the government's credibility."
\n
"Moreover, the inherent instability of executive orders, which can be easily revoked by a successor or halted by courts, further reduces policy continuity and predictability," he said.
\n
According to a report released on Aug 12 by the Washington-based nonprofit Partnership for Public Service, only one in three US citizens trusts the federal institutions.
The Trump administration is facing a barrage of judicial pushback against its policies, highlighting a growing conflict between the US executive and judicial branches, which could undermine the credibility of the federal government, experts said.
\n
This clash was on full display last week, as US courts ruled against the administration on three high-profile cases, including the freezing of Harvard's research funding, the deployment of military to Los Angeles, and the imposition of reciprocal tariffs on multiple countries.
\n
Since taking office, the Trump administration has pushed numerous highly contentious policies, including strict immigration controls and extensive use of executive power to reshape the federal government. These moves have sparked a wave of litigation, with 337 active cases challenging the administration's actions as of Aug 28, according to data from Lawfare, a US nonprofit multimedia publication.
\n
Diao Daming, a professor of US studies at Renmin University of China's School of International Relations, said, "It's rare in US history to see such a large number of lawsuits targeting a newly elected president's major policies, and to see so many rulings go against the administration."
\n
He attributed this trend to the tension between the administration's unilateral approach to pushing a controversial agenda and the intensifying partisan polarization within the country.
\n
"The Trump administration has relied more heavily on unilateral actions than any previous administration, pushing policies through executive orders without legislative backing," Diao said. "Besides the unilateral approach, the policies the administration is trying to push are also quite contentious in nature, which has led to an unprecedented number of legal challenges."
\n
An article published by the Harvard Kennedy School on June 4 noted that Trump signed 147 executive orders in his first 100 days — a record high — while enacting only five laws, a record low.
\n
Wei Zongyou, a professor at the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, said this reliance on executive power is itself a symptom of a deeper legislative dysfunction.
\n
"Congressional gridlock, fueled by partisan divisions, makes it difficult to pass major legislation. This has forced the president to rely more heavily on executive orders to implement his policies," he said.
\n
According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in March, eight out of ten US adults say that when it comes to important issues facing the country, Republican and Democratic voters not only disagree on plans and policies, but also cannot agree on basic facts.
\n
Experts warned that escalating partisan polarization and social division have transformed the judicial arena into a key battleground in the ongoing partisan struggle.
\n
Diao observed the increasing politicization of the US judiciary. "While judges are not explicitly labeled as Republican or Democratic, the fact that judges are nominated by presidents with partisan affiliations inevitably leads to them being more aligned with the ideologies of the presidents who appointed them."
\n
Wei said the paralysis of Congress has led both sides to increasingly rely on the judiciary to advance or obstruct policy changes, turning the courts into "substitute legislative bodies".
\n
Politicization of courts
\n
"As both parties realize that controlling the power of judicial interpretation is as important as winning elections, the politicization of the courts is only set to escalate," he said.
\n
The ongoing conflict between the executive and judicial branches, fueled by partisan strife, is eroding public trust in the government and significantly increasing the uncertainty surrounding policy implementation, experts said.
\n
Diao said, "The Trump administration followed its own legal team's reading of the US Constitution. But the judiciary has its own interpretation, resulting in divergent interpretations of the Constitution and the powers it grants to different branches among different political forces."
\n
"This divergence is clearly aimed at furthering one's own interests, a manifestation of fragmentation of power within a partisan context." This situation, he argued, leads to fundamental legal principles, including the Constitution, being sacrificed to extreme partisanship, reducing government credibility.
\n
Wei echoed this sentiment, saying that frequent legal challenges and judicial injunctions against newly issued executive orders and policies foster a perception of governmental paralysis.
\n
"Regardless of the legal validity of these rulings, the constant policy reversals confuse and disappoint citizens, undermining the government's credibility."
\n
"Moreover, the inherent instability of executive orders, which can be easily revoked by a successor or halted by courts, further reduces policy continuity and predictability," he said.
\n
According to a report released on Aug 12 by the Washington-based nonprofit Partnership for Public Service, only one in three US citizens trusts the federal institutions.
This handout photograph posted on the official Telegram channel of Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on Sunday shows rescue personnel working to extinguish a fire at the Ukrainian government building in Kyiv, following an attack amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Russian strikes across Ukraine overnight killed at least four people and wounded dozens more, Ukrainian authorities said on Sunday.
This handout photograph posted on the official Telegram channel of Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on Sunday shows rescue personnel working to extinguish a fire at the Ukrainian government building in Kyiv, following an attack amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Russian strikes across Ukraine overnight killed at least four people and wounded dozens more, Ukrainian authorities said on Sunday.
Police stand guard over the detained employees at the Hyundai-LG battery plant in Ellabell, Georgia, the United States, on Thursday.
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SEOUL/WASHINGTON — Seoul said on Sunday that negotiations with the United States to secure the release of South Korean workers detained in an immigration raid have been concluded and they would soon be freed.
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It follows the arrest of more than 300 South Korean workers at a Hyundai-LG battery plant being built in the southern US state of Georgia on Thursday.
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The operation, carried out in the town of Ellabell, was the largest single-site raid implemented so far under US President Donald Trump's nationwide anti-migrant drive, catching Seoul officials off guard.
\n
"As a result of the swift and united response … negotiations for the release of the detained workers have been concluded," Kang Hoonsik, chief of staff to President Lee Jae-myung, said on Sunday.
\n
"Only administrative procedures remain. Once these are completed, a chartered flight will depart to bring our citizens home," he added.
\n
Footage of the raid released by US authorities showed detained workers, in handcuffs and with chains around their ankles, being loaded onto an inmate transportation bus.
\n
Scrambling to contain the fallout, a senior executive at electric vehicle battery maker LG Energy Solution flew to Georgia on Sunday morning.
\n
"The immediate priority now is the swift release of both our LG Energy Solution employees and those of our partner firms," executive Kim Ki-soo told reporters before boarding a plane.
\n
LG Energy Solution has said 47 of its employees had been arrested — 46 South Koreans and one Indonesian. The company has also said that about 250 of those arrested were believed to be employed by its contractor, and most of them were South Koreans.
\n
An official at a partner firm of LG Energy Solution who spoke with one of the detained workers told Yonhap news agency that conditions at the detention center were poor.
\n
The battery maker said it has suspended all business trips to the United States, except for client meetings, and instructed those already there to either "return immediately or stand by at their accommodations".
\n
Hyundai has said none of those arrested are its employees.
\n
South Korea, Asia's fourth-biggest economy, is a key automaker and electronics producer with multiple plants in the US.
\n
Its companies have invested billions of dollars to build factories in the US in a bid to access the US market and avoid tariff threats from the Trump administration.
\n",
+ "content": "
Police stand guard over the detained employees at the Hyundai-LG battery plant in Ellabell, Georgia, the United States, on Thursday.
\n
SEOUL/WASHINGTON — Seoul said on Sunday that negotiations with the United States to secure the release of South Korean workers detained in an immigration raid have been concluded and they would soon be freed.
\n
It follows the arrest of more than 300 South Korean workers at a Hyundai-LG battery plant being built in the southern US state of Georgia on Thursday.
\n
The operation, carried out in the town of Ellabell, was the largest single-site raid implemented so far under US President Donald Trump's nationwide anti-migrant drive, catching Seoul officials off guard.
\n
"As a result of the swift and united response … negotiations for the release of the detained workers have been concluded," Kang Hoonsik, chief of staff to President Lee Jae-myung, said on Sunday.
\n
"Only administrative procedures remain. Once these are completed, a chartered flight will depart to bring our citizens home," he added.
\n
Footage of the raid released by US authorities showed detained workers, in handcuffs and with chains around their ankles, being loaded onto an inmate transportation bus.
\n
Scrambling to contain the fallout, a senior executive at electric vehicle battery maker LG Energy Solution flew to Georgia on Sunday morning.
\n
"The immediate priority now is the swift release of both our LG Energy Solution employees and those of our partner firms," executive Kim Ki-soo told reporters before boarding a plane.
\n
LG Energy Solution has said 47 of its employees had been arrested — 46 South Koreans and one Indonesian. The company has also said that about 250 of those arrested were believed to be employed by its contractor, and most of them were South Koreans.
\n
An official at a partner firm of LG Energy Solution who spoke with one of the detained workers told Yonhap news agency that conditions at the detention center were poor.
\n
The battery maker said it has suspended all business trips to the United States, except for client meetings, and instructed those already there to either "return immediately or stand by at their accommodations".
\n
Hyundai has said none of those arrested are its employees.
\n
South Korea, Asia's fourth-biggest economy, is a key automaker and electronics producer with multiple plants in the US.
\n
Its companies have invested billions of dollars to build factories in the US in a bid to access the US market and avoid tariff threats from the Trump administration.
WASHINGTON/CHICAGO — Several thousand protesters marched in Washington, DC, on Saturday to demand that US President Donald Trump end the deployment of National Guard troops patrolling the capital city's streets.
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With Trump vowing crackdowns in other Democratic-led cities as well, he appeared to threaten Chicago with migrant deportations in a social media post with an image that parodied the 1979 movie Apocalypse Now.
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Protesters at the "We Are All DC "march, including undocumented immigrants and supporters of Palestinian statehood, chanted slogans denouncing Trump and carried posters, some of which read, "Trump must go now", "Free DC "and "Resist Tyranny".
\n
"I'm here to protest the occupation of DC," said Alex Laufer. "We're opposing the authoritarian regime, and we need to get the federal police and the National Guard off our streets."
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Claiming that crime was blighting the city, Trump deployed the troops last month to "reestablish law, order, and public safety".
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Trump also placed the capital district's Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control and sent federal law enforcement personnel, including members of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to police the city's streets, moves critics have decried as federal overreach.
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More than 2,000 troops, including those from six Republican-led states, are patrolling the city. It is unclear when their mission will end, though the Army this week extended orders for the DC National Guard through Nov 30.
\n
Trump was playing golf at his course outside Washington and was not at the White House when protesters marched past on Saturday.
\n
But he appeared to step up pressure on Chicago in a post on his Truth Social platform that said, "I love the smell of deportations in the morning," parodying a line from the 1979 movie.
\n
"Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of WAR," the president wrote, referring to his new order to rename the Department of Defense.
\n
The post was accompanied by a seemingly AI-generated picture of Trump dressed as a military officer in the film with helicopter gunships and explosions in the background.
\n
In downtown Chicago, several thousand demonstrators marched past Trump Tower on Saturday, protesting Trump's threats to flood the city with immigration agents. The protest came after fears of increasing deportations chilled a normally raucous Mexican Independence Day celebration.
\n
Protesters also opposed Trump's threats to deploy National Guard troops to fight crime in Chicago, which would be an extraordinary effort to militarize the country's third-largest city. On Wednesday, however, Vice President JD Vance said there were "no immediate plans" to send the National Guard to Chicago.
\n",
+ "content": "
WASHINGTON/CHICAGO — Several thousand protesters marched in Washington, DC, on Saturday to demand that US President Donald Trump end the deployment of National Guard troops patrolling the capital city's streets.
\n
With Trump vowing crackdowns in other Democratic-led cities as well, he appeared to threaten Chicago with migrant deportations in a social media post with an image that parodied the 1979 movie Apocalypse Now.
\n
Protesters at the "We Are All DC "march, including undocumented immigrants and supporters of Palestinian statehood, chanted slogans denouncing Trump and carried posters, some of which read, "Trump must go now", "Free DC "and "Resist Tyranny".
\n
"I'm here to protest the occupation of DC," said Alex Laufer. "We're opposing the authoritarian regime, and we need to get the federal police and the National Guard off our streets."
\n
Claiming that crime was blighting the city, Trump deployed the troops last month to "reestablish law, order, and public safety".
\n
Trump also placed the capital district's Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control and sent federal law enforcement personnel, including members of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to police the city's streets, moves critics have decried as federal overreach.
\n
More than 2,000 troops, including those from six Republican-led states, are patrolling the city. It is unclear when their mission will end, though the Army this week extended orders for the DC National Guard through Nov 30.
\n
Trump was playing golf at his course outside Washington and was not at the White House when protesters marched past on Saturday.
\n
But he appeared to step up pressure on Chicago in a post on his Truth Social platform that said, "I love the smell of deportations in the morning," parodying a line from the 1979 movie.
\n
"Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of WAR," the president wrote, referring to his new order to rename the Department of Defense.
\n
The post was accompanied by a seemingly AI-generated picture of Trump dressed as a military officer in the film with helicopter gunships and explosions in the background.
\n
In downtown Chicago, several thousand demonstrators marched past Trump Tower on Saturday, protesting Trump's threats to flood the city with immigration agents. The protest came after fears of increasing deportations chilled a normally raucous Mexican Independence Day celebration.
\n
Protesters also opposed Trump's threats to deploy National Guard troops to fight crime in Chicago, which would be an extraordinary effort to militarize the country's third-largest city. On Wednesday, however, Vice President JD Vance said there were "no immediate plans" to send the National Guard to Chicago.
Expanding business links are creating new opportunities for the use of renminbi in Australia's financial sector, as trade settlements, investments and other transactions in the Chinese currency continue to grow, experts said.
\n
James McIntosh, country head for institutional equity broker and corporate advisory group CLSA Australia, said significant growth areas include RMB settlement in major sectors like resources.
\n
"A big part of the growth we see coming in that space is around RMB-denominated futures contracts because they provide the necessary financial instruments for both Chinese and Australian enterprises to manage price risks in the same currency settlement," he said at a business gathering focusing on new opportunities presented by the RMB.
\n
While the US dollar remains the dominant settlement currency, the adoption of the RMB in commodity trading is a big driver of the internationalization of the Chinese currency, McIntosh said.
\n
Shifting to the RMB "would require bilateral agreement with Chinese buyers and a fundamental shift in how global commodity markets operate", Wei Li, a senior lecturer in international business at the University of Sydney Business School, told China Daily.
\n
There is growth in RMB use in sectors where China leads supply chains, such as electric vehicles and machinery, said Li, whose research includes RMB internationalization and the globalization of Chinese enterprises and economy.
\n
Australian businesses still need to strengthen their capability to understand China's institutions and regulatory framework in order to reduce costs and increase efficiency, Li said.
\n
China and Australia have strong cooperation in trade and finance, with collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development and sustainable financing expanding in recent years, said Liang Heng, chief business officer at the China Central Depository and Clearing, or CCDC.
\n
"We are pleased to see more and more Australian financial institutions actively participating in RMB clearing, settlement and investment. This has injected vitality into regional development and advanced RMB internationalization," Liang said.
\n
Strong complementarity
\n
Wang Chunsheng, acting consul general of the Chinese Consulate General in Sydney, highlighted the steady progress of the Chinese currency in the international arena. "In recent years, the RMB's internationalization has advanced steadily, with wider use in cross-border trade and stronger global influence," he said.
\n
Wang emphasized the strong complementarity between the Chinese and Australian economies, covering energy, agriculture, green development and innovation, and said more business exchanges and cooperation in varied fields could be expected in the near future.
\n
The Bank of China, which is marking 40 years of services in Sydney, has significantly facilitated the implementation of major China-Australia cooperation projects and helped Chinese enterprises effectively manage exchange rate risks and transaction costs, said Li Mang, general manager of the bank's Sydney branch.
\n
The branch has also been providing stable and reliable financial support for Australian local businesses to deepen cooperation with China, he said.
\n
As the Chinese bank with the longest operating history in Australia and the only RMB clearing bank in the South Pacific region, the BOC Sydney branch will "continue to serve as a financial bridge, promoting high-quality financial cooperation to help Chinese and Australian enterprises achieve sustainable development", he said.
\n
The branch's premier RMB services include savings, foreign currency exchange, personal and corporate lending, corporation remittance, and offshore negotiated deposits.
\n
Contact the writers at xinxin@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Expanding business links are creating new opportunities for the use of renminbi in Australia's financial sector, as trade settlements, investments and other transactions in the Chinese currency continue to grow, experts said.
\n
James McIntosh, country head for institutional equity broker and corporate advisory group CLSA Australia, said significant growth areas include RMB settlement in major sectors like resources.
\n
"A big part of the growth we see coming in that space is around RMB-denominated futures contracts because they provide the necessary financial instruments for both Chinese and Australian enterprises to manage price risks in the same currency settlement," he said at a business gathering focusing on new opportunities presented by the RMB.
\n
While the US dollar remains the dominant settlement currency, the adoption of the RMB in commodity trading is a big driver of the internationalization of the Chinese currency, McIntosh said.
\n
Shifting to the RMB "would require bilateral agreement with Chinese buyers and a fundamental shift in how global commodity markets operate", Wei Li, a senior lecturer in international business at the University of Sydney Business School, told China Daily.
\n
There is growth in RMB use in sectors where China leads supply chains, such as electric vehicles and machinery, said Li, whose research includes RMB internationalization and the globalization of Chinese enterprises and economy.
\n
Australian businesses still need to strengthen their capability to understand China's institutions and regulatory framework in order to reduce costs and increase efficiency, Li said.
\n
China and Australia have strong cooperation in trade and finance, with collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development and sustainable financing expanding in recent years, said Liang Heng, chief business officer at the China Central Depository and Clearing, or CCDC.
\n
"We are pleased to see more and more Australian financial institutions actively participating in RMB clearing, settlement and investment. This has injected vitality into regional development and advanced RMB internationalization," Liang said.
\n
Strong complementarity
\n
Wang Chunsheng, acting consul general of the Chinese Consulate General in Sydney, highlighted the steady progress of the Chinese currency in the international arena. "In recent years, the RMB's internationalization has advanced steadily, with wider use in cross-border trade and stronger global influence," he said.
\n
Wang emphasized the strong complementarity between the Chinese and Australian economies, covering energy, agriculture, green development and innovation, and said more business exchanges and cooperation in varied fields could be expected in the near future.
\n
The Bank of China, which is marking 40 years of services in Sydney, has significantly facilitated the implementation of major China-Australia cooperation projects and helped Chinese enterprises effectively manage exchange rate risks and transaction costs, said Li Mang, general manager of the bank's Sydney branch.
\n
The branch has also been providing stable and reliable financial support for Australian local businesses to deepen cooperation with China, he said.
\n
As the Chinese bank with the longest operating history in Australia and the only RMB clearing bank in the South Pacific region, the BOC Sydney branch will "continue to serve as a financial bridge, promoting high-quality financial cooperation to help Chinese and Australian enterprises achieve sustainable development", he said.
\n
The branch's premier RMB services include savings, foreign currency exchange, personal and corporate lending, corporation remittance, and offshore negotiated deposits.
China's latest push to urge rational competition and regulate the promotional activities of major food delivery platforms will help maintain normal market order, ensure fair competition, and promote the healthy, orderly and sustainable development of the platform economy, experts said.
\n
They emphasized that these platforms should shift their focus from providing massive subsidies and huge discounts to improving the quality of services and delivery efficiency, while safeguarding the rights and interests of delivery riders.
\n
"Anti-involution" has become a focus of China's economic policies. Comprehensive measures to address "involution-style" competition will become a priority in economic and social development in the second half of the year, they noted.
\n
A meeting of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs on July 1 stressed efforts to advance the building of a unified national market, regulate enterprises' disorderly price competition in accordance with laws and regulations, and guide enterprises to improve product quality.
\n
Since May this year, many local catering associations have issued documents calling on food delivery platforms to stop "involution-style" competition.
\n
Chinese leading food delivery platforms — Alibaba Group-backed Ele.me, Meituan, and JD — vowed in August to rein in aggressive discounting practices, resist disorderly and vicious competition and foster a win-win ecosystem.
\n
Ele.me and Alibaba's Taobao Instant Commerce pledged to send out subsidies based on the needs of consumers and merchants in a reasonable manner, promising to eliminate large-scale irrational promotions and improve the quality of services.
\n
JD announced it will regulate subsidy activities, firmly avoid unfair competition and resist the vicious subsidies, such as "zero-yuan purchases", aiming to build a simple and transparent subsidy mechanism.
\n
Meituan emphasized its commitment to firmly regulating promotional activities and eliminating unfair competition, saying that any subsidy activities must strictly comply with laws and regulations, and it will promote the establishment of a fair and orderly industry order.
\n
Their move came after the State Administration for Market Regulation summoned the three leading food delivery platforms on July 18, urging them to regulate their promotional activities and engage in rational competition.
\n
The regulator called on the platform companies to strictly adhere to e-commerce, fair competition and food safety laws, and assume more professional responsibility, while fostering a healthy ecosystem that benefits consumers, merchants, delivery riders and platform operators, so as to promote the regulated, healthy and sustainable development of the catering services sector.
\n
The latest move has demonstrated the government's firm determination to maintain fair market order, signaling its "zero-tolerance" attitude toward disorderly subsidies and vicious competition, said Jiang Han, a senior analyst at market consultancy Pangoal, adding that the regulated and healthy development of the food delivery sector is directly related to consumers' rights and interests.
\n
It is of vital significance to safeguard a fair and orderly market environment and avoid the "involution-style" competition in the food delivery sector, which is experiencing a prolonged price war, Jiang said.
\n
He said the competition in China's instant retail sector is intensifying as these platforms have stepped up subsidies to compete for market share, leading to the compression of merchants' profits and the decline in consumer experience.
\n
"The platform enterprises should provide differentiated innovative services, such as optimizing delivery efficiency, enhancing food safety standards and improving after-sales services, thereby creating a healthy competition environment, and promoting the high-quality and sustained development of the food delivery sector," Jiang said.
\n
The authority's meeting with major food delivery platforms followed the increasingly fierce competition in the country's instant retail sector in recent months, with players offering huge discounts and subsidies to grab a bigger slice of the pie, which triggered a relentless price war.
\n
Alibaba's Taobao Instant Commerce has launched a substantial subsidy program worth 50 billion yuan ($7.01 billion) over the next 12 months for both consumers and merchants, while Meituan issued huge discounts and purchase coupons to attract more consumers.
\n
Chinese e-commerce giant JD entered the highly competitive food delivery sector in February, which is dominated by Meituan and Ele.me. JD promised to provide comprehensive support like low or zero commission fees to catering merchants who register on its platform, and step up the recruitment of full-time delivery riders.
\n
In May, the SAMR and four other government departments summoned major food delivery platforms to address prominent issues related to competition in the food delivery sector and to rectify unfair market practices.
\n
The regulator called on the platforms to comply with laws and regulations, fulfill social responsibilities, strengthen internal management, engage in fair and orderly competition, and better safeguard the rights and interests of consumers, merchants and delivery riders.
\n
According to a report from the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, the market scale of China's instant retail sector was 650 billion yuan in 2023, up 28.89 percent year-on-year. The figure is expected to surpass 2 trillion yuan in 2030.
\n
Instant retail refers to a model where shoppers place orders on online trading platforms, followed by retailers from brick-and-mortar stores executing door-to-door deliveries themselves or through third-party delivery platforms. An on-demand delivery order usually requires 30 to 60 minutes to be completed.
\n
Supply chain capabilities, fulfillment efficiency and service quality will be the key factors that determine the future landscape in the food delivery sector, while the platform enterprises should ramp up technological innovation, optimize delivery networks and adopt differentiated strategies to further improve user experience, industry insiders said.
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the CAITEC, said: "Instant retail is regarded as an important development direction for the future retail sector as enterprises can expand their scope of services, enhance user stickiness, and leverage their existing logistics and supply chain advantages to explore new growth points through instant retail."
\n
Hong said the key to success is centered on the optimization of user experience, expansion of service scope and improvement of supply chain efficiency.
\n
Cao Lei, director of the Internet Economy Institute, a domestic consultancy, said the continuous steep discounts and price war pose challenges to platform companies' profitability, intensify competition and further squeeze the survival space of small and medium-sized merchants.
\n
Cao said these platforms should increase investments in technologies such as artificial intelligence-powered algorithms and intelligent scheduling to enhance fulfillment efficiency, while optimizing supply chain management, safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of consumers, and improving the welfare of delivery staff.
\n
To safeguard the rights and interests of delivery riders, Alibaba Group and financial tech company Ant Group have rolled out a plan aimed at providing better benefits guarantees and stimulus measures. The plan includes offering more support to riders and their families, covering special rewards, educational improvement, healthcare assistance and career development.
\n
Ele.me has invested more than 20 million yuan for over 600 family members of riders who have serious illnesses and has provided educational assistance to more than 400 riders and their children.
\n
Meituan announced in July that it will upgrade the benefits guarantee for riders. The pension insurance subsidy will be rolled out nationwide by the end of this year, and it is expected to cover over 1 million riders. Since July 1, the coverage of work-related injury insurance for riders has been expanded to 17 provinces and municipalities, the company said.
\n
JD said it will invest 2 billion yuan to upgrade benefits for its full-time riders. In addition to providing full-time food delivery riders with comprehensive social insurance and housing funds, special allowances will be given to full-time riders each month during summer and winter. By the end of the second quarter, the number of JD's full-time delivery riders exceeded 150,000.
\n
Noting that steep discounts and subsidies cannot continue for extended periods, Guo Tao, deputy head of the China Electronic Commerce Expert Service Center, said the platforms should elevate service quality such as stable fulfillment and after-sales guarantees to enhance customer retention, while expanding the scope of service scenarios, increasing product categories and improving their cost-effectiveness.
\n
Zhu Keli, founding director of the China Institute of New Economy, said it is important that platform enterprises pool more resources into technologies and optimize cost structure through highly efficient inventory management and intelligent warehousing systems.
\n
He stressed the need to establish a stricter merchant access and supervision mechanism to improve the quality of goods, while calling for efforts to strengthen cooperation among different platforms to better integrate resources and further stimulate consumption potential.
\n
fanfeifei@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "\n
China's latest push to urge rational competition and regulate the promotional activities of major food delivery platforms will help maintain normal market order, ensure fair competition, and promote the healthy, orderly and sustainable development of the platform economy, experts said.
\n
They emphasized that these platforms should shift their focus from providing massive subsidies and huge discounts to improving the quality of services and delivery efficiency, while safeguarding the rights and interests of delivery riders.
\n
"Anti-involution" has become a focus of China's economic policies. Comprehensive measures to address "involution-style" competition will become a priority in economic and social development in the second half of the year, they noted.
\n
A meeting of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs on July 1 stressed efforts to advance the building of a unified national market, regulate enterprises' disorderly price competition in accordance with laws and regulations, and guide enterprises to improve product quality.
\n
Since May this year, many local catering associations have issued documents calling on food delivery platforms to stop "involution-style" competition.
\n
Chinese leading food delivery platforms — Alibaba Group-backed Ele.me, Meituan, and JD — vowed in August to rein in aggressive discounting practices, resist disorderly and vicious competition and foster a win-win ecosystem.
\n
Ele.me and Alibaba's Taobao Instant Commerce pledged to send out subsidies based on the needs of consumers and merchants in a reasonable manner, promising to eliminate large-scale irrational promotions and improve the quality of services.
\n
JD announced it will regulate subsidy activities, firmly avoid unfair competition and resist the vicious subsidies, such as "zero-yuan purchases", aiming to build a simple and transparent subsidy mechanism.
\n
Meituan emphasized its commitment to firmly regulating promotional activities and eliminating unfair competition, saying that any subsidy activities must strictly comply with laws and regulations, and it will promote the establishment of a fair and orderly industry order.
\n
Their move came after the State Administration for Market Regulation summoned the three leading food delivery platforms on July 18, urging them to regulate their promotional activities and engage in rational competition.
\n
The regulator called on the platform companies to strictly adhere to e-commerce, fair competition and food safety laws, and assume more professional responsibility, while fostering a healthy ecosystem that benefits consumers, merchants, delivery riders and platform operators, so as to promote the regulated, healthy and sustainable development of the catering services sector.
\n
The latest move has demonstrated the government's firm determination to maintain fair market order, signaling its "zero-tolerance" attitude toward disorderly subsidies and vicious competition, said Jiang Han, a senior analyst at market consultancy Pangoal, adding that the regulated and healthy development of the food delivery sector is directly related to consumers' rights and interests.
\n
It is of vital significance to safeguard a fair and orderly market environment and avoid the "involution-style" competition in the food delivery sector, which is experiencing a prolonged price war, Jiang said.
\n
He said the competition in China's instant retail sector is intensifying as these platforms have stepped up subsidies to compete for market share, leading to the compression of merchants' profits and the decline in consumer experience.
\n
"The platform enterprises should provide differentiated innovative services, such as optimizing delivery efficiency, enhancing food safety standards and improving after-sales services, thereby creating a healthy competition environment, and promoting the high-quality and sustained development of the food delivery sector," Jiang said.
\n
The authority's meeting with major food delivery platforms followed the increasingly fierce competition in the country's instant retail sector in recent months, with players offering huge discounts and subsidies to grab a bigger slice of the pie, which triggered a relentless price war.
\n
Alibaba's Taobao Instant Commerce has launched a substantial subsidy program worth 50 billion yuan ($7.01 billion) over the next 12 months for both consumers and merchants, while Meituan issued huge discounts and purchase coupons to attract more consumers.
\n
Chinese e-commerce giant JD entered the highly competitive food delivery sector in February, which is dominated by Meituan and Ele.me. JD promised to provide comprehensive support like low or zero commission fees to catering merchants who register on its platform, and step up the recruitment of full-time delivery riders.
\n
In May, the SAMR and four other government departments summoned major food delivery platforms to address prominent issues related to competition in the food delivery sector and to rectify unfair market practices.
\n
The regulator called on the platforms to comply with laws and regulations, fulfill social responsibilities, strengthen internal management, engage in fair and orderly competition, and better safeguard the rights and interests of consumers, merchants and delivery riders.
\n
According to a report from the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, the market scale of China's instant retail sector was 650 billion yuan in 2023, up 28.89 percent year-on-year. The figure is expected to surpass 2 trillion yuan in 2030.
\n
Instant retail refers to a model where shoppers place orders on online trading platforms, followed by retailers from brick-and-mortar stores executing door-to-door deliveries themselves or through third-party delivery platforms. An on-demand delivery order usually requires 30 to 60 minutes to be completed.
\n
Supply chain capabilities, fulfillment efficiency and service quality will be the key factors that determine the future landscape in the food delivery sector, while the platform enterprises should ramp up technological innovation, optimize delivery networks and adopt differentiated strategies to further improve user experience, industry insiders said.
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the CAITEC, said: "Instant retail is regarded as an important development direction for the future retail sector as enterprises can expand their scope of services, enhance user stickiness, and leverage their existing logistics and supply chain advantages to explore new growth points through instant retail."
\n
Hong said the key to success is centered on the optimization of user experience, expansion of service scope and improvement of supply chain efficiency.
\n
Cao Lei, director of the Internet Economy Institute, a domestic consultancy, said the continuous steep discounts and price war pose challenges to platform companies' profitability, intensify competition and further squeeze the survival space of small and medium-sized merchants.
\n
Cao said these platforms should increase investments in technologies such as artificial intelligence-powered algorithms and intelligent scheduling to enhance fulfillment efficiency, while optimizing supply chain management, safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of consumers, and improving the welfare of delivery staff.
\n
To safeguard the rights and interests of delivery riders, Alibaba Group and financial tech company Ant Group have rolled out a plan aimed at providing better benefits guarantees and stimulus measures. The plan includes offering more support to riders and their families, covering special rewards, educational improvement, healthcare assistance and career development.
\n
Ele.me has invested more than 20 million yuan for over 600 family members of riders who have serious illnesses and has provided educational assistance to more than 400 riders and their children.
\n
Meituan announced in July that it will upgrade the benefits guarantee for riders. The pension insurance subsidy will be rolled out nationwide by the end of this year, and it is expected to cover over 1 million riders. Since July 1, the coverage of work-related injury insurance for riders has been expanded to 17 provinces and municipalities, the company said.
\n
JD said it will invest 2 billion yuan to upgrade benefits for its full-time riders. In addition to providing full-time food delivery riders with comprehensive social insurance and housing funds, special allowances will be given to full-time riders each month during summer and winter. By the end of the second quarter, the number of JD's full-time delivery riders exceeded 150,000.
\n
Noting that steep discounts and subsidies cannot continue for extended periods, Guo Tao, deputy head of the China Electronic Commerce Expert Service Center, said the platforms should elevate service quality such as stable fulfillment and after-sales guarantees to enhance customer retention, while expanding the scope of service scenarios, increasing product categories and improving their cost-effectiveness.
\n
Zhu Keli, founding director of the China Institute of New Economy, said it is important that platform enterprises pool more resources into technologies and optimize cost structure through highly efficient inventory management and intelligent warehousing systems.
\n
He stressed the need to establish a stricter merchant access and supervision mechanism to improve the quality of goods, while calling for efforts to strengthen cooperation among different platforms to better integrate resources and further stimulate consumption potential.
Several months ago, I had an opportunity to interview some exporters in Zhejiang province, who leveraged the fast-developing artificial intelligence technology on e-commerce platforms to boost sales of products.
\n
What impressed me most was that Zhang Min, a toy salesman at Yiwu International Trade Market, posted a video on an online marketplace, in which his virtual avatar could be generated, and speak various foreign languages fluently while introducing commodities.
\n
The AI-powered digital human almost replicated Zhang's expressions, body language, gestures, voice and accent. He also opened a digital showroom to exhibit new products, and buyers can directly make purchases via online marketplaces.
\n
He told me that the platforms for traditional Chinese foreign trade enterprises to win new customers have changed in recent years, as digitalization has become a necessary option for small and medium-sized companies to ramp up sales.
\n
Currently, Zhang's products have been sold to more than 50 countries and regions around the world, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
\n
He is among a growing number of entrepreneurs capitalizing on the innovative AI technology to transform traditional foreign trade models, and expand their presence in emerging markets.
\n
AI is now reshaping the global trade landscape with unprecedented power. China has attached great importance to the development of AI, a strategic emerging field in which major economies are scrambling to gain a competitive edge.
\n
The State Council, China's Cabinet, recently issued a guideline on deeply implementing the "AI Plus" initiative. The country will promote the use of AI in science and technology, industrial development, consumption, people's well-being, governance capability and global cooperation, according to the guideline.
\n
This year's Government Work Report stated that China, under its "AI Plus" initiative, will work to effectively combine digital technologies with its manufacturing and market strengths, and support the extensive application of large-scale AI models.
\n
Industry experts told me that the use of AI is expected to enter a new stage, with major technology companies accelerating AI applications in fields including consumption and manufacturing, and this shift will significantly elevate the efficiency of industries, injecting strong momentum for future innovation and development.
\n
Currently, innovative digital technologies represented by AI have been increasingly applied to online e-commerce sites, with the potential to change the way people shop by providing interactive consumer experiences and propelling the digital transformation of traditional retailers.
\n
Major e-commerce platforms are ramping up efforts to bolster the application of AI across their businesses and operations. For instance, Tmall, Alibaba Group's business-to-customer e-marketplace, offers consumers personalized guidance and advice with its AI-powered customer service chatbots, while online discounter PDD Holdings uses AI tools to analyze market trends and optimize sales strategies.
\n
Consulting firm Bain & Company said in a report merchants trading on China's giant e-commerce platforms are embracing AI even more enthusiastically than Generation Z shoppers — those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s.
\n
It said 52 percent of the merchants surveyed have used at least one generative AI-enabled tool. Slightly more than half have used generative AI-powered customer service chatbot tools. About one in three have used AI to generate content.
\n
Retailers that master generative AI in three key areas — deepening customer engagement, turbocharging productivity and cost savings, and finding new growth beyond trade — could build a lasting strategic advantage, it added.
\n
James Yang, head of Bain & Company Greater China's retail practice, said it is vital that Chinese retailers deepen their customer engagement. "AI tools can energize customer retention efforts, enabling e-commerce players to hyperpersonalize their engagement with consumers and create bespoke shopping experiences for them."
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said a new type of consumption is mainly driven by technological advancements in AI, with a focus on consumers' personalized and diversified demands.
\n
"Nurturing an AI-driven new consumption model is pivotal to expanding domestic demand, driving industrial upgrades and promoting high-quality economic growth," Hong said.
\n",
+ "content": "
Several months ago, I had an opportunity to interview some exporters in Zhejiang province, who leveraged the fast-developing artificial intelligence technology on e-commerce platforms to boost sales of products.
\n
What impressed me most was that Zhang Min, a toy salesman at Yiwu International Trade Market, posted a video on an online marketplace, in which his virtual avatar could be generated, and speak various foreign languages fluently while introducing commodities.
\n
The AI-powered digital human almost replicated Zhang's expressions, body language, gestures, voice and accent. He also opened a digital showroom to exhibit new products, and buyers can directly make purchases via online marketplaces.
\n
He told me that the platforms for traditional Chinese foreign trade enterprises to win new customers have changed in recent years, as digitalization has become a necessary option for small and medium-sized companies to ramp up sales.
\n
Currently, Zhang's products have been sold to more than 50 countries and regions around the world, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
\n
He is among a growing number of entrepreneurs capitalizing on the innovative AI technology to transform traditional foreign trade models, and expand their presence in emerging markets.
\n
AI is now reshaping the global trade landscape with unprecedented power. China has attached great importance to the development of AI, a strategic emerging field in which major economies are scrambling to gain a competitive edge.
\n
The State Council, China's Cabinet, recently issued a guideline on deeply implementing the "AI Plus" initiative. The country will promote the use of AI in science and technology, industrial development, consumption, people's well-being, governance capability and global cooperation, according to the guideline.
\n
This year's Government Work Report stated that China, under its "AI Plus" initiative, will work to effectively combine digital technologies with its manufacturing and market strengths, and support the extensive application of large-scale AI models.
\n
Industry experts told me that the use of AI is expected to enter a new stage, with major technology companies accelerating AI applications in fields including consumption and manufacturing, and this shift will significantly elevate the efficiency of industries, injecting strong momentum for future innovation and development.
\n
Currently, innovative digital technologies represented by AI have been increasingly applied to online e-commerce sites, with the potential to change the way people shop by providing interactive consumer experiences and propelling the digital transformation of traditional retailers.
\n
Major e-commerce platforms are ramping up efforts to bolster the application of AI across their businesses and operations. For instance, Tmall, Alibaba Group's business-to-customer e-marketplace, offers consumers personalized guidance and advice with its AI-powered customer service chatbots, while online discounter PDD Holdings uses AI tools to analyze market trends and optimize sales strategies.
\n
Consulting firm Bain & Company said in a report merchants trading on China's giant e-commerce platforms are embracing AI even more enthusiastically than Generation Z shoppers — those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s.
\n
It said 52 percent of the merchants surveyed have used at least one generative AI-enabled tool. Slightly more than half have used generative AI-powered customer service chatbot tools. About one in three have used AI to generate content.
\n
Retailers that master generative AI in three key areas — deepening customer engagement, turbocharging productivity and cost savings, and finding new growth beyond trade — could build a lasting strategic advantage, it added.
\n
James Yang, head of Bain & Company Greater China's retail practice, said it is vital that Chinese retailers deepen their customer engagement. "AI tools can energize customer retention efforts, enabling e-commerce players to hyperpersonalize their engagement with consumers and create bespoke shopping experiences for them."
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said a new type of consumption is mainly driven by technological advancements in AI, with a focus on consumers' personalized and diversified demands.
\n
"Nurturing an AI-driven new consumption model is pivotal to expanding domestic demand, driving industrial upgrades and promoting high-quality economic growth," Hong said.
A staff member takes care of an elderly at a nursing home in Rizhao, East China's Shandong province, on May 25.
\n
BEIJING — On an early morning in August, a woman surnamed Li was waiting at the entrance of a top-tier hospital in Beijing for a hired medical escort who would provide her with the help needed during her hospital visit that day.
\n
With her children living in other cities, 65-year-old Li, who has difficulty moving around, has come to rely on such professional services and has used them several times as they help her navigate the many procedures of seeking medical treatment at the hospital. "The procedures are complicated. I simply can't manage it myself."
\n
Li's case is not unique. A woman surnamed Wang, who lives and works in Beijing, said hiring medical escorts for her parents is a serious need. "Both of my parents are over 80 years old. Because my siblings and I are all busy at work most of the time, we need to hire medical escorts for our parents when they need to see a doctor."
\n
As Li received help from her escort at the Chinese PLA General Hospital in Beijing, a nursing aide at a local hospital in East China's Shandong province was helping a patient turn over, drink water and stay calm in the hospital ward — tasks that once fell to family members.
\n
The rise in demand for medical escorts and nursing aides across various cities is part of a service industry that has been rapidly gaining traction in China in recent years, giving rise to the so-called "companion economy".
\n
This demand has in part been driven by an aging population. By the end of 2024, citizens aged 60 and above had reached over 300 million, accounting for nearly 22 percent of the country's total population. Almost half of them live alone without children immediately nearby, according to official data.
\n
"Older patients often struggle with digital registration, multi-step medical procedures, and navigating large hospitals," said Xu Jianzhong, executive president of the China Association of Social Welfare and Senior Service.
\n
A 2025 report launched by the association revealed that more than 80 percent of home-dwelling seniors lack timely family assistance during hospital visits. Against such a backdrop, Xu observed that medical escort services have transitioned from peripheral demand to rigid demand over the years.
\n
Beyond medical escorts, companion care is also filling gaps in daily life support. With around 35 million disabled elderly people — a number expected to rise to 58 million by 2050 — the need for professional at-home and institutional care is surging in the country.
\n
At the other end of the spectrum, young people in China are also embracing paid companionship to meet their emotional and recreational needs. Online advertisements for companion services had in fact appeared years ago across social platforms, offering a range of emotional support services, from chatting and exercising to dining and museum visits.
\n
Major tech platforms, such as JD.com, Meituan and Alibaba, have entered the functional companionship market, offering structured services like elder escorting and nursing care.
\n
As paid companionship is reshaping how people seek help and connect in a society with diversified needs, it is nurturing a companion economy expected to reach a market size of 50 billion yuan ($7 billion) by the end of 2025, according to an estimate by Sinolink Securities.
\n
But as platform models enable rapid scaling, service quality control, as well as potential risks and trust issues, remain challenges to the development of the companion economy, analysts say. The low entry barrier and lack of regulations mean there is potentially false advertising, poor services and privacy leaks, leaving users vulnerable.
\n
Efforts to standardize these services, particularly medical escort services, are underway. In May, the CASWSS released a systematic set of standards for elderly hospital escort services covering service processes, safety guidelines, personnel training and complaint mechanisms.
\n
In big cities such as Beijing, Wuhan and Shanghai, a number of elder care service institutions have established comprehensive standards for medical escort and nursing services. By combining personnel training, qualification reviews, feedback mechanisms and digital tracking, these organizations aim to enhance service quality and accountability.
\n
"Caregiving isn't just about helping with meals or movement. It requires professional knowledge," said Wang Shuxia, head of the China Home Service Association.
\n",
+ "content": "
A staff member takes care of an elderly at a nursing home in Rizhao, East China's Shandong province, on May 25.
\n
BEIJING — On an early morning in August, a woman surnamed Li was waiting at the entrance of a top-tier hospital in Beijing for a hired medical escort who would provide her with the help needed during her hospital visit that day.
\n
With her children living in other cities, 65-year-old Li, who has difficulty moving around, has come to rely on such professional services and has used them several times as they help her navigate the many procedures of seeking medical treatment at the hospital. "The procedures are complicated. I simply can't manage it myself."
\n
Li's case is not unique. A woman surnamed Wang, who lives and works in Beijing, said hiring medical escorts for her parents is a serious need. "Both of my parents are over 80 years old. Because my siblings and I are all busy at work most of the time, we need to hire medical escorts for our parents when they need to see a doctor."
\n
As Li received help from her escort at the Chinese PLA General Hospital in Beijing, a nursing aide at a local hospital in East China's Shandong province was helping a patient turn over, drink water and stay calm in the hospital ward — tasks that once fell to family members.
\n
The rise in demand for medical escorts and nursing aides across various cities is part of a service industry that has been rapidly gaining traction in China in recent years, giving rise to the so-called "companion economy".
\n
This demand has in part been driven by an aging population. By the end of 2024, citizens aged 60 and above had reached over 300 million, accounting for nearly 22 percent of the country's total population. Almost half of them live alone without children immediately nearby, according to official data.
\n
"Older patients often struggle with digital registration, multi-step medical procedures, and navigating large hospitals," said Xu Jianzhong, executive president of the China Association of Social Welfare and Senior Service.
\n
A 2025 report launched by the association revealed that more than 80 percent of home-dwelling seniors lack timely family assistance during hospital visits. Against such a backdrop, Xu observed that medical escort services have transitioned from peripheral demand to rigid demand over the years.
\n
Beyond medical escorts, companion care is also filling gaps in daily life support. With around 35 million disabled elderly people — a number expected to rise to 58 million by 2050 — the need for professional at-home and institutional care is surging in the country.
\n
At the other end of the spectrum, young people in China are also embracing paid companionship to meet their emotional and recreational needs. Online advertisements for companion services had in fact appeared years ago across social platforms, offering a range of emotional support services, from chatting and exercising to dining and museum visits.
\n
Major tech platforms, such as JD.com, Meituan and Alibaba, have entered the functional companionship market, offering structured services like elder escorting and nursing care.
\n
As paid companionship is reshaping how people seek help and connect in a society with diversified needs, it is nurturing a companion economy expected to reach a market size of 50 billion yuan ($7 billion) by the end of 2025, according to an estimate by Sinolink Securities.
\n
But as platform models enable rapid scaling, service quality control, as well as potential risks and trust issues, remain challenges to the development of the companion economy, analysts say. The low entry barrier and lack of regulations mean there is potentially false advertising, poor services and privacy leaks, leaving users vulnerable.
\n
Efforts to standardize these services, particularly medical escort services, are underway. In May, the CASWSS released a systematic set of standards for elderly hospital escort services covering service processes, safety guidelines, personnel training and complaint mechanisms.
\n
In big cities such as Beijing, Wuhan and Shanghai, a number of elder care service institutions have established comprehensive standards for medical escort and nursing services. By combining personnel training, qualification reviews, feedback mechanisms and digital tracking, these organizations aim to enhance service quality and accountability.
\n
"Caregiving isn't just about helping with meals or movement. It requires professional knowledge," said Wang Shuxia, head of the China Home Service Association.
China is revving up the used-car export market, which saw over 400,000 units being shipped to more than 160 countries and regions in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Europe last year, becoming a new engine for automotive consumption and industrial upgrading.
\n
Speaking on Aug 22 at the Used-Car Export Ecosystem Summit 2025 in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province, China Automobile Dealers Association Vice-President Luo Lei affirmed that China is entering a golden era for used-car exports, driven by both policy support and surging demand.
\n
With motor vehicle ownership exceeding 400 million units in the country, a mature supply-chain system and a portfolio of highly cost-effective models, China has a solid foundation, he said.
\n
However, to overcome overseas market barriers, collaborative teamwork — with government guidance, pioneering enterprises and association empowerment — is imperative to build a standardized, globally oriented service system and a more competitive worldwide used-car circulation network, Luo said.
\n
Industry experts said that thanks to the pilot program launched in 2019, China's used-car export market has already achieved numerous breakthroughs, but still needs the dedication and synergy of every industry stakeholder to play their part in taking it to the next level.
\n
As a co-organizer of the summit and a key participant in China's used-car export sector, CAR Inc sent its CEO Gao Dewu to share the company's export achievements: "Since our launch last year, we have leveraged 29 domestic used-car central warehouses and five pre-port warehouses to establish six overseas direct-sales offices."
\n
"Our real-time inventory of 4,000 vehicles now reaches more than 30 countries across the Middle East, Central Asia, North and West Africa, and Latin America," Gao said.
\n
"Through our export practice, we have come to see that reliable vehicle sources are the cornerstone of any ecosystem while transparent information is the bridge of trust," Gao added, stressing that "China's global competitiveness must shift from 'price advantage' to 'brand trust'."
\n
To this end, he said, CAR Inc has built an end-to-end capability covering high-standard pre-sale refurbishment, global logistics and localized after-sales support — from inspection, maintenance and cross-border transport to overseas warranties — creating an efficient and reliable cross-border service system that helps its partners enhance their global competitiveness.
\n
Li Jia, vice-president of CAR Inc, said its three strategic pathways are vital — going global with a direct-sales network in six key countries to cover over 30 neighboring markets; resource integration with domestic institutional suppliers to share overseas opportunities; and promoting the transition of non-standard used cars to standardized products to strengthen market trust.
\n
A core outcome of the summit was the official launch of the "Institutional Vehicle Source Export Task Force" — a member organization under the CADA Used-Car Export Sub-Committee.
\n
Jointly led by CADA and CAR Inc, the founding members comprise 23 original equipment manufacturers, seven financial leasing companies, five rental and mobility firms and three dealers — covering the entire value chain from vehicle supply and financing to circulation services.
\n
With extensive experience gained through the opening-up of many industries, China's ability to organize industrial collaboration and successful supply chain flows will play a key role in the future of the nation's used-car export sector.
\n
Speaking on behalf of the core initiator, Li noted: "Our goal is to weave dispersed institutional vehicle sources, technologies and channel resources into a single network, shifting the country's used-car exports from 'solo battles' to 'joint voyages' and jointly building an overseas reputation that makes China the preferred source for bulk procurement."
\n
"Only by incorporating every link — production, usage, circulation and export — can China's used cars travel far and stand firm in global markets," emphasized Gao, adding that "CAR Inc is committed, alongside industry peers, to rooting ourselves in real market demand and growing toward our shared aspirations."
\n
Li stressed that for the export task force, four strategic areas have been identified.
\n
"First, building vehicle-source standard to promote 'quality at value, and quality going-global', and second, establishing product standards to offer convenient transactions based on bulk supplies that are 'same model, same first-registration year, same condition grade, and same mileage band'," he said.
\n
"Third, boosting transparency, and last, joint construction of a comprehensive overseas service system to ensure long-term sustainable export operations," Li added.
\n
Li noted that CAR Inc will continue to leverage its core advantages in vehicle sources, technology and services, collaborating with partners across the value chain and jointly establishing a "high-quality and trustworthy" brand image for Chinese used cars worldwide.
\n
hanjingyan@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
China is revving up the used-car export market, which saw over 400,000 units being shipped to more than 160 countries and regions in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Europe last year, becoming a new engine for automotive consumption and industrial upgrading.
\n
Speaking on Aug 22 at the Used-Car Export Ecosystem Summit 2025 in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province, China Automobile Dealers Association Vice-President Luo Lei affirmed that China is entering a golden era for used-car exports, driven by both policy support and surging demand.
\n
With motor vehicle ownership exceeding 400 million units in the country, a mature supply-chain system and a portfolio of highly cost-effective models, China has a solid foundation, he said.
\n
However, to overcome overseas market barriers, collaborative teamwork — with government guidance, pioneering enterprises and association empowerment — is imperative to build a standardized, globally oriented service system and a more competitive worldwide used-car circulation network, Luo said.
\n
Industry experts said that thanks to the pilot program launched in 2019, China's used-car export market has already achieved numerous breakthroughs, but still needs the dedication and synergy of every industry stakeholder to play their part in taking it to the next level.
\n
As a co-organizer of the summit and a key participant in China's used-car export sector, CAR Inc sent its CEO Gao Dewu to share the company's export achievements: "Since our launch last year, we have leveraged 29 domestic used-car central warehouses and five pre-port warehouses to establish six overseas direct-sales offices."
\n
"Our real-time inventory of 4,000 vehicles now reaches more than 30 countries across the Middle East, Central Asia, North and West Africa, and Latin America," Gao said.
\n
"Through our export practice, we have come to see that reliable vehicle sources are the cornerstone of any ecosystem while transparent information is the bridge of trust," Gao added, stressing that "China's global competitiveness must shift from 'price advantage' to 'brand trust'."
\n
To this end, he said, CAR Inc has built an end-to-end capability covering high-standard pre-sale refurbishment, global logistics and localized after-sales support — from inspection, maintenance and cross-border transport to overseas warranties — creating an efficient and reliable cross-border service system that helps its partners enhance their global competitiveness.
\n
Li Jia, vice-president of CAR Inc, said its three strategic pathways are vital — going global with a direct-sales network in six key countries to cover over 30 neighboring markets; resource integration with domestic institutional suppliers to share overseas opportunities; and promoting the transition of non-standard used cars to standardized products to strengthen market trust.
\n
A core outcome of the summit was the official launch of the "Institutional Vehicle Source Export Task Force" — a member organization under the CADA Used-Car Export Sub-Committee.
\n
Jointly led by CADA and CAR Inc, the founding members comprise 23 original equipment manufacturers, seven financial leasing companies, five rental and mobility firms and three dealers — covering the entire value chain from vehicle supply and financing to circulation services.
\n
With extensive experience gained through the opening-up of many industries, China's ability to organize industrial collaboration and successful supply chain flows will play a key role in the future of the nation's used-car export sector.
\n
Speaking on behalf of the core initiator, Li noted: "Our goal is to weave dispersed institutional vehicle sources, technologies and channel resources into a single network, shifting the country's used-car exports from 'solo battles' to 'joint voyages' and jointly building an overseas reputation that makes China the preferred source for bulk procurement."
\n
"Only by incorporating every link — production, usage, circulation and export — can China's used cars travel far and stand firm in global markets," emphasized Gao, adding that "CAR Inc is committed, alongside industry peers, to rooting ourselves in real market demand and growing toward our shared aspirations."
\n
Li stressed that for the export task force, four strategic areas have been identified.
\n
"First, building vehicle-source standard to promote 'quality at value, and quality going-global', and second, establishing product standards to offer convenient transactions based on bulk supplies that are 'same model, same first-registration year, same condition grade, and same mileage band'," he said.
\n
"Third, boosting transparency, and last, joint construction of a comprehensive overseas service system to ensure long-term sustainable export operations," Li added.
\n
Li noted that CAR Inc will continue to leverage its core advantages in vehicle sources, technology and services, collaborating with partners across the value chain and jointly establishing a "high-quality and trustworthy" brand image for Chinese used cars worldwide.
Models are on display in an XPeng store in a Shanghai shopping mall in April.
\n
China's new energy vehicle startups notched record sales in August, underscoring how new models, lower prices and growing acceptance of smart car features are reshaping the world's largest auto market.
\n
Leapmotor delivered 57,066 vehicles last month, up 88 percent from a year earlier and the highest monthly total in its history. It was the sixth straight month the company led sales among China's NEV startups.
\n
The company crossed 900,000 cumulative deliveries in August and reported its first half-year net profit, becoming the second Chinese NEV startup to achieve profitability on that basis, after Li Auto.
\n
XPeng delivered 37,709 vehicles in August, a 169 percent jump from a year earlier and a 3 percent rise from July, marking a new monthly record, the Chinese NEV maker said.
\n
The Mona M03 compact sedan remained a major growth driver, with more than 15,000 units delivered last month and over 160,000 sold since launch a year ago.
\n
Nio saw its monthly deliveries over 30,000 units for the first time, hitting 31,305 in August, up 55.2 percent year-on-year.
\n
Voyah, the NEV brand backed by Dongfeng Motor, also reported record shipments of 13,505 units, up 119 percent year-on-year.
\n
The synchronized sales momentum reflects a confluence of factors. "This isn't a coincidence," said one analyst tracking China's EV market.
\n
"We are entering a new product cycle where multiple startups are hitting the sweet spot of design, technology and pricing at the same time."
\n
New model launches were the most immediate catalyst. Many NEV startups introduced key products in the second quarter, with deliveries ramping up in July.
\n
In a market where consumers expect constant innovation, timely rollouts are essential to sustain growth, analysts said.
\n
In the case of Nio, its record-making sales benefited from its sub-brand Onvo's L90, a large-sized electric SUV launched in late July.
\n
Its first full-month deliveries hit 10,575 units, almost one-third of Nio's total deliveries in August.
\n
XPeng said its new P7 sedan, launched late last month, secured more than 10,000 orders within seven minutes — the fastest debut in XPeng's history.
\n
Foot traffic and test drives also hit record highs in the first weekend after launch, said the carmaker.
\n
Voyah said its new Courage SUV garnered 3,000 orders on launch day, while its 2026 Dream MPV received more than 10,000 orders when pre-sales opened at the Chengdu motor show in late August.
\n
Discount schemes such as trade-in subsidies and lower entry prices helped unlock demand in second- and third-tier cities, expanding beyond the premium early-adopter segment.
\n
Voyah drew applause and exclamations of excitement when it launched its Courage SUV, equipped with Huawei smart cabin and driver assistance features, at a starting price of 202,900 yuan ($28,000).
\n
The lower starting price was also a major cause of the popularity of Nio's flagship ES8 SUV as well as its Onvo L90. A Nio sales executive said he has never seen the company's sales system slow down due to an influx of orders.
\n
"We've made adjustments in product definition, learning from past lessons, and that's why models like the L90 and the new ES8 are being well received," said Nio founder and CEO William Li.
\n
Looking ahead, Li said Nio will launch three large SUVs next year — the Nio ES9, ES7 and Onvo L80 — to further strengthen its lineup.
\n
Another driver is the growing consumer appetite for advanced driver-assistance systems and intelligent cockpits.
\n
Features such as navigation-on-autopilot, automated parking and AI-driven in-car assistants are no longer seen as gimmicks, but as must-have capabilities.
\n
That shift has played to the strengths of NEV startups, which have been quicker than traditional carmakers, especially overseas brands, to deploy such functions.
\n
Government incentives have also added fuel. National and local authorities have continued to promote EV adoption through purchase subsidies and replacement programs, dovetailing with rising seasonal demand during the summer travel period.
\n
Perhaps more fundamentally, startups that were once perceived as risky bets are beginning to gain credibility.
\n
Nio's Li said around 30-40 percent of its potential customers still walk away because they worry the startup may go bankrupt at any time.
\n
Nio has been losing money but has vowed to break even in the fourth quarter of this year — a goal analysts say looks more likely given the sudden popularity of the ES8 and Onvo L90.
\n
"Our new-generation products have strong cost competitiveness, supported by long-term in-house R&D and cost-control measures," Li said.
\n
After several years of improving product quality and building service networks, companies such as Nio and XPeng have cultivated user communities that reinforce loyalty and word-of-mouth sales.
\n
But whether August's performance proves sustainable remains to be seen, as more new models enter the fray, including those from traditional brands, and more creative sales campaigns are rolled out.
\n
Volvo launched its XC70 late last month in Chengdu. "You cannot tell it apart from those Chinese brands if you sit in the car and cover the logo," said one attendee at the launch.
\n
Voyah partnered with British iconic cartoon Peppa Pig to launch its Courage SUV, highlighting the model as a family vehicle, while another startup, Avatr, is working with popular Chinese animated film Nobody in an effort to convey the charm of local Chinese creativity.
\n
Analysts said competition in China's NEV market is only intensifying, with BYD, Tesla and a host of legacy automakers trying every means to defend market share.
\n
But the figures signal that some challengers are getting established in the world's largest and most competitive NEV market, they added.
\n
lifusheng@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Models are on display in an XPeng store in a Shanghai shopping mall in April.
\n
China's new energy vehicle startups notched record sales in August, underscoring how new models, lower prices and growing acceptance of smart car features are reshaping the world's largest auto market.
\n
Leapmotor delivered 57,066 vehicles last month, up 88 percent from a year earlier and the highest monthly total in its history. It was the sixth straight month the company led sales among China's NEV startups.
\n
The company crossed 900,000 cumulative deliveries in August and reported its first half-year net profit, becoming the second Chinese NEV startup to achieve profitability on that basis, after Li Auto.
\n
XPeng delivered 37,709 vehicles in August, a 169 percent jump from a year earlier and a 3 percent rise from July, marking a new monthly record, the Chinese NEV maker said.
\n
The Mona M03 compact sedan remained a major growth driver, with more than 15,000 units delivered last month and over 160,000 sold since launch a year ago.
\n
Nio saw its monthly deliveries over 30,000 units for the first time, hitting 31,305 in August, up 55.2 percent year-on-year.
\n
Voyah, the NEV brand backed by Dongfeng Motor, also reported record shipments of 13,505 units, up 119 percent year-on-year.
\n
The synchronized sales momentum reflects a confluence of factors. "This isn't a coincidence," said one analyst tracking China's EV market.
\n
"We are entering a new product cycle where multiple startups are hitting the sweet spot of design, technology and pricing at the same time."
\n
New model launches were the most immediate catalyst. Many NEV startups introduced key products in the second quarter, with deliveries ramping up in July.
\n
In a market where consumers expect constant innovation, timely rollouts are essential to sustain growth, analysts said.
\n
In the case of Nio, its record-making sales benefited from its sub-brand Onvo's L90, a large-sized electric SUV launched in late July.
\n
Its first full-month deliveries hit 10,575 units, almost one-third of Nio's total deliveries in August.
\n
XPeng said its new P7 sedan, launched late last month, secured more than 10,000 orders within seven minutes — the fastest debut in XPeng's history.
\n
Foot traffic and test drives also hit record highs in the first weekend after launch, said the carmaker.
\n
Voyah said its new Courage SUV garnered 3,000 orders on launch day, while its 2026 Dream MPV received more than 10,000 orders when pre-sales opened at the Chengdu motor show in late August.
\n
Discount schemes such as trade-in subsidies and lower entry prices helped unlock demand in second- and third-tier cities, expanding beyond the premium early-adopter segment.
\n
Voyah drew applause and exclamations of excitement when it launched its Courage SUV, equipped with Huawei smart cabin and driver assistance features, at a starting price of 202,900 yuan ($28,000).
\n
The lower starting price was also a major cause of the popularity of Nio's flagship ES8 SUV as well as its Onvo L90. A Nio sales executive said he has never seen the company's sales system slow down due to an influx of orders.
\n
"We've made adjustments in product definition, learning from past lessons, and that's why models like the L90 and the new ES8 are being well received," said Nio founder and CEO William Li.
\n
Looking ahead, Li said Nio will launch three large SUVs next year — the Nio ES9, ES7 and Onvo L80 — to further strengthen its lineup.
\n
Another driver is the growing consumer appetite for advanced driver-assistance systems and intelligent cockpits.
\n
Features such as navigation-on-autopilot, automated parking and AI-driven in-car assistants are no longer seen as gimmicks, but as must-have capabilities.
\n
That shift has played to the strengths of NEV startups, which have been quicker than traditional carmakers, especially overseas brands, to deploy such functions.
\n
Government incentives have also added fuel. National and local authorities have continued to promote EV adoption through purchase subsidies and replacement programs, dovetailing with rising seasonal demand during the summer travel period.
\n
Perhaps more fundamentally, startups that were once perceived as risky bets are beginning to gain credibility.
\n
Nio's Li said around 30-40 percent of its potential customers still walk away because they worry the startup may go bankrupt at any time.
\n
Nio has been losing money but has vowed to break even in the fourth quarter of this year — a goal analysts say looks more likely given the sudden popularity of the ES8 and Onvo L90.
\n
"Our new-generation products have strong cost competitiveness, supported by long-term in-house R&D and cost-control measures," Li said.
\n
After several years of improving product quality and building service networks, companies such as Nio and XPeng have cultivated user communities that reinforce loyalty and word-of-mouth sales.
\n
But whether August's performance proves sustainable remains to be seen, as more new models enter the fray, including those from traditional brands, and more creative sales campaigns are rolled out.
\n
Volvo launched its XC70 late last month in Chengdu. "You cannot tell it apart from those Chinese brands if you sit in the car and cover the logo," said one attendee at the launch.
\n
Voyah partnered with British iconic cartoon Peppa Pig to launch its Courage SUV, highlighting the model as a family vehicle, while another startup, Avatr, is working with popular Chinese animated film Nobody in an effort to convey the charm of local Chinese creativity.
\n
Analysts said competition in China's NEV market is only intensifying, with BYD, Tesla and a host of legacy automakers trying every means to defend market share.
\n
But the figures signal that some challengers are getting established in the world's largest and most competitive NEV market, they added.
BMW debuts the iX3, the first production model of its Neue Klasse, on Sept 5.
\n
BMW AG debuted the first production model of its "Neue Klasse "line, the electric iX3, on Friday, adding that the China-made version will be unveiled later this year.
\n
The Neue Klasse models are widely believed by company executives and analysts to defend the German carmaker's position in premium electrification, especially in China, the largest and most competitive NEV market in the world.
\n
Chairman Oliver Zipse described the Neue Klasse as "the biggest future-focused project" in BMW's history, promising a huge leap in design, technology and user experience.
\n
Despite its unveiling later this year, the China-made iX3 will not start production until 2026, at BMW's manufacturing complex in Shenyang, Liaoning province.
\n
The German carmaker said the China-version has been designed with Chinese consumers in mind from day one, and the Chinese engineering team has played a central role in shaping it.
\n
Analysts said the moves underscore China's pivotal role in the German carmaker's electric transition.
\n
Cui Dongshu, secretary-general of the China Passenger Car Association, said China constituted 64.5 percent of the global electric car market in the first half of the year. If plug-in hybrids were included, the figure would rise to 68.3 percent, he said.
\n
From cabin space to digital features and driving assistance, the iX3 reflects local tastes and technological expectations, BMW said.
\n
Among other things, it will integrate sixth-generation eDrive technology with a CLTC range of up to 900 kilometers, aiming to ease lingering anxieties about battery range.
\n
China-specific features abound. The iX3 will embed artificial-intelligence capabilities developed with partners including Alibaba and DeepSeek, while drawing on Huawei's HarmonyOS ecosystem for services such as digital keys and HiCar connectivity.
\n
Smart driving features are being co-developed with Momenta to better adapt to Chinese road conditions.
\n
The company calls the car a benchmark for "China-exclusive intelligence, driving dynamics and luxury".
\n
The iX3 sits on BMW's new NCAR architecture, which consolidates breakthroughs including a panoramic iDrive interface, a new electronic control system dubbed the "super brain" and cylindrical battery cells.
\n
These elements will flow across the Neue Klasse portfolio, which will expand to more than 40 new models globally by 2027, with over 20 slated for China between 2026 and 2027.
\n
BMW's push comes as China cements its place at the center of the global auto industry's technology race, particularly in AI.
\n
China is the decisive battleground, Zipse said, citing the company's collaboration with domestic tech leaders to integrate cutting-edge AI into its vehicles.
\n
Until very recently BMW had been one of the best-selling premium carmakers in China.
\n
But the rise of local NEV rivals, which boast faster model rollouts as well as smart and luxurious cabin features, is wooing some customers away.
\n
"We believe the Neue Klasse should redefine BMW's brand image in China," said Jochen Goller, BMW's board member responsible for customer, brand, and sales, in an interview earlier this year.
\n
BMW is not competing with those startups head-on in areas they excel, said Goller, who highlights a focused strategy for the German carmaker: pure driving pleasure and a spirit of adventure.
\n
"If consumers are simply looking for a 'smartphone on wheels', there are other brands they can choose.
\n
"But for those who seek pure driving passion, a spirit of exploration, and the solid engineering that underpins it all, BMW is the ideal choice," said Goller.
\n",
+ "content": "
BMW debuts the iX3, the first production model of its Neue Klasse, on Sept 5.
\n
BMW AG debuted the first production model of its "Neue Klasse "line, the electric iX3, on Friday, adding that the China-made version will be unveiled later this year.
\n
The Neue Klasse models are widely believed by company executives and analysts to defend the German carmaker's position in premium electrification, especially in China, the largest and most competitive NEV market in the world.
\n
Chairman Oliver Zipse described the Neue Klasse as "the biggest future-focused project" in BMW's history, promising a huge leap in design, technology and user experience.
\n
Despite its unveiling later this year, the China-made iX3 will not start production until 2026, at BMW's manufacturing complex in Shenyang, Liaoning province.
\n
The German carmaker said the China-version has been designed with Chinese consumers in mind from day one, and the Chinese engineering team has played a central role in shaping it.
\n
Analysts said the moves underscore China's pivotal role in the German carmaker's electric transition.
\n
Cui Dongshu, secretary-general of the China Passenger Car Association, said China constituted 64.5 percent of the global electric car market in the first half of the year. If plug-in hybrids were included, the figure would rise to 68.3 percent, he said.
\n
From cabin space to digital features and driving assistance, the iX3 reflects local tastes and technological expectations, BMW said.
\n
Among other things, it will integrate sixth-generation eDrive technology with a CLTC range of up to 900 kilometers, aiming to ease lingering anxieties about battery range.
\n
China-specific features abound. The iX3 will embed artificial-intelligence capabilities developed with partners including Alibaba and DeepSeek, while drawing on Huawei's HarmonyOS ecosystem for services such as digital keys and HiCar connectivity.
\n
Smart driving features are being co-developed with Momenta to better adapt to Chinese road conditions.
\n
The company calls the car a benchmark for "China-exclusive intelligence, driving dynamics and luxury".
\n
The iX3 sits on BMW's new NCAR architecture, which consolidates breakthroughs including a panoramic iDrive interface, a new electronic control system dubbed the "super brain" and cylindrical battery cells.
\n
These elements will flow across the Neue Klasse portfolio, which will expand to more than 40 new models globally by 2027, with over 20 slated for China between 2026 and 2027.
\n
BMW's push comes as China cements its place at the center of the global auto industry's technology race, particularly in AI.
\n
China is the decisive battleground, Zipse said, citing the company's collaboration with domestic tech leaders to integrate cutting-edge AI into its vehicles.
\n
Until very recently BMW had been one of the best-selling premium carmakers in China.
\n
But the rise of local NEV rivals, which boast faster model rollouts as well as smart and luxurious cabin features, is wooing some customers away.
\n
"We believe the Neue Klasse should redefine BMW's brand image in China," said Jochen Goller, BMW's board member responsible for customer, brand, and sales, in an interview earlier this year.
\n
BMW is not competing with those startups head-on in areas they excel, said Goller, who highlights a focused strategy for the German carmaker: pure driving pleasure and a spirit of adventure.
\n
"If consumers are simply looking for a 'smartphone on wheels', there are other brands they can choose.
\n
"But for those who seek pure driving passion, a spirit of exploration, and the solid engineering that underpins it all, BMW is the ideal choice," said Goller.
Swedish electric vehicle maker Polestar reported a wider loss for the second quarter after tariffs and intensifying price pressure led to an impairment charge on its Polestar 3, sending its US-listed shares down.
\n
US trade tariffs on global partners have hit the automotive industry hard, with automakers including Polestar scrambling to adjust supply chains and shift manufacturing to mitigate the effect.
\n
Polestar reported a net loss of $1.03 billion for the quarter ended June 30, compared with a loss of $268 million a year earlier.
\n
The company slashed the recoverable value of the Polestar 3 to $25 million, leading to a $739 million impairment charge.
\n
Sweden-based Volvo Cars, which produces the Polestar 3 in its South Carolina factory, also booked a similar impairment charge in the second quarter related to its ES90 and EX90 due to tariffs and launch delays.
\n
"We will not grow in the US at any cost, because the financial exposure is then too high," Polestar said in a post-earnings call.
\n
The company added that 77 percent of its sales were generated from Europe, while 8 percent came from the US in the first half of this year.
\n
"We think their big problem is going to be EV demand in the absence of incentives combined with liquidity," said Garrett Nelson, senior equity analyst at CFRA Research.
\n
Like many other EV startups, Polestar has burned through significant amounts of cash in its push to achieve scale and consistently faced challenges managing liquidity as well as debt levels.
\n
The company initially aimed to reach cash flow break-even by 2025 but adjusted it in January to 2027, before suspending its forecast due to the uncertainty brought on by tariffs.
\n
While it has long risked breaching certain debt covenants, the company repeatedly negotiated amendments with its lenders and said it had agreed with creditors to revise some of the covenants to remain compliant in the second half of the year.
\n
Polestar also said it had handed over 177 cars as collateral, as part of a financing deal.
\n
While a number of startups including Fisker, Lordstown and Arrival have gone under after running out of funds, a few have backers willing to continue funding loss-making operations.
\n
VinFast's founder has kept the Vietnamese EV maker going as it tries to break even by the end of 2026, while Lucid has received around $8 billion in investments from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.
\n
Polestar secured a $200 million equity investment from Geely owner Li Shufu through PSD Investment in June.
\n",
+ "content": "
Swedish electric vehicle maker Polestar reported a wider loss for the second quarter after tariffs and intensifying price pressure led to an impairment charge on its Polestar 3, sending its US-listed shares down.
\n
US trade tariffs on global partners have hit the automotive industry hard, with automakers including Polestar scrambling to adjust supply chains and shift manufacturing to mitigate the effect.
\n
Polestar reported a net loss of $1.03 billion for the quarter ended June 30, compared with a loss of $268 million a year earlier.
\n
The company slashed the recoverable value of the Polestar 3 to $25 million, leading to a $739 million impairment charge.
\n
Sweden-based Volvo Cars, which produces the Polestar 3 in its South Carolina factory, also booked a similar impairment charge in the second quarter related to its ES90 and EX90 due to tariffs and launch delays.
\n
"We will not grow in the US at any cost, because the financial exposure is then too high," Polestar said in a post-earnings call.
\n
The company added that 77 percent of its sales were generated from Europe, while 8 percent came from the US in the first half of this year.
\n
"We think their big problem is going to be EV demand in the absence of incentives combined with liquidity," said Garrett Nelson, senior equity analyst at CFRA Research.
\n
Like many other EV startups, Polestar has burned through significant amounts of cash in its push to achieve scale and consistently faced challenges managing liquidity as well as debt levels.
\n
The company initially aimed to reach cash flow break-even by 2025 but adjusted it in January to 2027, before suspending its forecast due to the uncertainty brought on by tariffs.
\n
While it has long risked breaching certain debt covenants, the company repeatedly negotiated amendments with its lenders and said it had agreed with creditors to revise some of the covenants to remain compliant in the second half of the year.
\n
Polestar also said it had handed over 177 cars as collateral, as part of a financing deal.
\n
While a number of startups including Fisker, Lordstown and Arrival have gone under after running out of funds, a few have backers willing to continue funding loss-making operations.
\n
VinFast's founder has kept the Vietnamese EV maker going as it tries to break even by the end of 2026, while Lucid has received around $8 billion in investments from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.
\n
Polestar secured a $200 million equity investment from Geely owner Li Shufu through PSD Investment in June.
Malaysian automaker Proton launched the country's first dedicated EV assembly plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak's Automotive High Tech Valley, on Thursday. The new facility is already ready for production this month, seven months after its groundbreaking ceremony. The plant's first phase cost 47 million ringgit ($11 million) and can produce up to 20,000 EVs per year, with plans to scale up to a 45,000-unit annual capacity. Proton will assemble its e. MAS 7 and e. MAS 5 EV models at the site, and also plans to locally assemble premium brands through its partnership with China's Geely. Proton pointed out that EV production lines require dedicated battery assembly areas and specialized safety testing procedures for high-voltage electrical systems. Proton has fully leveraged the expertise of its co-principal shareholder Geely, which boasts mature technical experience in EV plant construction and has provided professional technical guidance for the new facility to support the plant's efficient launch and operation.
\n
Lotus slashes UK workforce due to tariff
\n
Chinese-owned luxury carmaker Lotus said on Thursday that it planned to cut up to 550 UK jobs, in part due to uncertainty caused by US President Donald Trump's tariffs. The layoffs represent more than 40 percent of its 1,300 employees in Britain. Lotus said the restructuring was necessary to "secure a sustainable future", citing the "rapidly evolving automotive environment, which is seeing uncertainty with rapid changes in global policies, including tariffs". The carmaker, majority-owned by Chinese automaker Geely, has several sites in the UK, including its headquarters in Hethel, eastern England. Another Lotus factory is in Wuhan, China. Automakers have been among the companies hit the hardest by Trump's tariff onslaught as he tries to bring production back to the US. UK exports of vehicles to the US rebounded in July following months of declines as the trade agreement came into force on June 30, industry data showed on Thursday.
\n
VW revives Polo brand for compact launch
\n
Volkswagen said on Wednesday it would use the Polo brand name for its planned compact hatchback electric vehicle, previously dubbed ID.2, a key model in the carmaker's efforts to counter Chinese competition. The ID.Polo, expected to be priced below 25,000 euros ($29,267) in its no-frills version, will be presented at the IAA Mobility auto show in Munich on Sept 8, although the car will still be camouflaged ahead of its official launch in 2026, Volkswagen said. "Our model names are firmly anchored in people's minds," said Thomas Schaefer, head of Volkswagen Passenger Cars and member of the carmaker's management board. "That's why we're moving our well-known names into the future. The ID.Polo is just the beginning." Volkswagen's finance chief Arno Antlitz said earlier this year that the ID.2 could be the carmaker's first battery-electric vehicle to make equal margins to its combustion-engine equivalent.
\n
BYD leads the way in Israel as competitors lag
\n
Chinese car manufacturer BYD led electric car sales in Israel in the first eight months of 2025, according to figures issued by the Israel Vehicle Importers Association on Tuesday. BYD sold 5,912 units between January and August, driven by its subcompact crossover Atto 3 and mid-size SUV Seal U. Chinese automaker XPeng secured second place with 5,076 electric cars sold across three models. Chery ranked third with 4,097, followed by Geely with 2,545 units and US manufacturer Tesla with 2,347. From January to August, Chinese brands accounted for 81.1 percent of all electric car sales in Israel, with a total of 30,725 delivered. Meanwhile, a total of 65,834 Chinese-made cars, gasoline-powered and electric, were sold in Israel during the period. According to the data, South Korea and Japan ranked as Israel's second- and third-largest sources of imported cars in the eight months, with 39,718 and 31,632 sold, respectively.
\n
Russia vehicle deliveries see decline of 25 percent
\n
Russia's Ministry of Industry and Trade reported on Tuesday that sales of new cars in the country fell 25 percent in the January-August period of 2025. According to the ministry, sales of new cars in Russia totaled 877,600 units, including passenger cars, light commercial vehicles, trucks and buses. Sales of domestically produced cars declined 6 percent to 483,000 units. Specifically, passenger car sales decreased 23 percent to 768,200 units, LCV sales dropped 21 percent to 66,400 units, while truck and bus sales saw steeper declines — down 56 percent to 35,960 units and 49 percent to 7,000 units, respectively. In August alone, new vehicle sales decreased 21 percent year-on-year to 135,500 units. However, sales inched up 1 percent on a monthly basis. The Association of European forecast a 24 percent drop in new car sales to 1.25 million units in 2025. It said government support programs and a possible further rate cut would be the key drivers of any market recovery in the near future.
\n",
+ "content": "
Geely-backed Proton launches first EV plant
\n
Malaysian automaker Proton launched the country's first dedicated EV assembly plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak's Automotive High Tech Valley, on Thursday. The new facility is already ready for production this month, seven months after its groundbreaking ceremony. The plant's first phase cost 47 million ringgit ($11 million) and can produce up to 20,000 EVs per year, with plans to scale up to a 45,000-unit annual capacity. Proton will assemble its e. MAS 7 and e. MAS 5 EV models at the site, and also plans to locally assemble premium brands through its partnership with China's Geely. Proton pointed out that EV production lines require dedicated battery assembly areas and specialized safety testing procedures for high-voltage electrical systems. Proton has fully leveraged the expertise of its co-principal shareholder Geely, which boasts mature technical experience in EV plant construction and has provided professional technical guidance for the new facility to support the plant's efficient launch and operation.
\n
Lotus slashes UK workforce due to tariff
\n
Chinese-owned luxury carmaker Lotus said on Thursday that it planned to cut up to 550 UK jobs, in part due to uncertainty caused by US President Donald Trump's tariffs. The layoffs represent more than 40 percent of its 1,300 employees in Britain. Lotus said the restructuring was necessary to "secure a sustainable future", citing the "rapidly evolving automotive environment, which is seeing uncertainty with rapid changes in global policies, including tariffs". The carmaker, majority-owned by Chinese automaker Geely, has several sites in the UK, including its headquarters in Hethel, eastern England. Another Lotus factory is in Wuhan, China. Automakers have been among the companies hit the hardest by Trump's tariff onslaught as he tries to bring production back to the US. UK exports of vehicles to the US rebounded in July following months of declines as the trade agreement came into force on June 30, industry data showed on Thursday.
\n
VW revives Polo brand for compact launch
\n
Volkswagen said on Wednesday it would use the Polo brand name for its planned compact hatchback electric vehicle, previously dubbed ID.2, a key model in the carmaker's efforts to counter Chinese competition. The ID.Polo, expected to be priced below 25,000 euros ($29,267) in its no-frills version, will be presented at the IAA Mobility auto show in Munich on Sept 8, although the car will still be camouflaged ahead of its official launch in 2026, Volkswagen said. "Our model names are firmly anchored in people's minds," said Thomas Schaefer, head of Volkswagen Passenger Cars and member of the carmaker's management board. "That's why we're moving our well-known names into the future. The ID.Polo is just the beginning." Volkswagen's finance chief Arno Antlitz said earlier this year that the ID.2 could be the carmaker's first battery-electric vehicle to make equal margins to its combustion-engine equivalent.
\n
BYD leads the way in Israel as competitors lag
\n
Chinese car manufacturer BYD led electric car sales in Israel in the first eight months of 2025, according to figures issued by the Israel Vehicle Importers Association on Tuesday. BYD sold 5,912 units between January and August, driven by its subcompact crossover Atto 3 and mid-size SUV Seal U. Chinese automaker XPeng secured second place with 5,076 electric cars sold across three models. Chery ranked third with 4,097, followed by Geely with 2,545 units and US manufacturer Tesla with 2,347. From January to August, Chinese brands accounted for 81.1 percent of all electric car sales in Israel, with a total of 30,725 delivered. Meanwhile, a total of 65,834 Chinese-made cars, gasoline-powered and electric, were sold in Israel during the period. According to the data, South Korea and Japan ranked as Israel's second- and third-largest sources of imported cars in the eight months, with 39,718 and 31,632 sold, respectively.
\n
Russia vehicle deliveries see decline of 25 percent
\n
Russia's Ministry of Industry and Trade reported on Tuesday that sales of new cars in the country fell 25 percent in the January-August period of 2025. According to the ministry, sales of new cars in Russia totaled 877,600 units, including passenger cars, light commercial vehicles, trucks and buses. Sales of domestically produced cars declined 6 percent to 483,000 units. Specifically, passenger car sales decreased 23 percent to 768,200 units, LCV sales dropped 21 percent to 66,400 units, while truck and bus sales saw steeper declines — down 56 percent to 35,960 units and 49 percent to 7,000 units, respectively. In August alone, new vehicle sales decreased 21 percent year-on-year to 135,500 units. However, sales inched up 1 percent on a monthly basis. The Association of European forecast a 24 percent drop in new car sales to 1.25 million units in 2025. It said government support programs and a possible further rate cut would be the key drivers of any market recovery in the near future.
Customers purchase products at a Pop Mart store in London, Britain, on May 21.
\n
Customers purchase products at a Pop Mart store in London, Britain, on May 21.
\n
Collectible cards bearing the Palace Museum elements prove a hit among collectors from home and abroad.
\n
Toys themed on Labubu, a popular furry doll from Chinese toy company Pop Mart, at a new Pop Mart store in Bangkok, Thailand, in July 2024.
\n
Li Jing vividly remembers how an American collector carefully examined a card made by her company in his hand during the bustling US National Sports Collectors Convention at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, that was held at the end of July.
\n
The card's surface gleams with a golden drawing of the Palace Museum's (in Beijing, also known as the Forbidden City) Hall of Supreme Harmony, its edges inlaid with delicate filigree, and at the center, a tiny natural gemstone.
\n
This thin card, measuring less than a millimeter in thickness, embodies the marriage of centuries-old Chinese filigree inlay craftsmanship and modern industrial precision.
\n
"The Hall of Supreme Harmony card is from our 'Heritage' series," says Li, a co-founder of Suplay, a Chinese designer toy and collectibles company founded in 2019.
\n
The business produces collectible cards, trendy figurines, and pop-culture merchandise, operating under its card brand Kakawow.
\n
This year marked the company's third invitation to Chicago to participate in the five-day convention, one of the world's largest card and memorabilia expos.
\n
At Suplay's booth, wearing a Tang Dynasty (618-907) style jacket, Disney's Mickey Mouse stood out in playful contrast to the US entertainment company Warner Bros' 100th anniversary commemorative cards sitting next to collectible cards featuring photography from the Chinese National Geography magazine.
\n
The US expo boasts a history of more than four decades. The floors are typically dominated by sports cards — basketball, baseball, and other sports-centered collectibles, such as jersey fragments or autographs. These remain the industry's gold standard, both culturally and economically.
\n
Yet, at Suplay's booth, Forbidden City-themed cards drew equally big crowds. Nearly all of Suplay's showcased products were sold out on-site, purchased primarily by American collectors and distributors.
\n
"These culturally infused collectibles are fast becoming favorites both at home and abroad," Li says.
\n
Kakawow's first Forbidden City series was launched in 2020 and snapped up within two weeks. Its success was further cemented by its performance on secondary markets, where collectors resell items to other collectors. Resale prices for the cards soared significantly, confirming their status as coveted cultural artifacts, not just consumer products, Li notes.
\n
Though Suplay did not offer the Forbidden City series at this year's convention, many US collectors inquired about products related to the Palace Museum — a sign of a strong overseas appetite for Chinese cultural intellectual properties, Li says.
\n
In recent years, trendy and collectible Chinese toys have gained remarkable popularity worldwide, with numerous brands expanding their reach overseas, generating overwhelming enthusiasm both online and offline.
\n
Pop Mart stands out as a prominent example of this global success. By the end of 2024, Pop Mart had expanded to over 30 countries and regions, operating more than 500 physical stores and over 2,300 robotic stores.
\n
TOP TOY, another major player, now operates more than 280 stores worldwide and reported exports worth approximately 47 million yuan ($6.6 million) in 2024.
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow in the Ministry of Commerce's e-commerce research department, notes that with the rise of China's economy and the enhancement of its cultural influences, trendy toys have served as a vehicle for cultural dissemination, successfully integrating Chinese elements with modern trends and demonstrating unique charm.
\n
Hong adds that the overseas popularity of Chinese brands not only boosts their international visibility and influence but also strengthens the domestic market in return, creating a positive feedback loop.
\n
Suplay's entrepreneurial journey began with a creative reinterpretation of traditional culture.
\n
"For our premium card brand Kakawow, we chose the Forbidden City as the first IP because it represents one deep cultural consensus among Chinese people," Li recalls.
\n
Their debut series — totaling 300 boxes — sold out in just two weeks, giving the team enormous confidence.
\n
In 2024, Kakawow launched its "Heritage" series priced at 6,990 yuan, which incorporated intangible cultural heritage techniques such as filigree inlay.
\n
Among them, the Cup of Eternal Stability edition was made using 81 grams of pure gold.
\n
"The market response exceeded all expectations," Li says.
\n
"Ninety-six percent of our buyers are adults over 18, which proves there is significant demand for high-end collectible cards in China," she adds.
\n
Inside Kakawow's creative studio in Beijing, the East and the West merge in imaginative ways. Mickey Mouse dons a traditional Tang-style robe embroidered with auspicious cloud motifs. Beasts from the roof of the Hall of Supreme Harmony leap across holographic card foil.
\n
"This blending of traditions is not only visual, but also rooted in the precision of Chinese manufacturing," Li says.
\n
She picked up a Warner Bros'100th anniversary card to demonstrate: "The PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film layer has a thickness deviation of less than 0.1 millimeters, and the gold stamping position tolerance is controlled within 0.3 millimeters. Only Chinese factories can achieve this level of consistency," she says.
\n
According to a leading card-grading agency in the United States, 75 percent of Kakawow cards achieve a Gem Mint 10 rating, well above the US industry average of 50 percent.
\n
Cao Wei, general manager of the card trading platform Card Hobby, established in 2014, has been a collector since 1997 and has witnessed China's collectible card culture grow over the years.
\n
"To hold a piece of Michael Jordan's game-worn jersey embedded in a card carries immense emotional value for fans. It's not just a card; it's a tangible memory," Cao recalls. His collecting journey started with matchbox covers and stamps, then gradually moved toward modern trading cards.
\n
Today, the platform processes transactions of nearly 300 million yuan monthly, with over 600,000 registered users worldwide, making it a key bridge that links Chinese card culture to global markets.
\n
Though cards with Chinese elements currently account for just 5 to 10 percent of transactions, Cao sees tremendous growth potential.
\n
"The challenge for cultural cards going global is IP appeal," Cao explains.
\n
"You need international customers to buy in. You need a breakout story," he adds.
\n
He cites Ne Zha as proof — after being licensed and distributed as a trading card series, the IP became highly active on the platform, proving to be a successful case of export of cultural product.
\n
Industry veterans note that China's advantage in exporting designer toys and cultural collectibles lies in three areas: a robust supply chain; expertise in social media marketing and cross-border e-commerce; and a maturing, original design ecosystem.
\n
Looking ahead, the outlook is bright. According to the Annual Report on China's Pop Toy and Animation and Comic Industries (2024), the country's designer toy industry is projected to reach 110.1 billion yuan by 2026, with annual growth above 20 percent.
\n
Amid these shifts, Cao underscores the importance of patience.
\n
"The card market requires long-term accumulation. We need time to become friends," Cao says.
\n
He adds that Card Hobby will continue to advance China's card culture globally by participating in international expos, streamlining cross-border transactions, and releasing more products that blend Eastern and Western themes.
\n
As for Suplay, the company plans to push further, experimenting with creative combinations, such as Dunhuang's flying apsaras with the movie Interstellar, and Song Dynasty (960-1279) elements with cyberpunk aesthetics.
\n
"These seemingly contrasting elements will be woven into collectible cards, offering fresh stories with cultural fusion," Li says.
\n
She believes that cultural elements going global cannot be measured by sales numbers alone.
\n
"When I saw an elderly American gentleman at our booth using a magnifying glass to examine the Chinese characters Taihe Dian (Hall of Supreme Harmony), then looking them up to learn their meaning, I realized that cultural integration is truly happening," she says.
\n
Contact the writer at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Customers purchase products at a Pop Mart store in London, Britain, on May 21.
\n
Customers purchase products at a Pop Mart store in London, Britain, on May 21.
\n
Collectible cards bearing the Palace Museum elements prove a hit among collectors from home and abroad.
\n
Toys themed on Labubu, a popular furry doll from Chinese toy company Pop Mart, at a new Pop Mart store in Bangkok, Thailand, in July 2024.
\n
Li Jing vividly remembers how an American collector carefully examined a card made by her company in his hand during the bustling US National Sports Collectors Convention at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, that was held at the end of July.
\n
The card's surface gleams with a golden drawing of the Palace Museum's (in Beijing, also known as the Forbidden City) Hall of Supreme Harmony, its edges inlaid with delicate filigree, and at the center, a tiny natural gemstone.
\n
This thin card, measuring less than a millimeter in thickness, embodies the marriage of centuries-old Chinese filigree inlay craftsmanship and modern industrial precision.
\n
"The Hall of Supreme Harmony card is from our 'Heritage' series," says Li, a co-founder of Suplay, a Chinese designer toy and collectibles company founded in 2019.
\n
The business produces collectible cards, trendy figurines, and pop-culture merchandise, operating under its card brand Kakawow.
\n
This year marked the company's third invitation to Chicago to participate in the five-day convention, one of the world's largest card and memorabilia expos.
\n
At Suplay's booth, wearing a Tang Dynasty (618-907) style jacket, Disney's Mickey Mouse stood out in playful contrast to the US entertainment company Warner Bros' 100th anniversary commemorative cards sitting next to collectible cards featuring photography from the Chinese National Geography magazine.
\n
The US expo boasts a history of more than four decades. The floors are typically dominated by sports cards — basketball, baseball, and other sports-centered collectibles, such as jersey fragments or autographs. These remain the industry's gold standard, both culturally and economically.
\n
Yet, at Suplay's booth, Forbidden City-themed cards drew equally big crowds. Nearly all of Suplay's showcased products were sold out on-site, purchased primarily by American collectors and distributors.
\n
"These culturally infused collectibles are fast becoming favorites both at home and abroad," Li says.
\n
Kakawow's first Forbidden City series was launched in 2020 and snapped up within two weeks. Its success was further cemented by its performance on secondary markets, where collectors resell items to other collectors. Resale prices for the cards soared significantly, confirming their status as coveted cultural artifacts, not just consumer products, Li notes.
\n
Though Suplay did not offer the Forbidden City series at this year's convention, many US collectors inquired about products related to the Palace Museum — a sign of a strong overseas appetite for Chinese cultural intellectual properties, Li says.
\n
In recent years, trendy and collectible Chinese toys have gained remarkable popularity worldwide, with numerous brands expanding their reach overseas, generating overwhelming enthusiasm both online and offline.
\n
Pop Mart stands out as a prominent example of this global success. By the end of 2024, Pop Mart had expanded to over 30 countries and regions, operating more than 500 physical stores and over 2,300 robotic stores.
\n
TOP TOY, another major player, now operates more than 280 stores worldwide and reported exports worth approximately 47 million yuan ($6.6 million) in 2024.
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow in the Ministry of Commerce's e-commerce research department, notes that with the rise of China's economy and the enhancement of its cultural influences, trendy toys have served as a vehicle for cultural dissemination, successfully integrating Chinese elements with modern trends and demonstrating unique charm.
\n
Hong adds that the overseas popularity of Chinese brands not only boosts their international visibility and influence but also strengthens the domestic market in return, creating a positive feedback loop.
\n
Suplay's entrepreneurial journey began with a creative reinterpretation of traditional culture.
\n
"For our premium card brand Kakawow, we chose the Forbidden City as the first IP because it represents one deep cultural consensus among Chinese people," Li recalls.
\n
Their debut series — totaling 300 boxes — sold out in just two weeks, giving the team enormous confidence.
\n
In 2024, Kakawow launched its "Heritage" series priced at 6,990 yuan, which incorporated intangible cultural heritage techniques such as filigree inlay.
\n
Among them, the Cup of Eternal Stability edition was made using 81 grams of pure gold.
\n
"The market response exceeded all expectations," Li says.
\n
"Ninety-six percent of our buyers are adults over 18, which proves there is significant demand for high-end collectible cards in China," she adds.
\n
Inside Kakawow's creative studio in Beijing, the East and the West merge in imaginative ways. Mickey Mouse dons a traditional Tang-style robe embroidered with auspicious cloud motifs. Beasts from the roof of the Hall of Supreme Harmony leap across holographic card foil.
\n
"This blending of traditions is not only visual, but also rooted in the precision of Chinese manufacturing," Li says.
\n
She picked up a Warner Bros'100th anniversary card to demonstrate: "The PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film layer has a thickness deviation of less than 0.1 millimeters, and the gold stamping position tolerance is controlled within 0.3 millimeters. Only Chinese factories can achieve this level of consistency," she says.
\n
According to a leading card-grading agency in the United States, 75 percent of Kakawow cards achieve a Gem Mint 10 rating, well above the US industry average of 50 percent.
\n
Cao Wei, general manager of the card trading platform Card Hobby, established in 2014, has been a collector since 1997 and has witnessed China's collectible card culture grow over the years.
\n
"To hold a piece of Michael Jordan's game-worn jersey embedded in a card carries immense emotional value for fans. It's not just a card; it's a tangible memory," Cao recalls. His collecting journey started with matchbox covers and stamps, then gradually moved toward modern trading cards.
\n
Today, the platform processes transactions of nearly 300 million yuan monthly, with over 600,000 registered users worldwide, making it a key bridge that links Chinese card culture to global markets.
\n
Though cards with Chinese elements currently account for just 5 to 10 percent of transactions, Cao sees tremendous growth potential.
\n
"The challenge for cultural cards going global is IP appeal," Cao explains.
\n
"You need international customers to buy in. You need a breakout story," he adds.
\n
He cites Ne Zha as proof — after being licensed and distributed as a trading card series, the IP became highly active on the platform, proving to be a successful case of export of cultural product.
\n
Industry veterans note that China's advantage in exporting designer toys and cultural collectibles lies in three areas: a robust supply chain; expertise in social media marketing and cross-border e-commerce; and a maturing, original design ecosystem.
\n
Looking ahead, the outlook is bright. According to the Annual Report on China's Pop Toy and Animation and Comic Industries (2024), the country's designer toy industry is projected to reach 110.1 billion yuan by 2026, with annual growth above 20 percent.
\n
Amid these shifts, Cao underscores the importance of patience.
\n
"The card market requires long-term accumulation. We need time to become friends," Cao says.
\n
He adds that Card Hobby will continue to advance China's card culture globally by participating in international expos, streamlining cross-border transactions, and releasing more products that blend Eastern and Western themes.
\n
As for Suplay, the company plans to push further, experimenting with creative combinations, such as Dunhuang's flying apsaras with the movie Interstellar, and Song Dynasty (960-1279) elements with cyberpunk aesthetics.
\n
"These seemingly contrasting elements will be woven into collectible cards, offering fresh stories with cultural fusion," Li says.
\n
She believes that cultural elements going global cannot be measured by sales numbers alone.
\n
"When I saw an elderly American gentleman at our booth using a magnifying glass to examine the Chinese characters Taihe Dian (Hall of Supreme Harmony), then looking them up to learn their meaning, I realized that cultural integration is truly happening," she says.
\n
Contact the writer at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn
The culture and museum sectors are seeing accelerating application of artificial intelligence, as shown by a recent meeting pairing industry and cultural institutions in Shanghai in August.
\n
Online Scan the code to watch the video.
\n
The culture and museum sectors are witnessing the acceleration of artificial intelligence use, focusing on various fields, such as museum guidance and immersive exhibitions, as well as the identification, protection, and restoration of cultural relics, according to industry experts at a matchmaking meeting in Shanghai on Aug 25.
\n
The city has been ramping up efforts in innovation in the sector in recent years. In 2018, the Shanghai Museum established the nation's first comprehensive data-based digital management platform. In 2021, the Shanghai History Museum launched the city's first digital twin museum system, significantly improving its digital governance capabilities.
\n
Several immersive exhibitions at various museums across Shanghai are already utilizing advanced technologies, bringing ancient Chinese civilization back to life while offering new cultural experiences.
\n
In cooperation with Chinese AI company SenseTime, a Fourier humanoid robot was demonstrated at the meeting, offering visitors a guided tour of the museum.
\n
Xinke Animation Co set up an immersive space with virtual reality on site to take visitors on an expedition into the mysterious Xixia Imperial Tombs.
\n
BimoAI also showcased an interactive terminal named "BimoAI Camera", which offers visitors to museums and tourist spots instantly customized AIGC (artificial intelligence-generated content) photos and newspapers.
\n
"Artificial intelligence has not only enhanced the interactivity and engagement of the visitor experience, but also optimized the management of cultural institutions and cultural relic protection," says Xiang Yihai, deputy director-general of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Cultural Heritage. "Museums are evolving from traditional exhibition spaces into vibrant interactive venues, and AI is becoming a 'super translator' for telling the stories of Shanghai."
\n
Several cooperative projects were signed during the event to further promote AI's application scenarios in the cultural and museum sectors.
\n
Among them, the Shanghai Museum will partner with BesTV to develop a digital twin museum, and the Shanghai History Museum will work with four technology companies to deepen the exploration of sectors such as spatial scanning, data collection, modeling, digital copyright management, and intelligent guided tours.
\n
At the meeting, Shanghai Jiao Tong University also unveiled the construction of a research center, which will optimize the protection of cultural heritage architecture. With AI technologies, the center will focus on key areas, including the diagnosis of cultural heritage architectural defects, risk prediction, and protection measures.
\n
"We see huge potential and promising prospects for China's cultural tourism market. For instance, the market demand for our BimoAI Camera is growing in Shanghai. We are in talks with about 100 museums and cultural tourism sites about potential collaborations," says Eric Tang, founder and CEO of BimoAI. "I am confident that the application of AI in this sector will continue to grow."
\n
wangxin2@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
The culture and museum sectors are seeing accelerating application of artificial intelligence, as shown by a recent meeting pairing industry and cultural institutions in Shanghai in August.
\n
Online Scan the code to watch the video.
\n
The culture and museum sectors are witnessing the acceleration of artificial intelligence use, focusing on various fields, such as museum guidance and immersive exhibitions, as well as the identification, protection, and restoration of cultural relics, according to industry experts at a matchmaking meeting in Shanghai on Aug 25.
\n
The city has been ramping up efforts in innovation in the sector in recent years. In 2018, the Shanghai Museum established the nation's first comprehensive data-based digital management platform. In 2021, the Shanghai History Museum launched the city's first digital twin museum system, significantly improving its digital governance capabilities.
\n
Several immersive exhibitions at various museums across Shanghai are already utilizing advanced technologies, bringing ancient Chinese civilization back to life while offering new cultural experiences.
\n
In cooperation with Chinese AI company SenseTime, a Fourier humanoid robot was demonstrated at the meeting, offering visitors a guided tour of the museum.
\n
Xinke Animation Co set up an immersive space with virtual reality on site to take visitors on an expedition into the mysterious Xixia Imperial Tombs.
\n
BimoAI also showcased an interactive terminal named "BimoAI Camera", which offers visitors to museums and tourist spots instantly customized AIGC (artificial intelligence-generated content) photos and newspapers.
\n
"Artificial intelligence has not only enhanced the interactivity and engagement of the visitor experience, but also optimized the management of cultural institutions and cultural relic protection," says Xiang Yihai, deputy director-general of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Cultural Heritage. "Museums are evolving from traditional exhibition spaces into vibrant interactive venues, and AI is becoming a 'super translator' for telling the stories of Shanghai."
\n
Several cooperative projects were signed during the event to further promote AI's application scenarios in the cultural and museum sectors.
\n
Among them, the Shanghai Museum will partner with BesTV to develop a digital twin museum, and the Shanghai History Museum will work with four technology companies to deepen the exploration of sectors such as spatial scanning, data collection, modeling, digital copyright management, and intelligent guided tours.
\n
At the meeting, Shanghai Jiao Tong University also unveiled the construction of a research center, which will optimize the protection of cultural heritage architecture. With AI technologies, the center will focus on key areas, including the diagnosis of cultural heritage architectural defects, risk prediction, and protection measures.
\n
"We see huge potential and promising prospects for China's cultural tourism market. For instance, the market demand for our BimoAI Camera is growing in Shanghai. We are in talks with about 100 museums and cultural tourism sites about potential collaborations," says Eric Tang, founder and CEO of BimoAI. "I am confident that the application of AI in this sector will continue to grow."
Chinese Canadian violinist Li Zhe, newly appointed executive director of the NCPA Orchestra.
\n
Maestro Myung-whun Chung conducts a concert during the European tour.
\n
Piano virtuoso Bruce Liu performs with the orchestra on its summer tour.
\n
This year was the first time that the orchestra had embarked on a wider European tour.
\n
The performances in Scotland, England, Spain, and Germany drew an enthusiastic response from concertgoers.
\n
The National Centre for the Performing Arts has named Chinese Canadian violinist Li Zhe as executive director of its resident orchestra, a move announced just as the ensemble returned from its first full-scale European tour. The appointment marks both a personal milestone for Li, long-serving concertmaster and one of the orchestra's most senior players, and a symbolic moment for the group, which is striving for greater international recognition.
\n
Founded in 2010, the Beijing-based NCPA Orchestra has grown rapidly in stature under the direction of internationally renowned conductors. This summer, led by maestro Myung-whun Chung, it performed at major festivals including the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland, Saffron Hall in England, the Santander International Festival in Spain, and in the German cities of Koblenz and Hamburg. In Hamburg, the orchestra received a standing ovation, a sign that the young ensemble is now ready to be measured on Europe's most competitive stages.
\n
With an average age of 32, and comprising musicians from all over the world but mainly China, the orchestra brings together a wide range of young talent. It performs live to around 200,000 people annually, with millions more tuning in online.
\n
General manager Ren Xiaolong recalls suggesting to Chung that they tour together years ago, but the conductor wanted to wait until the group had matured. Only in 2019 did plans begin to take shape.
\n
For Li, who has served as concertmaster since 2012, the timing was right. "It's just about waiting for the opportunity to do a proper tour," he says. "We toured Germany in earlier years, but this was our first true European tour. Europe is very important for classical music as this is where it comes from. The musicians needed to be ready artistically and mentally."
\n
Born in 1978, Li studied at Beijing's Central Conservatory of Music before earning scholarships to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and the Universite de Montreal in Canada.
\n
He gained professional experience with the London Symphony Orchestra and ensembles in Montreal, where he also served as a cultural envoy. Returning to China, he joined the Symphony Orchestra of the China National Opera House and then the NCPA Orchestra, rising to become concertmaster. Over his career, he has worked with celebrated conductors including Zubin Mehta and Lorin Maazel, contributed to the music for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, and twice received an Outstanding Performance Award from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
\n
His new appointment recognizes not only his musical ability but also his role as a bridge between conductor and musicians. "In our orchestra, there are many young players who are passionate and well-trained," he says. "Around one-third come from other countries, including Spain and South Korea. Many have studied abroad. We are a very international orchestra."
\n
That internationalism is reflected in the programming. On its European tour, the orchestra presented a blend of Western classics by composers such as Sergey Prokofiev and Camille Saint-Saens alongside Chinese works less familiar to Western audiences. Among them was Wu Xing (The Five Elements) by Chen Qigang, a student of French composer Olivier Messiaen. Li stresses that such choices demonstrate music's universality. "Music is a common language — Eastern, Western, it's all music," he says. "Chen's harmonies are French, but the melodies are Chinese. That mix is a good example of cultural dialogue."
\n
The NCPA Orchestra also benefits from its home environment. The Beijing center is a cultural hub, hosting opera, ballet, theater, classical concerts, and traditional Chinese opera. Li believes this enhances the orchestra's artistry. "Opera playing is different from symphony playing — it has to fit with long singing phrases," he explains. "It is very good for us to learn both, because you take elements of operatic playing and mingle them with symphony playing, which gives a different spirit."
\n
Chung echoed this sense of growth. While being interviewed in Hamburg, he said the young musicians should be proud of themselves.
\n
Li also says that the ensemble has reached a new level of maturity.
\n
"The average age of the members is much younger than me," he says with a laugh. "But that energy is good."
\n
Ren says, "We are constantly expanding our boundaries — technically, cognitively, and in terms of team spirit. It is a process of self-cultivation for the orchestra."
\n
The international dimension of the summer tour was strengthened by the participation of Bruce Liu, the French-born Chinese Canadian pianist who won the International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw in 2021. At 28, Liu is one of the most sought-after young pianists in the world, and he praised the collaboration as both fun and inspirational. He will perform in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, Guangdong province, later this year.
\n
At home, the orchestra enjoys strong audience support. Concert halls in China now attract large numbers of young people who share reviews online and fuel discussions on platforms such as RedNote. Many parents encourage their children to learn music, and new concert halls have opened across the country. This enthusiasm has helped the NCPA Orchestra build a loyal following.
\n
Li hopes he can guide an orchestra that combines international training, youthful energy, and a growing ambition to represent Chinese artistry abroad. "We are not robots, we are human beings," he says. "You cannot just switch from one style to another. You take elements and mingle them, and that makes for a different spirit. That's what we are aiming for."
\n
From his first years as a student in Beijing to his studies abroad and professional work in London and Montreal, Li's career has mirrored the global journey of Chinese classical music itself. Now, as the NCPA Orchestra begins to establish its reputation in Europe, he is tasked with ensuring that the ensemble continues to grow.
\n
Zhao Haiying, executive vice-president of the NCPA, who led the tour, notes that the tour came shortly after the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. He hoped the performances would help build new bridges of communication.
\n
The European tour is unlikely to be the last. With more opportunities emerging, the orchestra aims to expand its international footprint while continuing to serve audiences at home.
\n
Contact the writer at Julian@mail.chinadailyuk.com
\n",
+ "content": "
Chinese Canadian violinist Li Zhe, newly appointed executive director of the NCPA Orchestra.
\n
Maestro Myung-whun Chung conducts a concert during the European tour.
\n
Piano virtuoso Bruce Liu performs with the orchestra on its summer tour.
\n
This year was the first time that the orchestra had embarked on a wider European tour.
\n
The performances in Scotland, England, Spain, and Germany drew an enthusiastic response from concertgoers.
\n
The National Centre for the Performing Arts has named Chinese Canadian violinist Li Zhe as executive director of its resident orchestra, a move announced just as the ensemble returned from its first full-scale European tour. The appointment marks both a personal milestone for Li, long-serving concertmaster and one of the orchestra's most senior players, and a symbolic moment for the group, which is striving for greater international recognition.
\n
Founded in 2010, the Beijing-based NCPA Orchestra has grown rapidly in stature under the direction of internationally renowned conductors. This summer, led by maestro Myung-whun Chung, it performed at major festivals including the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland, Saffron Hall in England, the Santander International Festival in Spain, and in the German cities of Koblenz and Hamburg. In Hamburg, the orchestra received a standing ovation, a sign that the young ensemble is now ready to be measured on Europe's most competitive stages.
\n
With an average age of 32, and comprising musicians from all over the world but mainly China, the orchestra brings together a wide range of young talent. It performs live to around 200,000 people annually, with millions more tuning in online.
\n
General manager Ren Xiaolong recalls suggesting to Chung that they tour together years ago, but the conductor wanted to wait until the group had matured. Only in 2019 did plans begin to take shape.
\n
For Li, who has served as concertmaster since 2012, the timing was right. "It's just about waiting for the opportunity to do a proper tour," he says. "We toured Germany in earlier years, but this was our first true European tour. Europe is very important for classical music as this is where it comes from. The musicians needed to be ready artistically and mentally."
\n
Born in 1978, Li studied at Beijing's Central Conservatory of Music before earning scholarships to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and the Universite de Montreal in Canada.
\n
He gained professional experience with the London Symphony Orchestra and ensembles in Montreal, where he also served as a cultural envoy. Returning to China, he joined the Symphony Orchestra of the China National Opera House and then the NCPA Orchestra, rising to become concertmaster. Over his career, he has worked with celebrated conductors including Zubin Mehta and Lorin Maazel, contributed to the music for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, and twice received an Outstanding Performance Award from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
\n
His new appointment recognizes not only his musical ability but also his role as a bridge between conductor and musicians. "In our orchestra, there are many young players who are passionate and well-trained," he says. "Around one-third come from other countries, including Spain and South Korea. Many have studied abroad. We are a very international orchestra."
\n
That internationalism is reflected in the programming. On its European tour, the orchestra presented a blend of Western classics by composers such as Sergey Prokofiev and Camille Saint-Saens alongside Chinese works less familiar to Western audiences. Among them was Wu Xing (The Five Elements) by Chen Qigang, a student of French composer Olivier Messiaen. Li stresses that such choices demonstrate music's universality. "Music is a common language — Eastern, Western, it's all music," he says. "Chen's harmonies are French, but the melodies are Chinese. That mix is a good example of cultural dialogue."
\n
The NCPA Orchestra also benefits from its home environment. The Beijing center is a cultural hub, hosting opera, ballet, theater, classical concerts, and traditional Chinese opera. Li believes this enhances the orchestra's artistry. "Opera playing is different from symphony playing — it has to fit with long singing phrases," he explains. "It is very good for us to learn both, because you take elements of operatic playing and mingle them with symphony playing, which gives a different spirit."
\n
Chung echoed this sense of growth. While being interviewed in Hamburg, he said the young musicians should be proud of themselves.
\n
Li also says that the ensemble has reached a new level of maturity.
\n
"The average age of the members is much younger than me," he says with a laugh. "But that energy is good."
\n
Ren says, "We are constantly expanding our boundaries — technically, cognitively, and in terms of team spirit. It is a process of self-cultivation for the orchestra."
\n
The international dimension of the summer tour was strengthened by the participation of Bruce Liu, the French-born Chinese Canadian pianist who won the International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw in 2021. At 28, Liu is one of the most sought-after young pianists in the world, and he praised the collaboration as both fun and inspirational. He will perform in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, Guangdong province, later this year.
\n
At home, the orchestra enjoys strong audience support. Concert halls in China now attract large numbers of young people who share reviews online and fuel discussions on platforms such as RedNote. Many parents encourage their children to learn music, and new concert halls have opened across the country. This enthusiasm has helped the NCPA Orchestra build a loyal following.
\n
Li hopes he can guide an orchestra that combines international training, youthful energy, and a growing ambition to represent Chinese artistry abroad. "We are not robots, we are human beings," he says. "You cannot just switch from one style to another. You take elements and mingle them, and that makes for a different spirit. That's what we are aiming for."
\n
From his first years as a student in Beijing to his studies abroad and professional work in London and Montreal, Li's career has mirrored the global journey of Chinese classical music itself. Now, as the NCPA Orchestra begins to establish its reputation in Europe, he is tasked with ensuring that the ensemble continues to grow.
\n
Zhao Haiying, executive vice-president of the NCPA, who led the tour, notes that the tour came shortly after the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. He hoped the performances would help build new bridges of communication.
\n
The European tour is unlikely to be the last. With more opportunities emerging, the orchestra aims to expand its international footprint while continuing to serve audiences at home.
\n
Contact the writer at Julian@mail.chinadailyuk.com
Acrobat Hamis Adam Nyota (center) holds the hand of a student during a practice session in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Aug 11.
\n
DAR ES SALAAM — In the heart of Ilala Mchikichini, a bustling neighborhood in Tanzania's port city of Dar es Salaam, the sound of spinning hoops and synchronized flips fills the warm afternoon air.
\n
At the center of the action, 9-year-old Aisha Juma, a fourth-grader at Ilala Boma Primary School, twirls hula hoops with remarkable precision.
\n
"I like acrobatics because it makes me healthy and sharpens my mind," she says with a smile.
\n
Since beginning her training two years ago, Aisha has not only built strength and flexibility but also noticed better results in school.
\n
Her story is the latest chapter in a tradition that began nearly six decades ago, when 20 young Tanzanians were sent to China to study acrobatics — a milestone in the history of Sino-Tanzanian cultural exchange.
\n
The program took shape after a Chinese acrobatic troupe performed in Tanzania, impressing national leaders and inspiring the idea of sending young talents for formal training in China.
\n
In the winter of 1965, Hamis Adam Nyota and 19 others — 14 boys and five girls, aged between 9 and 18 — arrived in Wuhan, the capital of Central China's Hubei province.
\n
"Life in China was tough at first," Nyota, born in 1954, recalls. "Most of us fell ill, except for one."
\n
Despite the challenges, they trained diligently at the Wuhan Acrobatic Institute. Their dedication led to a historic meeting in 1968 with Chairman Mao Zedong, during a visit by Tanzania's founding President Julius Nyerere.
\n
"We met Mao face to face, spoke with him, and took photos together. It was a tremendous honor," says Nyota.
\n
Returning home in 1969, the group established the National Acrobatics Troupe, the first of its kind in Africa. Under government guidance, they toured extensively within Tanzania and abroad, performing in Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, the Comoros and Malawi.
\n
Nyota stayed with the troupe until 1977, when the government decentralized acrobatics training. Posted to the Mtwara region, he continued to teach even as many of his peers left the profession. Along with colleague Rajab Zubwa, he later founded Bantu International Acrobatic group to revive the art.
\n
"In time, every performing arts troupe wanted to include acrobatics," Nyota says. "That's how the art grew — both locally and internationally."
\n
One of his proteges, Saidi Ramadhani Yusuph, now serves as an instructor at Happy Center Acrobatic Talent.
\n
Inspired by visiting Chinese performers, Yusuph began training with Nyota at age 16. "He taught me for five years before I entered the profession," Yusuph recalls.
\n
Since becoming a teacher in 2008, Yusuph has trained over 70 students, focusing on balancing skills and teamwork. Despite limited facilities and modest institutional support, he remains dedicated. "Teaching is my passion, and acrobatics is a talent within me," he says.
\n
"Acrobatics brings many benefits. Physically and mentally, it builds strength. Financially, it can provide a livelihood. We've had job opportunities through hotels, weddings, and various events, both in Tanzania and abroad," Yusuph explains.
\n
He notes that public perception has shifted. Once viewed as simple entertainment, acrobatics is now recognized as a legitimate career path. "Some artists have secured contracts abroad, earning between $1,500 and $2,000 a month — a significant income in Tanzanian terms," he says.
\n
Happy Center Acrobatic Talent, a registered institution, now has over 200 members. Alumni include internationally known acts such as the Ramadhani Brothers, who competed on America's Got Talent, a popular US television talent show.
\n
Nyota believes the Tanzania-China bond remains strong. "Comparing the China we visited to the China of today shows a dramatic transformation," he says. "They have progressed impressively."
\n
From the icy streets of Wuhan to the sunlit training grounds of Dar es Salaam, the story of Tanzanian acrobatics continues to unfold.
\n
As young Aisha spins her hoops with poise and joy, she carries forward a tradition that bridges continents and generations.
\n",
+ "content": "
Acrobat Hamis Adam Nyota (center) holds the hand of a student during a practice session in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Aug 11.
\n
DAR ES SALAAM — In the heart of Ilala Mchikichini, a bustling neighborhood in Tanzania's port city of Dar es Salaam, the sound of spinning hoops and synchronized flips fills the warm afternoon air.
\n
At the center of the action, 9-year-old Aisha Juma, a fourth-grader at Ilala Boma Primary School, twirls hula hoops with remarkable precision.
\n
"I like acrobatics because it makes me healthy and sharpens my mind," she says with a smile.
\n
Since beginning her training two years ago, Aisha has not only built strength and flexibility but also noticed better results in school.
\n
Her story is the latest chapter in a tradition that began nearly six decades ago, when 20 young Tanzanians were sent to China to study acrobatics — a milestone in the history of Sino-Tanzanian cultural exchange.
\n
The program took shape after a Chinese acrobatic troupe performed in Tanzania, impressing national leaders and inspiring the idea of sending young talents for formal training in China.
\n
In the winter of 1965, Hamis Adam Nyota and 19 others — 14 boys and five girls, aged between 9 and 18 — arrived in Wuhan, the capital of Central China's Hubei province.
\n
"Life in China was tough at first," Nyota, born in 1954, recalls. "Most of us fell ill, except for one."
\n
Despite the challenges, they trained diligently at the Wuhan Acrobatic Institute. Their dedication led to a historic meeting in 1968 with Chairman Mao Zedong, during a visit by Tanzania's founding President Julius Nyerere.
\n
"We met Mao face to face, spoke with him, and took photos together. It was a tremendous honor," says Nyota.
\n
Returning home in 1969, the group established the National Acrobatics Troupe, the first of its kind in Africa. Under government guidance, they toured extensively within Tanzania and abroad, performing in Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, the Comoros and Malawi.
\n
Nyota stayed with the troupe until 1977, when the government decentralized acrobatics training. Posted to the Mtwara region, he continued to teach even as many of his peers left the profession. Along with colleague Rajab Zubwa, he later founded Bantu International Acrobatic group to revive the art.
\n
"In time, every performing arts troupe wanted to include acrobatics," Nyota says. "That's how the art grew — both locally and internationally."
\n
One of his proteges, Saidi Ramadhani Yusuph, now serves as an instructor at Happy Center Acrobatic Talent.
\n
Inspired by visiting Chinese performers, Yusuph began training with Nyota at age 16. "He taught me for five years before I entered the profession," Yusuph recalls.
\n
Since becoming a teacher in 2008, Yusuph has trained over 70 students, focusing on balancing skills and teamwork. Despite limited facilities and modest institutional support, he remains dedicated. "Teaching is my passion, and acrobatics is a talent within me," he says.
\n
"Acrobatics brings many benefits. Physically and mentally, it builds strength. Financially, it can provide a livelihood. We've had job opportunities through hotels, weddings, and various events, both in Tanzania and abroad," Yusuph explains.
\n
He notes that public perception has shifted. Once viewed as simple entertainment, acrobatics is now recognized as a legitimate career path. "Some artists have secured contracts abroad, earning between $1,500 and $2,000 a month — a significant income in Tanzanian terms," he says.
\n
Happy Center Acrobatic Talent, a registered institution, now has over 200 members. Alumni include internationally known acts such as the Ramadhani Brothers, who competed on America's Got Talent, a popular US television talent show.
\n
Nyota believes the Tanzania-China bond remains strong. "Comparing the China we visited to the China of today shows a dramatic transformation," he says. "They have progressed impressively."
\n
From the icy streets of Wuhan to the sunlit training grounds of Dar es Salaam, the story of Tanzanian acrobatics continues to unfold.
\n
As young Aisha spins her hoops with poise and joy, she carries forward a tradition that bridges continents and generations.
China's Li Haotong (left) and Bobby Bai Zhengkai could benefit from new qualifying rules for the Masters and The Open.
\n
Asian golf has long yearned for a moment like this, and China's top golfers could be beneficiaries.
\n
At a time when the region's top amateurs have lit up leaderboards and superstars Hideki Matsuyama, Li Haotong and Im Sung-jae shinning at the highest level, Augusta National Golf Club and The Royal and Ancient dropped a seismic announcement that will reverberate for generations — winners of the Japan Open and Hong Kong Open will now receive invitations to the Masters Tournament and The Open.
\n
For Asia's aspiring champions, the road to the majors has always been a steep climb, especially the Masters. However, the fairways that lead to Augusta National and Royal Birkdale next year will now become shorter. Starting immediately, winners of six leading international golf championships, including the Australian, Scottish, Spanish and South African Opens, will earn exemptions to compete on golf's two most iconic stages.
\n
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley and R&A CEO Mark Darbon framed the alignment of qualification criteria as part of a shared vision to expand opportunities for international players. "Today's announcement strengthens our organizations' collective vision of rewarding top talent around the world. We hope this formal recognition shines a bright light on these players," said Ridley.
\n
The R&A has been ahead of the curve with its innovative Open Qualifying Series, launched in 2013 to provide pathways around the globe to the world's oldest major championship. From the end of this year, 15 tournaments in 13 countries and regions will offer access to Royal Birkdale for the 154th Open next July. Aligning with Augusta National adds greater emphasis to its global vision. "We firmly believe this will continue to enrich the quality of the fields at both major championships," said Darbon, who recently assumed the role of CEO at R&A.
\n
If this new criterion had been created three years ago, Japan's last three national champions, Taiga Semikawa, Aguri Iwasaki and Shugo Imahira would have earned coveted starts at the Masters and The Open. Founded in 1927, the Japan Open is arguably one Asia's crown jewels, and it will no doubt carry a greater purpose when it is played in October.
\n
The inclusion of the Hong Kong Open is equally inspired. Since 1959, the tournament has been a bumper fixture on the Asian sporting calendar, although Asian champions have been rare — Chinese Taipei's Lin Wen-tang in 2008 and South Korea's Kang Wook-soon in 1998 were the last two Asian winners.
\n
The fabled fairways at Fanling, which have been graced by the likes of Rory McIlroy, Tom Watson, Jose Maria Olazabal, Colin Montgomerie and Bernhard Langer, will now become even more attractive as one of the new gateways to the game's grandest stages. Fans can expect an extra spark of ambition when the region's best golfers, including Chinese mainland's Bobby Bai Zhengkai and Sampson Zheng and hometown hope Taichi Kho gather in Hong Kong this November.
\n
"We take great pride in the range of qualification routes we offer to players around the world. We share the same goal as Augusta National to offer places in both The Open and the Masters and, by doing so, help to showcase and strengthen our sport in those regions," said Darbon.
\n
For Asia, the timing of this announcement couldn't be better. Japanese star Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, and South Korea's Im continue to represent the region proudly on the PGA Tour, where they were the only two Asians to qualify for the season-ending Tour Championship, limited to the top-30, in Atlanta the previous week.
\n
Young Asian talent is also knocking loudly on the door. Vietnam's rising star Nguyen Anh Minh became the first player from his country to reach the US Junior Amateur Final this summer, Chinese prospect Paul Chang reached the round of 16 at the US Amateur, while Japan's Rintaro Nakano impressed in the round of 32 — performances that bode well for the future.
\n
Additionally, the annual Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, which will be played at Emirates Golf Club in Dubai in October, will continue to provide another opportunity for aspiring Asians to stand up and be counted, as the winner will also earn invitations to both the Masters and The Open next year.
China's Li Haotong (left) and Bobby Bai Zhengkai could benefit from new qualifying rules for the Masters and The Open.
\n
Asian golf has long yearned for a moment like this, and China's top golfers could be beneficiaries.
\n
At a time when the region's top amateurs have lit up leaderboards and superstars Hideki Matsuyama, Li Haotong and Im Sung-jae shinning at the highest level, Augusta National Golf Club and The Royal and Ancient dropped a seismic announcement that will reverberate for generations — winners of the Japan Open and Hong Kong Open will now receive invitations to the Masters Tournament and The Open.
\n
For Asia's aspiring champions, the road to the majors has always been a steep climb, especially the Masters. However, the fairways that lead to Augusta National and Royal Birkdale next year will now become shorter. Starting immediately, winners of six leading international golf championships, including the Australian, Scottish, Spanish and South African Opens, will earn exemptions to compete on golf's two most iconic stages.
\n
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley and R&A CEO Mark Darbon framed the alignment of qualification criteria as part of a shared vision to expand opportunities for international players. "Today's announcement strengthens our organizations' collective vision of rewarding top talent around the world. We hope this formal recognition shines a bright light on these players," said Ridley.
\n
The R&A has been ahead of the curve with its innovative Open Qualifying Series, launched in 2013 to provide pathways around the globe to the world's oldest major championship. From the end of this year, 15 tournaments in 13 countries and regions will offer access to Royal Birkdale for the 154th Open next July. Aligning with Augusta National adds greater emphasis to its global vision. "We firmly believe this will continue to enrich the quality of the fields at both major championships," said Darbon, who recently assumed the role of CEO at R&A.
\n
If this new criterion had been created three years ago, Japan's last three national champions, Taiga Semikawa, Aguri Iwasaki and Shugo Imahira would have earned coveted starts at the Masters and The Open. Founded in 1927, the Japan Open is arguably one Asia's crown jewels, and it will no doubt carry a greater purpose when it is played in October.
\n
The inclusion of the Hong Kong Open is equally inspired. Since 1959, the tournament has been a bumper fixture on the Asian sporting calendar, although Asian champions have been rare — Chinese Taipei's Lin Wen-tang in 2008 and South Korea's Kang Wook-soon in 1998 were the last two Asian winners.
\n
The fabled fairways at Fanling, which have been graced by the likes of Rory McIlroy, Tom Watson, Jose Maria Olazabal, Colin Montgomerie and Bernhard Langer, will now become even more attractive as one of the new gateways to the game's grandest stages. Fans can expect an extra spark of ambition when the region's best golfers, including Chinese mainland's Bobby Bai Zhengkai and Sampson Zheng and hometown hope Taichi Kho gather in Hong Kong this November.
\n
"We take great pride in the range of qualification routes we offer to players around the world. We share the same goal as Augusta National to offer places in both The Open and the Masters and, by doing so, help to showcase and strengthen our sport in those regions," said Darbon.
\n
For Asia, the timing of this announcement couldn't be better. Japanese star Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, and South Korea's Im continue to represent the region proudly on the PGA Tour, where they were the only two Asians to qualify for the season-ending Tour Championship, limited to the top-30, in Atlanta the previous week.
\n
Young Asian talent is also knocking loudly on the door. Vietnam's rising star Nguyen Anh Minh became the first player from his country to reach the US Junior Amateur Final this summer, Chinese prospect Paul Chang reached the round of 16 at the US Amateur, while Japan's Rintaro Nakano impressed in the round of 32 — performances that bode well for the future.
\n
Additionally, the annual Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, which will be played at Emirates Golf Club in Dubai in October, will continue to provide another opportunity for aspiring Asians to stand up and be counted, as the winner will also earn invitations to both the Masters and The Open next year.
Australia's teen sprint sensation Gout Gout celebrates winning the men's 200m at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic in June.
\n
MELBOURNE — Teen sprinter Gout Gout will make a much-anticipated world championships debut in Tokyo this month, as he marks an early milestone in a career that Australians hope will peak with Olympic gold at Brisbane 2032.
\n
Still only 17, Gout is already one of the most exciting prospects in global athletics, earning comparisons with Jamaican great Usain Bolt and training with Adidas stablemate Noah Lyles in Florida.
\n
All this while juggling homework and exams in his final year of high school in Ipswich, Queensland.
\n
Gout is skipping school for a few days to run in the 200 meters in Tokyo, only his second senior race abroad.
\n
His first, in June, saw him win the 200m at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic in 20.02 seconds, improving on his Australian record.
\n
While impressive for his age, that time only puts him equal-20th in the season rankings, meaning he may need to raise the bar considerably to earn a spot in the worlds final.
\n
Just doing that much would send Australia into another frenzy of excitement.
\n
Unheard of outside athletics circles a year ago, the son of Sudanese immigrants has become the poster boy of Australian track and field, boosting ticket sales at domestic events and bringing in a new, youthful audience.
\n
Fans flocked to a Victorian gold rush town on the Easter weekend to see Gout race in the Stawell Gift, a local handicap footrace on a grass track.
\n
Gout failed to make the final of the 120m sprint but the crowd of 6,000 was double the usual attendance, and organizers were thrilled.
\n
Gout's 200m run at the Maurie Plant Meet in Melbourne in the previous month drew 10,000 to Lakeside Stadium, the nation's first sellout crowd for a one-day athletics event in over 20 years.
\n
Athletes and officials have warned Australia not to expect too much, too soon, in case the pressure becomes overwhelming for the teenager.
\n
The warnings have largely flown out the window.
\n
"What is also now a matter not open for debate is that Gout is the real thing," said a typical testimonial in a Melbourne newspaper after the national athletics championships.
\n
"We are witnesses to greatness emerging in front of us by the race."
\n
Gout can no longer go out in public without being swamped by well-wishers despite being largely sheltered from the media by his handlers.
\n
Although signed to Adidas in a long-term deal worth a reported A$6 million ($3.90 million), Gout lives as normal a childhood as he can on the outskirts of Brisbane.
\n
One of seven siblings, he shares a room with his brother in the family home in Spring Hill.
\n
His coach, Di Sheppard, is no former champion athlete, but a silver-haired 60-year-old who once worked in the uniform shop at Gout's school. A renowned disciplinarian who scatters expletives throughout her interviews, she is convinced Gout will dominate the world in time.
\n
"I'm not suggesting it. He's going to go to that level," she told Australian TV earlier this year.
\n
"Olympic gold. It might not be in'28 (Los Angeles), but it's definitely going to happen in 2032."
\n
For the moment, Gout is still a work in progress, relatively sluggish out of the blocks, but impressive in the back half of races.
\n
It will take around 20 seconds in Tokyo to get a read on his place among the big dogs of track and field, but possibly years of development before he can hope to leave them in his wake.
\n",
+ "content": "
Australia's teen sprint sensation Gout Gout celebrates winning the men's 200m at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic in June.
\n
MELBOURNE — Teen sprinter Gout Gout will make a much-anticipated world championships debut in Tokyo this month, as he marks an early milestone in a career that Australians hope will peak with Olympic gold at Brisbane 2032.
\n
Still only 17, Gout is already one of the most exciting prospects in global athletics, earning comparisons with Jamaican great Usain Bolt and training with Adidas stablemate Noah Lyles in Florida.
\n
All this while juggling homework and exams in his final year of high school in Ipswich, Queensland.
\n
Gout is skipping school for a few days to run in the 200 meters in Tokyo, only his second senior race abroad.
\n
His first, in June, saw him win the 200m at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic in 20.02 seconds, improving on his Australian record.
\n
While impressive for his age, that time only puts him equal-20th in the season rankings, meaning he may need to raise the bar considerably to earn a spot in the worlds final.
\n
Just doing that much would send Australia into another frenzy of excitement.
\n
Unheard of outside athletics circles a year ago, the son of Sudanese immigrants has become the poster boy of Australian track and field, boosting ticket sales at domestic events and bringing in a new, youthful audience.
\n
Fans flocked to a Victorian gold rush town on the Easter weekend to see Gout race in the Stawell Gift, a local handicap footrace on a grass track.
\n
Gout failed to make the final of the 120m sprint but the crowd of 6,000 was double the usual attendance, and organizers were thrilled.
\n
Gout's 200m run at the Maurie Plant Meet in Melbourne in the previous month drew 10,000 to Lakeside Stadium, the nation's first sellout crowd for a one-day athletics event in over 20 years.
\n
Athletes and officials have warned Australia not to expect too much, too soon, in case the pressure becomes overwhelming for the teenager.
\n
The warnings have largely flown out the window.
\n
"What is also now a matter not open for debate is that Gout is the real thing," said a typical testimonial in a Melbourne newspaper after the national athletics championships.
\n
"We are witnesses to greatness emerging in front of us by the race."
\n
Gout can no longer go out in public without being swamped by well-wishers despite being largely sheltered from the media by his handlers.
\n
Although signed to Adidas in a long-term deal worth a reported A$6 million ($3.90 million), Gout lives as normal a childhood as he can on the outskirts of Brisbane.
\n
One of seven siblings, he shares a room with his brother in the family home in Spring Hill.
\n
His coach, Di Sheppard, is no former champion athlete, but a silver-haired 60-year-old who once worked in the uniform shop at Gout's school. A renowned disciplinarian who scatters expletives throughout her interviews, she is convinced Gout will dominate the world in time.
\n
"I'm not suggesting it. He's going to go to that level," she told Australian TV earlier this year.
\n
"Olympic gold. It might not be in'28 (Los Angeles), but it's definitely going to happen in 2032."
\n
For the moment, Gout is still a work in progress, relatively sluggish out of the blocks, but impressive in the back half of races.
\n
It will take around 20 seconds in Tokyo to get a read on his place among the big dogs of track and field, but possibly years of development before he can hope to leave them in his wake.
Tennis tournaments on the WTA Tour and ATP Tour, such as the Shanghai Masters (pictured), are at the vanguard of a new government push aimed at driving the high-quality development of the sports industry in China.
\n
All of the tennis tournaments to be held in China in the next two months are expected to attract a total of one million spectators, generating a collective revenue of over $280 million, according to official estimates.
\n\n
As China pushes ahead with its sports industry upgrade, the expansion of the women's professional tennis circuit has served it up a boost by opening up more business opportunities in the sports entertainment sector.
\n
Already a busy stretch on the pro tennis calendar, the annual "China Swing" has got bigger and better this year, with five new WTA 125 events added in the country, anchored by a beyond-its-class leg in Suzhou, Jiangsu province. Combined, they are expected to further elevate the sport's profile, offer local talent more competitive playing time and boost consumption in relevant businesses.
\n
The inaugural Suzhou Open, which swings off its main draw action on Sept 29 at the Sungent International Tennis Center, features an above-average field for a tournament on the entry-level WTA circuit, with all the 23 direct entries in the singles draw ranked within the top-100, and four of whom are inside the top-50.
\n
Slovakia's world No 35 Rebecca Sramkova, the French Open's homegrown semifinalist Lois Boisson (No 46) and the Philippines' rising star Alexandra Eala (No 75) will spearhead the 32-player singles draw, where four qualifiers, four wild-card entries and one special exemption will fill up the remaining spots.
\n
China's current third-highest ranked woman Yuan Yue (No 100), two-time major quarterfinalist Zhang Shuai and former world No 47 Wang Yafan are among a competitive legion of home aces coveting main-draw appearances, either through wildcards or as alternates.
\n
"In terms of the quality of the field, I think it's safe to say that we are almost as competitive as some of the tournaments on the Tour's next level," tournament director Zhou Yunsong said at the launch ceremony of the Suzhou Open on Friday.
\n
"We didn't expect it, to be honest, that so many high-ranking players have signed up to play at a WTA 125 event here.
\n
"I think it all came down to the collective qualities of service and facilities, as well as the accessibility of not just one or two, but a string of events in China that has made a greater number of international players want to come every year."
\n
With six Tour-level tournaments already on the schedule, China is hosting a total 11 WTA events this fall, with the 125-level drills serving up a launchpad for the country's ambitious newcomers to progress to the top-tier stage, such as the WTA 1000-level China Open and Wuhan Open.
\n
Scheduled prudently to maximize playing and earning opportunities, the WTA 125 circuit, which has mushroomed to 50 legs this year, up from 24 in 2022, and offers a total prize pool of $6 million, has also provided a stepping stone for established players returning from injury and maternity leave as they transition back to the pro stage.
\n
"This is the first WTA event to be held in Jiangsu province, and we hope to build a stage for all the up-and-coming players to launch the pursuit of their professional dreams," Helene He, WTA Asia-Pacific director of operations, said of the Suzhou event's purpose.
\n
"We'd like to also develop it into a sports entertainment event during the National Day holiday that will benefit local tourism and cultural promotion."
\n
Built on the picturesque shore of Yangcheng Lake, the Sungent tennis center hosts 11 courts, including nine featuring the same hard surface as the Australian Open and two covered by the same red clay used at the French Open, across an area of 8,788 square meters.
\n
Four of the courts are equipped with all-weather retractable roofs to ensure uninterrupted training and matches if necessary, while a new four-star hotel, with breathtaking views of the lake and the tennis center, is within walking distance of the center court.
\n
A fitting addition
\n
The Suzhou Open was launched just one day after China's central government issued a set of guidelines on Thursday aimed at unleashing the consumption potential in sports-related businesses to drive the high-quality development of the sports industry.
\n
At the core of the 20-measure guideline, which was issued by the State Council, is a desire to diversify and expand the supply of sporting events as an entertainment product for consumers who are not necessarily sports fans.
\n
Tourism, accommodation, sales of club merchandise and youth training in relevant sports are among areas where consumption potential could be further tapped with the hosting of more sports events, according to the guideline.
\n
Specific proposals also include the development of the outdoor sports industry, boosting the snow-and-ice economy around operations of mountain resorts and indoor rinks and upgrading the manufacturing sector of sporting goods.
\n
China plans to cultivate a number of sports enterprises and sporting events with global influence, build a full-fledged sports industry worth 7 trillion yuan (about $985 billion) by 2030, per the guideline.
\n
The new guideline reflects the country's goal to leverage sports events as a driver of economic growth in a variety of businesses, and the increasing number of pro tennis events being held in China, for instance, is setting an example, according to Bai Xilin, director of the tennis administration center under the General Administration of Sport of China.
\n
"The more tournaments being hosted, the bigger the slice of the pie," Bai said at a recent media event to reveal a series of measures to promote the "China Swing" as a whole.
\n
"Week in, week out, tennis tournaments will help generate revenues from ticket sales, retail, catering and tourism, among other businesses, from one city to another."
\n
All of the tournaments to be held in China over the next two months are expected to attract a total of one million spectators, generating a collective revenue of over 2 billion yuan, according to an estimate by the center.
Tennis tournaments on the WTA Tour and ATP Tour, such as the Shanghai Masters (pictured), are at the vanguard of a new government push aimed at driving the high-quality development of the sports industry in China.
\n
All of the tennis tournaments to be held in China in the next two months are expected to attract a total of one million spectators, generating a collective revenue of over $280 million, according to official estimates.
\n\n
As China pushes ahead with its sports industry upgrade, the expansion of the women's professional tennis circuit has served it up a boost by opening up more business opportunities in the sports entertainment sector.
\n
Already a busy stretch on the pro tennis calendar, the annual "China Swing" has got bigger and better this year, with five new WTA 125 events added in the country, anchored by a beyond-its-class leg in Suzhou, Jiangsu province. Combined, they are expected to further elevate the sport's profile, offer local talent more competitive playing time and boost consumption in relevant businesses.
\n
The inaugural Suzhou Open, which swings off its main draw action on Sept 29 at the Sungent International Tennis Center, features an above-average field for a tournament on the entry-level WTA circuit, with all the 23 direct entries in the singles draw ranked within the top-100, and four of whom are inside the top-50.
\n
Slovakia's world No 35 Rebecca Sramkova, the French Open's homegrown semifinalist Lois Boisson (No 46) and the Philippines' rising star Alexandra Eala (No 75) will spearhead the 32-player singles draw, where four qualifiers, four wild-card entries and one special exemption will fill up the remaining spots.
\n
China's current third-highest ranked woman Yuan Yue (No 100), two-time major quarterfinalist Zhang Shuai and former world No 47 Wang Yafan are among a competitive legion of home aces coveting main-draw appearances, either through wildcards or as alternates.
\n
"In terms of the quality of the field, I think it's safe to say that we are almost as competitive as some of the tournaments on the Tour's next level," tournament director Zhou Yunsong said at the launch ceremony of the Suzhou Open on Friday.
\n
"We didn't expect it, to be honest, that so many high-ranking players have signed up to play at a WTA 125 event here.
\n
"I think it all came down to the collective qualities of service and facilities, as well as the accessibility of not just one or two, but a string of events in China that has made a greater number of international players want to come every year."
\n
With six Tour-level tournaments already on the schedule, China is hosting a total 11 WTA events this fall, with the 125-level drills serving up a launchpad for the country's ambitious newcomers to progress to the top-tier stage, such as the WTA 1000-level China Open and Wuhan Open.
\n
Scheduled prudently to maximize playing and earning opportunities, the WTA 125 circuit, which has mushroomed to 50 legs this year, up from 24 in 2022, and offers a total prize pool of $6 million, has also provided a stepping stone for established players returning from injury and maternity leave as they transition back to the pro stage.
\n
"This is the first WTA event to be held in Jiangsu province, and we hope to build a stage for all the up-and-coming players to launch the pursuit of their professional dreams," Helene He, WTA Asia-Pacific director of operations, said of the Suzhou event's purpose.
\n
"We'd like to also develop it into a sports entertainment event during the National Day holiday that will benefit local tourism and cultural promotion."
\n
Built on the picturesque shore of Yangcheng Lake, the Sungent tennis center hosts 11 courts, including nine featuring the same hard surface as the Australian Open and two covered by the same red clay used at the French Open, across an area of 8,788 square meters.
\n
Four of the courts are equipped with all-weather retractable roofs to ensure uninterrupted training and matches if necessary, while a new four-star hotel, with breathtaking views of the lake and the tennis center, is within walking distance of the center court.
\n
A fitting addition
\n
The Suzhou Open was launched just one day after China's central government issued a set of guidelines on Thursday aimed at unleashing the consumption potential in sports-related businesses to drive the high-quality development of the sports industry.
\n
At the core of the 20-measure guideline, which was issued by the State Council, is a desire to diversify and expand the supply of sporting events as an entertainment product for consumers who are not necessarily sports fans.
\n
Tourism, accommodation, sales of club merchandise and youth training in relevant sports are among areas where consumption potential could be further tapped with the hosting of more sports events, according to the guideline.
\n
Specific proposals also include the development of the outdoor sports industry, boosting the snow-and-ice economy around operations of mountain resorts and indoor rinks and upgrading the manufacturing sector of sporting goods.
\n
China plans to cultivate a number of sports enterprises and sporting events with global influence, build a full-fledged sports industry worth 7 trillion yuan (about $985 billion) by 2030, per the guideline.
\n
The new guideline reflects the country's goal to leverage sports events as a driver of economic growth in a variety of businesses, and the increasing number of pro tennis events being held in China, for instance, is setting an example, according to Bai Xilin, director of the tennis administration center under the General Administration of Sport of China.
\n
"The more tournaments being hosted, the bigger the slice of the pie," Bai said at a recent media event to reveal a series of measures to promote the "China Swing" as a whole.
\n
"Week in, week out, tennis tournaments will help generate revenues from ticket sales, retail, catering and tourism, among other businesses, from one city to another."
\n
All of the tournaments to be held in China over the next two months are expected to attract a total of one million spectators, generating a collective revenue of over 2 billion yuan, according to an estimate by the center.
Aryna Sabalenka celebrates with the trophy after beating Amanda Anisimova to retain her US Open title on Saturday.
\n
NEW YORK — Aryna Sabalenka credited her newfound mental approach on Saturday after producing a controlled performance that saw her power to victory at the US Open.
\n
The 27-year-old world No 1 from Belarus defeated American eighth seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6 (3) to retain her US Open crown and capture a fourth career Grand Slam title.
\n
Sabalenka said afterwards that her victory came after defeats in the Australian and French Open finals this season prompted her to rethink how she approached major finals.
\n
"After the Australian Open, I thought that the right way would be just to forget it and move on, but then the same thing happened at the French Open," she said.
\n
"So, after the French Open, I figured that, 'OK, maybe it's time for me to sit back and to look at those finals and maybe learn something', because I didn't want it to happen again and again and again."
\n
A holiday in Mykonos, where she read the self-help memoir Into the Magic Shop by neurosurgeon James Doty, provided a lightbulb moment.
\n
"Reading that book, I realized a lot of things," she said.
\n
"That book really helped me to stay focused, and to focus on the right things at important points.
\n
"I was just thinking 'why did I let my emotions take control over me in those two finals?' I thought that, 'OK, if I made it to the final, it means that I'm going to win it'."
\n
Approaching Saturday's final, Sabalenka said she had been determined to keep her temperament in check.
\n
"I'm not going to let (my emotions) take control of me, and it doesn't matter what happens during the match," said Sabalenka, who arrived at her post-match news conference clutching an open bottle of champagne.
\n
Sabalenka greeted victory by collapsing to the baseline, an expression of joy mixed with relief. The Belarusian said Saturday's win had carried extra meaning, given her two previous defeats in Grand Slam finals this year.
\n
"This one felt different," she said. "You know, it felt like I had to overcome a lot of things to get this one.
\n
"I knew that, with the hard work we put in, like, I deserved to have a Grand Slam title this season.
\n
"To bring the fight and be able to handle my emotions the way I did in this final, it means a lot.
\n
"I'm super proud of myself right now."
\n
Sabalenka meanwhile paid tribute to her late father, Sergey, who died from meningitis in 2019 at the age of 43.
\n
"When he passed away, you know, I was very depressed. It was a tough moment for me, for my family," Sabalenka said.
\n
"But, in that moment, I decided to take it as motivation, to put our family name in the history books.
\n
"I want to believe, and I think I feel his protection from up there, and I know that he became my power."
\n
So close, yet so far
\n
For the second consecutive Grand Slam, Anisimova found herself tantalizingly close to etching her name into the tennis history books — only to watch it slip away in straight sets.
\n
The 24-year-old American's loss to Sabalenka on Saturday marked another painful chapter in a story of near-misses on the sport's biggest stages.
\n
After falling short at Wimbledon earlier this year, Anisimova again struggled to find her best in the pressure cooker of a major final.
\n
"I feel like, with finals, I have a lot of nerves, and it's something I'm trying to work on," Anisimova admitted in her post-match news conference.
\n
The aggressive baseline game that carried her past former champions Iga Swiatek and Naomi Osaka was on display, as she struck 22 winners to Sabalenka's 13.
\n
But, a high-risk strategy produced costly errors, with the American committing 29 unforced errors to her opponent's 15.
\n
Anisimova said her rhythm was thrown off by an unexpected factor: the lighting under the closed roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium for the day session.
\n
"Well, I haven't played on the court during the day with the roof closed, and it was literally, like, white, and I couldn't see the ball when I was serving," she explained.
\n
The loss was a cruel blow for the former junior US Open champion, but her run to the final ensures she will break into the top five of the world rankings for the first time.
\n
"It has been a great summer. Losing in two finals is great, but it is also super hard," Anisimova said on court, capturing the bittersweet nature of her breakthrough season.
\n",
+ "content": "
Aryna Sabalenka celebrates with the trophy after beating Amanda Anisimova to retain her US Open title on Saturday.
\n
NEW YORK — Aryna Sabalenka credited her newfound mental approach on Saturday after producing a controlled performance that saw her power to victory at the US Open.
\n
The 27-year-old world No 1 from Belarus defeated American eighth seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6 (3) to retain her US Open crown and capture a fourth career Grand Slam title.
\n
Sabalenka said afterwards that her victory came after defeats in the Australian and French Open finals this season prompted her to rethink how she approached major finals.
\n
"After the Australian Open, I thought that the right way would be just to forget it and move on, but then the same thing happened at the French Open," she said.
\n
"So, after the French Open, I figured that, 'OK, maybe it's time for me to sit back and to look at those finals and maybe learn something', because I didn't want it to happen again and again and again."
\n
A holiday in Mykonos, where she read the self-help memoir Into the Magic Shop by neurosurgeon James Doty, provided a lightbulb moment.
\n
"Reading that book, I realized a lot of things," she said.
\n
"That book really helped me to stay focused, and to focus on the right things at important points.
\n
"I was just thinking 'why did I let my emotions take control over me in those two finals?' I thought that, 'OK, if I made it to the final, it means that I'm going to win it'."
\n
Approaching Saturday's final, Sabalenka said she had been determined to keep her temperament in check.
\n
"I'm not going to let (my emotions) take control of me, and it doesn't matter what happens during the match," said Sabalenka, who arrived at her post-match news conference clutching an open bottle of champagne.
\n
Sabalenka greeted victory by collapsing to the baseline, an expression of joy mixed with relief. The Belarusian said Saturday's win had carried extra meaning, given her two previous defeats in Grand Slam finals this year.
\n
"This one felt different," she said. "You know, it felt like I had to overcome a lot of things to get this one.
\n
"I knew that, with the hard work we put in, like, I deserved to have a Grand Slam title this season.
\n
"To bring the fight and be able to handle my emotions the way I did in this final, it means a lot.
\n
"I'm super proud of myself right now."
\n
Sabalenka meanwhile paid tribute to her late father, Sergey, who died from meningitis in 2019 at the age of 43.
\n
"When he passed away, you know, I was very depressed. It was a tough moment for me, for my family," Sabalenka said.
\n
"But, in that moment, I decided to take it as motivation, to put our family name in the history books.
\n
"I want to believe, and I think I feel his protection from up there, and I know that he became my power."
\n
So close, yet so far
\n
For the second consecutive Grand Slam, Anisimova found herself tantalizingly close to etching her name into the tennis history books — only to watch it slip away in straight sets.
\n
The 24-year-old American's loss to Sabalenka on Saturday marked another painful chapter in a story of near-misses on the sport's biggest stages.
\n
After falling short at Wimbledon earlier this year, Anisimova again struggled to find her best in the pressure cooker of a major final.
\n
"I feel like, with finals, I have a lot of nerves, and it's something I'm trying to work on," Anisimova admitted in her post-match news conference.
\n
The aggressive baseline game that carried her past former champions Iga Swiatek and Naomi Osaka was on display, as she struck 22 winners to Sabalenka's 13.
\n
But, a high-risk strategy produced costly errors, with the American committing 29 unforced errors to her opponent's 15.
\n
Anisimova said her rhythm was thrown off by an unexpected factor: the lighting under the closed roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium for the day session.
\n
"Well, I haven't played on the court during the day with the roof closed, and it was literally, like, white, and I couldn't see the ball when I was serving," she explained.
\n
The loss was a cruel blow for the former junior US Open champion, but her run to the final ensures she will break into the top five of the world rankings for the first time.
\n
"It has been a great summer. Losing in two finals is great, but it is also super hard," Anisimova said on court, capturing the bittersweet nature of her breakthrough season.
Two humanoid robots from Unitree Robotics punch their way at a boxing match, attracting a great number of spectators during the World Smart Industry Expo 2025, which opened in Chongqing on Friday.
\n
President Xi Jinping has highlighted China's commitment to engaging in extensive international cooperation on artificial intelligence with countries around the world, saying that AI should be an international public good that benefits humanity.
\n
Xi made the remarks in a congratulatory message sent to the World Smart Industry Expo 2025, which opened in Chongqing on Friday.
\n
He said in the message that AI technology is rapidly evolving, profoundly transforming human production and lifestyles, and reshaping the global industrial landscape.
\n
China attaches great importance to AI development and governance and actively promotes the deep integration of AI technological innovation with industrial innovation to empower high-quality economic and social development, thereby helping to improve people's lives, he added.
\n
Xi expressed China's willingness to strengthen international cooperation and coordination with other countries in development strategies, governance rules and technical standards to promote the healthy and vigorous development of the AI industry, and bring greater benefits to people in all countries.
\n
The four-day expo, with the themes of "AI+" and "Intelligent Connected New Energy Vehicles", is co-hosted by the governments of Chongqing and Tianjin.
\n
With Singapore acting as the guest country of honor and Sichuan province as the guest province of honor, it features participation from over 600 leading domestic and international companies, showcasing more than 3,000 innovative products and technologies.
\n
At the opening ceremony, investment agreements worth more than 200 billion yuan ($28 billion) were signed, covering sectors such as intelligent connected new energy vehicles, electronic information, advanced materials, smart equipment and intelligent manufacturing, and the low-altitude economy, according to Zheng Xiangdong, vicemayor of Chongqing.
\n
Antonio Yung, chief representative of the China Office of Sacramento, the capital of the US state of California, said that Xi's message highlighted the significance of the expo, as the whole world is paying attention to AI development and in particular, China is one of the major developers in the sector.
\n
The State Council, China's Cabinet, issued a guideline on Aug 26 to implement the "AI Plus" initiative, promoting the extensive and in-depth integration of AI in various fields.
\n
Cai Guangzhong, vice-president of Tencent, one of China's top tech firms, said at the expo that Tencent has consistently responded actively to the national strategy, and has taken a long-term approach by increasing investment in technology to solidify the foundation of "AI Plus".
\n
"Tencent will continue to invest in AI research and development, leveraging its rich application ecosystem to comprehensively promote the presence of 'useful AI' closer to users and industries," Cai said.
\n
"This will enable everyone to become a 'super individual' empowered by AI, transform AI into new quality productive forces across various sectors, and allow every enterprise to become an AI company, achieving truly useful, accessible and beneficial AI for all," he added.
\n
Tan Kiat How, Singapore's senior minister of state for digital development and information, said that he sees tremendous scope for Singapore and Chongqing to deepen practical collaboration in AI applications and smart urban solutions.
\n
Contact the writers at caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Two humanoid robots from Unitree Robotics punch their way at a boxing match, attracting a great number of spectators during the World Smart Industry Expo 2025, which opened in Chongqing on Friday.
\n
President Xi Jinping has highlighted China's commitment to engaging in extensive international cooperation on artificial intelligence with countries around the world, saying that AI should be an international public good that benefits humanity.
\n
Xi made the remarks in a congratulatory message sent to the World Smart Industry Expo 2025, which opened in Chongqing on Friday.
\n
He said in the message that AI technology is rapidly evolving, profoundly transforming human production and lifestyles, and reshaping the global industrial landscape.
\n
China attaches great importance to AI development and governance and actively promotes the deep integration of AI technological innovation with industrial innovation to empower high-quality economic and social development, thereby helping to improve people's lives, he added.
\n
Xi expressed China's willingness to strengthen international cooperation and coordination with other countries in development strategies, governance rules and technical standards to promote the healthy and vigorous development of the AI industry, and bring greater benefits to people in all countries.
\n
The four-day expo, with the themes of "AI+" and "Intelligent Connected New Energy Vehicles", is co-hosted by the governments of Chongqing and Tianjin.
\n
With Singapore acting as the guest country of honor and Sichuan province as the guest province of honor, it features participation from over 600 leading domestic and international companies, showcasing more than 3,000 innovative products and technologies.
\n
At the opening ceremony, investment agreements worth more than 200 billion yuan ($28 billion) were signed, covering sectors such as intelligent connected new energy vehicles, electronic information, advanced materials, smart equipment and intelligent manufacturing, and the low-altitude economy, according to Zheng Xiangdong, vicemayor of Chongqing.
\n
Antonio Yung, chief representative of the China Office of Sacramento, the capital of the US state of California, said that Xi's message highlighted the significance of the expo, as the whole world is paying attention to AI development and in particular, China is one of the major developers in the sector.
\n
The State Council, China's Cabinet, issued a guideline on Aug 26 to implement the "AI Plus" initiative, promoting the extensive and in-depth integration of AI in various fields.
\n
Cai Guangzhong, vice-president of Tencent, one of China's top tech firms, said at the expo that Tencent has consistently responded actively to the national strategy, and has taken a long-term approach by increasing investment in technology to solidify the foundation of "AI Plus".
\n
"Tencent will continue to invest in AI research and development, leveraging its rich application ecosystem to comprehensively promote the presence of 'useful AI' closer to users and industries," Cai said.
\n
"This will enable everyone to become a 'super individual' empowered by AI, transform AI into new quality productive forces across various sectors, and allow every enterprise to become an AI company, achieving truly useful, accessible and beneficial AI for all," he added.
\n
Tan Kiat How, Singapore's senior minister of state for digital development and information, said that he sees tremendous scope for Singapore and Chongqing to deepen practical collaboration in AI applications and smart urban solutions.
\n
Contact the writers at caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn
Foreign guests use stamps bearing their names to mark a handdrawn scroll ahead of the South and Southeast Asian Media Network Annual Meeting, which took place in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, on Friday.
\n
The role of media collaboration in amplifying the voice of the Global South and enhancing cross-border understanding was highlighted at this year's South and Southeast Asian Media Network Annual Meeting.
\n
Participants called for joint efforts to foster common prosperity and contribute to global development and security at the meeting held in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, on Friday.
\n
In his opening remarks at the meeting, Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, highlighted the role of the media in promoting regional and global peace and development as a "stabilizer" and "power source", as the world is rapidly changing and is once again experiencing the turbulence of transformation.
\n
Initiated by China Daily Asia Pacific and the Yunnan International Communication Center for South and Southeast Asia in January 2024, the network aims to leverage the strength of Yunnan as a gateway to open up to South and Southeast Asia, deepen cooperation among media outlets in the region, and contribute to regional socioeconomic development. It has attracted more than 100 media outlets from 12 countries to take part in the network.
\n
"South and Southeast Asian countries have long histories, similar cultures and shared pursuits. We should continue to explore the cultural treasures of the region via storytelling and actively organizing diverse exchange activities," Qu said.
\n
Zeng Yan, head of the publicity department of the Yunnan Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, said that the founding of the network has received active responses from mainstream media in South and Southeast Asia, and is expected to establish a new model for media cooperation in Asia.
\n
"The media serves as a crucial force for the Global South to achieve sustainable development and news reports on boosting peace, communication, exchanges and common interests are essential," she said.
\n
As the gateway connecting China with South and Southeast Asia, Zeng said that Yunnan enjoys geographical proximity, cultural affinity, and close people-to-people connections and business interactions with these countries.
\n
"The network helps to bring such relationships even closer. Members of the network will collaborate on publishing newspapers and magazines, and managing websites and new media platforms," she said, and reaffirmed that network members will stick to the principle of openness, tolerance and mutual benefits.
\n
Khamphanh Pheuyavong, secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee, who is also chairman of the LPRP Central Committee's Commission for Propaganda and Training, urged network members to further strengthen communication and cooperation to enhance news reporting skills empowered by new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
\n
He also suggested completing the network's news sharing mechanism, especially to exchange ideas on emerging trends and cooperation opportunities.
\n
Maung Maung Ohn, Myanmar's minister of information, noted that South Asia and Southeast Asia are currently among the regions with the fastest economic growth in the world.
\n
"In terms of the news industry, we should also stay at the forefront of technology … China now holds strong technical competence. In the future, we hope to work closely with China under the network's framework, sending our media professionals to the country to learn new technologies," he said.
\n
His words were echoed by Wu Xu, executive secretary of the All-China Journalists Association.
\n
"The technological revolution is now fundamentally changing the media landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges. We will continue to collaborate with Asian media to utilize new technologies and further expand cooperation with the network members, jointly improving news productivity and enhancing communication efficiency," Wu said.
\n
Contact the writers at yangwanli@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Foreign guests use stamps bearing their names to mark a handdrawn scroll ahead of the South and Southeast Asian Media Network Annual Meeting, which took place in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, on Friday.
\n
The role of media collaboration in amplifying the voice of the Global South and enhancing cross-border understanding was highlighted at this year's South and Southeast Asian Media Network Annual Meeting.
\n
Participants called for joint efforts to foster common prosperity and contribute to global development and security at the meeting held in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, on Friday.
\n
In his opening remarks at the meeting, Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, highlighted the role of the media in promoting regional and global peace and development as a "stabilizer" and "power source", as the world is rapidly changing and is once again experiencing the turbulence of transformation.
\n
Initiated by China Daily Asia Pacific and the Yunnan International Communication Center for South and Southeast Asia in January 2024, the network aims to leverage the strength of Yunnan as a gateway to open up to South and Southeast Asia, deepen cooperation among media outlets in the region, and contribute to regional socioeconomic development. It has attracted more than 100 media outlets from 12 countries to take part in the network.
\n
"South and Southeast Asian countries have long histories, similar cultures and shared pursuits. We should continue to explore the cultural treasures of the region via storytelling and actively organizing diverse exchange activities," Qu said.
\n
Zeng Yan, head of the publicity department of the Yunnan Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, said that the founding of the network has received active responses from mainstream media in South and Southeast Asia, and is expected to establish a new model for media cooperation in Asia.
\n
"The media serves as a crucial force for the Global South to achieve sustainable development and news reports on boosting peace, communication, exchanges and common interests are essential," she said.
\n
As the gateway connecting China with South and Southeast Asia, Zeng said that Yunnan enjoys geographical proximity, cultural affinity, and close people-to-people connections and business interactions with these countries.
\n
"The network helps to bring such relationships even closer. Members of the network will collaborate on publishing newspapers and magazines, and managing websites and new media platforms," she said, and reaffirmed that network members will stick to the principle of openness, tolerance and mutual benefits.
\n
Khamphanh Pheuyavong, secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee, who is also chairman of the LPRP Central Committee's Commission for Propaganda and Training, urged network members to further strengthen communication and cooperation to enhance news reporting skills empowered by new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
\n
He also suggested completing the network's news sharing mechanism, especially to exchange ideas on emerging trends and cooperation opportunities.
\n
Maung Maung Ohn, Myanmar's minister of information, noted that South Asia and Southeast Asia are currently among the regions with the fastest economic growth in the world.
\n
"In terms of the news industry, we should also stay at the forefront of technology … China now holds strong technical competence. In the future, we hope to work closely with China under the network's framework, sending our media professionals to the country to learn new technologies," he said.
\n
His words were echoed by Wu Xu, executive secretary of the All-China Journalists Association.
\n
"The technological revolution is now fundamentally changing the media landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges. We will continue to collaborate with Asian media to utilize new technologies and further expand cooperation with the network members, jointly improving news productivity and enhancing communication efficiency," Wu said.
\n
Contact the writers at yangwanli@chinadaily.com.cn
At just 26 years old, Tibetan-language teacher Nie Chang has become one of the most recognizable online voices, introducing learners worldwide to the language.
\n
With his fluent greetings in the Lhasa dialect and his structured lessons tailored for beginners, Nie draws students from China to Europe, turning his personal passion into a cultural bridge.
\n
Raised in Shaanxi province and educated far from the Tibetan Plateau, Nie had little exposure to the Tibetan language until college, when an introductory course drew him in.
\n
Nie, who was born to a Han ethnic father and a Tibetan mother, incorporates both cultural backgrounds into his teaching. Students from Liaoning province to Germany often say that his classes feel less like nontypical lessons and are more like bridges between cultures.
\n
He is now one of the most popular and recognizable Tibetan-language teachers online.
\n
Nie began studying Tibetan in 2017 and mastered the basic spelling rules at Zhejiang University. There were few affordable, beginner-friendly resources, and most courses were designed by native speakers whose methods did not always suit outsiders.
\n
"Many Tibetan teachers, (despite) being native speakers, struggle to explain grammar and word formation from a non-Tibetan perspective," Nie said.
\n
He purchased dozens of textbooks and dictionaries and practiced day and night, writing his own summaries. Over time, he developed a structured curriculum specifically designed for learners without a Tibetan background.
\n
After graduating, Nie moved to Lhasa, the capital of the Xizang autonomous region, for a job. In September 2021, he launched his first online class with only three students. Nearly four years later, more than 250 students have completed his courses, which cover levels from beginner to advanced.
\n
Ninety percent of his students live outside of Tibetan-speaking areas, with about one-third residing overseas in countries such as the United States, Germany, France and Italy. Some are scholars interested in Tibetan culture and history, while others simply seek a deeper connection with "the roof of the world".
\n
Drawing on his own learning journey, Nie emphasizes language and culture in his classes, where he blends grammar with everyday conversation and provides cultural context tailored to learners who, like him, grew up outside the plateau.
\n
He also creates online content, including vlogs from the streets of Lhasa, short videos on Tibetan food and festivals and cultural anecdotes with Tibetan annotations. He has posted them across Bilibili, Weibo and other social media platforms.
\n
"I always put myself in the shoes of non-native learners," he said. "That's why I can design a system that works for them and continue to attract more students."
\n
The diversity of his classroom reflects how the Tibetan language is reaching new spaces. Civil servants in Xizang, young people in mixed-ethnic marriages, travelers seeking a deeper experience of culture, and overseas researchers exploring Tibetan studies all gather for his lessons.
\n
For Sun Zhiquan, a Yi ethnic group graduate student, the lessons were a lifeline before a yearlong volunteer teaching program in Chamdo, Xizang, starting in June 2023.
\n
"Tibetan is a helpful tool for communicating with the local residents," Sun said. "Even saying a few simple phrases makes them light up. It's a sign that their culture is being respected."
\n
Beyond teaching, learning Tibetan helped Sun form friendships and develop a deeper understanding of the region.
\n
Liu Xiaojia, 24, a trainee in Nie's intermediate course, is preparing to pursue his PhD at the Chinese University of Hong Kong in September.
\n
"I'd like to study literature in China," he said. "Tibetan literature, which is an important part of that, has its own charm. It is closely tied to Buddhism and philosophy and it gives me a different lens through which to understand China's diversity."
\n
Nie's classes cost about 2,500 yuan ($348) for a four-month term — a price students say is affordable compared with traditional programs. Online learning has lowered the barriers for those who would otherwise never have the opportunity to study Tibetan.
\n
"It is really inspiring to be a Tibetan teacher," Nie said. "The joy comes when a student who once couldn't read a single letter can now hold a basic conversation and share experiences."
\n
His next goal is to create textbooks written specifically for non-native speakers that reflect the challenges he once faced.
\n
"Language is more than words," he said. "It is a bridge. Once you cross it, you discover another world."
\n
guoyanqi@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Online Scan the code to watch the video.
\n
Nie Chang
\n
At just 26 years old, Tibetan-language teacher Nie Chang has become one of the most recognizable online voices, introducing learners worldwide to the language.
\n
With his fluent greetings in the Lhasa dialect and his structured lessons tailored for beginners, Nie draws students from China to Europe, turning his personal passion into a cultural bridge.
\n
Raised in Shaanxi province and educated far from the Tibetan Plateau, Nie had little exposure to the Tibetan language until college, when an introductory course drew him in.
\n
Nie, who was born to a Han ethnic father and a Tibetan mother, incorporates both cultural backgrounds into his teaching. Students from Liaoning province to Germany often say that his classes feel less like nontypical lessons and are more like bridges between cultures.
\n
He is now one of the most popular and recognizable Tibetan-language teachers online.
\n
Nie began studying Tibetan in 2017 and mastered the basic spelling rules at Zhejiang University. There were few affordable, beginner-friendly resources, and most courses were designed by native speakers whose methods did not always suit outsiders.
\n
"Many Tibetan teachers, (despite) being native speakers, struggle to explain grammar and word formation from a non-Tibetan perspective," Nie said.
\n
He purchased dozens of textbooks and dictionaries and practiced day and night, writing his own summaries. Over time, he developed a structured curriculum specifically designed for learners without a Tibetan background.
\n
After graduating, Nie moved to Lhasa, the capital of the Xizang autonomous region, for a job. In September 2021, he launched his first online class with only three students. Nearly four years later, more than 250 students have completed his courses, which cover levels from beginner to advanced.
\n
Ninety percent of his students live outside of Tibetan-speaking areas, with about one-third residing overseas in countries such as the United States, Germany, France and Italy. Some are scholars interested in Tibetan culture and history, while others simply seek a deeper connection with "the roof of the world".
\n
Drawing on his own learning journey, Nie emphasizes language and culture in his classes, where he blends grammar with everyday conversation and provides cultural context tailored to learners who, like him, grew up outside the plateau.
\n
He also creates online content, including vlogs from the streets of Lhasa, short videos on Tibetan food and festivals and cultural anecdotes with Tibetan annotations. He has posted them across Bilibili, Weibo and other social media platforms.
\n
"I always put myself in the shoes of non-native learners," he said. "That's why I can design a system that works for them and continue to attract more students."
\n
The diversity of his classroom reflects how the Tibetan language is reaching new spaces. Civil servants in Xizang, young people in mixed-ethnic marriages, travelers seeking a deeper experience of culture, and overseas researchers exploring Tibetan studies all gather for his lessons.
\n
For Sun Zhiquan, a Yi ethnic group graduate student, the lessons were a lifeline before a yearlong volunteer teaching program in Chamdo, Xizang, starting in June 2023.
\n
"Tibetan is a helpful tool for communicating with the local residents," Sun said. "Even saying a few simple phrases makes them light up. It's a sign that their culture is being respected."
\n
Beyond teaching, learning Tibetan helped Sun form friendships and develop a deeper understanding of the region.
\n
Liu Xiaojia, 24, a trainee in Nie's intermediate course, is preparing to pursue his PhD at the Chinese University of Hong Kong in September.
\n
"I'd like to study literature in China," he said. "Tibetan literature, which is an important part of that, has its own charm. It is closely tied to Buddhism and philosophy and it gives me a different lens through which to understand China's diversity."
\n
Nie's classes cost about 2,500 yuan ($348) for a four-month term — a price students say is affordable compared with traditional programs. Online learning has lowered the barriers for those who would otherwise never have the opportunity to study Tibetan.
\n
"It is really inspiring to be a Tibetan teacher," Nie said. "The joy comes when a student who once couldn't read a single letter can now hold a basic conversation and share experiences."
\n
His next goal is to create textbooks written specifically for non-native speakers that reflect the challenges he once faced.
\n
"Language is more than words," he said. "It is a bridge. Once you cross it, you discover another world."
While China's capital city of Beijing and major cities like Shanghai remain top destinations for young job seekers, new first-tier cities, especially in East China's Yangtze River Delta, are gaining ground in the battle for talent, as they offer robust manufacturing and innovation capabilities, flexible talent programs and promising career prospects, according to a recent report.
\n
The report, by Beijing-based education consultancy MyCOS, indicated that Beijing and Shanghai have been the two most attractive cities for undergraduates over the past three years.
\n
It noted that, from 2022 to 2024, 82 percent of surveyed undergraduates who found jobs in Beijing came from outside the city. They were attracted by Beijing's strong economy, abundant job opportunities and higher potential for wellpaid positions. In Shanghai, the figure was 75 percent.
\n
However, since salary is no longer the sole factor in a city's appeal to young job seekers, smaller cities are using flexible talent programs, lower living costs, improved quality of life, and strong economies to attract talent, according to MyCOS.
\n
In Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, 67 percent of surveyed undergraduates who found jobs from 2022 to 2024 were from outside the city, up from 65 percent from 2018 to 2020. Other cities in the Yangtze River Delta, including Suzhou and Nanjing in Jiangsu province and Ningbo in Zhejiang, have also seen an increase in out-oftown undergraduates taking local jobs, thanks to favorable talent policies and improved public services.
\n
According to the Nanjing-based Yangtze Evening Post, undergraduates looking for jobs in Nanjing can receive free accommodation for up to 14 days. They can also apply for a 2,000 yuan ($280) subsidy and secure a loan of up to 500,000 yuan for their first entrepreneurial venture in the city.
\n
Li Zhiyuan, a 28-year-old engineer at a small artificial intelligence tech company in Hangzhou, told China Daily: "My parents thought I was crazy when I decided to take a job here since I've never lived or studied in the city before."
\n
After earning his bachelor's degree in Beijing and his master's in Shanghai, Li chose Hangzhou because of its favorable talent programs, digital economy strength and slower work pace.
\n
"The city grants generous onetime subsidies of 10,000 yuan ($1,400) to undergraduates, 30,000 yuan to postgraduates, and 100,000 yuan to doctoral graduates. The working and living environment is good, and I think I can get myself good prospects here," he said.
\n
Li Chang'an, a professor at the Academy of China Open Economy Studies at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, noted the growing preference among young people for smaller cities.
\n
"China has an increasing number of college graduates each year, leading to growing employment pressure and intensified competition," the professor said. "More young people are seeking new opportunities in new first-tier and second-tier cities, or even counties, to ease the pressure."
\n
He added that supportive government policies in smaller cities have helped to attract young talent. "These new first-tier or smaller cities have a better living environment with lower living costs and more opportunities for entrepreneurship, but it is still important for them to figure out ways to retain talent," he said.
\n
chengsi@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
While China's capital city of Beijing and major cities like Shanghai remain top destinations for young job seekers, new first-tier cities, especially in East China's Yangtze River Delta, are gaining ground in the battle for talent, as they offer robust manufacturing and innovation capabilities, flexible talent programs and promising career prospects, according to a recent report.
\n
The report, by Beijing-based education consultancy MyCOS, indicated that Beijing and Shanghai have been the two most attractive cities for undergraduates over the past three years.
\n
It noted that, from 2022 to 2024, 82 percent of surveyed undergraduates who found jobs in Beijing came from outside the city. They were attracted by Beijing's strong economy, abundant job opportunities and higher potential for wellpaid positions. In Shanghai, the figure was 75 percent.
\n
However, since salary is no longer the sole factor in a city's appeal to young job seekers, smaller cities are using flexible talent programs, lower living costs, improved quality of life, and strong economies to attract talent, according to MyCOS.
\n
In Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, 67 percent of surveyed undergraduates who found jobs from 2022 to 2024 were from outside the city, up from 65 percent from 2018 to 2020. Other cities in the Yangtze River Delta, including Suzhou and Nanjing in Jiangsu province and Ningbo in Zhejiang, have also seen an increase in out-oftown undergraduates taking local jobs, thanks to favorable talent policies and improved public services.
\n
According to the Nanjing-based Yangtze Evening Post, undergraduates looking for jobs in Nanjing can receive free accommodation for up to 14 days. They can also apply for a 2,000 yuan ($280) subsidy and secure a loan of up to 500,000 yuan for their first entrepreneurial venture in the city.
\n
Li Zhiyuan, a 28-year-old engineer at a small artificial intelligence tech company in Hangzhou, told China Daily: "My parents thought I was crazy when I decided to take a job here since I've never lived or studied in the city before."
\n
After earning his bachelor's degree in Beijing and his master's in Shanghai, Li chose Hangzhou because of its favorable talent programs, digital economy strength and slower work pace.
\n
"The city grants generous onetime subsidies of 10,000 yuan ($1,400) to undergraduates, 30,000 yuan to postgraduates, and 100,000 yuan to doctoral graduates. The working and living environment is good, and I think I can get myself good prospects here," he said.
\n
Li Chang'an, a professor at the Academy of China Open Economy Studies at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, noted the growing preference among young people for smaller cities.
\n
"China has an increasing number of college graduates each year, leading to growing employment pressure and intensified competition," the professor said. "More young people are seeking new opportunities in new first-tier and second-tier cities, or even counties, to ease the pressure."
\n
He added that supportive government policies in smaller cities have helped to attract young talent. "These new first-tier or smaller cities have a better living environment with lower living costs and more opportunities for entrepreneurship, but it is still important for them to figure out ways to retain talent," he said.
Stilwell family members take a group photo in front of the newly unveiled statue of General Joseph W. Stilwell at the Chongqing Stilwell Museum in Chongqing on Thursday.
\n
A new full-size bronze statue of the late United States Army General Joseph W. Stilwell (1883-1946) was unveiled at the Chongqing Stilwell Museum in Southwest China's Chongqing city recently.
\n
This statue, replacing the previous head sculpture, commemorates the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Stilwell Road during World War II and the enduring friendship between China and the US.
\n
The statue, located in the museum that was once the general's residence, depicts him with a carbine slung over his shoulder, striding confidently and gazing resolutely forward.
\n
As this year also marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the event, attended by Stilwell's descendants and scholars, highlighted the historical significance of the Stilwell Road — a vital military supply route during World War II — and paid tribute to General Stilwell's legacy and his wartime contributions.
\n
The Stilwell Road, also known as the China-India Road, was a significant military supply route constructed under General Stilwell's leadership. Built from late 1942 and completed in early 1945, this over-1,700-kilometer route connected China with India and Burma (today's Myanmar).
\n
"The unveiling was magnificent," said Susan Mai Easterbrook Cole, General Stilwell's great-granddaughter, during her sixth visit to Chongqing on Thursday. "I think it is a testament to how the Chinese people feel about him, and in return, how he has always felt about the Chinese people."
\n
The statue's unveiling was part of a broader commemoration. On Friday, nine members of the Stilwell family, along with experts from Chongqing city and Yunnan province, embarked on a journey to retrace the Stilwell Road in Yunnan. Their journey will conclude in a visit to the Flying Tigers Museum in Kunming, capital of Yunnan, on Tuesday.
\n
Stilwell commanded the China-Burma-India theater during the war. He had developed deep respect for the Chinese people through multiple tours of duty in the 1920s and 1930s.
\n
The museum received several significant donations on Thursday. Stilwell's great-granddaughter, Nancy Easterbrook Millward, on behalf of her father, John Easterbrook, donated a collection of historical materials. Other donations came from Manny Dume, CEO of the Stilwell Academy, and Tang Xuefeng, an expert from the Chongqing Stilwell Research Center.
\n
Additionally, Tang Boming, former president of Chongqing Jiaotong University, donated a book he edited, Traffic History of the Second World War — The Stilwell Road, to the Stilwell family, Dume and Tamara Roper, headmaster of the Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership.
\n
Notably, on Wednesday, the two great-granddaughters of Stilwell were invited to the V-Day military parade staged at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing.
\n
"The parade celebration showcased a wonderful display of Chinese patriotism and love of the country, and you just could not get over how spectacular the entire event was," Nancy Easterbrook Millward said. "I think General Stilwell would be so proud to see how far we have come in 80 years in the relationship between the US and China."
\n
Mou Zhixian, former chief expert of the Chongqing Stilwell Research Center and adviser to the Chongqing Flying Tigers Museum, said: "Stilwell was an energetic and talented general who knew a lot about China and spoke Chinese fluently. He led an army known for its strong cohesion and combat effectiveness. He introduced principled, advanced military practices to China and greatly contributed to military aid. He also played an important role in building friendship and cultural exchanges between China and the US."
\n
Contact the writers at dengrui@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Stilwell family members take a group photo in front of the newly unveiled statue of General Joseph W. Stilwell at the Chongqing Stilwell Museum in Chongqing on Thursday.
\n
A new full-size bronze statue of the late United States Army General Joseph W. Stilwell (1883-1946) was unveiled at the Chongqing Stilwell Museum in Southwest China's Chongqing city recently.
\n
This statue, replacing the previous head sculpture, commemorates the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Stilwell Road during World War II and the enduring friendship between China and the US.
\n
The statue, located in the museum that was once the general's residence, depicts him with a carbine slung over his shoulder, striding confidently and gazing resolutely forward.
\n
As this year also marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the event, attended by Stilwell's descendants and scholars, highlighted the historical significance of the Stilwell Road — a vital military supply route during World War II — and paid tribute to General Stilwell's legacy and his wartime contributions.
\n
The Stilwell Road, also known as the China-India Road, was a significant military supply route constructed under General Stilwell's leadership. Built from late 1942 and completed in early 1945, this over-1,700-kilometer route connected China with India and Burma (today's Myanmar).
\n
"The unveiling was magnificent," said Susan Mai Easterbrook Cole, General Stilwell's great-granddaughter, during her sixth visit to Chongqing on Thursday. "I think it is a testament to how the Chinese people feel about him, and in return, how he has always felt about the Chinese people."
\n
The statue's unveiling was part of a broader commemoration. On Friday, nine members of the Stilwell family, along with experts from Chongqing city and Yunnan province, embarked on a journey to retrace the Stilwell Road in Yunnan. Their journey will conclude in a visit to the Flying Tigers Museum in Kunming, capital of Yunnan, on Tuesday.
\n
Stilwell commanded the China-Burma-India theater during the war. He had developed deep respect for the Chinese people through multiple tours of duty in the 1920s and 1930s.
\n
The museum received several significant donations on Thursday. Stilwell's great-granddaughter, Nancy Easterbrook Millward, on behalf of her father, John Easterbrook, donated a collection of historical materials. Other donations came from Manny Dume, CEO of the Stilwell Academy, and Tang Xuefeng, an expert from the Chongqing Stilwell Research Center.
\n
Additionally, Tang Boming, former president of Chongqing Jiaotong University, donated a book he edited, Traffic History of the Second World War — The Stilwell Road, to the Stilwell family, Dume and Tamara Roper, headmaster of the Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership.
\n
Notably, on Wednesday, the two great-granddaughters of Stilwell were invited to the V-Day military parade staged at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing.
\n
"The parade celebration showcased a wonderful display of Chinese patriotism and love of the country, and you just could not get over how spectacular the entire event was," Nancy Easterbrook Millward said. "I think General Stilwell would be so proud to see how far we have come in 80 years in the relationship between the US and China."
\n
Mou Zhixian, former chief expert of the Chongqing Stilwell Research Center and adviser to the Chongqing Flying Tigers Museum, said: "Stilwell was an energetic and talented general who knew a lot about China and spoke Chinese fluently. He led an army known for its strong cohesion and combat effectiveness. He introduced principled, advanced military practices to China and greatly contributed to military aid. He also played an important role in building friendship and cultural exchanges between China and the US."
A child runs holding a national flag as his mother films him to mark their moment at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing on Thursday. The square reopened to the public after Wednesday's commemoration to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, attracting a number of citizens and tourists.
\n",
+ "content": "
A child runs holding a national flag as his mother films him to mark their moment at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing on Thursday. The square reopened to the public after Wednesday's commemoration to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, attracting a number of citizens and tourists.
In a concerted effort to bolster bird conservation, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, alongside 16 other national government bodies, has initiated a comprehensive three-year campaign aimed at curbing illegal bird hunting and trafficking.
\n
The campaign, the launch of which coincides with the start of the southward migration of migratory birds in China that usually runs from September to November, will focus on three key initiatives: enhancing bird protection, cracking down on illegal activities, and promoting public education, according to a media release from the administration.
\n
As a key measure for the bird protection initiative, relevant authorities will beef up field patrols and monitoring, particularly in the four migratory bird flyways passing through China and 1,140 key areas with frequent bird activities across the country, the administration stated.
\n
"Responsible agencies will be designated to ensure effective patrolling, strictly preventing illegal bird netting and hunting, as well as habitat destruction," it said.
\n
It noted further enhancement of the country's network for bird protection monitoring as another priority of the initiative, with the monitoring of wintering waterbirds as a focus.
\n
Measures will also be rolled out to restore and transform key bird habitats, the release added.
\n
As part of the initiative to combat illegal activities, law enforcement officers will conduct more rapid operations against bird poaching and trafficking, with a primary focus on organized crime syndicates and illegal activities involving nationally protected bird species, the administration said.
\n
The initiative seeks to dismantle numerous criminal groups, and eliminate bird netting and other illegal hunting activities along migratory bird flyways and in areas where birds frequently appear, it emphasized. Additionally, a series of high-profile cases will be publicly exposed to serve as a strong deterrent.
\n
The release also highlighted the initiative's intensified cross-departmental collaboration, stating that joint inspections and law enforcement operations will be conducted.
\n
The joint operations will primarily focus on spontaneously formed bird trading hubs, it noted. Additionally, online trading platforms will be urged to conduct self-inspections to eliminate the possibility of illegal bird sales.
\n
China is home to 1,505 bird species, representing about one-sixth of the world's total, making it one of the countries with the richest bird resources globally, according to the administration.
\n
Of these species, over 800 are migratory.
\n
Four of the world's nine major migratory bird flyways pass through China, encompassing nearly all of the country's land and sea territories.
In a concerted effort to bolster bird conservation, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, alongside 16 other national government bodies, has initiated a comprehensive three-year campaign aimed at curbing illegal bird hunting and trafficking.
\n
The campaign, the launch of which coincides with the start of the southward migration of migratory birds in China that usually runs from September to November, will focus on three key initiatives: enhancing bird protection, cracking down on illegal activities, and promoting public education, according to a media release from the administration.
\n
As a key measure for the bird protection initiative, relevant authorities will beef up field patrols and monitoring, particularly in the four migratory bird flyways passing through China and 1,140 key areas with frequent bird activities across the country, the administration stated.
\n
"Responsible agencies will be designated to ensure effective patrolling, strictly preventing illegal bird netting and hunting, as well as habitat destruction," it said.
\n
It noted further enhancement of the country's network for bird protection monitoring as another priority of the initiative, with the monitoring of wintering waterbirds as a focus.
\n
Measures will also be rolled out to restore and transform key bird habitats, the release added.
\n
As part of the initiative to combat illegal activities, law enforcement officers will conduct more rapid operations against bird poaching and trafficking, with a primary focus on organized crime syndicates and illegal activities involving nationally protected bird species, the administration said.
\n
The initiative seeks to dismantle numerous criminal groups, and eliminate bird netting and other illegal hunting activities along migratory bird flyways and in areas where birds frequently appear, it emphasized. Additionally, a series of high-profile cases will be publicly exposed to serve as a strong deterrent.
\n
The release also highlighted the initiative's intensified cross-departmental collaboration, stating that joint inspections and law enforcement operations will be conducted.
\n
The joint operations will primarily focus on spontaneously formed bird trading hubs, it noted. Additionally, online trading platforms will be urged to conduct self-inspections to eliminate the possibility of illegal bird sales.
\n
China is home to 1,505 bird species, representing about one-sixth of the world's total, making it one of the countries with the richest bird resources globally, according to the administration.
\n
Of these species, over 800 are migratory.
\n
Four of the world's nine major migratory bird flyways pass through China, encompassing nearly all of the country's land and sea territories.
A team of Chinese and Italian scientists has developed a groundbreaking method for splitting hydrogen at room temperature, potentially enhancing the efficiency and quality of producing key chemical products. The study, published in the journal Science on Friday, addresses a long-standing challenge in heterolytic hydrogen dissociation chemistry.
\n
Hydrogenation, a fundamental reaction in the chemical industry, involves hydrogen dissociation, which can occur through homolytic or heterolytic pathways. It is estimated that 25 percent of all the chemical processes include at least one hydrogenation step.
\n
Heterolytic dissociation is crucial for producing fine chemicals, as it generates reactive, polar hydrogen species that selectively reduce polar functional groups. However, this process usually requires high temperatures and pressures, leading to increased energy consumption and safety concerns.
\n
To overcome these challenges, the researchers developed a lightinduced strategy to achieve heterolytic hydrogen dissociation at room temperature. Using titanium dioxide supported with gold nanoparticles as a photocatalyst, they found that exposure to ultraviolet light causes electrons to migrate from titanium dioxide to gold nanoparticles.
\n
Concurrently, holes are captured at interfacial defects formed by the gold-oxygen-titanium connection, facilitating heterolytic hydrogen dissociation. The activity scales almost linearly with light intensity, confirming the photocatalytic nature of the process.
\n
The strategy's advantages were demonstrated by reducing inert carbon dioxide with the dissociated hydrogen species. The scientists found that these species could almost fully reduce carbon dioxide at room temperature, producing ethane as the sole product.
\n
By connecting this process with a photocatalytic ethane dehydrogenation device, they could convert carbon dioxide into ethylene with a yield exceeding 99 percent. This process remained stable for over 1,500 hours under ultraviolet light, indicating the catalyst's long-term stability.
\n
Further research showed that light-induced hydrogen dissociation is universal and can be extended to visible-light responsive photocatalysts.
\n
A demonstration using solar energy to convert carbon dioxide achieved an ethane selectivity of up to 90 percent.
\n
"This work offers a promising route to produce high-value chemicals like ethane and ethylene from hydrogen and carbon dioxide under mild conditions, which could lower the energy cost and reduce carbon emissions," said Wang Feng, the study's first corresponding author and a researcher at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
\n
"In the future, we hope the strategy can develop into a scalable, sunlight-driven or photothermal coupled technique to upgrade modern coal-based chemical industries," Wang added.
\n
limenghan@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "\n
A team of Chinese and Italian scientists has developed a groundbreaking method for splitting hydrogen at room temperature, potentially enhancing the efficiency and quality of producing key chemical products. The study, published in the journal Science on Friday, addresses a long-standing challenge in heterolytic hydrogen dissociation chemistry.
\n
Hydrogenation, a fundamental reaction in the chemical industry, involves hydrogen dissociation, which can occur through homolytic or heterolytic pathways. It is estimated that 25 percent of all the chemical processes include at least one hydrogenation step.
\n
Heterolytic dissociation is crucial for producing fine chemicals, as it generates reactive, polar hydrogen species that selectively reduce polar functional groups. However, this process usually requires high temperatures and pressures, leading to increased energy consumption and safety concerns.
\n
To overcome these challenges, the researchers developed a lightinduced strategy to achieve heterolytic hydrogen dissociation at room temperature. Using titanium dioxide supported with gold nanoparticles as a photocatalyst, they found that exposure to ultraviolet light causes electrons to migrate from titanium dioxide to gold nanoparticles.
\n
Concurrently, holes are captured at interfacial defects formed by the gold-oxygen-titanium connection, facilitating heterolytic hydrogen dissociation. The activity scales almost linearly with light intensity, confirming the photocatalytic nature of the process.
\n
The strategy's advantages were demonstrated by reducing inert carbon dioxide with the dissociated hydrogen species. The scientists found that these species could almost fully reduce carbon dioxide at room temperature, producing ethane as the sole product.
\n
By connecting this process with a photocatalytic ethane dehydrogenation device, they could convert carbon dioxide into ethylene with a yield exceeding 99 percent. This process remained stable for over 1,500 hours under ultraviolet light, indicating the catalyst's long-term stability.
\n
Further research showed that light-induced hydrogen dissociation is universal and can be extended to visible-light responsive photocatalysts.
\n
A demonstration using solar energy to convert carbon dioxide achieved an ethane selectivity of up to 90 percent.
\n
"This work offers a promising route to produce high-value chemicals like ethane and ethylene from hydrogen and carbon dioxide under mild conditions, which could lower the energy cost and reduce carbon emissions," said Wang Feng, the study's first corresponding author and a researcher at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
\n
"In the future, we hope the strategy can develop into a scalable, sunlight-driven or photothermal coupled technique to upgrade modern coal-based chemical industries," Wang added.
The deep integrated development between the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Guangdong province, and the Macao Special Administrative Region has demonstrated a new model of China's practice of "one country, two systems" while promoting moderate and diversified economic development in Macao, according to a statement issued on Friday, which marked the fourth anniversary of the release of the overall plan for the zone.
\n
According to the statement, the zone's "Macao + Hengqin" cooperation and development plan is emerging as a new model for enriching the country's practice of "one country, two systems", setting a new height for advancing the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and forming a new platform for advancing the country's high-level opening-up to the outside world, authorities said.
\n
Since the overall plan for the zone in Hengqin was introduced four years ago, the mechanism of "joint consultation, construction, management, and sharing" between Guangdong and Macao has operated smoothly in Hengqin, which is located at the mouth of the Pearl River.
\n
Meanwhile, the zone has also played a big part in expanding the development space of Macao and helping the special administrative region integrate into the national development strategy, said authorities. With innovation accelerating their agglomeration, Hengqin's characteristic industries have grown steadily, and the public services and social security systems have gradually aligned with those of Macao.
\n
More than 7,300 Macao-funded enterprises have been attracted to the cooperation zone, and more than 28,000 Macao residents have lived and worked in Hengqin, demonstrating a deep integrated development of the two sides and a momentum of continuous development, said the statement.
\n
Li Jizhao, public relations director of True Health (Guangdong Hengqin) Medical Technology, said the construction of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin is a major national strategy.
\n
"The zone has excellent policy environment and location advantages, which can provide favorable soil and broad space for the development and growth of enterprises," said Li, noting that enterprises in the zone can enjoy a reduction of 15 percent in both corporate income tax and individual income tax.
\n
Yan Baihong, general manager of Bio-Sincerity (Macao), said his company would continue to leverage its advantages in technological R&D and global supply chain, integrate the industrial policy support from Macao and Hengqin, and enhance the regional biopharmaceutical strength.
\n
The company will also fully utilize Macao's role as a bridge for Portuguese-speaking countries to explore overseas markets, promote the integrated development of the Guangdong-Macao pharmaceutical industry and facilitate the rapid access of traditional Chinese medicine products to the global market, he added.
\n
In order to further accelerate the integrated development of people's livelihood on both sides, the zone and Macao jointly held a signing ceremony in late August for an administrative cooperation memorandum on "hospital-to-hospital" cross-border transfer services.
\n
Besides, a new special cross-border student shuttle service has also been launched since the beginning of September.
\n
Contact the writers at zhengcaixiong@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
The deep integrated development between the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Guangdong province, and the Macao Special Administrative Region has demonstrated a new model of China's practice of "one country, two systems" while promoting moderate and diversified economic development in Macao, according to a statement issued on Friday, which marked the fourth anniversary of the release of the overall plan for the zone.
\n
According to the statement, the zone's "Macao + Hengqin" cooperation and development plan is emerging as a new model for enriching the country's practice of "one country, two systems", setting a new height for advancing the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and forming a new platform for advancing the country's high-level opening-up to the outside world, authorities said.
\n
Since the overall plan for the zone in Hengqin was introduced four years ago, the mechanism of "joint consultation, construction, management, and sharing" between Guangdong and Macao has operated smoothly in Hengqin, which is located at the mouth of the Pearl River.
\n
Meanwhile, the zone has also played a big part in expanding the development space of Macao and helping the special administrative region integrate into the national development strategy, said authorities. With innovation accelerating their agglomeration, Hengqin's characteristic industries have grown steadily, and the public services and social security systems have gradually aligned with those of Macao.
\n
More than 7,300 Macao-funded enterprises have been attracted to the cooperation zone, and more than 28,000 Macao residents have lived and worked in Hengqin, demonstrating a deep integrated development of the two sides and a momentum of continuous development, said the statement.
\n
Li Jizhao, public relations director of True Health (Guangdong Hengqin) Medical Technology, said the construction of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin is a major national strategy.
\n
"The zone has excellent policy environment and location advantages, which can provide favorable soil and broad space for the development and growth of enterprises," said Li, noting that enterprises in the zone can enjoy a reduction of 15 percent in both corporate income tax and individual income tax.
\n
Yan Baihong, general manager of Bio-Sincerity (Macao), said his company would continue to leverage its advantages in technological R&D and global supply chain, integrate the industrial policy support from Macao and Hengqin, and enhance the regional biopharmaceutical strength.
\n
The company will also fully utilize Macao's role as a bridge for Portuguese-speaking countries to explore overseas markets, promote the integrated development of the Guangdong-Macao pharmaceutical industry and facilitate the rapid access of traditional Chinese medicine products to the global market, he added.
\n
In order to further accelerate the integrated development of people's livelihood on both sides, the zone and Macao jointly held a signing ceremony in late August for an administrative cooperation memorandum on "hospital-to-hospital" cross-border transfer services.
\n
Besides, a new special cross-border student shuttle service has also been launched since the beginning of September.
\n
Contact the writers at zhengcaixiong@chinadaily.com.cn
As the biggest and deadliest war in history, World War II involved most of the countries and regions of the world and claimed tens of millions of lives. But due to the Western-centric narrative of the war, China's immense contribution to the Allied victory in World War II has often been downplayed or overlooked.
\n
With the rise of China's global status in recent years, however, some Western historians have begun to acknowledge the significance of China's great contribution to the ultimate victory in World War II, prompting a reassessment of the Western-centric narrative.
\n
The "Age of Exploration" from the early 15th to early 17th centuries saw the capitalist Western powers leveraging their first-mover advantage to establish a colonial system across most parts of the world and foster a cultural bias that promotes the idea of the Western civilization's "superiority".
\n
This colonial cultural prejudice has profoundly influenced Western historiography since then, leading to the gross underestimation of the protracted and complex Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), and neglect of the strategic significance of the Chinese theater in tying down the fascist Japanese forces. For instance, British military historian B.H. Liddell Hart, in his work History of the Second World War, focused predominantly on the European and Pacific theaters, only scantly mentioning the Chinese front.
\n
Among the different fronts of World War II, the Chinese theater lasted the longest and made huge sacrifices. It tied the majority of Japanese forces for 14 years, contributing immensely to the Allied powers' operations in the Pacific and other parts of Asia. This is a historical reality the Western-centric narrative cannot erase.
\n
From the Sept 18 Incident staged by the Japanese army in 1931 to its surrender in August 1945, Tokyo deployed 97 infantry divisions, five aviation divisions, three tank divisions, along with substantial naval fleets and biological warfare units in China.
\n
Japan thought it could quickly occupy the whole of China and use its resources and strategic advantages to establish its hegemony in Asia. But the strong resistance by the Chinese people thwarted Japan's design. By preventing Japan from achieving its goal in China, the Chinese people disrupted the Imperial Japanese Army's strategic deployment plan and strained its military resources in the Pacific and Southeast Asia, creating favorable conditions for the Allied counteroffensive.
\n
Through their heroic resistance, the Chinese people demonstrated to the world their resolve and strength in fighting invaders, and earned the international community's respect and support. As noted by Japanese historian Koketsu Atsushi, while the atomic bombs dropped by the United States on Hiroshima and Nagasaki accelerated Japan's surrender, the continuous resistance by the Chinese people was the decisive factor in the defeat of Japan.
\n
The main Eastern theater played a strategically crucial role in the World Anti-Fascist War — a fact that should never be forgotten. It is therefore necessary to change the Western-centric narrative of the war, and acknowledge China's invaluable contributions to the Allied victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
The end of the Cold War prompted some Western historians to pay more attention to China's invaluable contribution to the victory in World War II. In his work, China at War: Triumph and Tragedy in the Emergence of the New China, British historian Hans van de Ven provides a detailed account of China's contributions to the global anti-fascist war and its crucial role in the Allied victory.
\n
Another historian Rana Mitter has conducted deeper research into the history of the war of resistance. In his book, Forgotten Ally: China's World War II, 1937-1945, Mitter emphasizes that China's battlefield is a neglected yet vital part of World War II and acknowledges China's key role among the Allied nations. The book has become essential reading in the West for understanding the Chinese people's war of resistance, playing a vital role in challenging the Western-centric narrative.
\n
Another book by Mitter, China's Good War: How World War II Is Shaping a New Nationalism, connects the memory of the war of resistance with the development of modern China, broadening Western perspectives on the country. The research works of both Van de Ven and Mitter have helped reshape Western understanding of the significance of the war of resistance and its lasting impact on New China.
\n
Some scholars have also focused on China's contributions to the British forces in South and Southeast Asia. Representative works in this regard include Forgotten Armies: Britain's Asian Empire and the War with Japan and Forgotten Wars: Freedom and Revolution in Southeast Asia by Christopher Bayly and Tim Harper. Both books acknowledge the role of Chinese workers and soldiers in the liberation of South and Southeast Asian countries, broadening the scope of the Chinese theater's influence and further signifying China's contribution to the Allied victory.
\n
On the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, it is essential to rebuild a just historical memory.
\n
As more and more Western scholars have begun to acknowledge China's historical contribution to the Allied victory, there is a growing call to break away from the Western-centric narrative. As such, Western historians and other scholars must reexamine the history of World War II and duly highlight China's contributions to the outcome of the war.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
\n",
+ "content": "\n
As the biggest and deadliest war in history, World War II involved most of the countries and regions of the world and claimed tens of millions of lives. But due to the Western-centric narrative of the war, China's immense contribution to the Allied victory in World War II has often been downplayed or overlooked.
\n
With the rise of China's global status in recent years, however, some Western historians have begun to acknowledge the significance of China's great contribution to the ultimate victory in World War II, prompting a reassessment of the Western-centric narrative.
\n
The "Age of Exploration" from the early 15th to early 17th centuries saw the capitalist Western powers leveraging their first-mover advantage to establish a colonial system across most parts of the world and foster a cultural bias that promotes the idea of the Western civilization's "superiority".
\n
This colonial cultural prejudice has profoundly influenced Western historiography since then, leading to the gross underestimation of the protracted and complex Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), and neglect of the strategic significance of the Chinese theater in tying down the fascist Japanese forces. For instance, British military historian B.H. Liddell Hart, in his work History of the Second World War, focused predominantly on the European and Pacific theaters, only scantly mentioning the Chinese front.
\n
Among the different fronts of World War II, the Chinese theater lasted the longest and made huge sacrifices. It tied the majority of Japanese forces for 14 years, contributing immensely to the Allied powers' operations in the Pacific and other parts of Asia. This is a historical reality the Western-centric narrative cannot erase.
\n
From the Sept 18 Incident staged by the Japanese army in 1931 to its surrender in August 1945, Tokyo deployed 97 infantry divisions, five aviation divisions, three tank divisions, along with substantial naval fleets and biological warfare units in China.
\n
Japan thought it could quickly occupy the whole of China and use its resources and strategic advantages to establish its hegemony in Asia. But the strong resistance by the Chinese people thwarted Japan's design. By preventing Japan from achieving its goal in China, the Chinese people disrupted the Imperial Japanese Army's strategic deployment plan and strained its military resources in the Pacific and Southeast Asia, creating favorable conditions for the Allied counteroffensive.
\n
Through their heroic resistance, the Chinese people demonstrated to the world their resolve and strength in fighting invaders, and earned the international community's respect and support. As noted by Japanese historian Koketsu Atsushi, while the atomic bombs dropped by the United States on Hiroshima and Nagasaki accelerated Japan's surrender, the continuous resistance by the Chinese people was the decisive factor in the defeat of Japan.
\n
The main Eastern theater played a strategically crucial role in the World Anti-Fascist War — a fact that should never be forgotten. It is therefore necessary to change the Western-centric narrative of the war, and acknowledge China's invaluable contributions to the Allied victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
The end of the Cold War prompted some Western historians to pay more attention to China's invaluable contribution to the victory in World War II. In his work, China at War: Triumph and Tragedy in the Emergence of the New China, British historian Hans van de Ven provides a detailed account of China's contributions to the global anti-fascist war and its crucial role in the Allied victory.
\n
Another historian Rana Mitter has conducted deeper research into the history of the war of resistance. In his book, Forgotten Ally: China's World War II, 1937-1945, Mitter emphasizes that China's battlefield is a neglected yet vital part of World War II and acknowledges China's key role among the Allied nations. The book has become essential reading in the West for understanding the Chinese people's war of resistance, playing a vital role in challenging the Western-centric narrative.
\n
Another book by Mitter, China's Good War: How World War II Is Shaping a New Nationalism, connects the memory of the war of resistance with the development of modern China, broadening Western perspectives on the country. The research works of both Van de Ven and Mitter have helped reshape Western understanding of the significance of the war of resistance and its lasting impact on New China.
\n
Some scholars have also focused on China's contributions to the British forces in South and Southeast Asia. Representative works in this regard include Forgotten Armies: Britain's Asian Empire and the War with Japan and Forgotten Wars: Freedom and Revolution in Southeast Asia by Christopher Bayly and Tim Harper. Both books acknowledge the role of Chinese workers and soldiers in the liberation of South and Southeast Asian countries, broadening the scope of the Chinese theater's influence and further signifying China's contribution to the Allied victory.
\n
On the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, it is essential to rebuild a just historical memory.
\n
As more and more Western scholars have begun to acknowledge China's historical contribution to the Allied victory, there is a growing call to break away from the Western-centric narrative. As such, Western historians and other scholars must reexamine the history of World War II and duly highlight China's contributions to the outcome of the war.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
Beijing held a grand military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War on Sept 3, with 26 foreign heads of state and government attending the event. Leaders of parliaments, deputy prime ministers and high-level officials from various countries, along with international organization chiefs, witnessed the parade.
\n
The parade emphasized the principle of nonalignment, in contrast to "bloc politics" that those with the Cold War mentality propagate. Through the parade, China showcased its independent foreign and defense policies, and its goal of helping maintain global peace, while demonstrating its resolve to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
China has always adhered to nonaligned diplomacy, more so after the launch of reform and opening-up. Since the Opium War (that started in 1840), China has learned a valuable lesson: it can only safeguard its core national interests by maintaining its independence and pursuing self-determination.
\n
Unlike the bloc confrontation policy of NATO or the Warsaw Pact and the military parades held by the two blocs during the Cold War, China's parades are not aimed at creating "friend-or-foe" divisions, as they reflect a defense policy that transcends bloc politics.
\n
Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War was achieved through the collective efforts of many countries' people. That's why guests from a diverse array of nations were invited to the parade. The gathering embodied China's approach to international relations in the new era: dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance, and win-win cooperation over zero-sum games.
\n
The parade also served as a significant platform for China to demonstrate its transparent defense philosophy. The display of new generation equipment, including advanced tanks, carrier-based aircraft and fighter jets reflects the Chinese military's system-based operational capabilities, while advanced systems such as new types of combat drones, directed-energy weapons, and electronic jamming systems highlighted the People's Liberation Army's strengths in new domains and cutting-edge technologies.
\n
Sophisticated equipment, including hypersonic weapons, air and missile defense systems, and strategic missiles underscored China's strategic capability to strengthen deterrence. But their display was not a "show of force". Instead, it was a demonstration of the practical means to safeguard national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Through such open and confident display of defense equipment, China showed its commitment to safeguarding world peace.
\n
China's contribution to the United Nations' peacekeeping missions is evidence of the country fulfilling its global peace-maintenance responsibility. The Chinese "blue berets", which include engineers, carry the legacy of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army, and have been deployed on many peacekeeping missions. This not only commemorates the victory in the war of resistance against Japanese aggression but also highlights China's role as a major country.
\n
The Chinese "blue berets" embody China's steadfast commitment to pursue peaceful development and engage in winwin cooperation, emphasizing a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security.
\n
For 16 consecutive years, the Chinese escort fleet in the Gulf of Aden has protected both Chinese and foreign vessels. The PLA hospital ship — Peace Ark — has sailed across three oceans, while the maritime cooperation network under the Belt and Road Initiative continues to expand. These efforts demonstrated China's unwavering commitment to collaborate with the international community, safeguard shipping channels, forge international bonds of lifesaving assistance with the hospital ship, and promote shared regional development by improving connectivity.
\n
Since ancient times, harmony and coexistence for a shared future have been the aspirations of the Chinese people. In today's world, China's military parades are part of its efforts to foster a new type of international relations characterized by mutual respect, fairness, justice, and win-win cooperation. The parades have reflected China's firm commitment to advance the cause of global peace and development.
\n
At this critical juncture, when the global landscape is undergoing profound changes and the international order is being restructured, the Sept 3 parade was much more than a ceremony displaying national pride and military strength. It served as a declaration to the world that China's approach to strengthening its military is by no means about expansion, but rather a commitment to peace and development in the new era and the fulfillment of commitments.
\n
That China will never seek hegemony, expansion, or spheres of influence is evidenced in China's voluntary decisions to reduce its troops, peacefully settle its border issues with 12 land neighbors through negotiations, and its implementation of cooperative projects in Africa and other regions without political conditions.
\n
Through the parade, China showed the world that true strength lies not only in having a powerful military but, more importantly, in the ability to safeguard peace without resorting to military means. Dignity is supported not only by the military but also the wisdom of guiding humanity toward a shared future with a peaceful vision. The Sept 3 parade — a magnificent event laden with historical memory and aspirations — is destined to become a lasting symbol of peace in the collective memory of humanity.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
\n",
+ "content": "
Beijing held a grand military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War on Sept 3, with 26 foreign heads of state and government attending the event. Leaders of parliaments, deputy prime ministers and high-level officials from various countries, along with international organization chiefs, witnessed the parade.
\n
The parade emphasized the principle of nonalignment, in contrast to "bloc politics" that those with the Cold War mentality propagate. Through the parade, China showcased its independent foreign and defense policies, and its goal of helping maintain global peace, while demonstrating its resolve to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
China has always adhered to nonaligned diplomacy, more so after the launch of reform and opening-up. Since the Opium War (that started in 1840), China has learned a valuable lesson: it can only safeguard its core national interests by maintaining its independence and pursuing self-determination.
\n
Unlike the bloc confrontation policy of NATO or the Warsaw Pact and the military parades held by the two blocs during the Cold War, China's parades are not aimed at creating "friend-or-foe" divisions, as they reflect a defense policy that transcends bloc politics.
\n
Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War was achieved through the collective efforts of many countries' people. That's why guests from a diverse array of nations were invited to the parade. The gathering embodied China's approach to international relations in the new era: dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance, and win-win cooperation over zero-sum games.
\n
The parade also served as a significant platform for China to demonstrate its transparent defense philosophy. The display of new generation equipment, including advanced tanks, carrier-based aircraft and fighter jets reflects the Chinese military's system-based operational capabilities, while advanced systems such as new types of combat drones, directed-energy weapons, and electronic jamming systems highlighted the People's Liberation Army's strengths in new domains and cutting-edge technologies.
\n
Sophisticated equipment, including hypersonic weapons, air and missile defense systems, and strategic missiles underscored China's strategic capability to strengthen deterrence. But their display was not a "show of force". Instead, it was a demonstration of the practical means to safeguard national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Through such open and confident display of defense equipment, China showed its commitment to safeguarding world peace.
\n
China's contribution to the United Nations' peacekeeping missions is evidence of the country fulfilling its global peace-maintenance responsibility. The Chinese "blue berets", which include engineers, carry the legacy of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army, and have been deployed on many peacekeeping missions. This not only commemorates the victory in the war of resistance against Japanese aggression but also highlights China's role as a major country.
\n
The Chinese "blue berets" embody China's steadfast commitment to pursue peaceful development and engage in winwin cooperation, emphasizing a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security.
\n
For 16 consecutive years, the Chinese escort fleet in the Gulf of Aden has protected both Chinese and foreign vessels. The PLA hospital ship — Peace Ark — has sailed across three oceans, while the maritime cooperation network under the Belt and Road Initiative continues to expand. These efforts demonstrated China's unwavering commitment to collaborate with the international community, safeguard shipping channels, forge international bonds of lifesaving assistance with the hospital ship, and promote shared regional development by improving connectivity.
\n
Since ancient times, harmony and coexistence for a shared future have been the aspirations of the Chinese people. In today's world, China's military parades are part of its efforts to foster a new type of international relations characterized by mutual respect, fairness, justice, and win-win cooperation. The parades have reflected China's firm commitment to advance the cause of global peace and development.
\n
At this critical juncture, when the global landscape is undergoing profound changes and the international order is being restructured, the Sept 3 parade was much more than a ceremony displaying national pride and military strength. It served as a declaration to the world that China's approach to strengthening its military is by no means about expansion, but rather a commitment to peace and development in the new era and the fulfillment of commitments.
\n
That China will never seek hegemony, expansion, or spheres of influence is evidenced in China's voluntary decisions to reduce its troops, peacefully settle its border issues with 12 land neighbors through negotiations, and its implementation of cooperative projects in Africa and other regions without political conditions.
\n
Through the parade, China showed the world that true strength lies not only in having a powerful military but, more importantly, in the ability to safeguard peace without resorting to military means. Dignity is supported not only by the military but also the wisdom of guiding humanity toward a shared future with a peaceful vision. The Sept 3 parade — a magnificent event laden with historical memory and aspirations — is destined to become a lasting symbol of peace in the collective memory of humanity.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
In recent years, despite sustained growth in global investment in renewable energy, some developed countries' new policies favor increasing the use of fossil fuels. With major changes in clean energy tax credit policies in the United States' "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" of 2025 — such as the introduction of an annual rent on wind and solar projects and the reduction of tax incentives for clean energy — the global energy landscape seems to be subtly shifting back toward fossil fuels. The US tilt toward traditional energy projects, along with some other countries' continued reliance on advanced fossil fuel technologies to meet their short-term economic growth needs, show why climate change is worsening. These countries' policy orientation is disturbing the balance between global energy supply and demand, and could hinder the green transition.
\n
Given this development, China — as a large country and core member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization — must not only adapt to external environmental shifts but also seek fresh opportunities within multilateral cooperation frameworks. Utilizing the SCO as a collaborative platform and upholding the Shanghai Spirit, China prioritizes people-centered development, reforming and refining of the global governance system, enhancing the well-being of SCO member states' populations, protecting the ecological environment, achieving energy transition, strengthening green industry cooperation, and making greater contributions to advance the community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
In response to this complex situation, the Chinese government has taken a series of measures to strengthen national energy security and expeditiously optimize and upgrade its energy structure. First, by continuing to promote the development of China's new energy sector, the government is supporting R&D in clean energy technologies such as wind and solar power, and encouraging enterprises to innovate through subsidy policies that reduce costs.
\n
Second, in response to potential price fluctuations and unstable supply in the international market, China has strengthened its strategic relationships with major oil-producing countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, by signing multiple long-term oil supply agreements to diversify crude oil import channels.
\n
Besides, China has been participating in global energy governance through multilateral platforms such as the SCO and BRICS to call for joint efforts by all countries to address climate change and promote the formation of a fair and reasonable global energy governance system.
\n
At the sixth meeting of the environmental ministers of SCO member states, held recently, the participants signed a joint statement and announced that the SCO would take measures to strengthen cooperation in order to achieve sustainable development. Moreover, the SCO summit in Tianjin announced to promote cooperation in green industry and sustainable energy development.
\n
Regarding sustainable energy development, the SCO emphasizes the imperative to safeguard energy security, ensure stability in energy markets, and advance a proper energy transition tailored to each nation's specific circumstances and developmental priorities. Within the framework of SCO energy cooperation, member states will engage in pragmatic collaboration through joint projects such as new energy infrastructure development. Cooperation in scientific and technological innovation is to be advanced by developing and applying advanced energy technologies, while simultaneously refining talent cultivation mechanisms to foster favorable conditions for technological innovation.
\n
Regarding green industry cooperation, the statement underscores that protecting the ecological environment and promoting green development constitute vital areas of collaboration among SCO member states. Member states are to deepen policy and information exchange by advancing the integrated development of green industry product supply chains and researching unified green industry standards compliant with international norms, while sharing experiences and best practices in the green industry sector. Green industry cooperation is to be strengthened through measures such as promoting the research, development, and dissemination of advanced green technologies via scientific research cooperation projects.
\n
The Shanghai Spirit, comprising "mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development" is not only the basic principle on which SCO member states' relations are based but also provides a solid theoretical foundation for deepening energy cooperation in the region.
\n
China, guided by the Shanghai Spirit, has been deepening cooperation with other SCO member states in the energy sector. For example, in infrastructure construction, China is promoting the joint construction of key facilities such as oil pipelines and power grids along the Belt and Road routes, thus meeting local economic development needs and promoting interconnectivity among regions.
\n
In terms of technological exchanges, China shares its rich experiences and technical expertise in the development and use of clean energy with other SCO member states, while also collaborating with them to overcome technical challenges during their transition to clean energy. And when it comes to financial support, the China-Eurasia Economic Cooperation Fund has been advancing green energy projects to support SCO member states looking for investment in the green economy, especially green energy, thereby promoting long-term sustainable development.
\n
As a responsible major country, China is committed to contributing to the resolution of global issues. Amid the fast-changing global energy landscape, China should adhere to its low-carbon and green development path, and play a leading role in the development of the green economy, setting an example for other countries and regions.
\n
Through joint efforts, within the framework of the SCO, China can achieve even more fruitful results that help to maintain global energy security and promote sustainable development.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
\n",
+ "content": "
In recent years, despite sustained growth in global investment in renewable energy, some developed countries' new policies favor increasing the use of fossil fuels. With major changes in clean energy tax credit policies in the United States' "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" of 2025 — such as the introduction of an annual rent on wind and solar projects and the reduction of tax incentives for clean energy — the global energy landscape seems to be subtly shifting back toward fossil fuels. The US tilt toward traditional energy projects, along with some other countries' continued reliance on advanced fossil fuel technologies to meet their short-term economic growth needs, show why climate change is worsening. These countries' policy orientation is disturbing the balance between global energy supply and demand, and could hinder the green transition.
\n
Given this development, China — as a large country and core member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization — must not only adapt to external environmental shifts but also seek fresh opportunities within multilateral cooperation frameworks. Utilizing the SCO as a collaborative platform and upholding the Shanghai Spirit, China prioritizes people-centered development, reforming and refining of the global governance system, enhancing the well-being of SCO member states' populations, protecting the ecological environment, achieving energy transition, strengthening green industry cooperation, and making greater contributions to advance the community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
In response to this complex situation, the Chinese government has taken a series of measures to strengthen national energy security and expeditiously optimize and upgrade its energy structure. First, by continuing to promote the development of China's new energy sector, the government is supporting R&D in clean energy technologies such as wind and solar power, and encouraging enterprises to innovate through subsidy policies that reduce costs.
\n
Second, in response to potential price fluctuations and unstable supply in the international market, China has strengthened its strategic relationships with major oil-producing countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, by signing multiple long-term oil supply agreements to diversify crude oil import channels.
\n
Besides, China has been participating in global energy governance through multilateral platforms such as the SCO and BRICS to call for joint efforts by all countries to address climate change and promote the formation of a fair and reasonable global energy governance system.
\n
At the sixth meeting of the environmental ministers of SCO member states, held recently, the participants signed a joint statement and announced that the SCO would take measures to strengthen cooperation in order to achieve sustainable development. Moreover, the SCO summit in Tianjin announced to promote cooperation in green industry and sustainable energy development.
\n
Regarding sustainable energy development, the SCO emphasizes the imperative to safeguard energy security, ensure stability in energy markets, and advance a proper energy transition tailored to each nation's specific circumstances and developmental priorities. Within the framework of SCO energy cooperation, member states will engage in pragmatic collaboration through joint projects such as new energy infrastructure development. Cooperation in scientific and technological innovation is to be advanced by developing and applying advanced energy technologies, while simultaneously refining talent cultivation mechanisms to foster favorable conditions for technological innovation.
\n
Regarding green industry cooperation, the statement underscores that protecting the ecological environment and promoting green development constitute vital areas of collaboration among SCO member states. Member states are to deepen policy and information exchange by advancing the integrated development of green industry product supply chains and researching unified green industry standards compliant with international norms, while sharing experiences and best practices in the green industry sector. Green industry cooperation is to be strengthened through measures such as promoting the research, development, and dissemination of advanced green technologies via scientific research cooperation projects.
\n
The Shanghai Spirit, comprising "mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development" is not only the basic principle on which SCO member states' relations are based but also provides a solid theoretical foundation for deepening energy cooperation in the region.
\n
China, guided by the Shanghai Spirit, has been deepening cooperation with other SCO member states in the energy sector. For example, in infrastructure construction, China is promoting the joint construction of key facilities such as oil pipelines and power grids along the Belt and Road routes, thus meeting local economic development needs and promoting interconnectivity among regions.
\n
In terms of technological exchanges, China shares its rich experiences and technical expertise in the development and use of clean energy with other SCO member states, while also collaborating with them to overcome technical challenges during their transition to clean energy. And when it comes to financial support, the China-Eurasia Economic Cooperation Fund has been advancing green energy projects to support SCO member states looking for investment in the green economy, especially green energy, thereby promoting long-term sustainable development.
\n
As a responsible major country, China is committed to contributing to the resolution of global issues. Amid the fast-changing global energy landscape, China should adhere to its low-carbon and green development path, and play a leading role in the development of the green economy, setting an example for other countries and regions.
\n
Through joint efforts, within the framework of the SCO, China can achieve even more fruitful results that help to maintain global energy security and promote sustainable development.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
Huawei's latest tri-fold smartphone attracts buyers at one of its stores in Shanghai.
\n
Huawei Technologies Co launched its latest tri-fold smartphone, Mate XTs, on Thursday, marking the first time in four years that the Chinese company has publicly disclosed the model of its in-house Kirin processor.
\n
At the launch event, Richard Yu, Huawei's executive director and head of consumer business, said that the device is powered by the Kirin 9020 chip and runs on HarmonyOS 5, and that it delivers a 36 percent performance enhancement over its predecessor.
\n
The disclosure signaled a more confident stance on Huawei's chip technology after years of supply chain pressure. The move, industry experts said, underscores Huawei's push to demonstrate greater self-sufficiency in semiconductors.
\n
"Even with access to more advanced nodes constrained, Huawei is showing it can still advance chip performance through design and architecture," said Xiang Ligang, director-general of the Zhongguancun Modern Information Consumer Application Industry Technology Alliance, a telecom industry association.
\n
In addition to the chip upgrade, the Mate XTs also features improvements in imaging capabilities and its broader ecosystem of HarmonyOS as well. The new gadget marks the first time that the industry is bringing personal computer-level applications to a smartphone, supporting multiwindow interactions comparable to a desktop PC.
\n
The Mate XTs starts at 17,999 yuan ($2,480), 2,000 yuan cheaper than the company's first tri-fold device released a year ago.
\n
According to market consultancy International Data Corp, Huawei currently leads China's foldable smartphone market with a 75 percent share in the first half of 2025, shipping 3.74 million units.
\n
Xiang said: "Huawei's momentum is not only reshaping consumer expectations but also driving growth of the country's foldable market. The tri-fold device is gaining user trust and pushing the industry into maturity."
\n
Huawei's latest move also comes amid preparation by rivals for their own next-generation devices. Companies including Samsung, Motorola, and Google have ventured into foldable smartphones.
\n
According to a media report, Apple is also working on its first foldable iPhone.
\n
Apple's foldable smartphone, which is expected to feature significant changes in display technology, connectivity and biometrics, is expected to roll out next year.
\n
chengyu@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "\n
Huawei's latest tri-fold smartphone attracts buyers at one of its stores in Shanghai.
\n
Huawei Technologies Co launched its latest tri-fold smartphone, Mate XTs, on Thursday, marking the first time in four years that the Chinese company has publicly disclosed the model of its in-house Kirin processor.
\n
At the launch event, Richard Yu, Huawei's executive director and head of consumer business, said that the device is powered by the Kirin 9020 chip and runs on HarmonyOS 5, and that it delivers a 36 percent performance enhancement over its predecessor.
\n
The disclosure signaled a more confident stance on Huawei's chip technology after years of supply chain pressure. The move, industry experts said, underscores Huawei's push to demonstrate greater self-sufficiency in semiconductors.
\n
"Even with access to more advanced nodes constrained, Huawei is showing it can still advance chip performance through design and architecture," said Xiang Ligang, director-general of the Zhongguancun Modern Information Consumer Application Industry Technology Alliance, a telecom industry association.
\n
In addition to the chip upgrade, the Mate XTs also features improvements in imaging capabilities and its broader ecosystem of HarmonyOS as well. The new gadget marks the first time that the industry is bringing personal computer-level applications to a smartphone, supporting multiwindow interactions comparable to a desktop PC.
\n
The Mate XTs starts at 17,999 yuan ($2,480), 2,000 yuan cheaper than the company's first tri-fold device released a year ago.
\n
According to market consultancy International Data Corp, Huawei currently leads China's foldable smartphone market with a 75 percent share in the first half of 2025, shipping 3.74 million units.
\n
Xiang said: "Huawei's momentum is not only reshaping consumer expectations but also driving growth of the country's foldable market. The tri-fold device is gaining user trust and pushing the industry into maturity."
\n
Huawei's latest move also comes amid preparation by rivals for their own next-generation devices. Companies including Samsung, Motorola, and Google have ventured into foldable smartphones.
\n
According to a media report, Apple is also working on its first foldable iPhone.
\n
Apple's foldable smartphone, which is expected to feature significant changes in display technology, connectivity and biometrics, is expected to roll out next year.
Once a heavy industrial base built on steel and rare earths, Baotou in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region is reinventing itself as a key player in China's green energy transition, with onshore wind power equipment becoming its latest industrial cluster.
\n
At the Ming Yang New Energy Equipment Manufacturing Industrial Park, the shift is visible.
\n
Assembly lines are working in full swing, with robotic arms moving with steady precision, fastening bolt after bolt. At first glance, the pace does not seem extraordinary, but the difference is striking.
\n
"Forty-two bolts on a single unit would take three workers nearly 16 hours with heavy hydraulic wrenches. The robots finish the job in just four," said He Changguo, general manager of Ming Yang Group's northern manufacturing center.
\n
"Our production lines are running flat out for more than 10 projects, piecing together turbines bound for projects across Inner Mongolia and neighboring provinces," said He.
\n
Baotou hosts 44 onshore wind power equipment makers spanning turbines, blades, generators, gearboxes and towers. Guangdong-headquartered Ming Yang Group, a major renewable power equipment and solutions maker, which entered the city in 2021, has since expanded from a single plant into the anchor of the local supply chain.
\n
The parts localization rate for turbine units is expected to reach 85 percent this year, allowing most core components from gearboxes and generators to bolts to be produced within the city.
\n
The city's ambition is tangible at one of the country's largest blade testing centers which started operations in 2024. A colossal 113-meter blade, longer than a soccer field, is strapped into a massive rig. It will swing millions of times over seven months, enduring fatigue tests designed to mimic years of operation.
\n
Much of Inner Mongolia's wind potential comes from the desert and Gobi areas which offer abundant wind resources and also pose challenges for turbine design and operation such as frequent sandstorms and extreme temperature swings.
\n
Ming Yang's new 10 megawatt turbines are designed to withstand — 35 C to 60 C, and are equipped with sand-resistant blades, advanced filters, and smart sensors to adjust automatically to harsh conditions. Each turbine sweeps an area the size of six soccer fields and can generate enough electricity in a single day to power about 1,300 households for a month.
\n
Since production began in 2022, the Baotou facility has supplied equipment for more than 100 projects nationwide, generating around 55 billion kilowatt-hours of green electricity.
\n
Research and innovation backstop this shift. In 2022, Ming Yang Group and the Baotou government established a smart energy research institute, followed by an academician workstation for wind, solar, and hydrogen. Backed by more than 50 researchers and support from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the center has developed recyclable blades and models tailored to low-wind, desert, and coastal sites.
\n
"Baotou's wind power equipment industrial park is a model of developing new quality productive forces," said Sun Yue, deputy government head of Shiguai district, which is home to the industrial park.
\n
"We've built the onshore wind power industrial base with annual capacity for 1,500 turbines and 1,800 ultra-long blades."
\n
Baotou's industrial shift is also evident at Baogang Group, the city's steelmaker. The company has developed 500 MPa-grade rare earth wind power steel, among the highest globally, offering improved welding and fatigue resistance. The material is now widely used in turbine towers, giving Baogang a foothold in the renewable supply chain.
\n
"Baotou is moving from an old industrial base to a high-quality development hub," Sun added.
\n
"By linking manufacturing, research and development, testing, maintenance and recycling, we are building a competitive cluster with national and global influence."
\n
This strategy aligns with Inner Mongolia's goal of installing 300 gigawatts of new energy sources by 2030. In 2024, Inner Mongolia's installed capacity of new energy sources exceeded 135 GW, making it the first region in China where renewable energy capacity overtook that of coal-fired power. This figure is more than triple the level recorded at the end of 2019. As of May 2025, the installed capacity of new energy sources in the region had further surpassed 143 GW.
\n
Contact the writers at lijing2009@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Once a heavy industrial base built on steel and rare earths, Baotou in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region is reinventing itself as a key player in China's green energy transition, with onshore wind power equipment becoming its latest industrial cluster.
\n
At the Ming Yang New Energy Equipment Manufacturing Industrial Park, the shift is visible.
\n
Assembly lines are working in full swing, with robotic arms moving with steady precision, fastening bolt after bolt. At first glance, the pace does not seem extraordinary, but the difference is striking.
\n
"Forty-two bolts on a single unit would take three workers nearly 16 hours with heavy hydraulic wrenches. The robots finish the job in just four," said He Changguo, general manager of Ming Yang Group's northern manufacturing center.
\n
"Our production lines are running flat out for more than 10 projects, piecing together turbines bound for projects across Inner Mongolia and neighboring provinces," said He.
\n
Baotou hosts 44 onshore wind power equipment makers spanning turbines, blades, generators, gearboxes and towers. Guangdong-headquartered Ming Yang Group, a major renewable power equipment and solutions maker, which entered the city in 2021, has since expanded from a single plant into the anchor of the local supply chain.
\n
The parts localization rate for turbine units is expected to reach 85 percent this year, allowing most core components from gearboxes and generators to bolts to be produced within the city.
\n
The city's ambition is tangible at one of the country's largest blade testing centers which started operations in 2024. A colossal 113-meter blade, longer than a soccer field, is strapped into a massive rig. It will swing millions of times over seven months, enduring fatigue tests designed to mimic years of operation.
\n
Much of Inner Mongolia's wind potential comes from the desert and Gobi areas which offer abundant wind resources and also pose challenges for turbine design and operation such as frequent sandstorms and extreme temperature swings.
\n
Ming Yang's new 10 megawatt turbines are designed to withstand — 35 C to 60 C, and are equipped with sand-resistant blades, advanced filters, and smart sensors to adjust automatically to harsh conditions. Each turbine sweeps an area the size of six soccer fields and can generate enough electricity in a single day to power about 1,300 households for a month.
\n
Since production began in 2022, the Baotou facility has supplied equipment for more than 100 projects nationwide, generating around 55 billion kilowatt-hours of green electricity.
\n
Research and innovation backstop this shift. In 2022, Ming Yang Group and the Baotou government established a smart energy research institute, followed by an academician workstation for wind, solar, and hydrogen. Backed by more than 50 researchers and support from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the center has developed recyclable blades and models tailored to low-wind, desert, and coastal sites.
\n
"Baotou's wind power equipment industrial park is a model of developing new quality productive forces," said Sun Yue, deputy government head of Shiguai district, which is home to the industrial park.
\n
"We've built the onshore wind power industrial base with annual capacity for 1,500 turbines and 1,800 ultra-long blades."
\n
Baotou's industrial shift is also evident at Baogang Group, the city's steelmaker. The company has developed 500 MPa-grade rare earth wind power steel, among the highest globally, offering improved welding and fatigue resistance. The material is now widely used in turbine towers, giving Baogang a foothold in the renewable supply chain.
\n
"Baotou is moving from an old industrial base to a high-quality development hub," Sun added.
\n
"By linking manufacturing, research and development, testing, maintenance and recycling, we are building a competitive cluster with national and global influence."
\n
This strategy aligns with Inner Mongolia's goal of installing 300 gigawatts of new energy sources by 2030. In 2024, Inner Mongolia's installed capacity of new energy sources exceeded 135 GW, making it the first region in China where renewable energy capacity overtook that of coal-fired power. This figure is more than triple the level recorded at the end of 2019. As of May 2025, the installed capacity of new energy sources in the region had further surpassed 143 GW.
\n
Contact the writers at lijing2009@chinadaily.com.cn
Chinese power operators are using high-tech tools to enhance transmission line reliability and automation. Employees from State Grid Xuzhou in Jiangsu province have introduced multi-vehicle cluster coordination to conduct interruption-free maintenance work. Prior to an overhaul of the 10 kilovolt Qiaoshen line, staff members completed a "drone + live-line inspection" to accurately pinpoint the sections that required maintenance, identifying defects such as damaged insulators before formulating an integrated maintenance plan. During the overhaul, four teams worked under unified command, eliminating 27 defects and installing three new automated switches without any interruption in power supply.
\n
Shanghai's automotive industry reports growth
\n
In the first seven months of this year, Shanghai's automotive industry maintained steady growth, with its industrial output value reaching 391.12 billion yuan ($54.8 billion), a year-on-year increase of 10.6 percent. Notably, Shanghai promoted more than 160,000 new energy vehicles citywide during the period, up 19.9 percent year-on-year, according to the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Economy and Informatization.
\n",
+ "content": "
High-tech tools help maintain power supply
\n
Chinese power operators are using high-tech tools to enhance transmission line reliability and automation. Employees from State Grid Xuzhou in Jiangsu province have introduced multi-vehicle cluster coordination to conduct interruption-free maintenance work. Prior to an overhaul of the 10 kilovolt Qiaoshen line, staff members completed a "drone + live-line inspection" to accurately pinpoint the sections that required maintenance, identifying defects such as damaged insulators before formulating an integrated maintenance plan. During the overhaul, four teams worked under unified command, eliminating 27 defects and installing three new automated switches without any interruption in power supply.
\n
Shanghai's automotive industry reports growth
\n
In the first seven months of this year, Shanghai's automotive industry maintained steady growth, with its industrial output value reaching 391.12 billion yuan ($54.8 billion), a year-on-year increase of 10.6 percent. Notably, Shanghai promoted more than 160,000 new energy vehicles citywide during the period, up 19.9 percent year-on-year, according to the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Economy and Informatization.
A staff member of State Grid Taizhou in Jiangsu province briefs pupils on power safety awareness and protection at the Jiulong Experimental School in Hailing district, in a bid to publicize safe electricity use among the public.
A staff member of State Grid Taizhou in Jiangsu province briefs pupils on power safety awareness and protection at the Jiulong Experimental School in Hailing district, in a bid to publicize safe electricity use among the public.
Taking advantage of the ecological wetland of the Jialing River, the Fengyi Bay China-France agricultural technology park in Nanchong, Southwest China's Sichuan province, is transforming natural endowments into consumption momentum, and attracting a greater number of visitors.
\n
The park, which held thematic activities throughout last year, saw 1.2 million visits, generating 800 million yuan ($112 million) in sales revenue.
\n
The park has driven significant growth in consumption of catering and accommodation services in its surroundings, and new models such as online direct sales and livestreaming sales have begun to show results.
\n
This has enabled farmers to share in the development dividends and promote the extension of the agricultural product processing as well as cultural and creative development industry chain.
\n
The tomato valley in the park is capable of producing 200,000 kilograms of tomatoes per year. The tomato-themed science popularization exhibition hall sees 100,000 visits annually.
\n
The international flight campsite at the park provides helicopter and hot air balloon sightseeing, and has been selected as a typical case of national transportation and tourism integration.
\n
Cute Island Water World in the park has become a summer hit with over 30 water projects, setting a record for sales exceeding 1 million yuan in six hours.
\n
Furthermore, the Fengyi Bay Grand Stage in the park drove 50 million exposures to the scenic area in 23 days since opening.
\n
The park has also become a gathering place for fishing enthusiasts in the Southwest, and scenes such as equestrian clubs and water sports centers continue to attract visitors. This year, four film and television dramas will be filmed, further enriching the cultural and tourism aspects of the park.
\n
Zhang Tao, president and general manager of Fengyi Bay Agricultural Development Co Ltd, said: "The original intention of building the park was to increase the income of local farmers. The park, planned in 2016, began construction in 2017 and was completed in 2018.
\n
During peak hours on weekends, there are 50,000 to 60,000 visitors. Throughout the whole of last year, there were 1.2 million visits."
\n
In the future, Fengyi Bay will focus on continuous iteration and innovation of new consumption scenarios, continuously explore deep integration with health and wellness vacations, art and cultural creativity, digital technology and other fields.
\n
It will also plan new and diverse consumption scenarios, further strengthen brand influence, enhance the experience of tourists, and stimulate consumption, he noted.
\n
Contact the writers at zhengyiran@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Taking advantage of the ecological wetland of the Jialing River, the Fengyi Bay China-France agricultural technology park in Nanchong, Southwest China's Sichuan province, is transforming natural endowments into consumption momentum, and attracting a greater number of visitors.
\n
The park, which held thematic activities throughout last year, saw 1.2 million visits, generating 800 million yuan ($112 million) in sales revenue.
\n
The park has driven significant growth in consumption of catering and accommodation services in its surroundings, and new models such as online direct sales and livestreaming sales have begun to show results.
\n
This has enabled farmers to share in the development dividends and promote the extension of the agricultural product processing as well as cultural and creative development industry chain.
\n
The tomato valley in the park is capable of producing 200,000 kilograms of tomatoes per year. The tomato-themed science popularization exhibition hall sees 100,000 visits annually.
\n
The international flight campsite at the park provides helicopter and hot air balloon sightseeing, and has been selected as a typical case of national transportation and tourism integration.
\n
Cute Island Water World in the park has become a summer hit with over 30 water projects, setting a record for sales exceeding 1 million yuan in six hours.
\n
Furthermore, the Fengyi Bay Grand Stage in the park drove 50 million exposures to the scenic area in 23 days since opening.
\n
The park has also become a gathering place for fishing enthusiasts in the Southwest, and scenes such as equestrian clubs and water sports centers continue to attract visitors. This year, four film and television dramas will be filmed, further enriching the cultural and tourism aspects of the park.
\n
Zhang Tao, president and general manager of Fengyi Bay Agricultural Development Co Ltd, said: "The original intention of building the park was to increase the income of local farmers. The park, planned in 2016, began construction in 2017 and was completed in 2018.
\n
During peak hours on weekends, there are 50,000 to 60,000 visitors. Throughout the whole of last year, there were 1.2 million visits."
\n
In the future, Fengyi Bay will focus on continuous iteration and innovation of new consumption scenarios, continuously explore deep integration with health and wellness vacations, art and cultural creativity, digital technology and other fields.
\n
It will also plan new and diverse consumption scenarios, further strengthen brand influence, enhance the experience of tourists, and stimulate consumption, he noted.
\n
Contact the writers at zhengyiran@chinadaily.com.cn
With its expanding research output and active participation in international collaboration, China's scientific community is expected to play an increasingly vital role in shaping global innovation, said a renowned industry expert.
\n
"China's progress across science as a whole, particularly in the physical sciences, has been truly impressive. It has grown into one of the leading contributors to global science," said Matteo Cavalleri, global head of journal strategy at AIP Publishing (AIPP), the publishing arm of the American Institute of Physics.
\n
As a participant in this year's ChinaNANO conference, which came to a close in Beijing on Monday, Cavalleri said he found China's strong focus on addressing real-world challenges for the benefit of humanity to be especially important, and one area that reflects this drive is nanotechnology which is being used for detection, diagnostics and overall improvements in people's health and quality of life.
\n
According to a white paper released during ChinaNANO 2025, of the more than 1.078 million nanotechnology patents granted worldwide, China accounted for 464,000, representing 43 percent of the total — the largest share of any country.
\n
Cavalleri said the number reflects not only the scale and quality of Chinese research, but also the fact that Chinese scientists focus on translating basic research into practical applications.
\n
"For research translation, you ultimately need something that works, plus patience and sustained investment. This is something China has been doing well, having that long-term vision and future-oriented focus, rather than just looking for immediate results," he said.
\n
The combination of strong investment, infrastructure, research vitality, problem-driven focus and global collaboration makes China an "especially dynamic and central force" in today's scientific landscape, the executive added.
\n
According to Cavalleri, for inherently interdisciplinary fields like nanotechnology, having editors from different disciplines and regions could help foster collaboration which is key for research and applications, and scientific journals should actively promote this kind of diversity.
\n
In this regard, AIPP has appointed two Chinese editors-in-chief in recent years, reflecting not geography but scientific excellence.
\n
"Having Chinese editors-in-chief is quite natural, considering how China has established itself as a center of excellence in physics," Cavalleri said, adding that a large proportion of submitted articles now come from Chinese researchers, making it natural for editorial teams to mirror this diversity.
\n
"Editors select reviewers based on trust in their expertise, so having editors who know the Chinese research community helps increase the number of qualified reviewers, which naturally leads to greater diversity in the overall editorial system," he said.
\n
According to AIPP data, although still falling short of matching the more than 50 percent share of submissions from China, Chinese participation in peer review has grown significantly. In 2020, the figure was only 9 percent, while in 2024 the number had reached 22 percent, up 5 percentage points from the year earlier.
\n
Cavalleri believes expanding editorial teams in China will naturally bring more reviewers into the system and programs such as AIPP's Reviewers Academy are also helping to train a new generation of reviewers.
\n
Looking ahead, the publisher said it will continue to bridge Chinese researchers with the international research community through enhanced local operations.
\n
It has already sealed several partnerships with Chinese universities and institutions, and the collaborations go beyond journal subscriptions to also include publishing partnerships, helping Chinese researchers increase global impact.
\n
"What strikes me most when I come here is the willingness of Chinese researchers to open up their work, drive collaboration and lead initiatives that benefit not only China but the global community," Cavalleri said. "My recommendation would be to continue this approach. Science is borderless, and anyone who disagrees with that is mistaken."
\n
lijiaying@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Matteo Cavalleri
\n
With its expanding research output and active participation in international collaboration, China's scientific community is expected to play an increasingly vital role in shaping global innovation, said a renowned industry expert.
\n
"China's progress across science as a whole, particularly in the physical sciences, has been truly impressive. It has grown into one of the leading contributors to global science," said Matteo Cavalleri, global head of journal strategy at AIP Publishing (AIPP), the publishing arm of the American Institute of Physics.
\n
As a participant in this year's ChinaNANO conference, which came to a close in Beijing on Monday, Cavalleri said he found China's strong focus on addressing real-world challenges for the benefit of humanity to be especially important, and one area that reflects this drive is nanotechnology which is being used for detection, diagnostics and overall improvements in people's health and quality of life.
\n
According to a white paper released during ChinaNANO 2025, of the more than 1.078 million nanotechnology patents granted worldwide, China accounted for 464,000, representing 43 percent of the total — the largest share of any country.
\n
Cavalleri said the number reflects not only the scale and quality of Chinese research, but also the fact that Chinese scientists focus on translating basic research into practical applications.
\n
"For research translation, you ultimately need something that works, plus patience and sustained investment. This is something China has been doing well, having that long-term vision and future-oriented focus, rather than just looking for immediate results," he said.
\n
The combination of strong investment, infrastructure, research vitality, problem-driven focus and global collaboration makes China an "especially dynamic and central force" in today's scientific landscape, the executive added.
\n
According to Cavalleri, for inherently interdisciplinary fields like nanotechnology, having editors from different disciplines and regions could help foster collaboration which is key for research and applications, and scientific journals should actively promote this kind of diversity.
\n
In this regard, AIPP has appointed two Chinese editors-in-chief in recent years, reflecting not geography but scientific excellence.
\n
"Having Chinese editors-in-chief is quite natural, considering how China has established itself as a center of excellence in physics," Cavalleri said, adding that a large proportion of submitted articles now come from Chinese researchers, making it natural for editorial teams to mirror this diversity.
\n
"Editors select reviewers based on trust in their expertise, so having editors who know the Chinese research community helps increase the number of qualified reviewers, which naturally leads to greater diversity in the overall editorial system," he said.
\n
According to AIPP data, although still falling short of matching the more than 50 percent share of submissions from China, Chinese participation in peer review has grown significantly. In 2020, the figure was only 9 percent, while in 2024 the number had reached 22 percent, up 5 percentage points from the year earlier.
\n
Cavalleri believes expanding editorial teams in China will naturally bring more reviewers into the system and programs such as AIPP's Reviewers Academy are also helping to train a new generation of reviewers.
\n
Looking ahead, the publisher said it will continue to bridge Chinese researchers with the international research community through enhanced local operations.
\n
It has already sealed several partnerships with Chinese universities and institutions, and the collaborations go beyond journal subscriptions to also include publishing partnerships, helping Chinese researchers increase global impact.
\n
"What strikes me most when I come here is the willingness of Chinese researchers to open up their work, drive collaboration and lead initiatives that benefit not only China but the global community," Cavalleri said. "My recommendation would be to continue this approach. Science is borderless, and anyone who disagrees with that is mistaken."
Leader of Bhumjaithai Party Anutin Charnvirakul (left), talks to lawmakers at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday.
\n
BANGKOK — Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the opposition Bhumjaithai Party, was elected as Thailand's new prime minister on Friday after winning a majority in a parliamentary vote.
\n
Anutin beat his sole contender, nominated by the ruling Pheu Thai Party, Chaikasem Nitisiri, to lead the next government, following a court ruling last week that removed Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her premiership over an ethics breach.
\n
Anutin led from the start and won 63 percent of the votes, doubling the tally of Chaikasem.
\n
After a one-hour roll call vote, Second Deputy House Speaker Chalad Khamchuang announced that Anutin received 311 votes in favor from the 490 members present in the House of Representatives, exceeding the simple majority required for approval.
\n
A phalanx of media surrounded him as he left the chamber, his aides fending off a crowd of journalists who jostled and shouted while he slowly made his way to a waiting car.
\n
"I will work my hardest, every day, no holidays, because there is not a lot of time," Anutin said, his face lit up by bursts of camera flashes. "We have to ease problems quickly."
\n
China expressed congratulations on Friday to Anutin on his election, saying it stands ready to work with Thailand to strengthen strategic communication and deepen practical cooperation.
\n
The remarks were made in an online statement issued by the foreign ministry.
\n
China and Thailand are close friends and neighbors, and the two countries, like one family, are as close as ever, a foreign ministry spokesperson was quoted as saying.
\n
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
\n
Traditional friendship
\n
Beijing is willing to work with Bangkok to carry forward the traditional friendship, achieve greater progress in the building of the China-Thailand community with a shared future, and contribute to peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region, according to the statement.
\n
Anutin is awaiting formal endorsement by Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn to become the 32nd prime minister of the Southeast Asian country.
\n
Anutin's victory resulted from pact with the progressive opposition People's Party, the largest force in parliament, which he persuaded with promises to hold a referendum on amending the constitution and call an election within four months.
\n
Anutin will lead a minority government, which People's Party will not join, and take the helm of a country with an economy struggling from weak consumption, tight lending and soaring levels of household debt.
\n
The Pheu Thai Party said on Friday it would return to power to deliver on its agenda, after its candidate lost a parliamentary vote for prime minister.
\n
"On all the pending policies, we will return to finish the job for all the Thai people," it said in a statement on social media, adding it was ready to be in the parliamentary opposition.
\n
Pheu Thai Party's crisis was triggered in June by Anutin's withdrawal from its alliance, which left the coalition government clinging to power with a razor-thin majority amid protests and plummeting popularity.
\n
The hammer blow was last week's dismissal by a court of Thaksin Shinawatra's daughter, Paetongtarn.
\n
Thailand's Constitutional Court ruled to dismiss Paetongtarn from office on Friday, after finding her guilty of violating the constitution during a controversial leaked phone call between her and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.
\n",
+ "content": "
Leader of Bhumjaithai Party Anutin Charnvirakul (left), talks to lawmakers at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday.
\n
BANGKOK — Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the opposition Bhumjaithai Party, was elected as Thailand's new prime minister on Friday after winning a majority in a parliamentary vote.
\n
Anutin beat his sole contender, nominated by the ruling Pheu Thai Party, Chaikasem Nitisiri, to lead the next government, following a court ruling last week that removed Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her premiership over an ethics breach.
\n
Anutin led from the start and won 63 percent of the votes, doubling the tally of Chaikasem.
\n
After a one-hour roll call vote, Second Deputy House Speaker Chalad Khamchuang announced that Anutin received 311 votes in favor from the 490 members present in the House of Representatives, exceeding the simple majority required for approval.
\n
A phalanx of media surrounded him as he left the chamber, his aides fending off a crowd of journalists who jostled and shouted while he slowly made his way to a waiting car.
\n
"I will work my hardest, every day, no holidays, because there is not a lot of time," Anutin said, his face lit up by bursts of camera flashes. "We have to ease problems quickly."
\n
China expressed congratulations on Friday to Anutin on his election, saying it stands ready to work with Thailand to strengthen strategic communication and deepen practical cooperation.
\n
The remarks were made in an online statement issued by the foreign ministry.
\n
China and Thailand are close friends and neighbors, and the two countries, like one family, are as close as ever, a foreign ministry spokesperson was quoted as saying.
\n
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
\n
Traditional friendship
\n
Beijing is willing to work with Bangkok to carry forward the traditional friendship, achieve greater progress in the building of the China-Thailand community with a shared future, and contribute to peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region, according to the statement.
\n
Anutin is awaiting formal endorsement by Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn to become the 32nd prime minister of the Southeast Asian country.
\n
Anutin's victory resulted from pact with the progressive opposition People's Party, the largest force in parliament, which he persuaded with promises to hold a referendum on amending the constitution and call an election within four months.
\n
Anutin will lead a minority government, which People's Party will not join, and take the helm of a country with an economy struggling from weak consumption, tight lending and soaring levels of household debt.
\n
The Pheu Thai Party said on Friday it would return to power to deliver on its agenda, after its candidate lost a parliamentary vote for prime minister.
\n
"On all the pending policies, we will return to finish the job for all the Thai people," it said in a statement on social media, adding it was ready to be in the parliamentary opposition.
\n
Pheu Thai Party's crisis was triggered in June by Anutin's withdrawal from its alliance, which left the coalition government clinging to power with a razor-thin majority amid protests and plummeting popularity.
\n
The hammer blow was last week's dismissal by a court of Thaksin Shinawatra's daughter, Paetongtarn.
\n
Thailand's Constitutional Court ruled to dismiss Paetongtarn from office on Friday, after finding her guilty of violating the constitution during a controversial leaked phone call between her and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.
Russia will reciprocate the decision of Chinese authorities to introduce visa-free travel for Russian citizens, President Vladimir Putin told an economic forum in Vladivostok on Friday. China has said it will extend visa-free travel to ordinary passport holders from Russia on a trial basis. The visa exemption will be valid for a period of one year from Sept 15, allowing entry to China for no more than 30 days.
\n
UNITED STATES
\n
Trump to sign order to rename department
\n
US President Donald Trump was reportedly preparing to sign an executive order on Friday to rebrand the Department of Defense as the Department of War. The order would allow the name to be used as a secondary title in official correspondence, with references such as "Secretary of War", reported local media outlets. A full legal change would still require congressional approval. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had argued the revival underscores a stronger "warrior ethos". Critics warned it could incur high costs and distract from security priorities.
\n
ITALY
\n
Fashion designer Giorgio Armani dies
\n
Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian designer, passed away at the age of 91, the company he founded and led for five decades announced on Thursday. Armani was one of the most recognizable names and faces in the global fashion industry. He founded his self-titled brand in 1975, and it now generates some $2.7 billion in annual revenue. Armani died at home, "peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones", the fashion house said.
\n
SRI LANKA
\n
Passenger bus skids off a cliff, killing 15
\n
A Sri Lankan bus carrying local tourists visiting lush tea plantation hill towns plunged nearly 300 meters in a mountainous region, with the crash killing 15 people and injuring 16 others, a police spokesman said on Friday. The accident occurred near the town of Wellawaya, about 280 kilometers east of the capital Colombo. The group was returning home after a holiday when the bus hit another vehicle, crashed through guardrails and then shot over the side before toppling off the cliff. The accident is the worst since May, when 23 passengers died in a bus crash in Kotmale.
\n",
+ "content": "
RUSSIA
\n
Visa-free policy will be reciprocated: Putin
\n
Russia will reciprocate the decision of Chinese authorities to introduce visa-free travel for Russian citizens, President Vladimir Putin told an economic forum in Vladivostok on Friday. China has said it will extend visa-free travel to ordinary passport holders from Russia on a trial basis. The visa exemption will be valid for a period of one year from Sept 15, allowing entry to China for no more than 30 days.
\n
UNITED STATES
\n
Trump to sign order to rename department
\n
US President Donald Trump was reportedly preparing to sign an executive order on Friday to rebrand the Department of Defense as the Department of War. The order would allow the name to be used as a secondary title in official correspondence, with references such as "Secretary of War", reported local media outlets. A full legal change would still require congressional approval. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had argued the revival underscores a stronger "warrior ethos". Critics warned it could incur high costs and distract from security priorities.
\n
ITALY
\n
Fashion designer Giorgio Armani dies
\n
Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian designer, passed away at the age of 91, the company he founded and led for five decades announced on Thursday. Armani was one of the most recognizable names and faces in the global fashion industry. He founded his self-titled brand in 1975, and it now generates some $2.7 billion in annual revenue. Armani died at home, "peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones", the fashion house said.
\n
SRI LANKA
\n
Passenger bus skids off a cliff, killing 15
\n
A Sri Lankan bus carrying local tourists visiting lush tea plantation hill towns plunged nearly 300 meters in a mountainous region, with the crash killing 15 people and injuring 16 others, a police spokesman said on Friday. The accident occurred near the town of Wellawaya, about 280 kilometers east of the capital Colombo. The group was returning home after a holiday when the bus hit another vehicle, crashed through guardrails and then shot over the side before toppling off the cliff. The accident is the worst since May, when 23 passengers died in a bus crash in Kotmale.
A summit in Paris on Thursday brings together European leaders in a push to finalize security guarantees for Ukraine.
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PARIS/MOSCOW — French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that 26 countries, mostly European, have formally pledged to deploy troops as part of a future Russian-Ukrainian ceasefire, though not directly on the front line.
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Speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at a news conference following the meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing", Macron said the countries would contribute to a "reassurance force" that could deploy troops in Ukraine or provide support on land, at sea, or in the air.
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He added that after the summit, participants held a call with US President Donald Trump and the United States is expected to finalize its contributions to the security guarantees in the coming days.
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Zelensky welcomed the announcement as a "concrete" step forward and stressed that a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whether bilateral or trilateral, is "necessary" for advancing peace efforts.
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Later, asked if the US president planned to speak to Putin in the near future, Trump said: "Yeah, I will be. We are having a very good dialogue."
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"The day the conflict stops, the security guarantees will be deployed," Macron told a news conference at the Elysee Palace in Paris, standing alongside Zelensky.
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European officials say peace looks like a distant prospect for now, but they want to be ready whenever the war ends. They also see the planning of security guarantees as a way to reassure Kyiv of their support and hope Trump will join their efforts.
\n
Macron initially said the 26 nations, which he did not name, would deploy to Ukraine. But he later said that some countries would provide guarantees while remaining outside Ukraine, for example, by helping to train and equip Kyiv's forces. He did not say how many troops would be involved in the guarantees.
\n
US involvement
\n
Germany and other countries pledged they would be involved in that effort. But Berlin said it would decide on a military commitment only when conditions were clear, including the extent of US involvement in security guarantees.
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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made it clear that she would not send troops to Ukraine, but said Italy was open to monitoring a ceasefire and training Ukrainian troops outside the country.
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France and Britain, which co-chair the meeting, have indicated that they are open to deploying troops to Ukraine after the fighting ends.
\n
The Kremlin said on Friday that security guarantees for Ukraine cannot be provided by foreign military contingents, and much work needs to be done before a high or top-level meeting between Moscow and Kyiv to settle the conflict in Ukraine.
\n
"Can Ukraine's security guarantees be ensured and provided by foreign, especially European and American, military contingents? Definitely not, they cannot," the Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russia's RIA state news agency on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum in the city of Vladivostok.
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"This cannot serve as a security guarantee for Ukraine that would be acceptable to our country."
\n
Putin said on Friday that any foreign troops deployed to Ukraine before a peace agreement has been signed would be considered "legitimate targets" by Moscow's forces.
\n
"If any troops appear there, especially now while fighting is ongoing, we assume that they will be legitimate targets," he said during a panel at the Eastern Economic Forum in the city of Vladivostok.
\n",
+ "content": "
A summit in Paris on Thursday brings together European leaders in a push to finalize security guarantees for Ukraine.
\n
PARIS/MOSCOW — French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that 26 countries, mostly European, have formally pledged to deploy troops as part of a future Russian-Ukrainian ceasefire, though not directly on the front line.
\n
Speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at a news conference following the meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing", Macron said the countries would contribute to a "reassurance force" that could deploy troops in Ukraine or provide support on land, at sea, or in the air.
\n
He added that after the summit, participants held a call with US President Donald Trump and the United States is expected to finalize its contributions to the security guarantees in the coming days.
\n
Zelensky welcomed the announcement as a "concrete" step forward and stressed that a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whether bilateral or trilateral, is "necessary" for advancing peace efforts.
\n
Later, asked if the US president planned to speak to Putin in the near future, Trump said: "Yeah, I will be. We are having a very good dialogue."
\n
"The day the conflict stops, the security guarantees will be deployed," Macron told a news conference at the Elysee Palace in Paris, standing alongside Zelensky.
\n
European officials say peace looks like a distant prospect for now, but they want to be ready whenever the war ends. They also see the planning of security guarantees as a way to reassure Kyiv of their support and hope Trump will join their efforts.
\n
Macron initially said the 26 nations, which he did not name, would deploy to Ukraine. But he later said that some countries would provide guarantees while remaining outside Ukraine, for example, by helping to train and equip Kyiv's forces. He did not say how many troops would be involved in the guarantees.
\n
US involvement
\n
Germany and other countries pledged they would be involved in that effort. But Berlin said it would decide on a military commitment only when conditions were clear, including the extent of US involvement in security guarantees.
\n
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made it clear that she would not send troops to Ukraine, but said Italy was open to monitoring a ceasefire and training Ukrainian troops outside the country.
\n
France and Britain, which co-chair the meeting, have indicated that they are open to deploying troops to Ukraine after the fighting ends.
\n
The Kremlin said on Friday that security guarantees for Ukraine cannot be provided by foreign military contingents, and much work needs to be done before a high or top-level meeting between Moscow and Kyiv to settle the conflict in Ukraine.
\n
"Can Ukraine's security guarantees be ensured and provided by foreign, especially European and American, military contingents? Definitely not, they cannot," the Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russia's RIA state news agency on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum in the city of Vladivostok.
\n
"This cannot serve as a security guarantee for Ukraine that would be acceptable to our country."
\n
Putin said on Friday that any foreign troops deployed to Ukraine before a peace agreement has been signed would be considered "legitimate targets" by Moscow's forces.
\n
"If any troops appear there, especially now while fighting is ongoing, we assume that they will be legitimate targets," he said during a panel at the Eastern Economic Forum in the city of Vladivostok.
The US trade deficit widened in July to a four-month high as companies raced to import goods and materials before US President Donald Trump unveiled new tariffs on global trading partners, local media reported on Thursday.
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The US Commerce Department released a report on Thursday showing that the US trade deficit enlarged to $78.3 billion in July, higher than economists' forecast of $77.9 billion.
\n
A sharp increase in non-monetary gold shipments, partly in anticipation of new tariffs, has also contributed to the overall rise in imports.
\n
"While imports bounced back in July, more than half of the increase was due to gold as trade policy and safe-haven demand brought about a resurgence in trade", said Matthew Martin, senior economist at Oxford Economics, in a statement.
\n
Analysts at Pantheon Macroeconomics expected a growing trade gap in connection with "another wave of pre-tariff stockpiling," they said in a recent report.
\n
The latest figures showed that many US businesses rushed to bring goods into the country in July to get ahead of the tariffs that kicked in early in August, leading to a surge in imports.
\n
Most of the global tariff rates issued on Aug 7 range from 10 to 41 percent, The Budget Lab at Yale found. China's goods are subject to a 30 percent tariff.
\n
In June, the US trade deficit with China decreased to its lowest level in 21 years, as the impact of tariffs led to a sharp decline in imports of consumer goods that month.
\n
Overall, the US trade deficit narrowed to $60.2 billion in June, the lowest since September 2023, according to the Department of Commerce. A trade deficit occurs when the value of a country's imports exceeds the value of its exports, resulting in a negative balance of trade.
\n
Since returning to the office for his second term, Trump has said his tariffs are, in part, aimed at reducing the US trade deficit with key trading partners. Trump used the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to issue the levies, as the law gives a president the ability to act against "unusual and extraordinary" threats.
\n
However, the administration currently faces a series of challenges over the legality of its use of tariffs.
\n
The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, DC, ruled that the reciprocal tariffs on China, Mexico, Canada and other countries were illegal. On Aug 29, the court voted 7-4 that Trump's key economic policy was not permitted under the emergency economic powers, branding them "invalid as contrary to law".
\n
Trump blasted the ruling in a post on Truth Social, saying: "If allowed to stand, this decision would literally destroy the United States of America."
\n
Mark Zandi, chief economist for Moody's Analytics, predicted that this year the US trade deficit will likely be as large as in 2024.
\n
"There is no indication, at least not yet, that the higher US tariffs will result in a meaningfully lower US trade deficit," Zandi told The New York Times.
\n
Xinhua and agencies contributed to this story.
\n
belindarobinson@chinadailyusa.com
\n",
+ "content": "
The US trade deficit widened in July to a four-month high as companies raced to import goods and materials before US President Donald Trump unveiled new tariffs on global trading partners, local media reported on Thursday.
\n
The US Commerce Department released a report on Thursday showing that the US trade deficit enlarged to $78.3 billion in July, higher than economists' forecast of $77.9 billion.
\n
A sharp increase in non-monetary gold shipments, partly in anticipation of new tariffs, has also contributed to the overall rise in imports.
\n
"While imports bounced back in July, more than half of the increase was due to gold as trade policy and safe-haven demand brought about a resurgence in trade", said Matthew Martin, senior economist at Oxford Economics, in a statement.
\n
Analysts at Pantheon Macroeconomics expected a growing trade gap in connection with "another wave of pre-tariff stockpiling," they said in a recent report.
\n
The latest figures showed that many US businesses rushed to bring goods into the country in July to get ahead of the tariffs that kicked in early in August, leading to a surge in imports.
\n
Most of the global tariff rates issued on Aug 7 range from 10 to 41 percent, The Budget Lab at Yale found. China's goods are subject to a 30 percent tariff.
\n
In June, the US trade deficit with China decreased to its lowest level in 21 years, as the impact of tariffs led to a sharp decline in imports of consumer goods that month.
\n
Overall, the US trade deficit narrowed to $60.2 billion in June, the lowest since September 2023, according to the Department of Commerce. A trade deficit occurs when the value of a country's imports exceeds the value of its exports, resulting in a negative balance of trade.
\n
Since returning to the office for his second term, Trump has said his tariffs are, in part, aimed at reducing the US trade deficit with key trading partners. Trump used the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to issue the levies, as the law gives a president the ability to act against "unusual and extraordinary" threats.
\n
However, the administration currently faces a series of challenges over the legality of its use of tariffs.
\n
The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, DC, ruled that the reciprocal tariffs on China, Mexico, Canada and other countries were illegal. On Aug 29, the court voted 7-4 that Trump's key economic policy was not permitted under the emergency economic powers, branding them "invalid as contrary to law".
\n
Trump blasted the ruling in a post on Truth Social, saying: "If allowed to stand, this decision would literally destroy the United States of America."
\n
Mark Zandi, chief economist for Moody's Analytics, predicted that this year the US trade deficit will likely be as large as in 2024.
\n
"There is no indication, at least not yet, that the higher US tariffs will result in a meaningfully lower US trade deficit," Zandi told The New York Times.
Australian wine brand Penfolds is aiming for a larger presence in the increasing important Chinese market, such as by offering a broader range of high-quality wines that cater to the preferences of predominantly younger consumers.
\n
The plan comes amid robust exports and earnings in the group's recent financial year, which ended in June, and after it acquired a winery in China's Ningxia Hui autonomous region late last year to enable local production.
\n
In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Penfolds managing director Tom King said China has always been a "strategically important market for us".
\n
"We've got records of Penfolds first being shipped from Adelaide to Shanghai in 1893, so we've got a very long history of Penfolds being available in China," King said.
\n
"The connection Penfolds has with Chinese consumers has been built up over many decades, and we're really proud of it."
\n
Penfolds parent group Treasury Wine Estates posted underlying net profit after tax of A$470.6 million ($307.3 million) for the year ended June, up from A$407.5 million a year ago, according to a company statement, reflecting "a successful return to China for the Australian country of origin portfolio and continued positive momentum in a number of other key Asian markets".
\n
Penfolds' worldwide country of origin wine production series now includes a winery in China's Ningxia, a fast-growing quality-grape growing area and winemaking hub. In December, Treasury Wine Estates announced that it had acquired a major stake in a 43-hectare luxury vineyard and modern winery in the region.
\n
"When I think about the role that China plays for us now, historically it has been a sales market, but it's a production market for us now as well," King said.
\n
"So similar to Australia, we're making wine in China, to sell in China and around the world. And we're bringing our wines from around the world to consumers in China. Our business has evolved somewhat over recent years to be not just fully functional from a production perspective, but more embedded in the local industry," he said.
\n
To that effect, the Australian winemaker is involved in partnerships with the Chinese industry, including tertiary training and a China-Australia winemaker exchange program for talent development.
\n
"We'd like to think that we're playing a more meaningful role in industry, in collaboration and learning. There's a lot to learn from each other. We see the real benefit of trade and cultural exchange not just for our business but for the industry as a whole, both here in Australia and in China," King said.
\n
Penfolds is looking to build on its leading role amid the latest trends in the industry, including younger consumers' preferences for lighter, higher quality wines, he said, adding that the share of grape wine in the Chinese alcohol market is still low compared with that of local drinks like baijiu distilled liquor, which means there is much growth potential.
\n
Young consumers who have "a luxury lifestyle or luxury-oriented repertoire of brands that play a meaningful role in their life" present a significant opportunity in China, King said.
\n
In the 12 months to June, Australian wine exports rose by 13 percent in value to A$2.48 billion and 3 percent in volume to 639 million liters, according to the statutory body Wine Australia.
\n
"We've adapted our business over that period of time, and certainly in the last 12 months, we're very much back to being full strength in the market with the right capability and the full portfolio. So we're very pleased with how the business is performing … we're very optimistic around the opportunity ahead for our business and the Penfolds brand in China," he said.
\n
Contact the writers at xinxin@chinadaily.com.cn.
\n",
+ "content": "
Tom King
\n
Australian wine brand Penfolds is aiming for a larger presence in the increasing important Chinese market, such as by offering a broader range of high-quality wines that cater to the preferences of predominantly younger consumers.
\n
The plan comes amid robust exports and earnings in the group's recent financial year, which ended in June, and after it acquired a winery in China's Ningxia Hui autonomous region late last year to enable local production.
\n
In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Penfolds managing director Tom King said China has always been a "strategically important market for us".
\n
"We've got records of Penfolds first being shipped from Adelaide to Shanghai in 1893, so we've got a very long history of Penfolds being available in China," King said.
\n
"The connection Penfolds has with Chinese consumers has been built up over many decades, and we're really proud of it."
\n
Penfolds parent group Treasury Wine Estates posted underlying net profit after tax of A$470.6 million ($307.3 million) for the year ended June, up from A$407.5 million a year ago, according to a company statement, reflecting "a successful return to China for the Australian country of origin portfolio and continued positive momentum in a number of other key Asian markets".
\n
Penfolds' worldwide country of origin wine production series now includes a winery in China's Ningxia, a fast-growing quality-grape growing area and winemaking hub. In December, Treasury Wine Estates announced that it had acquired a major stake in a 43-hectare luxury vineyard and modern winery in the region.
\n
"When I think about the role that China plays for us now, historically it has been a sales market, but it's a production market for us now as well," King said.
\n
"So similar to Australia, we're making wine in China, to sell in China and around the world. And we're bringing our wines from around the world to consumers in China. Our business has evolved somewhat over recent years to be not just fully functional from a production perspective, but more embedded in the local industry," he said.
\n
To that effect, the Australian winemaker is involved in partnerships with the Chinese industry, including tertiary training and a China-Australia winemaker exchange program for talent development.
\n
"We'd like to think that we're playing a more meaningful role in industry, in collaboration and learning. There's a lot to learn from each other. We see the real benefit of trade and cultural exchange not just for our business but for the industry as a whole, both here in Australia and in China," King said.
\n
Penfolds is looking to build on its leading role amid the latest trends in the industry, including younger consumers' preferences for lighter, higher quality wines, he said, adding that the share of grape wine in the Chinese alcohol market is still low compared with that of local drinks like baijiu distilled liquor, which means there is much growth potential.
\n
Young consumers who have "a luxury lifestyle or luxury-oriented repertoire of brands that play a meaningful role in their life" present a significant opportunity in China, King said.
\n
In the 12 months to June, Australian wine exports rose by 13 percent in value to A$2.48 billion and 3 percent in volume to 639 million liters, according to the statutory body Wine Australia.
\n
"We've adapted our business over that period of time, and certainly in the last 12 months, we're very much back to being full strength in the market with the right capability and the full portfolio. So we're very pleased with how the business is performing … we're very optimistic around the opportunity ahead for our business and the Penfolds brand in China," he said.
Experts worldwide said that the military parade China held in Beijing on Wednesday, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War, is a reaffirmation of its commitment to peaceful development and a solemn call to remember history.
\n
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, oversaw the parade and reviewed the troops.
\n
In his speech delivered before the parade, Xi noted that the Chinese people made a significant contribution to the salvation of human civilization and the defense of world peace through immense sacrifices in the war. Reiterating China's commitment to peaceful development, Xi called on nations to prevent historical tragedies from recurring.
\n
David Orzan, ambassador in World of Excellence of the northeastern Italian city of Gorizia, said that China's sacrifices and perseverance "should be remembered by the entire world". He said that Xi's speech helped the world remember history and prevent the recurrence of tragedy.
\n
Atsushi Koketsu, a professor emeritus at Yamaguchi University in Japan, said that Xi's address underscored the vital role of history as a mirror reflecting the present and the future.
\n
He also expressed regret that Japan remains "extremely weak" in its attitude toward acknowledging historical truths, warning that "those who do not learn from history are bound to be punished by it".
\n
Kumiko Haba, a distinguished professor at Josai International University, said the Japanese government should follow the example of former prime minister Tomiichi Murayama and issue a sincere apology.
\n
'Heartfelt apology'
\n
In 1995, on the 50th anniversary of Japan's surrender, then-prime minister Tomiichi Murayama issued the "Murayama Statement", acknowledging that Japan's colonial rule and aggression had caused "tremendous damage and suffering" to many countries, and expressed "deep remorse and heartfelt apology".
\n
But successive politicians of the Liberal Democratic Party, including current Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, have failed to deliver words of profound apology, and "this is truly regrettable", Haba said.
\n
"I hope people will not forget that many Japanese citizens hold the conviction of 'never starting another war, never being enemies with China'," she added. "I sincerely hope to promote peaceful exchanges among young people and see them continue to develop."
\n
Takakage Fujita, secretary-general of the Association for Inheriting and Propagating the Murayama Statement, emphasized that Japan, because of its misguided national policy, launched a war of aggression against China. The Japanese people must deeply recognize this aggression, express profound remorse, and sincerely apologize to the Chinese people who suffered enormous sacrifices and damage, he said.
\n
"At the same time, Japan must make every effort and take concrete actions to ensure that it will never again launch aggression against Asia or China," Fujita added.
\n
Common development
\n
The commemorative events solemnly declare to the world the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, he said, adding that for more countries around the world to achieve common development, shared prosperity and collective happiness, it is essential to embrace the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity proposed by President Xi and emphasized at the commemoration.
\n
"Today, humanity again has to choose between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation, win-win cooperation and zero-sum game," Xi said, stressing that, "The Chinese people firmly stand on the right side of history and the progress of human civilization. We will remain committed to the path of peaceful development, and join hands with all peoples around the world in building a community with a shared future for humanity."
\n
Haba from Japan said she was impressed by Xi's vision of a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
She strongly endorsed the principle of equality and cooperation among all countries and peoples, and held profound respect for the idea of harmony without uniformity in Chinese culture.
\n
Stephen Ndegwa, a Kenyan expert on international issues, said he believed that Xi's speech reinforced "the need for fairness, justice and cooperation in today's global order".
\n
"The speech speaks directly to the challenges of our time … and it affirms China's vision of peace and development as inseparable pillars of global progress — something Africa strongly identifies with," the scholar said.
\n
Xinhua contributed to this story.
\n
Contact the writers at houjunjie@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Experts worldwide said that the military parade China held in Beijing on Wednesday, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War, is a reaffirmation of its commitment to peaceful development and a solemn call to remember history.
\n
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, oversaw the parade and reviewed the troops.
\n
In his speech delivered before the parade, Xi noted that the Chinese people made a significant contribution to the salvation of human civilization and the defense of world peace through immense sacrifices in the war. Reiterating China's commitment to peaceful development, Xi called on nations to prevent historical tragedies from recurring.
\n
David Orzan, ambassador in World of Excellence of the northeastern Italian city of Gorizia, said that China's sacrifices and perseverance "should be remembered by the entire world". He said that Xi's speech helped the world remember history and prevent the recurrence of tragedy.
\n
Atsushi Koketsu, a professor emeritus at Yamaguchi University in Japan, said that Xi's address underscored the vital role of history as a mirror reflecting the present and the future.
\n
He also expressed regret that Japan remains "extremely weak" in its attitude toward acknowledging historical truths, warning that "those who do not learn from history are bound to be punished by it".
\n
Kumiko Haba, a distinguished professor at Josai International University, said the Japanese government should follow the example of former prime minister Tomiichi Murayama and issue a sincere apology.
\n
'Heartfelt apology'
\n
In 1995, on the 50th anniversary of Japan's surrender, then-prime minister Tomiichi Murayama issued the "Murayama Statement", acknowledging that Japan's colonial rule and aggression had caused "tremendous damage and suffering" to many countries, and expressed "deep remorse and heartfelt apology".
\n
But successive politicians of the Liberal Democratic Party, including current Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, have failed to deliver words of profound apology, and "this is truly regrettable", Haba said.
\n
"I hope people will not forget that many Japanese citizens hold the conviction of 'never starting another war, never being enemies with China'," she added. "I sincerely hope to promote peaceful exchanges among young people and see them continue to develop."
\n
Takakage Fujita, secretary-general of the Association for Inheriting and Propagating the Murayama Statement, emphasized that Japan, because of its misguided national policy, launched a war of aggression against China. The Japanese people must deeply recognize this aggression, express profound remorse, and sincerely apologize to the Chinese people who suffered enormous sacrifices and damage, he said.
\n
"At the same time, Japan must make every effort and take concrete actions to ensure that it will never again launch aggression against Asia or China," Fujita added.
\n
Common development
\n
The commemorative events solemnly declare to the world the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, he said, adding that for more countries around the world to achieve common development, shared prosperity and collective happiness, it is essential to embrace the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity proposed by President Xi and emphasized at the commemoration.
\n
"Today, humanity again has to choose between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation, win-win cooperation and zero-sum game," Xi said, stressing that, "The Chinese people firmly stand on the right side of history and the progress of human civilization. We will remain committed to the path of peaceful development, and join hands with all peoples around the world in building a community with a shared future for humanity."
\n
Haba from Japan said she was impressed by Xi's vision of a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
She strongly endorsed the principle of equality and cooperation among all countries and peoples, and held profound respect for the idea of harmony without uniformity in Chinese culture.
\n
Stephen Ndegwa, a Kenyan expert on international issues, said he believed that Xi's speech reinforced "the need for fairness, justice and cooperation in today's global order".
\n
"The speech speaks directly to the challenges of our time … and it affirms China's vision of peace and development as inseparable pillars of global progress — something Africa strongly identifies with," the scholar said.
\n
Xinhua contributed to this story.
\n
Contact the writers at houjunjie@chinadaily.com.cn
Members of social movements participate in a march to celebrate Amazon Day in Brasilia, Brazil, on Thursday. The Amazon Day in Brazil is celebrated annually on Sept 5 to raise awareness about the importance of the Amazon rainforest and its conservation.
\n",
+ "content": "
Members of social movements participate in a march to celebrate Amazon Day in Brasilia, Brazil, on Thursday. The Amazon Day in Brazil is celebrated annually on Sept 5 to raise awareness about the importance of the Amazon rainforest and its conservation.
Emergency workers remove one of the funiculars following derailment and crash of the Elevador da Gloria, which resulted in multiple casualties, in Lisbon, Portugal, on Friday.
\n
LISBON — Portugal held a day of national mourning on Thursday after one of Lisbon's famous funicular trains violently derailed and killed 16 people, including 11 foreigners, and left more than 20 injured.
\n
The distinctive yellow-and-white Elevador da Gloria, which is classified as a national monument, was packed with locals and international tourists on Wednesday evening when it came off its rails.
\n
Multiple agencies are investigating what Portugal's Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has described as "one of the biggest tragedies of our recent past".
\n
"This tragedy … goes beyond our borders," Montenegro said in a televised address on Thursday.
\n
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed condolences over the death of the funicular crash.
\n
"We mourn deeply for people who were killed, and offer our sympathy to families who lost their loved ones," Guo said. "We wish for an early recovery of those injured in the accident."
\n
Lisbon hosted around 8.5 million tourists last year, and long lines of people typically form for the streetcar's short and picturesque trip a few hundred meters up and down a city street.
\n
Hundreds of people attended a somber Mass on Thursday evening at Lisbon's majestic Church of Saint Dominic. Montenegro, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas were among the stricken attendees, some dressed in black, in the candlelit sanctuary.
\n
The electric streetcar, also known as a funicular, is harnessed by steel cables and can carry more than 40 people. Officials declined to comment on whether a faulty brake or a snapped cable may have prompted the descending streetcar to careen into a building where the steep downtown road bends.
\n
"The city needs answers," the mayor said, adding that talk of possible causes is "mere speculation".
\n
The streetcar's wreckage was removed from the scene overnight and placed in police custody.
\n
After coroners identified more bodies, police on Friday updated the list of fatalities that includes five Portuguese citizens, three British citizens, two South Koreans, two Canadians, and one citizen each from France, Switzerland, Ukraine and the United States. More than 20 people were injured.
\n
A preliminary report on the accident will take six weeks to complete, according to Portuguese authorities. While they do not rule out any possible cause, police sources told the Publico daily there were no signs of foul play.
\n
The municipal transport company Carris has said "all maintenance protocols have been carried out", including monthly and weekly maintenance and daily inspections, the latest just hours before the incident with no faults detected.
\n",
+ "content": "
Emergency workers remove one of the funiculars following derailment and crash of the Elevador da Gloria, which resulted in multiple casualties, in Lisbon, Portugal, on Friday.
\n
LISBON — Portugal held a day of national mourning on Thursday after one of Lisbon's famous funicular trains violently derailed and killed 16 people, including 11 foreigners, and left more than 20 injured.
\n
The distinctive yellow-and-white Elevador da Gloria, which is classified as a national monument, was packed with locals and international tourists on Wednesday evening when it came off its rails.
\n
Multiple agencies are investigating what Portugal's Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has described as "one of the biggest tragedies of our recent past".
\n
"This tragedy … goes beyond our borders," Montenegro said in a televised address on Thursday.
\n
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed condolences over the death of the funicular crash.
\n
"We mourn deeply for people who were killed, and offer our sympathy to families who lost their loved ones," Guo said. "We wish for an early recovery of those injured in the accident."
\n
Lisbon hosted around 8.5 million tourists last year, and long lines of people typically form for the streetcar's short and picturesque trip a few hundred meters up and down a city street.
\n
Hundreds of people attended a somber Mass on Thursday evening at Lisbon's majestic Church of Saint Dominic. Montenegro, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas were among the stricken attendees, some dressed in black, in the candlelit sanctuary.
\n
The electric streetcar, also known as a funicular, is harnessed by steel cables and can carry more than 40 people. Officials declined to comment on whether a faulty brake or a snapped cable may have prompted the descending streetcar to careen into a building where the steep downtown road bends.
\n
"The city needs answers," the mayor said, adding that talk of possible causes is "mere speculation".
\n
The streetcar's wreckage was removed from the scene overnight and placed in police custody.
\n
After coroners identified more bodies, police on Friday updated the list of fatalities that includes five Portuguese citizens, three British citizens, two South Koreans, two Canadians, and one citizen each from France, Switzerland, Ukraine and the United States. More than 20 people were injured.
\n
A preliminary report on the accident will take six weeks to complete, according to Portuguese authorities. While they do not rule out any possible cause, police sources told the Publico daily there were no signs of foul play.
\n
The municipal transport company Carris has said "all maintenance protocols have been carried out", including monthly and weekly maintenance and daily inspections, the latest just hours before the incident with no faults detected.
When 100-year-old Flying Tigers veteran Mel McMullen took his seat at the Consulate General of China in Los Angeles on Wednesday, the room fell into a respectful hush. He was among more than 100 guests attending a film reception themed "Remember History, Promote Peace Together", held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
The evening combined remembrance and reflection. Guests from art, business and academic circles, as well as Chinese communities and students, watched The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru, a documentary that sheds light on one of World War II's forgotten tragedies.
\n
In his remarks, Consul General Guo Shaochun reviewed China's long and bitter struggle against Japanese aggression and the shared fight against fascism.
\n
"Eighty years ago, after 14 years of relentless struggle, the Chinese people defeated the brutal Japanese fascist invaders. It was a victory of justice over evil, light over darkness and progress over reaction. This triumph not only changed the course of world history, but also became an enduring part of our shared human memory," Guo said.
\n
He emphasized that the commemoration was not about prolonging grievances but about preserving peace. "The purpose of commemorating this 80th anniversary is not to perpetuate hatred, but to learn from history and defend the legacy of victory," he noted.
\n
Guo reminded the audience that China bore some of the heaviest losses of the war. More than 35 million military and civilian lives were lost, nearly one-third of global wartime casualties, and the country endured enormous economic devastation.
\n
Indelible contribution
\n
"China made an indelible contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, and in doing so fundamentally reshaped the spirit and historical course of the Chinese nation," he said.
\n
Guo also highlighted the wartime cooperation between China and the United States, recalling the Flying Tigers commanded by General Claire Chennault. The volunteer pilots crossed the Pacific to aid China, shooting down over 2,600 Japanese aircraft. The Chinese people, in turn, risked their own lives to rescue US airmen.
\n
"We will never forget that China's war of resistance was greatly supported by the peace-loving forces worldwide, including the United States," Guo said. McMullen's presence in the hall was a reminder of that friendship. His son, Tim, later reflected on the film and its lessons.
\n
The screening of The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru introduced the audience to a little-known episode of World War II. In October 1942, the Japanese transport ship Lisbon Maru, carrying 1,816 British prisoners of war from Hong Kong to Japan, was struck by a US submarine off the coast of Zhejiang province.
\n
Unmarked as a POW vessel, the ship sank after being torpedoed. Japanese guards sealed prisoners below deck, and those who managed to escape were met with gunfire. In all, 828 men drowned. Amid the chaos, local Chinese fishermen risked everything, launching their boats under fire to rescue 384 survivors.
\n
For decades, the story was largely silenced. Japanese authorities denied responsibility, and the suffering of the prisoners remained confined to family memories. The film restores those voices, honoring both the victims and the Chinese villagers who showed courage in the darkest hour.
\n
Tim McMullen said the film left a deep impression, not only because of its vivid retelling of the tragedy, but also because it revealed the human cost of war in a way that statistics alone cannot capture.
\n
"The movie is a very powerful statement. I think it's important that we understand the sacrifices that people make and the tragedy of war," he said.
\n
Another guest, Andre Bartkoviak, praised the documentary for its power and urgency. "We cannot forget history, because history repeats itself," he said.
\n
As the evening came to a close, Guo urged those present to carry forward the spirit of remembrance into action.
\n
"Peace is never a gift but should be safeguarded by generations. Cherishing peace and upholding justice are shared responsibilities of both China and the United States," he said.
\n
renali@chinadailyusa.com
\n",
+ "content": "
When 100-year-old Flying Tigers veteran Mel McMullen took his seat at the Consulate General of China in Los Angeles on Wednesday, the room fell into a respectful hush. He was among more than 100 guests attending a film reception themed "Remember History, Promote Peace Together", held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
The evening combined remembrance and reflection. Guests from art, business and academic circles, as well as Chinese communities and students, watched The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru, a documentary that sheds light on one of World War II's forgotten tragedies.
\n
In his remarks, Consul General Guo Shaochun reviewed China's long and bitter struggle against Japanese aggression and the shared fight against fascism.
\n
"Eighty years ago, after 14 years of relentless struggle, the Chinese people defeated the brutal Japanese fascist invaders. It was a victory of justice over evil, light over darkness and progress over reaction. This triumph not only changed the course of world history, but also became an enduring part of our shared human memory," Guo said.
\n
He emphasized that the commemoration was not about prolonging grievances but about preserving peace. "The purpose of commemorating this 80th anniversary is not to perpetuate hatred, but to learn from history and defend the legacy of victory," he noted.
\n
Guo reminded the audience that China bore some of the heaviest losses of the war. More than 35 million military and civilian lives were lost, nearly one-third of global wartime casualties, and the country endured enormous economic devastation.
\n
Indelible contribution
\n
"China made an indelible contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, and in doing so fundamentally reshaped the spirit and historical course of the Chinese nation," he said.
\n
Guo also highlighted the wartime cooperation between China and the United States, recalling the Flying Tigers commanded by General Claire Chennault. The volunteer pilots crossed the Pacific to aid China, shooting down over 2,600 Japanese aircraft. The Chinese people, in turn, risked their own lives to rescue US airmen.
\n
"We will never forget that China's war of resistance was greatly supported by the peace-loving forces worldwide, including the United States," Guo said. McMullen's presence in the hall was a reminder of that friendship. His son, Tim, later reflected on the film and its lessons.
\n
The screening of The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru introduced the audience to a little-known episode of World War II. In October 1942, the Japanese transport ship Lisbon Maru, carrying 1,816 British prisoners of war from Hong Kong to Japan, was struck by a US submarine off the coast of Zhejiang province.
\n
Unmarked as a POW vessel, the ship sank after being torpedoed. Japanese guards sealed prisoners below deck, and those who managed to escape were met with gunfire. In all, 828 men drowned. Amid the chaos, local Chinese fishermen risked everything, launching their boats under fire to rescue 384 survivors.
\n
For decades, the story was largely silenced. Japanese authorities denied responsibility, and the suffering of the prisoners remained confined to family memories. The film restores those voices, honoring both the victims and the Chinese villagers who showed courage in the darkest hour.
\n
Tim McMullen said the film left a deep impression, not only because of its vivid retelling of the tragedy, but also because it revealed the human cost of war in a way that statistics alone cannot capture.
\n
"The movie is a very powerful statement. I think it's important that we understand the sacrifices that people make and the tragedy of war," he said.
\n
Another guest, Andre Bartkoviak, praised the documentary for its power and urgency. "We cannot forget history, because history repeats itself," he said.
\n
As the evening came to a close, Guo urged those present to carry forward the spirit of remembrance into action.
\n
"Peace is never a gift but should be safeguarded by generations. Cherishing peace and upholding justice are shared responsibilities of both China and the United States," he said.
Chinese delegates hand over earthquake relief donations to Afghan delegates in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Tuesday.
\n
China's humanitarian relief effort was hailed after the devastating earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Aug 31, killing over 2,200 people and injuring thousands more.
\n
China decided to provide Afghanistan with 50 million yuan ($7.04 million) in emergency humanitarian aid for earthquake relief, said Li Ming, spokesman for the China International Development Cooperation Agency, on Thursday.
\n
At the request of the Afghan government, China will provide tents, blankets, and food that are urgently needed in the earthquake-affected areas, Li said.
\n
Rescue operations remain underway amid reports that many people are still trapped beneath the rubble of collapsed homes. Casualty figures are based on preliminary information and were expected to rise further, according to the latest report from the Afghan Red Crescent Society.
\n
Rugged terrain is hampering rescue operations and aid delivery, leaving survivors to plead for urgent assistance.
\n
Earlier this week, China also became one of the first countries to donate relief funds to Afghanistan for earthquake relief efforts. Bao Xuhui, charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy in Afghanistan, handed over earthquake relief donations from the embassy, Chinese institutions and the overseas Chinese.
\n
Bao said at the event on Tuesday that the strong earthquake that struck Kunar and other Afghan provinces has caused significant casualties and property damage, which has deeply touched the hearts of the Chinese people.
\n
The Chinese embassy, Chinese institutions and the Overseas Chinese Association in Afghanistan quickly raised the funds and relief supplies, hoping to help the people in the affected areas overcome their difficulties, he said.
\n
Muhammad Alam Alamyar, general-director of administration of the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, thanked China for the kind gesture and briefed on Afghanistan's earthquake disaster and relief efforts, noting that a friend in need is a friend indeed.
\n
Afghanistan cherishes the friendship of the Chinese people toward the Afghan people and will properly utilize the donations and relief supplies, dedicating them entirely to disaster relief and reconstruction, he said.
\n
Pakistan on Wednesday also dispatched 105 metric tons of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar said.
\n
Whenever such tragedies occur, China is always among the first to step forward, standing with nations and supporting them in recovery, said Khalid Taimur Akram, executive director of the Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future in Islamabad.
\n
"In recent years, China has emerged as one of the largest and most reliable sources of humanitarian aid for countries facing disasters, with a timely donation of 50 million yuan being a prime example," said Shakeel Ahmad Ramay, chief executive officer of the Asian Institute of Eco-civilization Research and Development in Pakistan.
\n
It is pertinent to highlight here that, following the withdrawal of US forces, China has continued to provide humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people, meeting their basic needs, including food, shelter and medical care, the expert added.
\n
In the recent disaster, the efforts have been accelerated. "But the most prominent feature of Chinese aid is that China provides humanitarian assistance without conditionalities," Ahmad said.
\n
vivienxu@chinadailyapac.com
\n",
+ "content": "
Chinese delegates hand over earthquake relief donations to Afghan delegates in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Tuesday.
\n
China's humanitarian relief effort was hailed after the devastating earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Aug 31, killing over 2,200 people and injuring thousands more.
\n
China decided to provide Afghanistan with 50 million yuan ($7.04 million) in emergency humanitarian aid for earthquake relief, said Li Ming, spokesman for the China International Development Cooperation Agency, on Thursday.
\n
At the request of the Afghan government, China will provide tents, blankets, and food that are urgently needed in the earthquake-affected areas, Li said.
\n
Rescue operations remain underway amid reports that many people are still trapped beneath the rubble of collapsed homes. Casualty figures are based on preliminary information and were expected to rise further, according to the latest report from the Afghan Red Crescent Society.
\n
Rugged terrain is hampering rescue operations and aid delivery, leaving survivors to plead for urgent assistance.
\n
Earlier this week, China also became one of the first countries to donate relief funds to Afghanistan for earthquake relief efforts. Bao Xuhui, charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy in Afghanistan, handed over earthquake relief donations from the embassy, Chinese institutions and the overseas Chinese.
\n
Bao said at the event on Tuesday that the strong earthquake that struck Kunar and other Afghan provinces has caused significant casualties and property damage, which has deeply touched the hearts of the Chinese people.
\n
The Chinese embassy, Chinese institutions and the Overseas Chinese Association in Afghanistan quickly raised the funds and relief supplies, hoping to help the people in the affected areas overcome their difficulties, he said.
\n
Muhammad Alam Alamyar, general-director of administration of the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, thanked China for the kind gesture and briefed on Afghanistan's earthquake disaster and relief efforts, noting that a friend in need is a friend indeed.
\n
Afghanistan cherishes the friendship of the Chinese people toward the Afghan people and will properly utilize the donations and relief supplies, dedicating them entirely to disaster relief and reconstruction, he said.
\n
Pakistan on Wednesday also dispatched 105 metric tons of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar said.
\n
Whenever such tragedies occur, China is always among the first to step forward, standing with nations and supporting them in recovery, said Khalid Taimur Akram, executive director of the Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future in Islamabad.
\n
"In recent years, China has emerged as one of the largest and most reliable sources of humanitarian aid for countries facing disasters, with a timely donation of 50 million yuan being a prime example," said Shakeel Ahmad Ramay, chief executive officer of the Asian Institute of Eco-civilization Research and Development in Pakistan.
\n
It is pertinent to highlight here that, following the withdrawal of US forces, China has continued to provide humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people, meeting their basic needs, including food, shelter and medical care, the expert added.
\n
In the recent disaster, the efforts have been accelerated. "But the most prominent feature of Chinese aid is that China provides humanitarian assistance without conditionalities," Ahmad said.
Costumes from Uzbekistan on show. Collections from both the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan and the State Museum of Arts of Uzbekistan are on display at the Beijing exhibition.
\n
A jade pig-dragon belongs to the Neolithic Hongshan culture, one of the earliest known jade carvings in the shape of a dragon in China.
\n
A dragon head bas-relief of the eighth century, from the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan.
\n
A quern with a dragon-face fish from the Islamabad Museum in Pakistan.
\n
Plates with rich decorative motifs from the State Historical Museum, Russia, on show at the National Museum of China.
\n
Also on show are textiles from the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
\n
The mutual influences among different cultures are sometimes preserved in inconspicuous details, if not told or paid great attention to.
\n
In the Islamabad Museum in Pakistan sits a red sandstone quern dated between the second century BC and the second century AD. It holds flower and leaf patterns on its surface and a carved animal motif on one side of its pedestal.
\n
"You think it's a fish, but take a closer, longer look. It has a dragon head," says Wang Zhiqiang, a scholar at the National Museum of China, where the quern is on display. "According to our counterparts in Islamabad, it incorporates the image of the Chinese dragon, which was introduced via the ancient Silk Road."
\n
This quern, with its dragon-faced fish, is one of the over 220 cultural objects displayed in the exhibition Where Civilizations Meet: Collections from Museums of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Member States at the National Museum of China.
\n
The objects come from the collections of 10 museums and cultural institutions of Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states to celebrate the diverse cultures that are thriving on the vast, fertile Eurasian soil, says Wang, the exhibition's curator.
\n
The exhibition opened on Aug 27, ahead of the SCO Summit 2025 held in Tianjin on Aug 31 and Monday, and will run until Nov 16.
\n
The SCO, a permanent intergovernmental international organization, was announced in Shanghai in 2001. Upholding the Shanghai Spirit, it pursues the principles of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development.
\n
The Where Civilizations Meet exhibition addresses the Shanghai Spirit's two pursuits — cultural diversity and common development — and includes representative objects that illuminate the ancient civilizations and highlight mutual influences among the member states.
\n
"The exhibits span from the prehistoric period to the early 20th century, telling a brief history of each member state on show," Wang says.
\n
Also at the exhibition is a dragonhead bas-relief from the eighth century, speculated to be an architectural component, from the collection of the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan. Its teeth are visible from the open mouth, and it has several curved horns on its head.
\n
To complement the two dragons from afar, the National Museum of China displays a jade pig-dragon belonging to the Neolithic Hongshan culture dating back more than 5,000 years. It has a pig's head and a dragon's body to symbolize the fertility of farmland. The object is believed to be one of the country's earliest known jade carvings shaped like a dragon.
\n
The communication between China and other ancient civilizations is vividly celebrated on the yellow-brown patterned surface of a Tang Dynasty (618-907) ceramic bowl. The ware is believed to be a product of the Changsha kiln that reached its firing climax in the middle to late Tang Dynasty.
\n
The bowl is patterned with relief date palms, which suggests it was one of a great number of wares ordered by overseas customers, says Wang.
\n
Changsha kiln products were among the export commodities transported to other parts of Asia and Africa. Wang says: "Over 80 percent of ceramics found at the Batu Hitam (black rock) Shipwreck, off the shores of Sumatra and discovered in 1998, were from the Changsha kiln." The inscription on one bowl dates the cargo ship to the Tang era.
\n
Wang says the Changsha kiln-fired bowl testifies to the Tang's prosperity and it embraced openness and extensive exchanges with other cultures.
\n
Ibrahimzoda Zafarsho Safo, director of the National Museum of Tajikistan, says the museum brings 24 artifacts to the Beijing exhibition, including gold and copper wares, musical instruments, stones with inscriptions and pottery, to testify to the country's role in the communications between the East and the West along the ancient Silk Road, as well as various ancient cultural influences in the country.
\n
One of those who witnessed the exchange was Xuan Zang, a Tang Buddhist monk, who was believed to have reached Central Asia in 630. In his work Datang Xiyu Ji (Records of the Western Regions of the Great Tang), Xuan Zang mentioned the Sogdians — ancestors of the Tajik people — along with their language, traditions and customs.
\n
The Tajikistan section displays a stone with a Sogdian inscription dating between the seventh and eighth centuries. The writing was done with black ink, in three lines. The elegant style indicates that it was created by a professional scribe, according to Safo, and exhibits a well-developed writing system by the Sogdians at the time.
\n
Another object of interest is a lamp component, on which the bottom depicts Buddha heads. It was traced to the second and third centuries during the Kushan Empire (1st — 3rd centuries), reflecting the spread of Buddhism in the multicultural territory.
\n
Safo says the objects show that the Silk Road was "not only a network of routes for trading, but it also connected people via culture, arts and religions" — that is, "a diversity of cultures on one major road".
\n
Eldar Ianibekov, deputy director of the State Historical Museum located in Moscow's Red Square, says that as one of the largest museums in Russia, it is exhibiting a selection of treasures at the Beijing museum from a collection of over 5 million objects that represent the unique features of Russian culture.
\n
He says the artifacts on display "span from the seventh century BC to the 19th century, parts of which focus on nomadic tribes and others that unveil the glorious royal court life and timeless aesthetics".
\n
Over the years, Russian works of art and crafts have been shown at the National Museum of China in various themed exhibitions. The Russian Banquet, a four-month-long exhibition that opened in November 2024, offered a glimpse into the gastronomic artistry and customs at royal palaces and grassroots households, by showing dinning apparatuses from the collection of Moscow Kremlin Museums. Ilya Repin: Encyclopedia of Russian Life, an exhibition of the life and art of the great painter, is ongoing at the Beijing museum.
\n
Safo, of the National Museum of Tajikistan, adds that presenting the unique, historic cultural features of different civilizations in one place offers a great opportunity to bring the SCO member states and partners closer to better understanding each other.
\n
Contact the writer at linqi@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
+ "content": "
Costumes from Uzbekistan on show. Collections from both the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan and the State Museum of Arts of Uzbekistan are on display at the Beijing exhibition.
\n
A jade pig-dragon belongs to the Neolithic Hongshan culture, one of the earliest known jade carvings in the shape of a dragon in China.
\n
A dragon head bas-relief of the eighth century, from the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan.
\n
A quern with a dragon-face fish from the Islamabad Museum in Pakistan.
\n
Plates with rich decorative motifs from the State Historical Museum, Russia, on show at the National Museum of China.
\n
Also on show are textiles from the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
\n
The mutual influences among different cultures are sometimes preserved in inconspicuous details, if not told or paid great attention to.
\n
In the Islamabad Museum in Pakistan sits a red sandstone quern dated between the second century BC and the second century AD. It holds flower and leaf patterns on its surface and a carved animal motif on one side of its pedestal.
\n
"You think it's a fish, but take a closer, longer look. It has a dragon head," says Wang Zhiqiang, a scholar at the National Museum of China, where the quern is on display. "According to our counterparts in Islamabad, it incorporates the image of the Chinese dragon, which was introduced via the ancient Silk Road."
\n
This quern, with its dragon-faced fish, is one of the over 220 cultural objects displayed in the exhibition Where Civilizations Meet: Collections from Museums of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Member States at the National Museum of China.
\n
The objects come from the collections of 10 museums and cultural institutions of Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states to celebrate the diverse cultures that are thriving on the vast, fertile Eurasian soil, says Wang, the exhibition's curator.
\n
The exhibition opened on Aug 27, ahead of the SCO Summit 2025 held in Tianjin on Aug 31 and Monday, and will run until Nov 16.
\n
The SCO, a permanent intergovernmental international organization, was announced in Shanghai in 2001. Upholding the Shanghai Spirit, it pursues the principles of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development.
\n
The Where Civilizations Meet exhibition addresses the Shanghai Spirit's two pursuits — cultural diversity and common development — and includes representative objects that illuminate the ancient civilizations and highlight mutual influences among the member states.
\n
"The exhibits span from the prehistoric period to the early 20th century, telling a brief history of each member state on show," Wang says.
\n
Also at the exhibition is a dragonhead bas-relief from the eighth century, speculated to be an architectural component, from the collection of the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan. Its teeth are visible from the open mouth, and it has several curved horns on its head.
\n
To complement the two dragons from afar, the National Museum of China displays a jade pig-dragon belonging to the Neolithic Hongshan culture dating back more than 5,000 years. It has a pig's head and a dragon's body to symbolize the fertility of farmland. The object is believed to be one of the country's earliest known jade carvings shaped like a dragon.
\n
The communication between China and other ancient civilizations is vividly celebrated on the yellow-brown patterned surface of a Tang Dynasty (618-907) ceramic bowl. The ware is believed to be a product of the Changsha kiln that reached its firing climax in the middle to late Tang Dynasty.
\n
The bowl is patterned with relief date palms, which suggests it was one of a great number of wares ordered by overseas customers, says Wang.
\n
Changsha kiln products were among the export commodities transported to other parts of Asia and Africa. Wang says: "Over 80 percent of ceramics found at the Batu Hitam (black rock) Shipwreck, off the shores of Sumatra and discovered in 1998, were from the Changsha kiln." The inscription on one bowl dates the cargo ship to the Tang era.
\n
Wang says the Changsha kiln-fired bowl testifies to the Tang's prosperity and it embraced openness and extensive exchanges with other cultures.
\n
Ibrahimzoda Zafarsho Safo, director of the National Museum of Tajikistan, says the museum brings 24 artifacts to the Beijing exhibition, including gold and copper wares, musical instruments, stones with inscriptions and pottery, to testify to the country's role in the communications between the East and the West along the ancient Silk Road, as well as various ancient cultural influences in the country.
\n
One of those who witnessed the exchange was Xuan Zang, a Tang Buddhist monk, who was believed to have reached Central Asia in 630. In his work Datang Xiyu Ji (Records of the Western Regions of the Great Tang), Xuan Zang mentioned the Sogdians — ancestors of the Tajik people — along with their language, traditions and customs.
\n
The Tajikistan section displays a stone with a Sogdian inscription dating between the seventh and eighth centuries. The writing was done with black ink, in three lines. The elegant style indicates that it was created by a professional scribe, according to Safo, and exhibits a well-developed writing system by the Sogdians at the time.
\n
Another object of interest is a lamp component, on which the bottom depicts Buddha heads. It was traced to the second and third centuries during the Kushan Empire (1st — 3rd centuries), reflecting the spread of Buddhism in the multicultural territory.
\n
Safo says the objects show that the Silk Road was "not only a network of routes for trading, but it also connected people via culture, arts and religions" — that is, "a diversity of cultures on one major road".
\n
Eldar Ianibekov, deputy director of the State Historical Museum located in Moscow's Red Square, says that as one of the largest museums in Russia, it is exhibiting a selection of treasures at the Beijing museum from a collection of over 5 million objects that represent the unique features of Russian culture.
\n
He says the artifacts on display "span from the seventh century BC to the 19th century, parts of which focus on nomadic tribes and others that unveil the glorious royal court life and timeless aesthetics".
\n
Over the years, Russian works of art and crafts have been shown at the National Museum of China in various themed exhibitions. The Russian Banquet, a four-month-long exhibition that opened in November 2024, offered a glimpse into the gastronomic artistry and customs at royal palaces and grassroots households, by showing dinning apparatuses from the collection of Moscow Kremlin Museums. Ilya Repin: Encyclopedia of Russian Life, an exhibition of the life and art of the great painter, is ongoing at the Beijing museum.
\n
Safo, of the National Museum of Tajikistan, adds that presenting the unique, historic cultural features of different civilizations in one place offers a great opportunity to bring the SCO member states and partners closer to better understanding each other.
BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- China has urged the United States to abandon its generalized and excessive use of the national security concept, and to collaborate with all parties in maintaining a rules-based multilateral trading system, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.
At a regular press conference, He Yongqian, spokesperson for the ministry, made the remarks when asked to comment on the U.S. decision to raise tariffs on imported steel, aluminium and their derivative products from 25 percent to 50 percent.
He said that such U.S. moves not only harm others and itself, but also will severely disrupt the stability of global industrial and supply chains.
The United States should abandon the zero-sum mentality, address respective concerns through equal dialogue, and jointly maintain the stability of global industrial and supply chains, He said.
Source: Xinhua
",
- "content": "
BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- China has urged the United States to abandon its generalized and excessive use of the national security concept, and to collaborate with all parties in maintaining a rules-based multilateral trading system, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.
At a regular press conference, He Yongqian, spokesperson for the ministry, made the remarks when asked to comment on the U.S. decision to raise tariffs on imported steel, aluminium and their derivative products from 25 percent to 50 percent.
He said that such U.S. moves not only harm others and itself, but also will severely disrupt the stability of global industrial and supply chains.
The United States should abandon the zero-sum mentality, address respective concerns through equal dialogue, and jointly maintain the stability of global industrial and supply chains, He said.
A resident uses an umbrella to block the sun during the first high-temperature day of the year in Beijing, June 5, 2025. The Beijing Meteorological Observatory issued an orange heat alert at 6 p.m. on June 4. (China News Service/Chen Fangting)
A resident uses an umbrella to block the sun during the first high-temperature day of the year in Beijing, June 5, 2025. The Beijing Meteorological Observatory issued an orange heat alert at 6 p.m. on June 4. (China News Service/Chen Fangting)
People take sun protection measures during the first high-temperature day of the year in Beijing, June 5, 2025. The Beijing Meteorological Observatory issued an orange heat alert at 6 p.m. on June 4. (China News Service/Chen Fangting)
People take sun protection measures during the first high-temperature day of the year in Beijing, June 5, 2025. The Beijing Meteorological Observatory issued an orange heat alert at 6 p.m. on June 4. (China News Service/Chen Fangting)
A citizen shops for watermelons to cool off during the first high-temperature day of the year in Beijing, June 5, 2025. The Beijing Meteorological Observatory issued an orange heat alert at 6 p.m. on June 4. (China News Service/Chen Fangting)
A boy is pictured with a sheep at a sheep market before the upcoming Eid al-Adha on the outskirts of Cairo, Egypt, on June 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)
A rescuer moves relief supplies at Baicao Village of Eryuan County in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 5, 2025.
A 5.0-magnitude earthquake struck Eryuan County at 4:31 a.m. Thursday (Beijing Time), according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC).
The epicenter was monitored at 26.26 degrees north latitude and 100.03 degrees east longitude. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km, said a report issued by the CENC.
The quake was strongly felt in Eryuan County, Dali City and Heqing County, waking some residents. Local authorities in Eryuan County have promptly initiated an emergency response, with townships assessing the impact. (Photo by Luo Xincai/Xinhua)
An aerial drone photo taken on June 4, 2025 shows tourists visiting the Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River on the border between north China's Shanxi Province and northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Xinhua/Zhang Bowen)
Representatives vote on a draft resolution during a UN Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, on June 4, 2025.
The United States on Wednesday vetoed a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the immediate lifting of all restrictions on humanitarian aid. (Xinhua/Xie E)
A conference officer collects ballots during a UN General Assembly meeting to elect members of the UN Economic and Social Council at the UN headquarters in New York, on June 4, 2025.
Eighteen states, including China, were elected on Wednesday into the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the coordinating body for the economic and social work of UN agencies and funds, for a three-year term. (Manuel Elias/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)
An aerial drone photo taken on June 4, 2025 shows a black-necked crane at Qinghai Longbao National Nature Reserve, Yushu City of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province.
With lush water and pastures, Qinghai Longbao National Nature Reserve is a key station and breeding ground for migratory birds.
According to monitoring data of May this year, 37 species of birds including bar-headed geese and black necked cranes inhabited here. (Photo by Du Xiaowei/Xinhua)
Dong Yuhan (C) and Wu Mengjie (R) of China celebrate after winning the pool 3 match between China and Belgium at the Women's Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China, June 4, 2025.
Host China kicked off its Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Beijing leg in style with a straight-set victory over Belgium on Wednesday, winning 25-18, 27-25, 25-13 at the National Indoor Stadium. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)
An aerial drone photo taken on June 4, 2025 shows primary school students painting during an environmental protection-themed event in Xinghua City, east China's Jiangsu Province.
Various events are held to raise people's awareness of environmental protection in China ahead of World Environment Day, which falls on June 5. (Photo by Zhou Shegen/Xinhua)
Lee Jae-myung takes the oath of office in the National Assembly building in Seoul, South Korea, June 4, 2025.
Lee Jae-myung was sworn in as South Korea's new president on Wednesday after formally beginning his single five-year term earlier in the day. (Xinhua)
Zheng Qinwen reacts during the women's singles quarterfinal between Zheng Qinwen of China and Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus at the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros, Paris, France, June 3, 2025.
China's tennis sensation Zheng Qinwen lost to world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus 7-6 (3), 6-3 in the French Open women's singles quarterfinals here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Gao Jing)
A Palestinian woman mourns a victim killed in an Israeli airstrike, at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, on June 4, 2025.
At least 54,510 people have been killed and 124,901 wounded in Gaza during the Israeli military campaign, according to health authorities in the territory. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)
Source: Xinhua
",
- "content": "
A boy is pictured with a sheep at a sheep market before the upcoming Eid al-Adha on the outskirts of Cairo, Egypt, on June 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)
A rescuer moves relief supplies at Baicao Village of Eryuan County in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 5, 2025.
A 5.0-magnitude earthquake struck Eryuan County at 4:31 a.m. Thursday (Beijing Time), according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC).
The epicenter was monitored at 26.26 degrees north latitude and 100.03 degrees east longitude. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km, said a report issued by the CENC.
The quake was strongly felt in Eryuan County, Dali City and Heqing County, waking some residents. Local authorities in Eryuan County have promptly initiated an emergency response, with townships assessing the impact. (Photo by Luo Xincai/Xinhua)
An aerial drone photo taken on June 4, 2025 shows tourists visiting the Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River on the border between north China's Shanxi Province and northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Xinhua/Zhang Bowen)
Representatives vote on a draft resolution during a UN Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, on June 4, 2025.
The United States on Wednesday vetoed a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the immediate lifting of all restrictions on humanitarian aid. (Xinhua/Xie E)
A conference officer collects ballots during a UN General Assembly meeting to elect members of the UN Economic and Social Council at the UN headquarters in New York, on June 4, 2025.
Eighteen states, including China, were elected on Wednesday into the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the coordinating body for the economic and social work of UN agencies and funds, for a three-year term. (Manuel Elias/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)
An aerial drone photo taken on June 4, 2025 shows a black-necked crane at Qinghai Longbao National Nature Reserve, Yushu City of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province.
With lush water and pastures, Qinghai Longbao National Nature Reserve is a key station and breeding ground for migratory birds.
According to monitoring data of May this year, 37 species of birds including bar-headed geese and black necked cranes inhabited here. (Photo by Du Xiaowei/Xinhua)
Dong Yuhan (C) and Wu Mengjie (R) of China celebrate after winning the pool 3 match between China and Belgium at the Women's Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China, June 4, 2025.
Host China kicked off its Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Beijing leg in style with a straight-set victory over Belgium on Wednesday, winning 25-18, 27-25, 25-13 at the National Indoor Stadium. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)
An aerial drone photo taken on June 4, 2025 shows primary school students painting during an environmental protection-themed event in Xinghua City, east China's Jiangsu Province.
Various events are held to raise people's awareness of environmental protection in China ahead of World Environment Day, which falls on June 5. (Photo by Zhou Shegen/Xinhua)
Lee Jae-myung takes the oath of office in the National Assembly building in Seoul, South Korea, June 4, 2025.
Lee Jae-myung was sworn in as South Korea's new president on Wednesday after formally beginning his single five-year term earlier in the day. (Xinhua)
Zheng Qinwen reacts during the women's singles quarterfinal between Zheng Qinwen of China and Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus at the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros, Paris, France, June 3, 2025.
China's tennis sensation Zheng Qinwen lost to world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus 7-6 (3), 6-3 in the French Open women's singles quarterfinals here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Gao Jing)
A Palestinian woman mourns a victim killed in an Israeli airstrike, at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, on June 4, 2025.
At least 54,510 people have been killed and 124,901 wounded in Gaza during the Israeli military campaign, according to health authorities in the territory. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)
BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng will attend the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France and visit Spain upon invitation from June 7 to 13, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson announced on Thursday.
BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Building on a positive start in the first quarter of 2025, China's economy is continuing to make steady progress, said Ding Lin, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission.
Speaking on the latest episode of China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency, Ding noted that despite a complex external environment, China's economy has remained resilient. Notably, key indicators like industrial production, the service sector, domestic demand and exports have shown robust growth.
Ding emphasized China's innovative dynamism, citing 10-percent growth in the high-tech manufacturing sector in April, nearly 4 percentage points higher than the country's overall industrial growth rate.
Ding also highlighted the accelerated development of industries such as drones, new energy vehicles, artificial intelligence and humanoid robots.
\"In general, as pro-growth measures are swiftly implemented, their effects will continue to emerge, further promoting the country's high-quality economic development,\" Ding added.
China's GDP grew by 5.4 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2025.
Source: Xinhua
",
- "content": "
BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Building on a positive start in the first quarter of 2025, China's economy is continuing to make steady progress, said Ding Lin, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission.
Speaking on the latest episode of China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency, Ding noted that despite a complex external environment, China's economy has remained resilient. Notably, key indicators like industrial production, the service sector, domestic demand and exports have shown robust growth.
Ding emphasized China's innovative dynamism, citing 10-percent growth in the high-tech manufacturing sector in April, nearly 4 percentage points higher than the country's overall industrial growth rate.
Ding also highlighted the accelerated development of industries such as drones, new energy vehicles, artificial intelligence and humanoid robots.
\"In general, as pro-growth measures are swiftly implemented, their effects will continue to emerge, further promoting the country's high-quality economic development,\" Ding added.
China's GDP grew by 5.4 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2025.
当然，平心而论，任何一门语言，都会有自己的俗语、典故。例如英文、拉丁语中的潘多拉的盒子（Pandora's box）、达摩克利斯剑（the Swords of Damocles）、多米诺骨牌（Dominoes）等等。毕竟，任何文明经过了几百年了，谁家还没几个老祖宗传下来典故啊。只不过咱中国因为历史长了一点，所以咱的“引用库”也就比别家稍微丰富了那么“亿点点”······
在将观测到的星系团质量分布与 X 射线信号反映出的可见物质分布对比之后，天文学家们发现这两种分布是不重合的。如下图所示，图中蓝色部分是由引力透镜效应反推出的总质量分布，红色部分是可见物质分布。这表明可见物质并不能主导星系团的质量，它们只占星系团总物质的一小部分，星系团的大部分质量是由不可见的暗物质提供的。这一结果是修改引力理论很难解释的，因此它为暗物质的存在提供了非常坚实的证据，重要指数可以给到 ★★★ .
China's top securities regulator vowed over the weekend to step up law-based supervision and make strong efforts to advance high-quality capital market development, following the announcement that its former chairman is under investigation.
\n
Financial experts said the pledge reflects the country's firm determination to address the remaining structural challenges in the capital market to foster steady, long-lasting market growth, with greater fairness and transparency at the core.
\n
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection of the Communist Party of China and the National Supervisory Commission announced on Saturday that Yi Huiman, former chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, is under investigation for suspected severe violations of discipline and laws.
\n
The CSRC said in a statement on Saturday that it firmly supports the move of the country's top anti-corruption watchdogs and pledged to make a resolute push to win the tough battle against corruption, strengthen oversight of public power and curb new, hidden forms of graft, following a meeting to convey the decision to conduct the investigation.
\n
Presided over by CSRC Chairman Wu Qing, who took over for Yi in February last year, the meeting vowed to strengthen law-based supervision, effectively guard against risks, and vigorously promote high-quality capital market development to better serve China's economic recovery and modernization drive.
\n
Yi, 61, a native of Zhejiang province, currently serves as the deputy director of the Committee on Economic Affairs of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top political advisory body.
\n
Before that, Yi served as chairman of the CSRC from January 2019 to February 2024, after working in China's banking system for decades.
\n
During his five-year tenure, the number of A-share listed companies rose by about 1,700, according to financial media outlet Yicai. Over the same period, the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index fell below the 3,000-point threshold roughly 20 times by the measurement of closing price, data from market tracker Wind Info showed.
\n
Tian Xuan, president of Tsinghua University's National Institute of Financial Research and associate dean of Tsinghua University's PBC School of Finance, said that further improving fundamental institutions is key to strengthening the internal stability and sustainable momentum of the A-share market.
\n
"After a rapid rise, the market has seen a notable correction, reflecting subtle shifts in investor expectations and sentiment. The development also points to the inherent volatility and uncertainty facing the market, as well as lingering structural challenges yet to be fully resolved," Tian said.
\n
Tian underlined the need to improve expectation management, enhance policy transparency and predictability and send timely positive signals to stabilize investor sentiment, while enforcing stricter information disclosure and refining the delisting mechanism to raise quality of listed companies.
\n
China ramped up efforts to intensify the crackdown on securities violations and strengthen investor protection as it released a high-level guideline in April last year, rolling out nine measures to promote the high-quality development of the capital market.
\n
As the latest step to strengthen the market, the CSRC proposed the first overhaul in 12 years of the rules on mutual fund sales commissions on Friday, aiming to sharply reduce investor costs and encourage long-term holdings.
\n
Liu Jipeng, a senior expert on the capital markets and a professor at China University of Political Science and Law, said that further closing regulatory gaps to safeguard market fairness and investor interest will hold the key to future capital market reforms and steady market growth.
\n
"A slow bull trend has taken shape. The goal should be making it steady and long-lasting so that the capital market can serve as a platform for common prosperity, where the majority of investors can share returns, rather than only a few getting rich overnight," Liu said.
\n
Richard Tang, an equity research analyst for Asia at Swiss wealth management group Julius Baer, said the A-share market is far from a bubble despite a strong catch-up in performance.
\n
"Valuation remains reasonable, and liquidity indicators suggest that market activity has increased but is not overheated. We expect further upside," Tang said.
\n
zhoulanxv@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
China's top securities regulator vowed over the weekend to step up law-based supervision and make strong efforts to advance high-quality capital market development, following the announcement that its former chairman is under investigation.
\n
Financial experts said the pledge reflects the country's firm determination to address the remaining structural challenges in the capital market to foster steady, long-lasting market growth, with greater fairness and transparency at the core.
\n
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection of the Communist Party of China and the National Supervisory Commission announced on Saturday that Yi Huiman, former chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, is under investigation for suspected severe violations of discipline and laws.
\n
The CSRC said in a statement on Saturday that it firmly supports the move of the country's top anti-corruption watchdogs and pledged to make a resolute push to win the tough battle against corruption, strengthen oversight of public power and curb new, hidden forms of graft, following a meeting to convey the decision to conduct the investigation.
\n
Presided over by CSRC Chairman Wu Qing, who took over for Yi in February last year, the meeting vowed to strengthen law-based supervision, effectively guard against risks, and vigorously promote high-quality capital market development to better serve China's economic recovery and modernization drive.
\n
Yi, 61, a native of Zhejiang province, currently serves as the deputy director of the Committee on Economic Affairs of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top political advisory body.
\n
Before that, Yi served as chairman of the CSRC from January 2019 to February 2024, after working in China's banking system for decades.
\n
During his five-year tenure, the number of A-share listed companies rose by about 1,700, according to financial media outlet Yicai. Over the same period, the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index fell below the 3,000-point threshold roughly 20 times by the measurement of closing price, data from market tracker Wind Info showed.
\n
Tian Xuan, president of Tsinghua University's National Institute of Financial Research and associate dean of Tsinghua University's PBC School of Finance, said that further improving fundamental institutions is key to strengthening the internal stability and sustainable momentum of the A-share market.
\n
"After a rapid rise, the market has seen a notable correction, reflecting subtle shifts in investor expectations and sentiment. The development also points to the inherent volatility and uncertainty facing the market, as well as lingering structural challenges yet to be fully resolved," Tian said.
\n
Tian underlined the need to improve expectation management, enhance policy transparency and predictability and send timely positive signals to stabilize investor sentiment, while enforcing stricter information disclosure and refining the delisting mechanism to raise quality of listed companies.
\n
China ramped up efforts to intensify the crackdown on securities violations and strengthen investor protection as it released a high-level guideline in April last year, rolling out nine measures to promote the high-quality development of the capital market.
\n
As the latest step to strengthen the market, the CSRC proposed the first overhaul in 12 years of the rules on mutual fund sales commissions on Friday, aiming to sharply reduce investor costs and encourage long-term holdings.
\n
Liu Jipeng, a senior expert on the capital markets and a professor at China University of Political Science and Law, said that further closing regulatory gaps to safeguard market fairness and investor interest will hold the key to future capital market reforms and steady market growth.
\n
"A slow bull trend has taken shape. The goal should be making it steady and long-lasting so that the capital market can serve as a platform for common prosperity, where the majority of investors can share returns, rather than only a few getting rich overnight," Liu said.
\n
Richard Tang, an equity research analyst for Asia at Swiss wealth management group Julius Baer, said the A-share market is far from a bubble despite a strong catch-up in performance.
\n
"Valuation remains reasonable, and liquidity indicators suggest that market activity has increased but is not overheated. We expect further upside," Tang said.
At the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President Xi Jinping will participate in the BRICS Leaders Virtual Meeting via video link in Beijing on Monday and deliver an important address.
\n
During the virtual meeting, the BRICS leaders will reportedly discuss the challenges facing the emerging multipolar world order, as well as a joint response by the group to the United States' unilateral moves, including tariff measures.
\n
Brazil, which currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, hosted the two-day 17th BRICS Summit, with the theme of "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance", in July in Rio de Janeiro.
\n
BRICS, established in 2006, now has 11 full members and 10 partner countries, accounting for over half of the world's population, nearly 30 percent of global GDP, and more than 50 percent of global economic growth.
\n
According to the Brazilian newspaper Valor Economico, the preparations for the online summit have been led by Chief Advisor to the Presidency of Brazil Celso Luiz Nunes Amorim.
\n
On Thursday, Amorim met with Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing and handed over a letter from Lula to Xi. Amorim highlighted the importance of strengthening unity and cooperation among the Global South and BRICS countries during talks with Wang.
\n
zhaojia@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
@@ -8717,28 +10323,6 @@
"hash": "7536d7e40d382b3d65d1378c60e5a208",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "001FRONT - President advocates for more just, prosperous world",
- "description": "
President Xi Jinping, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, along with foreign leaders and guests, walks toward the Tian'anmen Rostrum in Beijing on Wednesday ahead of a grand event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
President Xi Jinping chats with members of a local farmer's family during a visit with his wife, Peng Liyuan, in Costa Rica, on June 3, 2013.
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An aerial drone photo taken on June 17, 2022, shows the headquarters of the New Development Bank in East China's Shanghai.
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At Beijing's Tian'anmen Square, President Xi Jinping, together with world leaders, attended a grand military parade on Wednesday morning honoring both China's victory and the collective triumph of nations that overcame fascism 80 years ago.
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Standing on the Tian'anmen Rostrum, Xi delivered a speech marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. He called on nations across the world to eliminate the root cause of war and prevent historical tragedies from recurring.
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Xi said common security can only be safeguarded when nations across the world treat each other as equals, live in harmony and mutually support one another.
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For Xi, this solemn observance was more than a tribute to history; it signaled a vision for the future, where humanity can peacefully share a more just, equitable and prosperous world.
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Ahead of the ceremony, Xi and world leaders stepped onto the Tian'anmen Rostrum, shaking hands with Chinese war veterans in turn.
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Moments later, under Xi's gaze, People's Liberation Army troops in various formations marched through the vast square.
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That same gaze was present in May when he watched PLA troops march across Moscow's Red Square during commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory in its Great Patriotic War.
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Shortly afterward, Xi joined Russian President Vladimir Putin and other leaders to lay red flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin Wall, pausing in silence for those who died in the fight against fascism.
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Ahead of the trip, a signed article by Xi titled "Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future" was published in the newspaper Russian Gazette. He wrote, "The world needs justice, not hegemonism."
\n
Xi's appeal has roots in history. In 2017, during a visit to the Memorial of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Shanghai, he lingered before three images capturing China's suffering more than a century ago: a late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) cartoon showing foreign powers carving up China, a chart of the crippling indemnities China was forced to pay, and Karl Marx's sharp critique of then China's isolationist complacency.
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"How much humiliation. How much disgrace. China back then was a fat sheep awaiting slaughter," Xi said.
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The end of the World Anti-Fascist War, or WWII, set the stage for a rebirth of the international order. From the ruins emerged the United Nations in 1945, with its Charter enshrining sovereign equality, noninterference and the peaceful settlement of disputes — a landmark break from centuries of the law of the jungle where "might is right".
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As this year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Xi has urged revitalizing the world body under the new circumstances, enabling it to serve as the primary platform for countries to coordinate actions and jointly address challenges.
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His message also reflects some acute present challenges facing the world order today. As Xi has observed, unilateralism, hegemonism, as well as bullying and coercive practices are severely undermining peace, justice and equality in the world.
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Xi offered his explicit perspective. "The strong should not bully the weak," he said. "Decisions should not be made by simply showing off strong muscles or waving a big fist. Selective multilateralism should not be our option."
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Under Xi's leadership, China has stepped up global peace efforts by following true multilateralism — taking part in UN peacekeeping missions, advancing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's anti-extremism convention, mediating Saudi-Iran reconciliation, supporting the establishment of the "Friends for Peace" Group on the Ukraine Crisis, and co-founding the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong with 32 nations.
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"China will never seek hegemony, nor does it believe in a zero-sum," Xi has vowed. "Such notions have never been part of China's cultural DNA, nor is there any such ambition."
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Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva once remarked on Xi's strong sense of justice.
\n
He told Xi: "You have been an inspiration for the profound changes humanity must pursue — to speak more of peace than of war, to cooperate more than compete, and to create more than destroy."
\n
No one left behind
\n
It is Xi's conviction that "only when countries develop together can there be true development".
\n
Last year in Rio de Janeiro, Xi joined world leaders at the G20 summit, whose theme-"Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet" — sought to confront the persistent inequalities in global development.
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Back in 2016, Xi chaired the G20 summit in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. The summit for the first time in history placed development at the center of the group's macroeconomic policy coordination.
\n
Sharing development experience, Xi told his colleagues in Rio that "China's story is proof that developing countries can eliminate poverty".
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In 2020, Xi led China, the world's largest developing country, in eliminating absolute poverty, a full decade ahead of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda's timeline.
\n
"If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too," Xi said.
\n
Fighting poverty has always been a central focus of Xi's work for more than 40 years, over the course of his career from county and city posts to provincial and national leadership. "I have devoted most of my energy to it," he once said.
\n
Xi championed several initiatives to end poverty, including Juncao technology — a grass used to cultivate edible mushrooms, feed livestock, and prevent soil erosion. Starting from the days Xi was a provincial official, he has begun to promote the technology to countries across the South Pacific, Africa and South America.
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Part of this unprecedented journey is documented in Up and Out of Poverty, a collection of Xi's speeches, articles and interviews from 1988 to 1990 during his tenure in Ningde city, China's southeastern Fujian province.
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In 2023, the Uzbek-language edition of the book was published, with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev writing a foreword entitled "A True Chinese Miracle".
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With a clear-eyed understanding of the world's predicaments, Xi has traced the turbulence in economic globalization to a major source: the lack of inclusive growth. To characterize the contradictions of today's world, he quoted Charles Dickens, "It was the best of times; it was the worst of times."
\n
In recent years, economic globalization has encountered setbacks, with the gap between the Global North and South and the technological divide becoming more pronounced. The gap between the rich and the poor is widening rather than receding, and 60 percent of people in the world have grown poorer, equating to almost 5 billion people, according to a research paper from Oxfam, the UK-based charity, released last year.
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"Development," Xi once said, "is an inalienable right of all countries, not a privilege reserved for a few." This explains why Xi has pushed for universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.
\n
Months after taking over the Chinese presidency in 2013, Xi traveled halfway across the world and paid a state visit to Costa Rica. During the trip, he chose a coffee farm as one of his stops. Sipping a freshly brewed cup, he said: "Seems to me, there's room to export more coffee to China."
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The remark foreshadowed a broader pledge. China will keep its doors open and share the dividends of growth, Xi vowed. "Welcome aboard the fast train of China's development," he stated on several occasions.
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Also in 2013, Xi unveiled his signature Belt and Road Initiative. More than a decade on, the results are tangible. Freight trains now thunder between Chinese cities and European capitals. Kenya's modern railways and revitalized ports are remaking the East African landscape.
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On top of deepening economic linkages, Xi promotes a governance model that breaks with what he views as an outdated relic of colonialism, the Wall Street Journal once commented.
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Xi has consistently argued that development holds the master key to achieving that goal — a conviction shaped by his own life experiences. In the late 1960s, as one of China's "educated youth" sent to the countryside, Xi lived among struggling villagers in northwestern China's Shaanxi province.
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"One thing I wished most all the time," he recalled decades later in a speech in the US city of Seattle, "was to make it possible for the villagers to eat meat to their heart's content."
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Today, Xi is leading China on the path toward modernization. As a leader with a global vision, he also hopes that China can walk the path of modernization with all countries.
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"On the road to the well-being of all mankind, no country or nation should be left behind," Xi said.
\n
Equitable order
\n
At the just concluded SCO summit in Tianjin, Xi put forward the Global Governance Initiative.
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The aim of proposing the initiative is to "work together with all like-minded countries to resolutely safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and build a more just and equitable global governance system", he explained.
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Xi's proposing the initiative stands as a reflection of his sharp perception of the profound transformations that are reshaping the global landscape.
\n
"The collective rise of the Global South," Xi observed, "is a distinctive feature of the great transformation across the world." He has pledged that China will always keep the Global South in its heart, and maintain its roots in the Global South.
\n
In April 2015, the Indonesian city of Bandung — once called the "Paris of Java" — witnessed a moment where the past and present converged.
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From the 19th-century Savoy Homann Hotel, leaders of nearly 100 nations set out toward the Independence Building, retracing the footsteps of a generation that had defied colonial domination six decades earlier.
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At the head of the procession walked Xi and then Indonesian president Joko Widodo. It was a living echo of the 1955 Bandung Conference, the first meeting of Asian and African nations free of colonial powers, now hailed as a landmark event in the rise of the Global South.
\n
Through perseverance and huge sacrifice, emerging markets and developing countries have succeeded in gaining independence and shaking off the yoke of colonialism. These nations have been seeking development paths tailored to their own national circumstances rather than following models imposed by the outside. "Everything we do is to deliver better lives to our people," Xi once said.
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Driven by Xi's global vision, the legacy born in Bandung is quickly becoming a reality, where developing nations speak not as isolated voices but as a united force.
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The historic expansion of BRICS and the creation of forums linking China with Africa, Latin America, the Arab world and ASEAN all bear Xi's imprint, offering the Global South channels to coordinate and amplify their say in global affairs.
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In April 2025, during a visit to the BRICS New Development Bank in China's financial hub Shanghai — the first multilateral bank initiated and led by developing nations — Xi called it a pioneering effort for the Global South to join forces in improving global governance.
\n
The origins of his vision can be traced back to Xi's youth. He pored over The Communist Manifesto, Das Kapital and other Marxist classics, laying the intellectual foundation for what he later described as his abiding belief: "Marxism is broad and profound; ultimately, it is about seeking liberation for humanity."
\n
Decades on, as humanity is facing changes rarely seen in a century, Xi keeps pondering on the world: "What has happened to the world and how should we respond?"
\n
Xi first proposed building a community with a shared future for humanity in Moscow during his inaugural overseas visit as Chinese president. Two years later, on the stage of the UN headquarters in New York, Xi elaborated his thoughts on building such a community that involves partnerships, security, development, civilization and ecological cooperation.
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Xi's vision of building a community with a shared future reminded Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of an aphorism from the renowned ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius.
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"Si hai zhi nei jie xiong di — within the four seas, all men are brothers," Anwar uttered the maxim in Chinese during his reception held for Xi in Putrajaya this April.
\n
"President Xi is known as a capable political leader, as an economist, but more so and prouder profoundly, a great human being with strong, clear vision and understanding civilizational of values," he said.
\n
Over the years 2021 to 2023, Xi launched the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. Along with the Global Governance Initiative, these proposals are designed to enhance and improve the present international system.
\n
Tajik President Emomali Rahmon has said that Xi is a great leader with profound historical insight and a broad global vision. He said, "The many global initiatives he has proposed are conducive to advancing peace and progress for humanity."
President Xi Jinping, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, along with foreign leaders and guests, walks toward the Tian'anmen Rostrum in Beijing on Wednesday ahead of a grand event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.
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President Xi Jinping chats with members of a local farmer's family during a visit with his wife, Peng Liyuan, in Costa Rica, on June 3, 2013.
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An aerial drone photo taken on June 17, 2022, shows the headquarters of the New Development Bank in East China's Shanghai.
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At Beijing's Tian'anmen Square, President Xi Jinping, together with world leaders, attended a grand military parade on Wednesday morning honoring both China's victory and the collective triumph of nations that overcame fascism 80 years ago.
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Standing on the Tian'anmen Rostrum, Xi delivered a speech marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. He called on nations across the world to eliminate the root cause of war and prevent historical tragedies from recurring.
\n
Xi said common security can only be safeguarded when nations across the world treat each other as equals, live in harmony and mutually support one another.
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For Xi, this solemn observance was more than a tribute to history; it signaled a vision for the future, where humanity can peacefully share a more just, equitable and prosperous world.
\n
Ahead of the ceremony, Xi and world leaders stepped onto the Tian'anmen Rostrum, shaking hands with Chinese war veterans in turn.
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Moments later, under Xi's gaze, People's Liberation Army troops in various formations marched through the vast square.
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That same gaze was present in May when he watched PLA troops march across Moscow's Red Square during commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory in its Great Patriotic War.
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Shortly afterward, Xi joined Russian President Vladimir Putin and other leaders to lay red flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin Wall, pausing in silence for those who died in the fight against fascism.
\n
Ahead of the trip, a signed article by Xi titled "Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future" was published in the newspaper Russian Gazette. He wrote, "The world needs justice, not hegemonism."
\n
Xi's appeal has roots in history. In 2017, during a visit to the Memorial of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Shanghai, he lingered before three images capturing China's suffering more than a century ago: a late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) cartoon showing foreign powers carving up China, a chart of the crippling indemnities China was forced to pay, and Karl Marx's sharp critique of then China's isolationist complacency.
\n
"How much humiliation. How much disgrace. China back then was a fat sheep awaiting slaughter," Xi said.
\n
The end of the World Anti-Fascist War, or WWII, set the stage for a rebirth of the international order. From the ruins emerged the United Nations in 1945, with its Charter enshrining sovereign equality, noninterference and the peaceful settlement of disputes — a landmark break from centuries of the law of the jungle where "might is right".
\n
As this year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Xi has urged revitalizing the world body under the new circumstances, enabling it to serve as the primary platform for countries to coordinate actions and jointly address challenges.
\n
His message also reflects some acute present challenges facing the world order today. As Xi has observed, unilateralism, hegemonism, as well as bullying and coercive practices are severely undermining peace, justice and equality in the world.
\n
Xi offered his explicit perspective. "The strong should not bully the weak," he said. "Decisions should not be made by simply showing off strong muscles or waving a big fist. Selective multilateralism should not be our option."
\n
Under Xi's leadership, China has stepped up global peace efforts by following true multilateralism — taking part in UN peacekeeping missions, advancing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's anti-extremism convention, mediating Saudi-Iran reconciliation, supporting the establishment of the "Friends for Peace" Group on the Ukraine Crisis, and co-founding the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong with 32 nations.
\n
"China will never seek hegemony, nor does it believe in a zero-sum," Xi has vowed. "Such notions have never been part of China's cultural DNA, nor is there any such ambition."
\n
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva once remarked on Xi's strong sense of justice.
\n
He told Xi: "You have been an inspiration for the profound changes humanity must pursue — to speak more of peace than of war, to cooperate more than compete, and to create more than destroy."
\n
No one left behind
\n
It is Xi's conviction that "only when countries develop together can there be true development".
\n
Last year in Rio de Janeiro, Xi joined world leaders at the G20 summit, whose theme-"Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet" — sought to confront the persistent inequalities in global development.
\n
Back in 2016, Xi chaired the G20 summit in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. The summit for the first time in history placed development at the center of the group's macroeconomic policy coordination.
\n
Sharing development experience, Xi told his colleagues in Rio that "China's story is proof that developing countries can eliminate poverty".
\n
In 2020, Xi led China, the world's largest developing country, in eliminating absolute poverty, a full decade ahead of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda's timeline.
\n
"If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too," Xi said.
\n
Fighting poverty has always been a central focus of Xi's work for more than 40 years, over the course of his career from county and city posts to provincial and national leadership. "I have devoted most of my energy to it," he once said.
\n
Xi championed several initiatives to end poverty, including Juncao technology — a grass used to cultivate edible mushrooms, feed livestock, and prevent soil erosion. Starting from the days Xi was a provincial official, he has begun to promote the technology to countries across the South Pacific, Africa and South America.
\n
Part of this unprecedented journey is documented in Up and Out of Poverty, a collection of Xi's speeches, articles and interviews from 1988 to 1990 during his tenure in Ningde city, China's southeastern Fujian province.
\n
In 2023, the Uzbek-language edition of the book was published, with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev writing a foreword entitled "A True Chinese Miracle".
\n
With a clear-eyed understanding of the world's predicaments, Xi has traced the turbulence in economic globalization to a major source: the lack of inclusive growth. To characterize the contradictions of today's world, he quoted Charles Dickens, "It was the best of times; it was the worst of times."
\n
In recent years, economic globalization has encountered setbacks, with the gap between the Global North and South and the technological divide becoming more pronounced. The gap between the rich and the poor is widening rather than receding, and 60 percent of people in the world have grown poorer, equating to almost 5 billion people, according to a research paper from Oxfam, the UK-based charity, released last year.
\n
"Development," Xi once said, "is an inalienable right of all countries, not a privilege reserved for a few." This explains why Xi has pushed for universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.
\n
Months after taking over the Chinese presidency in 2013, Xi traveled halfway across the world and paid a state visit to Costa Rica. During the trip, he chose a coffee farm as one of his stops. Sipping a freshly brewed cup, he said: "Seems to me, there's room to export more coffee to China."
\n
The remark foreshadowed a broader pledge. China will keep its doors open and share the dividends of growth, Xi vowed. "Welcome aboard the fast train of China's development," he stated on several occasions.
\n
Also in 2013, Xi unveiled his signature Belt and Road Initiative. More than a decade on, the results are tangible. Freight trains now thunder between Chinese cities and European capitals. Kenya's modern railways and revitalized ports are remaking the East African landscape.
\n
On top of deepening economic linkages, Xi promotes a governance model that breaks with what he views as an outdated relic of colonialism, the Wall Street Journal once commented.
\n
Xi has consistently argued that development holds the master key to achieving that goal — a conviction shaped by his own life experiences. In the late 1960s, as one of China's "educated youth" sent to the countryside, Xi lived among struggling villagers in northwestern China's Shaanxi province.
\n
"One thing I wished most all the time," he recalled decades later in a speech in the US city of Seattle, "was to make it possible for the villagers to eat meat to their heart's content."
\n
Today, Xi is leading China on the path toward modernization. As a leader with a global vision, he also hopes that China can walk the path of modernization with all countries.
\n
"On the road to the well-being of all mankind, no country or nation should be left behind," Xi said.
\n
Equitable order
\n
At the just concluded SCO summit in Tianjin, Xi put forward the Global Governance Initiative.
\n
The aim of proposing the initiative is to "work together with all like-minded countries to resolutely safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and build a more just and equitable global governance system", he explained.
\n
Xi's proposing the initiative stands as a reflection of his sharp perception of the profound transformations that are reshaping the global landscape.
\n
"The collective rise of the Global South," Xi observed, "is a distinctive feature of the great transformation across the world." He has pledged that China will always keep the Global South in its heart, and maintain its roots in the Global South.
\n
In April 2015, the Indonesian city of Bandung — once called the "Paris of Java" — witnessed a moment where the past and present converged.
\n
From the 19th-century Savoy Homann Hotel, leaders of nearly 100 nations set out toward the Independence Building, retracing the footsteps of a generation that had defied colonial domination six decades earlier.
\n
At the head of the procession walked Xi and then Indonesian president Joko Widodo. It was a living echo of the 1955 Bandung Conference, the first meeting of Asian and African nations free of colonial powers, now hailed as a landmark event in the rise of the Global South.
\n
Through perseverance and huge sacrifice, emerging markets and developing countries have succeeded in gaining independence and shaking off the yoke of colonialism. These nations have been seeking development paths tailored to their own national circumstances rather than following models imposed by the outside. "Everything we do is to deliver better lives to our people," Xi once said.
\n
Driven by Xi's global vision, the legacy born in Bandung is quickly becoming a reality, where developing nations speak not as isolated voices but as a united force.
\n
The historic expansion of BRICS and the creation of forums linking China with Africa, Latin America, the Arab world and ASEAN all bear Xi's imprint, offering the Global South channels to coordinate and amplify their say in global affairs.
\n
In April 2025, during a visit to the BRICS New Development Bank in China's financial hub Shanghai — the first multilateral bank initiated and led by developing nations — Xi called it a pioneering effort for the Global South to join forces in improving global governance.
\n
The origins of his vision can be traced back to Xi's youth. He pored over The Communist Manifesto, Das Kapital and other Marxist classics, laying the intellectual foundation for what he later described as his abiding belief: "Marxism is broad and profound; ultimately, it is about seeking liberation for humanity."
\n
Decades on, as humanity is facing changes rarely seen in a century, Xi keeps pondering on the world: "What has happened to the world and how should we respond?"
\n
Xi first proposed building a community with a shared future for humanity in Moscow during his inaugural overseas visit as Chinese president. Two years later, on the stage of the UN headquarters in New York, Xi elaborated his thoughts on building such a community that involves partnerships, security, development, civilization and ecological cooperation.
\n
Xi's vision of building a community with a shared future reminded Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of an aphorism from the renowned ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius.
\n
"Si hai zhi nei jie xiong di — within the four seas, all men are brothers," Anwar uttered the maxim in Chinese during his reception held for Xi in Putrajaya this April.
\n
"President Xi is known as a capable political leader, as an economist, but more so and prouder profoundly, a great human being with strong, clear vision and understanding civilizational of values," he said.
\n
Over the years 2021 to 2023, Xi launched the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. Along with the Global Governance Initiative, these proposals are designed to enhance and improve the present international system.
\n
Tajik President Emomali Rahmon has said that Xi is a great leader with profound historical insight and a broad global vision. He said, "The many global initiatives he has proposed are conducive to advancing peace and progress for humanity."
Tug-of-war contestants pull on a rope with all their might during a horse racing festival on Saturday in Nagqu, the Xizang autonomous region. The three-day festival, which kicked off on Friday, is a traditional affair in the northern Tibetan Plateau. In addition to horse racing, the festival also features a variety of ethnic sports competitions, art performances and cultural tourism activities.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addresses a press conference where he announced his decision to resign, on Sunday in Tokyo, Japan.
\n
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced on Sunday that he will step down as the head of the Liberal Democratic Party, amid growing calls for him to take responsibility for the party-led ruling coalition's election setback in both houses of parliament.
\n
Addressing a news conference at the prime minister's office in Tokyo, Ishiba said he has "made the painful decision to resign despite still having unfinished tasks", emphasizing that the LDP must undergo genuine renewal and remain a tolerant and inclusive force.
\n
He added that he would not stand as a candidate in the expected LDP leadership election triggered by his resignation.
\n
Ishiba's announcement came a day before the LDP was scheduled to decide whether to hold an early party leadership election, which would essentially be demanding his resignation, according to Japanese media platform Nikkei Asia.
\n
It also followed a formal agreement reached on Thursday with the administration of United States President Donald Trump on 15 percent reciprocal tariffs on Japanese exports to the US.
\n
At Sunday's news conference, Ishiba said he had long considered tariff negotiations with the US a responsibility of his administration. With the signing of a memorandum of understanding last week, Ishiba said the negotiations reached a milestone, which made him decide to make way for his successor.
\n
In September 2024, Ishiba was elected president of the LDP for a term of three years. In October last year, the LDP and its junior coalition partner, the Komeito, lost their majority in the House of Representatives, the lower house of the National Diet of Japan. In July this year, the ruling coalition also lost its majority in the House of Councillors, or the upper house.
\n
In postwar Japan, the head of the LDP — the country's dominant political force since the party's founding in 1955 — has almost always become the prime minister, because the party commands the largest share of seats in the Diet. When an LDP president resigns or is replaced, the post of prime minister typically changes hands as well.
\n
According to the LDP's rules, a new leadership election can be held before the incumbent president's term expires. A majority of LDP members in the Diet and a majority of representatives in the LDP's prefectural branches can jointly request an election for a new president.
\n
Following Ishiba's formal resignation announcement, the LDP is expected to hold an extraordinary executive meeting on Monday morning, at which it will likely decide to cancel the submission of documents for an early party leadership election, according to TBS News, a commercial broadcasting company based in Tokyo.
\n
The Associated Press reported that the LDP is expected to set a date for a party leadership election, likely to be held in early October.
\n
Xinhua contributed to this story.
\n
houjunjie@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addresses a press conference where he announced his decision to resign, on Sunday in Tokyo, Japan.
\n
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced on Sunday that he will step down as the head of the Liberal Democratic Party, amid growing calls for him to take responsibility for the party-led ruling coalition's election setback in both houses of parliament.
\n
Addressing a news conference at the prime minister's office in Tokyo, Ishiba said he has "made the painful decision to resign despite still having unfinished tasks", emphasizing that the LDP must undergo genuine renewal and remain a tolerant and inclusive force.
\n
He added that he would not stand as a candidate in the expected LDP leadership election triggered by his resignation.
\n
Ishiba's announcement came a day before the LDP was scheduled to decide whether to hold an early party leadership election, which would essentially be demanding his resignation, according to Japanese media platform Nikkei Asia.
\n
It also followed a formal agreement reached on Thursday with the administration of United States President Donald Trump on 15 percent reciprocal tariffs on Japanese exports to the US.
\n
At Sunday's news conference, Ishiba said he had long considered tariff negotiations with the US a responsibility of his administration. With the signing of a memorandum of understanding last week, Ishiba said the negotiations reached a milestone, which made him decide to make way for his successor.
\n
In September 2024, Ishiba was elected president of the LDP for a term of three years. In October last year, the LDP and its junior coalition partner, the Komeito, lost their majority in the House of Representatives, the lower house of the National Diet of Japan. In July this year, the ruling coalition also lost its majority in the House of Councillors, or the upper house.
\n
In postwar Japan, the head of the LDP — the country's dominant political force since the party's founding in 1955 — has almost always become the prime minister, because the party commands the largest share of seats in the Diet. When an LDP president resigns or is replaced, the post of prime minister typically changes hands as well.
\n
According to the LDP's rules, a new leadership election can be held before the incumbent president's term expires. A majority of LDP members in the Diet and a majority of representatives in the LDP's prefectural branches can jointly request an election for a new president.
\n
Following Ishiba's formal resignation announcement, the LDP is expected to hold an extraordinary executive meeting on Monday morning, at which it will likely decide to cancel the submission of documents for an early party leadership election, according to TBS News, a commercial broadcasting company based in Tokyo.
\n
The Associated Press reported that the LDP is expected to set a date for a party leadership election, likely to be held in early October.
Chinese actress Xin Zhilei holds her Best Actress trophy which she won for The Sun Rises on Us All during the closing ceremony of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on Saturday in Venice, Italy.
\n
Chinese star Xin Zhilei won the Best Actress award at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on Saturday, becoming the second actress from the Chinese mainland to receive the honor, more than three decades after Gong Li's historic win in 1992.
\n
With her vivid portrayal of a woman trapped in a love triangle in the arthouse flick The Sun Rises on Us All, Xin received the Volpi Cup for Best Actress from Zhao Tao, also a famous Chinese actress who served as one of this year's international jurors.
\n
Directed by Cai Shangjun, who is regarded as a leading figure in Chinese neo-noir cinema, the film — shot in multiple cities across South China's Guangdong province — tells the story of two former lovers who reunite after seven years, only to find their encounter ending in tragedy at the hands of an inescapable fate.
\n
Overcome with joy, Xin, the 39-year-old actress, tearfully said in her acceptance speech: "This feels like a dream. Over a decade ago, when I first started in the film industry, I made a bold claim — I wanted to become an international superstar on a world-class stage. Back then, I faced a lot of ridicule."
\n
Having begun her showbiz career in 2005, the actress overcame many difficulties to stand on the award stage in Venice, one of the three most prestigious film festivals in Europe. She said she felt proud of herself and encouraged all women by saying: "If you have a dream, dare to dream big and dare to go for it. Who knows — one day it might just come true, just like it did for me."
\n
The film's title is inspired by a line from a Cantonese Opera, which is based on a script by Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) playwright Tang Xianzu. The original work depicts a tragic romance between a poet and a young woman during the Tang Dynasty (618-907).
\n
Xin revealed she was captivated by her character — an ordinary person striving to overcome a painful past and build a better life. She explained that the character is difficult to define as simply "good" or "bad", and that audiences may find her choices challenging to understand.
\n
Recounted through a delicate and nuanced narrative, the film focuses not on a dramatic plotline, but on the inner emotional journey of a woman grappling with her own tsunami-like feelings, added Xin.
\n
According to her agency, filming in Guangdong was challenging due to the humid temperatures, which frequently left Xin's costume and hair drenched. Despite this, she gave her best performance in every scene.
\n
A native of Northeast China's Heilongjiang province, Xin first earned international recognition for the 2016 Chinese film Crosscurrent, which won the Silver Bear for Outstanding Artistic Contribution for Cinematography at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival. Her most popular roles include an emperor's favored concubine in the hit costume drama Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace (2018) and a mysterious restaurant operator in Hong Kong auteur Wong Kar-wai's directorial TV debut Blossoms Shanghai (2023).
\n
In an earlier interview, director Cai recalled that because the film is told from a woman's perspective, it placed particularly high demands on casting the female lead. After an initial struggle — having reached out to around 20 actresses and 10 actors for the two leading roles — Cai finally chose Xin, with the recommendation from his wife and co-writer, Han Nianjin, who saw Xin on a variety show and was impressed by her natural, easygoing and decisive temperament.
\n
Cai said that China's film industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, challenged by a shrinking box office, as well as the unprecedented expansion of short videos and micro-dramas. In this climate, an enduring event like the Venice International Film Festival becomes a cherished destination for artists, he added.
Beijing's Chaoyang district has launched what it calls a "Business Plus Technology" dual-engine strategy to leverage its advantages in international engagement, artificial intelligence, the digital economy and commercial prosperity, said Nie Jieying, head of the district.
\n
In the first half of 2025, the number of foreign-funded companies in the district increased by 265, a 23.8 percent year-on-year rise, ranking first in the city.
\n
During the same period, the amount of foreign capital actually utilized reached $1.14 billion, up 2 percent year-on-year. The district ranked first in this category, accounting for 42.2 percent of the city's total.
\n
"At the forefront of China's modernization efforts, Chaoyang has strategically focused on openness and innovation to transform itself into a hub that is livable, business-friendly and a leader in technological advancement," Nie said.
\n
Chaoyang has a population of 3.4 million people and a total area of 470 square kilometers, the largest among Beijing's six major districts.
\n
The district is home to nearly all foreign embassies in China, 80 percent of international organizations and chambers of commerce, 70 percent of multinational company headquarters and 65 percent of foreign financial institutions in Beijing. It has also staged more than half the city's international conferences and one-third of its exhibitions annually.
\n
Against that backdrop, Chaoyang has aligned itself with international trade standards as it carries out Beijing's "Twin Zones" initiatives — an effort begun in 2020 to build the capital into a national service industry demonstration zone and a free trade pilot zone.
\n
Over the past five years, Chaoyang has taken 87 reform and innovation steps, several of which have been replicated nationwide.
\n
These moves have reshaped the district's commercial landscape and set plans to develop world-class consumer landmarks and a vibrant commercial ecosystem, spotlighting areas such as the central business district and Sanlitun.
\n
The CBD was recently selected to lead the Global Business Districts Innovation Club for the 2025-27 term.
\n
In the north of Chaoyang, a technology innovation development belt is being created. In the east, the Beihang Chaoyang Science Park is under construction. And in the south, the Shan-He Wan-Gu Innovation Zone is taking shape.
\n
Chaoyang has also become home to the nation's first international science organization headquarters cluster, Beijing's only international venture capital hub and the city's first Internet 3.0 industrial park.
\n
In another sign of its growing role, the World Humanoid Robot Games were held at the National Stadium and National Speed Skating Oval in the district last month, drawing leading international robotics companies.
\n
In August, the city's first industrial park dedicated to the business of AI-generated content opened in Chaoyang.
\n
"All these efforts prove that the city's strategy is paying off," Nie said. "We've placed high emphasis on building Beijing into an international communication center, improving the international environment, promoting institutionalized openness and actively creating a window to showcase China's high-level openness to the world."
\n
She added, "We are establishing a benchmark zone to create a world-class business environment, leveraging the strengths of the world's top three rating agencies, nine of the top 10 global law firms, eight of the top 10 consulting firms and more than 2,000 commercial human resource service providers in the district."
\n
Chaoyang's GDP surpassed 900 billion yuan ($125.3 billion) in 2024, accounting for 18.5 percent of Beijing's total. In the first half of 2025 alone, the district's GDP reached 462 billion yuan, a year-on-year growth of 5.1 percent.
\n
yangcheng@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
Nie Jieying
\n
Beijing's Chaoyang district has launched what it calls a "Business Plus Technology" dual-engine strategy to leverage its advantages in international engagement, artificial intelligence, the digital economy and commercial prosperity, said Nie Jieying, head of the district.
\n
In the first half of 2025, the number of foreign-funded companies in the district increased by 265, a 23.8 percent year-on-year rise, ranking first in the city.
\n
During the same period, the amount of foreign capital actually utilized reached $1.14 billion, up 2 percent year-on-year. The district ranked first in this category, accounting for 42.2 percent of the city's total.
\n
"At the forefront of China's modernization efforts, Chaoyang has strategically focused on openness and innovation to transform itself into a hub that is livable, business-friendly and a leader in technological advancement," Nie said.
\n
Chaoyang has a population of 3.4 million people and a total area of 470 square kilometers, the largest among Beijing's six major districts.
\n
The district is home to nearly all foreign embassies in China, 80 percent of international organizations and chambers of commerce, 70 percent of multinational company headquarters and 65 percent of foreign financial institutions in Beijing. It has also staged more than half the city's international conferences and one-third of its exhibitions annually.
\n
Against that backdrop, Chaoyang has aligned itself with international trade standards as it carries out Beijing's "Twin Zones" initiatives — an effort begun in 2020 to build the capital into a national service industry demonstration zone and a free trade pilot zone.
\n
Over the past five years, Chaoyang has taken 87 reform and innovation steps, several of which have been replicated nationwide.
\n
These moves have reshaped the district's commercial landscape and set plans to develop world-class consumer landmarks and a vibrant commercial ecosystem, spotlighting areas such as the central business district and Sanlitun.
\n
The CBD was recently selected to lead the Global Business Districts Innovation Club for the 2025-27 term.
\n
In the north of Chaoyang, a technology innovation development belt is being created. In the east, the Beihang Chaoyang Science Park is under construction. And in the south, the Shan-He Wan-Gu Innovation Zone is taking shape.
\n
Chaoyang has also become home to the nation's first international science organization headquarters cluster, Beijing's only international venture capital hub and the city's first Internet 3.0 industrial park.
\n
In another sign of its growing role, the World Humanoid Robot Games were held at the National Stadium and National Speed Skating Oval in the district last month, drawing leading international robotics companies.
\n
In August, the city's first industrial park dedicated to the business of AI-generated content opened in Chaoyang.
\n
"All these efforts prove that the city's strategy is paying off," Nie said. "We've placed high emphasis on building Beijing into an international communication center, improving the international environment, promoting institutionalized openness and actively creating a window to showcase China's high-level openness to the world."
\n
She added, "We are establishing a benchmark zone to create a world-class business environment, leveraging the strengths of the world's top three rating agencies, nine of the top 10 global law firms, eight of the top 10 consulting firms and more than 2,000 commercial human resource service providers in the district."
\n
Chaoyang's GDP surpassed 900 billion yuan ($125.3 billion) in 2024, accounting for 18.5 percent of Beijing's total. In the first half of 2025 alone, the district's GDP reached 462 billion yuan, a year-on-year growth of 5.1 percent.
Ge Ge, a giant panda at Tianjin Zoo, sniffs flowers during her birthday feast on Saturday. The zoo prepared a special meal to celebrate her 22nd birthday. Born in Sichuan province, Ge Ge arrived in Tianjin in 2018.
Amid the bustle of Changsha, capital of Hunan province, a coffee shop run by two baristas with hearing impairments and one volunteer is transforming the simple act of ordering coffee into an exercise in empathy and inclusion.
\n
The cafe, called Sign Planet, was initiated by Wang Han, president of the Hunan Foundation for Disabled Persons and a well-known host from Hunan Television, along with his friends. It follows a collaborative business model in which the community provides the venue, social organizations offer training and social workers participate.
\n
"If we wish for people with hearing disabilities in China to have equitable access to public cultural resources, everyone must consciously empathize with them," Wang said. "The first step is to make them visible — to allow more people to see their struggles and efforts, to witness their love for life, their aspirations for a better future, their desire for success, and their resilience to face challenges."
\n
He added that for people with disabilities, true happiness comes from equal employment opportunities, learning and access to public cultural resources.
\n
"Education and employment are the most important, because economic independence through employment leads to independence in many other aspects. That's why we believe creating employment opportunities is crucial," Wang said.
\n
To support the effort, the organizers invited an international coffee competition judge from Shenzhen, Guangdong province, to train the baristas for about a week.
\n
The local community has also rallied around the project. Wang said the original monthly rent for the cafe was between 5,000 and 6,000 yuan ($700 to $840), but the landlord reduced it to 1,000 yuan in recognition of its mission to support employment for people with disabilities.
\n
Wang noted that hearing-impaired youth are well-suited for such work, as they have full physical mobility, strong focus and learn quickly.
\n
One of the baristas, Qu Yuxian, joined the shop after graduating from university through a college recommendation. Qu and her colleagues received training in coffee preparation and hand-brewing techniques, with sign language interpreters assisting.
\n
At first, workers communicated with customers through handwritten notes, which proved inefficient during busy hours. Volunteers later began helping with operations, cleaning and learning basic sign language to ease communication.
\n
Qu said she and her colleagues felt immense warmth and gained a sense of purpose in their work. She recalled moments when customers ordered an Americano or latte using sign language — encounters that inspired her to teach them a few simple gestures in return.
\n
To attract more customers, the cafe hosts concerts every weekend, inviting people with disabilities to perform. The events have drawn large crowds and strengthened community engagement.
\n
For Qu, the cafe is more than a workplace. It provides opportunities for the hearing impaired and promotes an inclusive environment. She also hopes to create cultural products that incorporate sign language elements to draw in more customers and promote sign language culture.
\n
"I want to be a more professional and excellent barista. I even want to take part in barista competitions and show someone the ropes in the future," she said. "The coffee shop provides us with chances, and that's why we hope to grow with it."
\n
Contact the writers at wangsongsong@chinadaily.com.cn
Amid the bustle of Changsha, capital of Hunan province, a coffee shop run by two baristas with hearing impairments and one volunteer is transforming the simple act of ordering coffee into an exercise in empathy and inclusion.
\n
The cafe, called Sign Planet, was initiated by Wang Han, president of the Hunan Foundation for Disabled Persons and a well-known host from Hunan Television, along with his friends. It follows a collaborative business model in which the community provides the venue, social organizations offer training and social workers participate.
\n
"If we wish for people with hearing disabilities in China to have equitable access to public cultural resources, everyone must consciously empathize with them," Wang said. "The first step is to make them visible — to allow more people to see their struggles and efforts, to witness their love for life, their aspirations for a better future, their desire for success, and their resilience to face challenges."
\n
He added that for people with disabilities, true happiness comes from equal employment opportunities, learning and access to public cultural resources.
\n
"Education and employment are the most important, because economic independence through employment leads to independence in many other aspects. That's why we believe creating employment opportunities is crucial," Wang said.
\n
To support the effort, the organizers invited an international coffee competition judge from Shenzhen, Guangdong province, to train the baristas for about a week.
\n
The local community has also rallied around the project. Wang said the original monthly rent for the cafe was between 5,000 and 6,000 yuan ($700 to $840), but the landlord reduced it to 1,000 yuan in recognition of its mission to support employment for people with disabilities.
\n
Wang noted that hearing-impaired youth are well-suited for such work, as they have full physical mobility, strong focus and learn quickly.
\n
One of the baristas, Qu Yuxian, joined the shop after graduating from university through a college recommendation. Qu and her colleagues received training in coffee preparation and hand-brewing techniques, with sign language interpreters assisting.
\n
At first, workers communicated with customers through handwritten notes, which proved inefficient during busy hours. Volunteers later began helping with operations, cleaning and learning basic sign language to ease communication.
\n
Qu said she and her colleagues felt immense warmth and gained a sense of purpose in their work. She recalled moments when customers ordered an Americano or latte using sign language — encounters that inspired her to teach them a few simple gestures in return.
\n
To attract more customers, the cafe hosts concerts every weekend, inviting people with disabilities to perform. The events have drawn large crowds and strengthened community engagement.
\n
For Qu, the cafe is more than a workplace. It provides opportunities for the hearing impaired and promotes an inclusive environment. She also hopes to create cultural products that incorporate sign language elements to draw in more customers and promote sign language culture.
\n
"I want to be a more professional and excellent barista. I even want to take part in barista competitions and show someone the ropes in the future," she said. "The coffee shop provides us with chances, and that's why we hope to grow with it."
\n
Contact the writers at wangsongsong@chinadaily.com.cn
Students and parents join a science month event at Wenwangge Woodwork Museum in Beijing's Tongzhou district on Sunday. The event featured science experiments, exhibitions, interactive activities and a hands-on session making models of the Tongzhou Lighthouse Pagoda.
China launched a new group of remote sensing satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi province on Sunday. The satellites of the Yaogan-40 03 group were launched at 12:34 am aboard a modified Long March-6 carrier rocket, and they entered their preset orbits successfully. They will be used to carry out electromagnetic environment detection and related technical tests. The launch marked the 593rd mission of the Long March carrier rockets.
\n
PLA on alert as foreign ships navigate Strait
\n
The Chinese People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command remains on high alert and is fully prepared to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and security, as well as regional peace and stability, a spokesperson said on Saturday. Shi Yi, a representative of the command, made the remarks while commenting on Canadian and Australian warships sailing through the Taiwan Strait. On Saturday, the Canadian frigate Quebec and the Australian destroyer Brisbane transited through the Taiwan Strait and engaged in provocative actions, which sent wrong signals and heightened security risks, Shi said. The command's naval and air forces closely tracked and monitored the Canadian and Australian military vessels' passage through the Taiwan Strait from start to finish, and took effective responses accordingly, said Shi.
\n",
- "content": "
New remote sensing satellites launched
\n
China launched a new group of remote sensing satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi province on Sunday. The satellites of the Yaogan-40 03 group were launched at 12:34 am aboard a modified Long March-6 carrier rocket, and they entered their preset orbits successfully. They will be used to carry out electromagnetic environment detection and related technical tests. The launch marked the 593rd mission of the Long March carrier rockets.
\n
PLA on alert as foreign ships navigate Strait
\n
The Chinese People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command remains on high alert and is fully prepared to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and security, as well as regional peace and stability, a spokesperson said on Saturday. Shi Yi, a representative of the command, made the remarks while commenting on Canadian and Australian warships sailing through the Taiwan Strait. On Saturday, the Canadian frigate Quebec and the Australian destroyer Brisbane transited through the Taiwan Strait and engaged in provocative actions, which sent wrong signals and heightened security risks, Shi said. The command's naval and air forces closely tracked and monitored the Canadian and Australian military vessels' passage through the Taiwan Strait from start to finish, and took effective responses accordingly, said Shi.
The jumbo flying squid, or Dosidicus gigas, is a critical fishery resource and the most harvested invertebrate species in the South Pacific, but its yield has dropped substantially in recent years, suggesting the stock could be in decline and spurring calls for stronger international cooperation on monitoring, assessment and management, experts said.
\n
The appeal was published on Thursday in the journal Science, with Chen Xinjun and Li Gang, professors at the College of Marine Living Resource Sciences and Management at Shanghai Ocean University, among its authors.
\n
The jumbo flying squid is one of the larger squid species. It can grow up to 1.5 meters in length and weigh 40 to 60 kilograms in about a year. It inhabits the open ocean, primarily in the eastern central Pacific Ocean, along the coasts of Peru and Chile, and in offshore waters with abundant resources. With strong predatory capabilities, adaptability and a short life cycle, it has become a significant economic fishery resource in the region and is consumed worldwide.
\n
Nearly 1 million metric tons of jumbo flying squid are caught in the Southeast Pacific annually. As a transnational stock, it is harvested by thousands of artisanal vessels in Ecuadorian, Peruvian and Chilean waters, as well as by hundreds of Chinese industrial vessels in the high seas. However, the stock has never been assessed across its entire distribution in the Southeast Pacific, and key population data remains unknown, the article said.
\n
"The jumbo flying squid is vulnerable to climate change and human activities especially due to its short life cycle. We have seen substantial fluctuations in its harvest in recent years, which urgently requires further international collaboration and scientific assessment to figure out the reasons," Chen said.
\n
The jumbo flying squid stock supports the livelihood of thousands and provides food security to millions globally, with participants from a wide range of nations involved in its harvest. The South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation, or SPRFMO, regulates high seas harvests of jumbo flying squid. The organization has placed caps on the number of fishing vessels and implemented protocols for data collection by observers on vessels operating in the high seas.
\n
But the lack of international cooperation has hindered efforts to build a regional database and ensure that SPRFMO members share biological samples for regional stock assessments, the article said.
\n
Chen, Li and co-authors from Spain, Chile, Peru, New Zealand, the United States and the United Kingdom called for stronger international scientific collaboration to protect the stock before it requires a recovery plan.
\n
"Building such a regional database for stock assessment of the jumbo flying squid is essential. Knowing more precisely about its population can help set a reasonable catch limit for the participants, and ultimately help achieve the sustainable utilization and conservation of the fishery resource," Chen said.
\n
As an SPRFMO member, China has been making efforts to promote sustainable development of marine fishery resources. According to the Development of China's Distant-Water Fisheries released in October 2023, China has voluntarily imposed three-month fishing moratoriums on certain high seas fisheries targeting squid since 2020.
\n
Voluntary fishing moratoriums on the high seas are temporary or periodic bans proactively implemented by nations or regions in areas beyond their jurisdiction to conserve resources and ecosystems over the long term. In the central and eastern Pacific high seas, China imposes a voluntary fishing moratorium from Sept 1 to Nov 30 annually. The area is a critical habitat for jumbo flying squid, and the moratorium aims to protect spawning populations.
\n
In June, Shanghai Ocean University hosted an international symposium on conservation and management of squid resources, where global scholars agreed on a Shanghai proposal to enhance international cooperation on the sustainable development of global squid fisheries.
China is planning a kinetic impact demonstration mission to test the feasibility of defending Earth against potentially hazardous asteroids, a senior space scientist revealed at an international conference on Friday.
\n
Speaking at the opening of the third International Deep Space Exploration Conference (Tiandu Forum) in Hefei, Anhui province, Wu Weiren, chief designer of China's lunar exploration program and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, gave a comprehensive overview of the country's asteroid exploration and defense strategy.
\n
Wu said the mission will follow a "fly-along-impact-fly-along" model, involving both an observer and an impactor spacecraft. The observer will arrive first to conduct close-up surveys of the target asteroid, collecting detailed physical parameters. The impactor will then strike the asteroid at a distance of 10 million kilometers from Earth at high speed, while both spacecraft, together with ground- and space-based assets, record the event using advanced imaging technologies to precisely assess the results.
\n
The strike is expected to alter the asteroid's orbit by 3 to 5 centimeters, ensuring that it will not pose a collision threat to Earth for at least several decades to 100 years.
\n
"Asteroids number in the billions in our solar system, and they are often called 'fossils' of its formation and evolution," Wu said. "While rich in metals such as iron, nickel and platinum group elements, as well as water ice, near-Earth asteroids are also considered one of the top existential threats to humanity."
\n
Research indicates that near-Earth objects with diameters exceeding 140 meters strike the Earth on average every 11,000 years. Although such impacts are rare, they can have catastrophic consequences, with their severity closely correlated to the asteroid's size. Scientists generally accept that an impact 66 million years ago caused the extinction of around 75 percent of global species, including the dinosaurs.
\n
At the end of last year, a near-Earth asteroid named 2024 YR4, with a diameter ranging from 40 to 90 meters, drew global attention as the probability of it colliding with Earth in 2032 once reached as high as 3.1 percent. However, as more observational data became available, scientists confirmed that 2024 YR4 would not collide with Earth, though the probability of it impacting the moon in 2032 remains at 4.3 percent.
\n
In recent years, the China National Space Administration has initiated projects on near-Earth asteroid exploration and defense, with plans to establish a national defense system against small celestial bodies. On May 29, China's Tianwen 2 probe was launched with the dual mission of collecting samples from near-Earth asteroid 2016 HO3 and later conducting a fly-along study of main-belt comet 311P.
\n
Wu said Chinese scientists envision a relatively complete defense system, which would provide early warnings of collisions, in-orbit responses and system-level preparedness. The plan includes building an integrated space-ground monitoring and alert network capable of cataloging asteroids, issuing risk assessments and providing early warnings.
\n
On the operational side, the strategy emphasizes "kinetic impact as the primary method, complemented by multiple technologies". A variety of spacecraft would be developed to evaluate or deal with threatening asteroids, supported by a task library of defense missions tailored to different risk scenarios.
\n
"The goal is to ensure that once a threat is discovered, we already have a plan in place, and once a risk arises, we can respond effectively," Wu said, adding that China will also launch cooperation initiatives with global partners for the common good in areas such as ground-based monitoring, co-development and payload integration, as well as data and achievement sharing.
\n
limenghan@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
China is planning a kinetic impact demonstration mission to test the feasibility of defending Earth against potentially hazardous asteroids, a senior space scientist revealed at an international conference on Friday.
\n
Speaking at the opening of the third International Deep Space Exploration Conference (Tiandu Forum) in Hefei, Anhui province, Wu Weiren, chief designer of China's lunar exploration program and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, gave a comprehensive overview of the country's asteroid exploration and defense strategy.
\n
Wu said the mission will follow a "fly-along-impact-fly-along" model, involving both an observer and an impactor spacecraft. The observer will arrive first to conduct close-up surveys of the target asteroid, collecting detailed physical parameters. The impactor will then strike the asteroid at a distance of 10 million kilometers from Earth at high speed, while both spacecraft, together with ground- and space-based assets, record the event using advanced imaging technologies to precisely assess the results.
\n
The strike is expected to alter the asteroid's orbit by 3 to 5 centimeters, ensuring that it will not pose a collision threat to Earth for at least several decades to 100 years.
\n
"Asteroids number in the billions in our solar system, and they are often called 'fossils' of its formation and evolution," Wu said. "While rich in metals such as iron, nickel and platinum group elements, as well as water ice, near-Earth asteroids are also considered one of the top existential threats to humanity."
\n
Research indicates that near-Earth objects with diameters exceeding 140 meters strike the Earth on average every 11,000 years. Although such impacts are rare, they can have catastrophic consequences, with their severity closely correlated to the asteroid's size. Scientists generally accept that an impact 66 million years ago caused the extinction of around 75 percent of global species, including the dinosaurs.
\n
At the end of last year, a near-Earth asteroid named 2024 YR4, with a diameter ranging from 40 to 90 meters, drew global attention as the probability of it colliding with Earth in 2032 once reached as high as 3.1 percent. However, as more observational data became available, scientists confirmed that 2024 YR4 would not collide with Earth, though the probability of it impacting the moon in 2032 remains at 4.3 percent.
\n
In recent years, the China National Space Administration has initiated projects on near-Earth asteroid exploration and defense, with plans to establish a national defense system against small celestial bodies. On May 29, China's Tianwen 2 probe was launched with the dual mission of collecting samples from near-Earth asteroid 2016 HO3 and later conducting a fly-along study of main-belt comet 311P.
\n
Wu said Chinese scientists envision a relatively complete defense system, which would provide early warnings of collisions, in-orbit responses and system-level preparedness. The plan includes building an integrated space-ground monitoring and alert network capable of cataloging asteroids, issuing risk assessments and providing early warnings.
\n
On the operational side, the strategy emphasizes "kinetic impact as the primary method, complemented by multiple technologies". A variety of spacecraft would be developed to evaluate or deal with threatening asteroids, supported by a task library of defense missions tailored to different risk scenarios.
\n
"The goal is to ensure that once a threat is discovered, we already have a plan in place, and once a risk arises, we can respond effectively," Wu said, adding that China will also launch cooperation initiatives with global partners for the common good in areas such as ground-based monitoring, co-development and payload integration, as well as data and achievement sharing.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu strikes the ceremonial gong to announce the opening of the 2025/26 Hong Kong racing season as jockeys and other dignitaries applaud at the opening ceremony at Sha Tin Racecourse, Hong Kong, on Sunday.
\n",
@@ -8981,28 +10455,6 @@
"hash": "b9beb65469c940f78acaca0b1989473c",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "005CHINA - Carving a thriving business out of walnut",
- "description": "\n
Erxat Ibrayim (third from right) welcomes visitors to his workshop in Hotan prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.
\n
Online See more by scanning the code.
\n
Stepping into the courtyard of Erxat Ibrayim's walnut wood processing workshop in Bageqi town, a group of Uygur women sit at a long table polishing freshly carved walnut wood bowls that give off a faint, resinous scent.
\n
Propped on a stand, a smartphone livestreams the scene to an unseen audience. Behind them, shelves stacked high with wooden pots, ladles and trays form a textured backdrop.
\n
Every few seconds, a message flashes across the screen, inquiring about the size and color of these walnut wood items. The Uygur women answer enthusiastically, lifting each piece toward the lens for closer inspection.
\n
"We have found an unexpected yet devoted audience across the country," said Erxat, who opened the walnut wood processing workshop in Hotan prefecture in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region about five years ago.
\n
The products range from small kitchen utensils, such as rolling pins, selling for 19 yuan ($2.66), to large custom cutting boards priced at over 1,000 yuan.
\n
The most popular items are midsized boards, often retailing from 140 to 400 yuan, depending on width.
\n
"Each piece is more than a kitchen tool. They are made from solid, pure, natural wood, free of glue, laminate, paint or chemical coatings," said Erxat, a man in his 30s originally from Urumqi, the region's capital.
\n
"The wider the board, the older the tree, and the harder the wood is to source without flaws," he said, emphasizing the value of the products.
\n
Stepping into the backyard, the air grows heavier with the raw, earthy scent of walnut wood. Towering stacks of thick, rough-hewn planks lean against the walls, their dark grain glinting under the sun.
\n
A few artisans sit cross-legged on low stools, chisels in hand, carving shapes out of the dense wood. The steady tap of mallets echoes like a heartbeat, while walnut shavings curl to the ground, gathering at their feet like scattered petals.
\n
One man bends over a half-finished teapot, rubbing the surface with a cloth until it catches the light to reveal veins of gold within the dark wood.
\n
Their concentration contrasts with the lively chatter from the front courtyard, rendering the workshop both a digital marketplace and ancient stage presenting a centuries-old craft.
\n
Walnut wood carving stands as one of the region's most treasured intangible cultural traditions. For more than 200 years, artisans have shaped this resilient, close-grained wood into bowls, spoons and ornaments, following time-honored methods that rely entirely on hand tools and patience.
\n
"Each piece of walnut wood must dry naturally for one to one-and-a-half years. This slow-aging process allows the wood to release internal stresses, reducing the risk of later warping or cracking," Erxat said.
\n
"There's no technological shortcut to stability, and time is the only thing that makes wood reliable," he added.
\n
After the drying period, only the best pieces are selected for carving. Artisans, many of whom are third- or fourth-generation woodcrafters, shape the products using hand-forged tools — some made from recycled railway springs — because standard equipment won't suffice.
\n
Yet, with the rise of new materials and waning interest from younger generations, this centuries-old craft slipped into decline.
\n
In 2020, Erxat and his wife stepped away from the stability of their lives in Urumqi — where they had steady careers and comfortable salaries — and set out on an entrepreneurial journey across southern Xinjiang.
\n
In Hotan, they stumbled upon workshops that had once buzzed with the rhythm of chisels and carving knives but stood quiet upon their arrival.
\n
"Many of the artisans had given up their benches and tools, taking jobs as security guards or day laborers just to get by," Erxat said.
\n
Struck by both the fragility and the beauty of this fading craft, the couple made the decision to build a career in reviving it.
\n
They began by selling existing inventory through Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, while promoting the profound history and culture behind walnut woodcrafting.
\n
The response was overwhelming.
\n
Within months, the local artisans' stock sold out. They decided to open their own workshop, employing more than 20 people, including more than a dozen heritage craftsmen.
\n
In addition to opening online sales channels, the couple hired master wood carvers to refine the craftsmanship and brought in professional designers to infuse walnut wood products with modern elements that appeal to contemporary tastes.
\n
They also established a full production base, giving the intangible heritage a new lease on life.
\n
Four years later, the monthly output value of their production has grown from 30,000 yuan to several hundred thousand, and annual turnover has reached tens of millions of yuan.
\n
Their success created ripple effects. Other workshops have emerged in the region, making the price of walnut wood quadruple.
\n
The craftsmen now earn stable incomes of around 7,000 yuan per month, which has enabled them to buy apartments and cars, Erxat said.
\n
Most importantly, younger generations have joined in carrying the craft forward.
\n
Alim Mamatimin, in his 20s, joined Erxat's workshop in 2021.
\n
He had been learning the traditional walnut wood production process since his childhood from his father and has since mastered the craft.
\n
"I can produce more than 20 handmade walnut wood products every day," he said.
\n
With exquisite craftsmanship and hard work, his monthly income has reached over 15,000 yuan.
\n
"Since working here, our lives are becoming increasingly better," Alim added.
\n
Erxat still remembers how, just a few years ago, walnut wood was considered little more than discarded waste in the surrounding rural areas.
\n
Today, however, as the wood carving industry flourishes, the timber cut from walnut groves has become highly sought-after, with purchasing prices climbing steadily.
\n
"Walnut wood handicrafts are not only of great ornamental value, but they also carry profound cultural significance. They are true treasures of Chinese heritage. Some pieces sell at high prices, bringing artisans considerable incomes and improving their living conditions," Erxat said.
\n
To further boost rural vitalization, Erxat has registered the handicraft brand Hehemumu and established supply-and-sell partnerships with more than a dozen nearby artisan households, coordinating with personnel in townships to collect raw walnut wood.
\n
A new facility is currently under construction at Erxat's workshop.
\n
"We want the production process to be more engaging, something that can be vividly shared through livestreaming," Erxat said.
\n
Looking ahead, he plans to open a craft-themed guesthouse next year, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of walnut wood carving.
\n
"Imagine making your own cup or a pair of chopsticks by hand. You'd gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of our traditional culture," he said.
\n
yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "\n
Erxat Ibrayim (third from right) welcomes visitors to his workshop in Hotan prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.
\n
Online See more by scanning the code.
\n
Stepping into the courtyard of Erxat Ibrayim's walnut wood processing workshop in Bageqi town, a group of Uygur women sit at a long table polishing freshly carved walnut wood bowls that give off a faint, resinous scent.
\n
Propped on a stand, a smartphone livestreams the scene to an unseen audience. Behind them, shelves stacked high with wooden pots, ladles and trays form a textured backdrop.
\n
Every few seconds, a message flashes across the screen, inquiring about the size and color of these walnut wood items. The Uygur women answer enthusiastically, lifting each piece toward the lens for closer inspection.
\n
"We have found an unexpected yet devoted audience across the country," said Erxat, who opened the walnut wood processing workshop in Hotan prefecture in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region about five years ago.
\n
The products range from small kitchen utensils, such as rolling pins, selling for 19 yuan ($2.66), to large custom cutting boards priced at over 1,000 yuan.
\n
The most popular items are midsized boards, often retailing from 140 to 400 yuan, depending on width.
\n
"Each piece is more than a kitchen tool. They are made from solid, pure, natural wood, free of glue, laminate, paint or chemical coatings," said Erxat, a man in his 30s originally from Urumqi, the region's capital.
\n
"The wider the board, the older the tree, and the harder the wood is to source without flaws," he said, emphasizing the value of the products.
\n
Stepping into the backyard, the air grows heavier with the raw, earthy scent of walnut wood. Towering stacks of thick, rough-hewn planks lean against the walls, their dark grain glinting under the sun.
\n
A few artisans sit cross-legged on low stools, chisels in hand, carving shapes out of the dense wood. The steady tap of mallets echoes like a heartbeat, while walnut shavings curl to the ground, gathering at their feet like scattered petals.
\n
One man bends over a half-finished teapot, rubbing the surface with a cloth until it catches the light to reveal veins of gold within the dark wood.
\n
Their concentration contrasts with the lively chatter from the front courtyard, rendering the workshop both a digital marketplace and ancient stage presenting a centuries-old craft.
\n
Walnut wood carving stands as one of the region's most treasured intangible cultural traditions. For more than 200 years, artisans have shaped this resilient, close-grained wood into bowls, spoons and ornaments, following time-honored methods that rely entirely on hand tools and patience.
\n
"Each piece of walnut wood must dry naturally for one to one-and-a-half years. This slow-aging process allows the wood to release internal stresses, reducing the risk of later warping or cracking," Erxat said.
\n
"There's no technological shortcut to stability, and time is the only thing that makes wood reliable," he added.
\n
After the drying period, only the best pieces are selected for carving. Artisans, many of whom are third- or fourth-generation woodcrafters, shape the products using hand-forged tools — some made from recycled railway springs — because standard equipment won't suffice.
\n
Yet, with the rise of new materials and waning interest from younger generations, this centuries-old craft slipped into decline.
\n
In 2020, Erxat and his wife stepped away from the stability of their lives in Urumqi — where they had steady careers and comfortable salaries — and set out on an entrepreneurial journey across southern Xinjiang.
\n
In Hotan, they stumbled upon workshops that had once buzzed with the rhythm of chisels and carving knives but stood quiet upon their arrival.
\n
"Many of the artisans had given up their benches and tools, taking jobs as security guards or day laborers just to get by," Erxat said.
\n
Struck by both the fragility and the beauty of this fading craft, the couple made the decision to build a career in reviving it.
\n
They began by selling existing inventory through Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, while promoting the profound history and culture behind walnut woodcrafting.
\n
The response was overwhelming.
\n
Within months, the local artisans' stock sold out. They decided to open their own workshop, employing more than 20 people, including more than a dozen heritage craftsmen.
\n
In addition to opening online sales channels, the couple hired master wood carvers to refine the craftsmanship and brought in professional designers to infuse walnut wood products with modern elements that appeal to contemporary tastes.
\n
They also established a full production base, giving the intangible heritage a new lease on life.
\n
Four years later, the monthly output value of their production has grown from 30,000 yuan to several hundred thousand, and annual turnover has reached tens of millions of yuan.
\n
Their success created ripple effects. Other workshops have emerged in the region, making the price of walnut wood quadruple.
\n
The craftsmen now earn stable incomes of around 7,000 yuan per month, which has enabled them to buy apartments and cars, Erxat said.
\n
Most importantly, younger generations have joined in carrying the craft forward.
\n
Alim Mamatimin, in his 20s, joined Erxat's workshop in 2021.
\n
He had been learning the traditional walnut wood production process since his childhood from his father and has since mastered the craft.
\n
"I can produce more than 20 handmade walnut wood products every day," he said.
\n
With exquisite craftsmanship and hard work, his monthly income has reached over 15,000 yuan.
\n
"Since working here, our lives are becoming increasingly better," Alim added.
\n
Erxat still remembers how, just a few years ago, walnut wood was considered little more than discarded waste in the surrounding rural areas.
\n
Today, however, as the wood carving industry flourishes, the timber cut from walnut groves has become highly sought-after, with purchasing prices climbing steadily.
\n
"Walnut wood handicrafts are not only of great ornamental value, but they also carry profound cultural significance. They are true treasures of Chinese heritage. Some pieces sell at high prices, bringing artisans considerable incomes and improving their living conditions," Erxat said.
\n
To further boost rural vitalization, Erxat has registered the handicraft brand Hehemumu and established supply-and-sell partnerships with more than a dozen nearby artisan households, coordinating with personnel in townships to collect raw walnut wood.
\n
A new facility is currently under construction at Erxat's workshop.
\n
"We want the production process to be more engaging, something that can be vividly shared through livestreaming," Erxat said.
\n
Looking ahead, he plans to open a craft-themed guesthouse next year, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of walnut wood carving.
\n
"Imagine making your own cup or a pair of chopsticks by hand. You'd gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of our traditional culture," he said.
Clockwise from top: A worker moves mandarin duck eggs from an artificial nest box at the Yuan'an Juhe National Wetland Park in Yuan'an county, Hubei province. One of the eight mandarin ducks swims in a pond at the park. The ducks are ready to be released into the wild.
\n
Thanks to a caring hen, eight mandarin ducklings have survived and are growing at a wetland park in Yuan'an county, Yichang city in Hubei province, after their mother left. Recently, in the waters of Dayan Forest Farm in the county, the ducklings were seen swimming, foraging and playing. They are expected to be released into the wild by the end of this month.
\n
The story of the mandarin ducks is the first case of successful human-assisted incubation at the Yuan'an Juhe National Wetland Park.
\n
Last winter, the park installed 26 artificial nest boxes in the forest, 20 of which were equipped with smart monitoring systems for staff to observe the breeding activities of birds via a mobile app.
\n
In late March, the system showed that a wild mandarin duck had occupied a box and laid an egg, followed by seven more in the next few days. It began incubation on April 10.
\n
Li Jie, who is in charge of the planning and construction department at the park, checked on them every day through the surveillance system. "Watching the mother mandarin duck carefully incubate her eggs filled my heart with anticipation for the new lives," she said.
\n
However, early on April 30, she noticed the mother duck had left to forage but never returned. "It may have met a natural predator," she said.
\n
After consulting experts, they decided to move the eggs out and borrowed a hen from a farmer to incubate them. "The size of a mandarin duck's egg is similar to that of a chicken egg, so the hen, driven by its instinct to incubate, didn't refuse to do the job," said Jing Shunhua, deputy director of the wild animals and plants protection station in Yuan'an.
\n
On May 12, eight healthy baby birds hatched. Because of the large temperature fluctuations during day and night, the park set aside a constant-temperature room to take care of them.
\n
"Later, we placed an inflatable baby pool in the room and conducted daily water adaptation exercises," Jing said.
\n
On June 12, the one-month-old ducklings began wilderness training in a simulated natural habitat at Dayan Forest Farm. Through intensive adaptive drills such as aquatic activities and wild foraging, their swimming speed, foodlocating ability (demonstrated by circling designated areas multiple times), and regulated routines (gathering on rocks in the pool at night) improved significantly, according to Jing.
\n
"With an average weight of about 220 grams, they developed a solid foundation for survival in the wild," he said, adding that shortly after hatching, they flapped vigorously, brimming with energy.
\n
As they grew, their untamed nature became more apparent, though they remained notably affectionate toward long-term caretakers.
\n
"The eight ducklings preferred moving together. In early training, they slept huddled on a man-made 'stone island' at the pool's center. Later, they delighted in bathing, gliding and hunting in the water — a charming spectacle."
\n
Jing said the experts evaluated their growth and plan to release them later this month, adding that they believe the birds "came from and belong to nature, not the zoo".
\n
Chen Yayun, office director of the county's forestry bureau, said the artificial nest boxes aim to provide a safe and hidden breeding space for migrant birds. They were installed at a height of between 3 to 5 meters in the forest and simulate tree holes.
\n
More than 10 different species of birds have lived in the boxes, including owl and russet sparrow.
\n
In recent years, large numbers of wild birds have migrated to Yuan'an to stay, nest and breed during autumn and winter.
\n
The mandarin duck is a national second-class protected species. They have high ecological demands for their migratory habitats. In recent years, their numbers in Yuan'an have increased annually, according to local authorities.
\n
Contact the writers at chenmeiling@chinadaily.com.cn
Participants of an e-commerce training program take a group photo in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region.
\n
An e-commerce training program in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region has brought together young entrepreneurs from China and abroad to boost digital trade and deepen cultural ties.
\n
The three-day event, held in mid-August in Guyuan city, drew more than 60 participants from Ningxia and countries including Yemen and Egypt.
\n
According to Ban Yanrong, director of the e-commerce and service trade division at the Department of Commerce of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the training aimed to enhance mutual understanding and friendship, strengthen e-commerce cooperation, upgrade local industries, and boost the digital economy.
\n
Among the trainees was Turkmenistan's Orazbayev Gurban, a student at Ningxia University, who expressed strong interest in China's e-commerce ecosystem — particularly livestreaming e-commerce and social e-commerce models.
\n
"China is a leader in this field. It's no longer just 'online shopping' — it's a complete ecosystem that integrates entertainment, social interaction and instant consumption. I'm eager to delve deeper and learn its core operational logic," he said.
\n
Gurban also highlighted Ningxia's strategic role as a pioneer in economic and trade exchanges between China and Arab countries. The region is developing a comprehensive pilot zone for cross-border e-commerce, offering an excellent platform for young entrepreneurs from Arab countries, he said and hoped his own experience would help promote e-commerce between China and Arab countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.
\n
He added that while e-commerce is growing rapidly in his motherland, it still relies on traditional shelf-based models.
\n
Livestreaming e-commerce is in its early stages, with significant gaps in content quality, interactivity and supply chain integration compared to China. Consumer trust in online payments also remains limited.
\n
The training proved highly beneficial for participants such as Gurban. Courses on short video production and livestreaming simulations were particularly useful. Through handson guidance in scriptwriting, camerawork, lighting, and live control techniques, trainees quickly grasped essential skills.
\n
After returning home, Gurban plans to serve as a business intermediary, introducing Chinese brands to the Arab market through localized e-commerce strategies. He also aims to help Arab brands enter China by offering end-to-end solutions covering market positioning, e-commerce operations, logistics, and customs clearance.
\n
Huang Yan, a specially invited expert from the China International Electronic Commerce Center, said there are several advantages for e-commerce development in Arab countries: a significant youth demographic with over 60 percent of users under 30, improving logistics and payment systems, and a growing pool of multilingual professionals skilled in livestreaming.
\n
"When we return home, our success stories and personal experiences will become powerful narratives that enhance mutual understanding and friendship between our peoples. This type of technology and business-driven exchanges, led by youth, is truly building an 'online Silk Road' for the digital age — bringing Chinese and Arab people closer together to create a shared and win-win future," Gurban said.
\n
Tian Zongke, head of a local agricultural company who participated in the training, said he studied overseas livestreaming shopping models and the innovative integration of China's "interest-based e-commerce" with livestreaming. He also explored ways to introduce high-quality Ningxia specialty products into Middle Eastern e-commerce channels.
\n
Together with streamers from countries including Yemen, Tian conducted a livestreaming session that resulted in 257 orders and a total transaction value of 20,100 yuan ($2,799), more than five times their usual sales.
\n
At the conclusion of the training, 12 participants including Gurban and Tian were selected to take part in the Seventh China-Arab States Expo, which was held in Yinchuan from Aug 28 to 31.
\n
These 12 individuals, comprising six from Ningxia and six from Arab countries, formed six teams to promote Ningxia products such as goji berries, wine and Tan sheep, as well as Arab commodities such as spices and handicrafts.
\n
They also conducted cultural interaction livestreams that blended product explanations with cultural stories, enhancing mutual understanding between Chinese and Arab consumers.
\n
Ban added that Ningxia will summarize the experience from this training and gradually expand similar programs to key countries involved in the BRI, including those in Central and Southeast Asia.
\n
By 2026, Ningxia will launch the "Silk Road Streamers" practical training project targeting Central Asian countries. This initiative will help establish a broader digital trade talent development network, supporting Ningxia's goal of becoming a new hub for cross-border e-commerce within its inland open economic pilot zone.
\n
Contact the writers at wangsongsong@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
Participants of an e-commerce training program take a group photo in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region.
\n
An e-commerce training program in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region has brought together young entrepreneurs from China and abroad to boost digital trade and deepen cultural ties.
\n
The three-day event, held in mid-August in Guyuan city, drew more than 60 participants from Ningxia and countries including Yemen and Egypt.
\n
According to Ban Yanrong, director of the e-commerce and service trade division at the Department of Commerce of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the training aimed to enhance mutual understanding and friendship, strengthen e-commerce cooperation, upgrade local industries, and boost the digital economy.
\n
Among the trainees was Turkmenistan's Orazbayev Gurban, a student at Ningxia University, who expressed strong interest in China's e-commerce ecosystem — particularly livestreaming e-commerce and social e-commerce models.
\n
"China is a leader in this field. It's no longer just 'online shopping' — it's a complete ecosystem that integrates entertainment, social interaction and instant consumption. I'm eager to delve deeper and learn its core operational logic," he said.
\n
Gurban also highlighted Ningxia's strategic role as a pioneer in economic and trade exchanges between China and Arab countries. The region is developing a comprehensive pilot zone for cross-border e-commerce, offering an excellent platform for young entrepreneurs from Arab countries, he said and hoped his own experience would help promote e-commerce between China and Arab countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.
\n
He added that while e-commerce is growing rapidly in his motherland, it still relies on traditional shelf-based models.
\n
Livestreaming e-commerce is in its early stages, with significant gaps in content quality, interactivity and supply chain integration compared to China. Consumer trust in online payments also remains limited.
\n
The training proved highly beneficial for participants such as Gurban. Courses on short video production and livestreaming simulations were particularly useful. Through handson guidance in scriptwriting, camerawork, lighting, and live control techniques, trainees quickly grasped essential skills.
\n
After returning home, Gurban plans to serve as a business intermediary, introducing Chinese brands to the Arab market through localized e-commerce strategies. He also aims to help Arab brands enter China by offering end-to-end solutions covering market positioning, e-commerce operations, logistics, and customs clearance.
\n
Huang Yan, a specially invited expert from the China International Electronic Commerce Center, said there are several advantages for e-commerce development in Arab countries: a significant youth demographic with over 60 percent of users under 30, improving logistics and payment systems, and a growing pool of multilingual professionals skilled in livestreaming.
\n
"When we return home, our success stories and personal experiences will become powerful narratives that enhance mutual understanding and friendship between our peoples. This type of technology and business-driven exchanges, led by youth, is truly building an 'online Silk Road' for the digital age — bringing Chinese and Arab people closer together to create a shared and win-win future," Gurban said.
\n
Tian Zongke, head of a local agricultural company who participated in the training, said he studied overseas livestreaming shopping models and the innovative integration of China's "interest-based e-commerce" with livestreaming. He also explored ways to introduce high-quality Ningxia specialty products into Middle Eastern e-commerce channels.
\n
Together with streamers from countries including Yemen, Tian conducted a livestreaming session that resulted in 257 orders and a total transaction value of 20,100 yuan ($2,799), more than five times their usual sales.
\n
At the conclusion of the training, 12 participants including Gurban and Tian were selected to take part in the Seventh China-Arab States Expo, which was held in Yinchuan from Aug 28 to 31.
\n
These 12 individuals, comprising six from Ningxia and six from Arab countries, formed six teams to promote Ningxia products such as goji berries, wine and Tan sheep, as well as Arab commodities such as spices and handicrafts.
\n
They also conducted cultural interaction livestreams that blended product explanations with cultural stories, enhancing mutual understanding between Chinese and Arab consumers.
\n
Ban added that Ningxia will summarize the experience from this training and gradually expand similar programs to key countries involved in the BRI, including those in Central and Southeast Asia.
\n
By 2026, Ningxia will launch the "Silk Road Streamers" practical training project targeting Central Asian countries. This initiative will help establish a broader digital trade talent development network, supporting Ningxia's goal of becoming a new hub for cross-border e-commerce within its inland open economic pilot zone.
\n
Contact the writers at wangsongsong@chinadaily.com.cn
A job fair is held at a night market in Lanzhou, Gansu province.
\n
LANZHOU — As dusk descended on Lanzhou, the capital of Northwest China's Gansu province, the city's bustling streets transformed into vibrant hubs. What once began as simple food and merchandise stalls have now evolved into multifaceted nightlife destinations offering healthcare, employment, and cultural experiences.
\n
Recent graduate Zeng Fangyan navigated the vibrant market stalls with friends — not for snacks, but for potential job leads.
\n
"Night markets were strictly about food before," she noted. "Now I casually explore career opportunities here."
\n
Over the past two years, job fairs integrated into these markets have made job hunting less formal and more accessible. And it's not just jobs, with the likes of traditional Chinese medicine consultations and cultural heritage shows also emerging, thereby making the night market experience richer and more engaging.
\n
In a commercial district of Lanzhou, TCM practitioners offering pulse diagnoses, acupuncture and cupping consistently attract crowds.
\n
"It's convenient to relieve work stress while shopping at night," said a local resident surnamed Wang, who was undergoing moxibustion.
\n
Lu Runlan, president of Lanzhou Hospital of TCM, revealed that these pop-up clinics often match hospital attendance volumes, with many customers returning for repeat treatments.
\n
The informal "talent night markets" particularly resonate with job seekers like Hu Yifan, 31, who values the relaxed environment. Employers similarly benefit, as natural interactions facilitate spontaneous interviews and uncover overlooked talent, including older unemployed individuals or passive candidates.
\n
Cities across China are enhancing these evolving night spaces. Nantong in East China's Jiangsu province has partnered with major HR firms to incorporate livestreamed recruitment, artificial intelligence-powered interviews and interactive job discussions at night markets. Meanwhile, Southwest China's Chongqing offers experiential entrepreneurial booths, allowing young people to test business concepts in a dynamic marketplace.
\n
Cultural enrichment has become a defining feature of this urban transformation. At an ancient street in Lanzhou, events cater to specific demographics — pet owners, parents and seniors engage through interactive zones. Nighttime access to intangible cultural heritage exhibits, featuring intricate egg carvings, clay sculptures and paper cutting, add educational depth while outdoor stages host choir performances and fashion shows for retirees.
\n
Han Yulong, operations manager of this ancient street, documented a 45 percent year-on-year surge in visitors.
\n
Tea master Xu Wenxia has curated traditional tea making techniques at this venue, with such endeavors serving not only as a form of cultural preservation but also as a career showcase. Complementing these offerings, wellness-focused nighttime snacks featuring organic ingredients and herbal teas align with youth health trends.
\n
Lanzhou University economist Mao Jinhuang illuminates this paradigm shift: "Nighttime economy is evolving into a servicedriven ecosystem of functional experiences."
\n
He further highlights that night markets now serve as critical "urban interfaces" for healthcare and social programs, addressing public demand for accessibility through innovative municipal resource allocation.
\n
Mao envisions expansive possibilities: "Future night markets could expand further. Legal aid, counseling, skill workshops — any service tied to daily life might emerge under neon lights as cities creatively re-imagine social spaces after dark."
\n",
@@ -9069,28 +10499,6 @@
"hash": "7e6df529dd6545e76c8654e4d2b3fc8d",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "008COMMENT - Japan-Australia security partnership not as well-intentioned as claimed",
- "description": "
Japan and Australia have tried to depict their strengthened security cooperation as a meaningful move to maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific. Yet what they have done by elevating their so-called special strategic partnership is actually stirring up tensions, making the region more insecure and unstable.
\n
In the 12th 2-plus-2 talks between their foreign and defense ministers that concluded on Friday, the two sides agreed to reinforce their command coordination while cooperating more closely in military exercises and in respect of logistics so as to "play a leading role in realizing a free and open 'Indo-Pacific'".
\n
Yet officials at the meeting — Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, as well as their respective Australian counterparts, Penny Wong and Richard Marles — did not stop at just parroting the hackneyed China-targeted phrases from the playbook of the United States' strategy in the region. They went further by seeking to provoke China on issues that concern its core interests.
\n
In a joint statement issued after their talks, the ministers underscored "the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" and expressed "serious concern at the increase in scale and frequency of provocative activities by China in Japan's maritime and air domain". They tried to justify the enhanced building of their collective deterrence with unfounded concern over what they claimed is China's "military assertiveness" in the region.
\n
Such remarks confuse right and wrong, as they wrongly ascribe China's routine patrolling of the territorial waters of its Diaoyu Islands in accordance with the law to the intent of pursuing "military dominance" in the region. They also turn a blind eye to Japan's extensive military buildup that belies Japan's pacifist Constitution and poses a large threat to regional peace and stability. It should not be forgotten that, in July last year, a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer ventured into Chinese territorial waters off the eastern province of Zhejiang, purportedly "unknowingly".
\n
Moreover, the mentioning of Taiwan in the statement also disregards China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This risks undermining relations between China and the two countries, as the one-China principle is the foundation for relations between China and other countries.
\n
As established in international law, the Taiwan question is an internal affair of China that brooks no external interference. By threatening to intervene in the Taiwan question in the name of "maintaining peace and stability", Japan and Australia are reneging on their formal recognition of Taiwan as part of China and degenerating into puppets on the geopolitical chessboard of the US that seems bent on playing the "Taiwan card" to contain China.
\n
Yet, as if Australia thinks what it has done is not damaging enough to bilateral ties, it sent a guided-missile destroyer to sail through the Taiwan Strait together with a Canadian warship on Saturday, in a move that was strongly criticized by the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command for being "trouble-making and provocative". The joint transit only served to increase security risks across the Strait and sent the wrong signal to separatists on the island.
\n
There is no fundamental conflict of interests between China and Australia, and the two countries have every reason to build on their vast common interests and expand their mutually beneficial pragmatic cooperation. It is thus incomprehensible that Canberra should implement a foreign policy that only serves the US' geopolitical interests while ignoring all the negative consequences.
\n
Former Labor prime minister of Australia Paul Keating has justifiably criticized some politicians in Canberra for having "no pride" and a "miserable view of themselves". Pointing to Australia's lack of strategic autonomy, he said it was not intelligent for the country to be "owned" by the US, and warned that Australia should not get involved if tensions over Taiwan boiled over into conflict. "Taiwan is not a vital Australian interest," Keating rightly said. Hopefully his words will knock some sense into the heads of some in Canberra.
Japan and Australia have tried to depict their strengthened security cooperation as a meaningful move to maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific. Yet what they have done by elevating their so-called special strategic partnership is actually stirring up tensions, making the region more insecure and unstable.
\n
In the 12th 2-plus-2 talks between their foreign and defense ministers that concluded on Friday, the two sides agreed to reinforce their command coordination while cooperating more closely in military exercises and in respect of logistics so as to "play a leading role in realizing a free and open 'Indo-Pacific'".
\n
Yet officials at the meeting — Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, as well as their respective Australian counterparts, Penny Wong and Richard Marles — did not stop at just parroting the hackneyed China-targeted phrases from the playbook of the United States' strategy in the region. They went further by seeking to provoke China on issues that concern its core interests.
\n
In a joint statement issued after their talks, the ministers underscored "the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" and expressed "serious concern at the increase in scale and frequency of provocative activities by China in Japan's maritime and air domain". They tried to justify the enhanced building of their collective deterrence with unfounded concern over what they claimed is China's "military assertiveness" in the region.
\n
Such remarks confuse right and wrong, as they wrongly ascribe China's routine patrolling of the territorial waters of its Diaoyu Islands in accordance with the law to the intent of pursuing "military dominance" in the region. They also turn a blind eye to Japan's extensive military buildup that belies Japan's pacifist Constitution and poses a large threat to regional peace and stability. It should not be forgotten that, in July last year, a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer ventured into Chinese territorial waters off the eastern province of Zhejiang, purportedly "unknowingly".
\n
Moreover, the mentioning of Taiwan in the statement also disregards China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This risks undermining relations between China and the two countries, as the one-China principle is the foundation for relations between China and other countries.
\n
As established in international law, the Taiwan question is an internal affair of China that brooks no external interference. By threatening to intervene in the Taiwan question in the name of "maintaining peace and stability", Japan and Australia are reneging on their formal recognition of Taiwan as part of China and degenerating into puppets on the geopolitical chessboard of the US that seems bent on playing the "Taiwan card" to contain China.
\n
Yet, as if Australia thinks what it has done is not damaging enough to bilateral ties, it sent a guided-missile destroyer to sail through the Taiwan Strait together with a Canadian warship on Saturday, in a move that was strongly criticized by the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command for being "trouble-making and provocative". The joint transit only served to increase security risks across the Strait and sent the wrong signal to separatists on the island.
\n
There is no fundamental conflict of interests between China and Australia, and the two countries have every reason to build on their vast common interests and expand their mutually beneficial pragmatic cooperation. It is thus incomprehensible that Canberra should implement a foreign policy that only serves the US' geopolitical interests while ignoring all the negative consequences.
\n
Former Labor prime minister of Australia Paul Keating has justifiably criticized some politicians in Canberra for having "no pride" and a "miserable view of themselves". Pointing to Australia's lack of strategic autonomy, he said it was not intelligent for the country to be "owned" by the US, and warned that Australia should not get involved if tensions over Taiwan boiled over into conflict. "Taiwan is not a vital Australian interest," Keating rightly said. Hopefully his words will knock some sense into the heads of some in Canberra.
As philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein observed, "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world." Words do not merely describe reality — they shape it. The United States is now offering its own example of this.
\n
On Friday, the US president signed an executive order restoring the historical title "Department of War" to the Pentagon. Even though Congress has yet to approve it to make the renaming permanent, the symbolism is powerful, revealing a shift in how Washington wishes to present itself to the world.
\n
The US changed the name of its War Department to the Department of Defense in 1949 after World War II and at the dawn of the nuclear age. At that time, the US lawmakers emphasized "defense" to signal restraint and deterrence, as new international institutions such as the United Nations were being established to safeguard peace. That choice of words carried weight. It underscored that military power was to be exercised with caution and with the aim of preventing conflict.
\n
The latest reversal, however, highlights a different mood in Washington. Supporters of the change argue that the original name reflects the US' history of strength and victory, pointing back to the world wars. Yet behind this rhetoric lies a message aligned with a more assertive and transactional view of security. The move fits into a wider policy pattern: the use of force in the Middle East, backing military offensives by allies, and calls for partners in Europe and Asia to assume greater financial burdens for US protection.
\n
Domestically, the decision has understandably provoked debate, if not strong opposition. Democrats in Congress quickly voiced their objections, calling the move "childish" or "dangerous". Think tanks and historians have also raised concerns that reintroducing the "Department of War" label risks undermining the US' "moral standing", particularly given the lessons of the nuclear age. Even among the public, the debate reflects fatigue with military campaigns abroad. Many Americans, after two decades of costly wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, fear that glorifying "war" rather than "defense" could mark a return to open-ended conflicts.
\n
In a survey carried out by CGTN among 14,071 respondents from 38 countries from 2023 to 2024, 61.3 percent of the respondents believed that the US is the most combative country in the world, and 70.1 percent thought that the US waging wars abroad has caused serious humanitarian crises worldwide.
\n
Allies are equally attentive. European governments, already unsettled by Washington's imposition of unilateral tariffs and its calls for higher defense spending, now face the additional challenge of explaining to the public why they should rally behind a "Department of War" of the US. And for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which has long presented itself as a defensive alliance, the optics of following a country that openly embraces the rhetoric of war may prove problematic.
\n
In Asia, too, US partners are watching closely. Some may fear that Washington is signaling a readiness to escalate conflicts in the region, while others may interpret the move as a prelude to shifting US resources inward. Reports that the Pentagon is drafting a new strategy, possibly downgrading the focus on the "Indo-Pacific" while prioritizing the Western Hemisphere and homeland security, will only add to the uncertainty, particularly among the US' regional pawns, such as the Philippines. If the allies and partners of the US sense that Washington is more aggressive in tone and less reliable in commitment, confidence in the US alliance system may weaken further.
\n
History offers perspective. The change of name from "War" to "Defense" was not mere semantics. It reflected a determination that in the nuclear age, stability depended on restraint, multilateral cooperation and an emphasis on peace. In today's uncertain world, that lesson remains valid. At a time when conflicts in Europe and the Middle East continue, and when the global community faces transnational challenges from climate change to public health, what is most needed is dialogue, coordination and restraint, not signals of confrontation.
\n
Language matters. The words governments choose shape perceptions, expectations and policy paths. The international community should therefore pay close attention to the implications of this renaming. It is a reminder that the US, as the world's largest military power, carries a special responsibility to lead not toward war, but toward peace. Only by upholding this responsibility can Washington, by giving the right answer to the fundamental question of war or peace, truly contribute to the common aspiration of all nations: a world defined not by conflict, but by peace and development.
The United Nations General Assembly on Friday adopted a resolution with overwhelming support on cooperation between the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
\n
The resolution, entitled "Cooperation between the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization", was introduced by China and cosponsored by nearly 40 countries, including all the SCO member states. It highly commends the constructive role of the SCO in promoting regional peace, development, mutual trust and cooperation.
\n
The resolution speaks highly of the SCO's efforts to support the work of the UN and expresses support for strengthened dialogue and collaboration between the UN and the SCO.
\n
Since its founding 24 years ago, the SCO has continued to grow under the guidance of the Shanghai Spirit, namely mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development. There are now 27 participating countries cooperating in over 50 sectors under the SCO framework, and the SCO members have a combined annual economic output close to $30 trillion.
\n
The highlight of the SCO Tianjin Summit that concluded on Sept 1 was Chinese President Xi Jinping's proposal of the Global Governance Initiative. It calls on all countries to adhere to sovereign equality, abide by international rule of law, practice multilateralism, advocate the people-centered approach, and focus on taking real actions to jointly build a more just and equitable global governance system and a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
The initiative was warmly welcomed and actively supported by all parties attending the SCO Tianjin Summit. They agreed that the world today urgently needs more effective governance visions and systems, making China's proposal most opportune and relevant. They also agreed to strengthen their strategic coordination, uphold multilateralism, safeguard fairness and justice, and improve global governance.
\n
At Friday's UN General Assembly session, it was good to see representatives of Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Pakistan, Iran, Cambodia, Cuba, Venezuela and Serbia speak highly of the SCO Tianjin Summit and the work carried out by China during its rotating presidency.
\n
As they emphasized, the resolution's adoption by the UN General Assembly with overwhelming support also reflects the international community's recognition and support of the SCO. The representatives correctly noted that the Global Governance Initiative proposed by President Xi meets the needs of the times and will play a crucial role in addressing global challenges and enhancing global governance.
\n
As a matter of fact, one of the keywords at the SCO Tianjin Summit was the UN, with the UN referenced as many as 40 times in the declaration of the summit. The declaration explicitly underscores the importance of adhering to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, leveraging the UN's central, coordinating role, delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals, supporting necessary reforms of the UN, and expanding exchanges and cooperation with the UN and its specialized agencies.
\n
Marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN, the summit also issued a special statement calling for the defense of the international system with the UN at its core.
\n
Notably, the UN General Assembly has unanimously adopted resolutions on cooperation between the UN and the SCO on several occasions since 2009. The resolution adopted on Friday retains the structure of the previous resolutions focusing on major issues such as peace and development, but it highlights the positive contributions made by the SCO to the work of the UN and calls for further strengthening the cooperation between the two sides.
\n
As Geng Shuang, charge d'affaires of the Permanent Mission of China to the UN, said while introducing the draft resolution at the UN General Assembly, all UN member states should support this draft resolution and cosponsor it, thereby sending a strong signal to the world that, with a few notable exceptions, the UN family stands united in upholding multilateralism and strengthening solidarity and cooperation.
\n",
@@ -9157,28 +10543,6 @@
"hash": "0ae4ef7b7200d0abaa261c6123beb823",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "008COMMENT - India should be cautious of being pawn in US game",
- "description": "
Editor's note: On Friday, the US president said both India and Russia seem to have been "lost" to China. However, later the same day, he softened his tone, insisting that he did not think the US had lost India to China. Below are excerpts from an analysis on Niutanqin WeChat account. The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
\n
International politics is often absurd, some moves appearing well calculated, others not so. Take the case of US-India relations.
\n
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent meetings with the Chinese and Russian leaders during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin fueled criticism in the West that US President Donald Trump had committed a strategic blunder by driving India into the arms of China and Russia.
\n
In response, while talking with reporters on Friday, Trump underlined his long-standing friendship with Modi, praising him as a "great" leader, while simultaneously indicating he was "very disappointed" with India over its continued purchases of Russian oil, which had prompted him to slap "very big" tariffs on India.
\n
It all began with Trump's "mediation" during the India-Pakistan conflict. Trump has reiterated a few times now that he forced Modi to halt the hostilities within hours, and that because of his efforts he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. However, India's official position is the US had nothing to do with the ceasefire, which was the result of Pakistan's initiative. Acknowledging Trump's version would amount to undermining India's sovereignty and credibility.
\n
Now, once again, Trump has softened his tone, stressing his friendship with Modi. Modi reciprocated, praising Trump's remarks and reaffirming India and the US "have a very positive and forward-looking comprehensive and global strategic partnership".
\n
Whether US-India relations can be repaired remains uncertain. After all, long-standing contradictions between the two sides on issues such as the trade surplus, energy procurement and geopolitical security, intertwined with emotional rhetoric and interest-driven demands, make this relationship inherently difficult to stabilize. United States officials have applied harsh rhetoric against India in the past, and New Delhi has realized that US policies are such it will treat India as a rival whenever doing so suits it.
\n
For India, finding a balance among China, the US and Russia will help determine its future strategic direction. India needs Russian energy, hopes to improve relations with China, while also being unwilling to completely burn its bridges with the US. For the US, the challenge lies in balancing pressure with engagement and pursuing interests while saving face.
\n
The future of US-India relations will likely continue to fluctuate. In the short term, there may be a dramatic restoration, but in the long run, the trust between the two sides has been shaken and cooperation is likely to remain superficial. India will not easily abandon its strategic ties with Russia, nor will it rashly take a stance on China-related issues merely in response to US overtures.
\n
India has repeatedly experienced the oscillating dynamics of being both "a close friend" and "an adversary" of the US, which may lead to more cautious strategic choices in the future. Unlike the US, China has never put India in such awkward situations. How to avoid becoming a pawn in the strategic games of other nations is a question India must ponder deeply.
\n",
- "content": "
Editor's note: On Friday, the US president said both India and Russia seem to have been "lost" to China. However, later the same day, he softened his tone, insisting that he did not think the US had lost India to China. Below are excerpts from an analysis on Niutanqin WeChat account. The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
\n
International politics is often absurd, some moves appearing well calculated, others not so. Take the case of US-India relations.
\n
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent meetings with the Chinese and Russian leaders during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin fueled criticism in the West that US President Donald Trump had committed a strategic blunder by driving India into the arms of China and Russia.
\n
In response, while talking with reporters on Friday, Trump underlined his long-standing friendship with Modi, praising him as a "great" leader, while simultaneously indicating he was "very disappointed" with India over its continued purchases of Russian oil, which had prompted him to slap "very big" tariffs on India.
\n
It all began with Trump's "mediation" during the India-Pakistan conflict. Trump has reiterated a few times now that he forced Modi to halt the hostilities within hours, and that because of his efforts he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. However, India's official position is the US had nothing to do with the ceasefire, which was the result of Pakistan's initiative. Acknowledging Trump's version would amount to undermining India's sovereignty and credibility.
\n
Now, once again, Trump has softened his tone, stressing his friendship with Modi. Modi reciprocated, praising Trump's remarks and reaffirming India and the US "have a very positive and forward-looking comprehensive and global strategic partnership".
\n
Whether US-India relations can be repaired remains uncertain. After all, long-standing contradictions between the two sides on issues such as the trade surplus, energy procurement and geopolitical security, intertwined with emotional rhetoric and interest-driven demands, make this relationship inherently difficult to stabilize. United States officials have applied harsh rhetoric against India in the past, and New Delhi has realized that US policies are such it will treat India as a rival whenever doing so suits it.
\n
For India, finding a balance among China, the US and Russia will help determine its future strategic direction. India needs Russian energy, hopes to improve relations with China, while also being unwilling to completely burn its bridges with the US. For the US, the challenge lies in balancing pressure with engagement and pursuing interests while saving face.
\n
The future of US-India relations will likely continue to fluctuate. In the short term, there may be a dramatic restoration, but in the long run, the trust between the two sides has been shaken and cooperation is likely to remain superficial. India will not easily abandon its strategic ties with Russia, nor will it rashly take a stance on China-related issues merely in response to US overtures.
\n
India has repeatedly experienced the oscillating dynamics of being both "a close friend" and "an adversary" of the US, which may lead to more cautious strategic choices in the future. Unlike the US, China has never put India in such awkward situations. How to avoid becoming a pawn in the strategic games of other nations is a question India must ponder deeply.
The author, a specialist in global affairs and Sinology, is the founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative.
\n\n
Editor's note: Over the past several years, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has grown into a comprehensive regional organization that contributes certainty and vitality to global economic landscape. And the SCO Summit in Tianjin further consolidates the foundation of security and pursues mutual benefit and win-win results to drive development. Three experts share their views on the issue with China Daily.
\n
Two recent diplomatic events in China — the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin and the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War in Beijing — have generated quite a few commentaries in the international media. Many of these have labeled the two events as being "anti-Western" demonstrations or symbols of a "growing anti-liberal axis".
\n
Yet this interpretation, while understandable for some Western observers in the context of current geopolitical tensions, oversimplifies the nature and intent of the events. Despite featuring prominent leaders who have grievances against the West, neither event was intrinsically designed to undermine the West. Rather, the events reflected China's evolving approach to a main role in global governance.
\n
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of multilateralism, inclusiveness and peaceful development — principles deeply aligned with those of the United Nations.
\n
The Global Governance Initiative he proposed does not advocate dismantling the existing order but reforming it to be more representative and equitable. He quoted an ancient Chinese saying-"Uphold the Great Principle, and the world will follow" — to underline his preference for moral suasion over hard-line confrontation.
\n
China is not building ideological blocs or attempting to force countries into an anti-Western camp.
\n
Instead, it is working to position itself as an indispensable node in a multipolar world, one that does not require binary choices between the East and the West. This nuanced strategy allows Beijing to maintain relations with a wide spectrum of countries, avoiding ideological rigidity and fostering diplomatic flexibility.
\n
This diplomatic balancing act was also visible during the Sept 3 commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the war of resistance against Japanese aggression and World War II. The military parade, to mark the occasion, was interpreted by some in the West as evidence of a "hostile posture".
\n
Rather than confronting or condemning the West, China staged an event of global significance and left the judgment to international observers. The absence of Western leaders lent weight to the perception, especially in the Global South, that the West no longer holds a monopoly on global moral authority or historical memory.
\n
Some, like the US president, were quick to call the gathering a "conspiracy" against the US.
\n
But such rhetoric rings hollow when one considers that the US president himself once dined with Kim Jong-un, the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is reportedly considering meeting him again, and recently invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to Alaska.
\n
The real issue is not whether these leaders meet, but the context of their engagement. While China continues to keep the diplomatic door open, it is the West that increasingly walks itself out of the room.
\n
China's path to modernization and global engagement is sovereign and deliberate. It will cooperate where it can, compete where it must, and avoid being drawn into binary frameworks. Its actions, at both the SCO Summit and the Sept 3 commemoration, reflected a long-term strategy of increasing global relevance, not exclusion.
\n
While Russia may assert its power, China appears more interested in shaping the architecture of global governance from within, leveraging its growing centrality rather than antagonizing the current system.
\n
Had the West chosen strategic engagement over short-term signaling in recent years, especially at critical junctures, it's conceivable that China could have been persuaded to use its influence to restrain some of its "disruptive" partners. The West failed to seize the opportunity. Yet it may not be too late for it to try even now.
\n
What the two events make clear is that while China's diplomatic choices reflect a changing world order, they are not inherently anti-Western. The door remains open for dialogue. The question is whether the West still has the foresight, and humility, to step back in.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
The author is the founder and director of research and consulting company Sarmat AnalytiX, a Belarusian security and foreign policy analyst.
\n
The SCO Summit in Tianjin concluded on Sept 1, 2025. Leaders of the SCO member states approved a development strategy for the organization in the 2026-2035 period, agreed on a political decision to establish an SCO development bank, inaugurated four new SCO security centers, and endorsed a package of practical cooperation platforms and high-quality development action plans that China has offered to open to all SCO states.
\n
Belarus' journey to full membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization spanned more than a decade — from becoming a dialogue partner in 2009 to formally joining the organization in 2024. For Minsk, the SCO is not just a diplomatic forum but also a platform for economic diversification, political support and integration into an emerging multipolar world.
\n
The dialogue partner status in 2009 opened the door to trade and investment cooperation, customs coordination, regional and global security dialogues and foreign policy consultations for Belarus. And Belarus' emphasis on being a bridge between East and West made it a natural participant in interregional connectivity projects.
\n
Belarus was officially granted observer status at the SCO Summit in Ufa, Russia, in 2015, at a time when Belarus expressed strong interest in building a unified transport network, modernizing road and rail infrastructure, and developing multimodal transit routes to unlock its potential as a transit hub between Asia and the European Union.
\n
Hence, the SCO quickly became more than a dialogue platform — an entry point to Eurasian connectivity — for Belarus. Combined with the country's role in the Belt and Road Initiative, the result of improved connectivity was reflected in the Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park, which Chinese President Xi Jinping labeled the "Pearl of the Silk Road" during his visit to Belarus in 2015.
\n
Belarus formally applied for full SCO membership in 2022, when the world was undergoing dramatic geopolitical changes. The Western sanctions imposed on Belarus following the 2020 domestic political crisis and the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict cut off the country's Western vector. As such, full SCO membership became both a pragmatic necessity and a means to pivot toward Eurasia for Belarus.
\n
First, full SCO membership offered Belarus access to markets in China, India, Central Asian countries and Iran, reducing its dependence on Western markets. Second, it helped the country participate in projects that are alternatives to the Western financial system and trade routes. And third, it allowed Belarus to strengthen cooperation with SCO member states and garner political support against Western pressure.
\n
Full SCO membership also reflects Belarus' redefined diplomacy. The "multi-vector" approach — balancing East and West — has given way to a pivot to the East. With global economic activity shifting to Asia, Belarus now prioritizes the Eurasian Economic Union, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as reaching out to other Asian countries, along with those in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America.
\n
The SCO, along with Belarus' potential membership of BRICS, now anchors the country's new foreign policy identity. The SCO's strength is that it is a dialogue platform rather than a rigid bloc. While some observers interpret it as a counterweight to the West, its Shanghai Spirit emphasizes consensus, non-alignment and mutual respect.
\n
For Belarus, and other countries facing Western sanctions, including Russia and Iran, strengthening alternative economic, logistical and financial frameworks within the SCO is a priority.
\n
However, Belarus' full SCO membership comes with both promises and challenges. On the positive side, the organization provides Belarus with partners, markets and a sense of belonging in an increasingly multipolar world. On the other hand, the diversity of members, regional tensions and differences in foreign policy priorities may affect its potential.
\n
If the SCO is to widen its influence, it must demonstrate its capability to resolve crises across Eurasia. Genuine commitment to the Shanghai Spirit, the UN Charter and four global initiatives should become a concrete benchmark and guiding principle for resolving those crises.
\n
Despite the many challenges it faces, Belarus has the potential to create new development opportunities for the SCO. As a European Union neighbor, it adds a new geographic and political dimension to the organization. If it manages to step out of the shadow of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and if relations with the West are eventually normalized, it could once again serve as a bridge between Eurasia and Europe, offering SCO members greater access to European markets.
\n
The Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park shows Belarus' ability to host ambitious Belt and Road projects and promote the integration of European, Eurasian and Chinese strategies — what Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko once called the "integration of integrations".
\n
If Belarus realizes these goals, it could transform into a modern industrial and logistical hub at the crossroads of Eurasia — a key Eurasian hub linking Asia and Europe, connected to both Eurasian and European economies to the advantage of other SCO member states, too. The SCO, together with its individual members, can play a constructive role in supporting Belarus' development and regional connectivity, contributing to peace, stability, and economic cooperation across Eurasia.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
The author is the founder and director of research and consulting company Sarmat AnalytiX, a Belarusian security and foreign policy analyst.
\n
The SCO Summit in Tianjin concluded on Sept 1, 2025. Leaders of the SCO member states approved a development strategy for the organization in the 2026-2035 period, agreed on a political decision to establish an SCO development bank, inaugurated four new SCO security centers, and endorsed a package of practical cooperation platforms and high-quality development action plans that China has offered to open to all SCO states.
\n
Belarus' journey to full membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization spanned more than a decade — from becoming a dialogue partner in 2009 to formally joining the organization in 2024. For Minsk, the SCO is not just a diplomatic forum but also a platform for economic diversification, political support and integration into an emerging multipolar world.
\n
The dialogue partner status in 2009 opened the door to trade and investment cooperation, customs coordination, regional and global security dialogues and foreign policy consultations for Belarus. And Belarus' emphasis on being a bridge between East and West made it a natural participant in interregional connectivity projects.
\n
Belarus was officially granted observer status at the SCO Summit in Ufa, Russia, in 2015, at a time when Belarus expressed strong interest in building a unified transport network, modernizing road and rail infrastructure, and developing multimodal transit routes to unlock its potential as a transit hub between Asia and the European Union.
\n
Hence, the SCO quickly became more than a dialogue platform — an entry point to Eurasian connectivity — for Belarus. Combined with the country's role in the Belt and Road Initiative, the result of improved connectivity was reflected in the Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park, which Chinese President Xi Jinping labeled the "Pearl of the Silk Road" during his visit to Belarus in 2015.
\n
Belarus formally applied for full SCO membership in 2022, when the world was undergoing dramatic geopolitical changes. The Western sanctions imposed on Belarus following the 2020 domestic political crisis and the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict cut off the country's Western vector. As such, full SCO membership became both a pragmatic necessity and a means to pivot toward Eurasia for Belarus.
\n
First, full SCO membership offered Belarus access to markets in China, India, Central Asian countries and Iran, reducing its dependence on Western markets. Second, it helped the country participate in projects that are alternatives to the Western financial system and trade routes. And third, it allowed Belarus to strengthen cooperation with SCO member states and garner political support against Western pressure.
\n
Full SCO membership also reflects Belarus' redefined diplomacy. The "multi-vector" approach — balancing East and West — has given way to a pivot to the East. With global economic activity shifting to Asia, Belarus now prioritizes the Eurasian Economic Union, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as reaching out to other Asian countries, along with those in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America.
\n
The SCO, along with Belarus' potential membership of BRICS, now anchors the country's new foreign policy identity. The SCO's strength is that it is a dialogue platform rather than a rigid bloc. While some observers interpret it as a counterweight to the West, its Shanghai Spirit emphasizes consensus, non-alignment and mutual respect.
\n
For Belarus, and other countries facing Western sanctions, including Russia and Iran, strengthening alternative economic, logistical and financial frameworks within the SCO is a priority.
\n
However, Belarus' full SCO membership comes with both promises and challenges. On the positive side, the organization provides Belarus with partners, markets and a sense of belonging in an increasingly multipolar world. On the other hand, the diversity of members, regional tensions and differences in foreign policy priorities may affect its potential.
\n
If the SCO is to widen its influence, it must demonstrate its capability to resolve crises across Eurasia. Genuine commitment to the Shanghai Spirit, the UN Charter and four global initiatives should become a concrete benchmark and guiding principle for resolving those crises.
\n
Despite the many challenges it faces, Belarus has the potential to create new development opportunities for the SCO. As a European Union neighbor, it adds a new geographic and political dimension to the organization. If it manages to step out of the shadow of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and if relations with the West are eventually normalized, it could once again serve as a bridge between Eurasia and Europe, offering SCO members greater access to European markets.
\n
The Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park shows Belarus' ability to host ambitious Belt and Road projects and promote the integration of European, Eurasian and Chinese strategies — what Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko once called the "integration of integrations".
\n
If Belarus realizes these goals, it could transform into a modern industrial and logistical hub at the crossroads of Eurasia — a key Eurasian hub linking Asia and Europe, connected to both Eurasian and European economies to the advantage of other SCO member states, too. The SCO, together with its individual members, can play a constructive role in supporting Belarus' development and regional connectivity, contributing to peace, stability, and economic cooperation across Eurasia.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
The author is deputy head of the Institute for a Community with Shared Future and professor of The State Key Laboratory of Media Convergence and Communication at Communication University of China.
\n
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization has, in recent years, emerged as a dynamic grouping, shaping the evolving world order — not only through its focus on regional and international security, but increasingly through mutual respect, inclusive dialogue, shared innovation, and joint efforts to protect genuine multilateralism, equity and diversity of civilizations, and the critical role of the United Nations in global governance. Previously, China has already proposed three global initiatives, and at the summit in Tianjin, China proposed the Global Governance Initiative to open new space for collective understanding and coordinated behavior.
\n
With a growing agenda which now covers fields such as youth exchanges, science and technology, finance, education, digital technology and the economy, the SCO is becoming a stabilizing anchor, promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual enrichment.
\n
While attending the China-Central Asia Cooperation Development Forum in Astana, Kazakhstan, on June 22, I was struck by the city's modern infrastructure, and the vibrant energy of its people — youthful, optimistic, connected to both tradition and progress. The blend of historical depth and modern vitality in Central Asia reflects a broader SCO vision: to protect national sovereignty, promote the well-being for all, advance multi-dimensional cooperation, and respect diversity of civilizations.
\n
As the family members grow, the SCO is developing from a facilitator for multilateralism to an incubator for civilizational dialogue, cooperation and innovation. Civilizations achieve integration through exchanges, and progress through integration. That spirit is at the heart of the SCO, an organization that encompasses nearly half of the world's population and diverse cultures and traditions. This diversity is not a challenge; it's a strength that is fueling a wide range of grassroots and institutional efforts to deepen understanding and build trust. President Xi Jinping mentioned in his speech at the summit in Tianjin, we must continue to promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, and write a brilliant chapter of peaceful and harmonious coexistence among countries with different histories and cultures, different social systems, and different stages of development.
\n
A prime example of deepening understanding and mutual learning is the SCO Youth Camp, an initiative supported at the head-of-state level. Young people from SCO member states travel to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Qingdao, Shandong province, as well as the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region to see firsthand China's modern development and cultural diversity. By visiting different sites, holding group discussions, and attending cultural events, they develop grounded understanding and mutual friendship. But more importantly, these exchanges plant the seeds of a new generation of leaders who are expected to see difference and diversity not as a challenge, but as an opportunity.
\n
For many youths, the most valuable takeaway from these exchanges isn't a policy insight; it's a change in perception. The Youth Camp helps fill in cognitive gaps, dispels cultural stereotypes, and nurtures a sense of shared identity. In doing so, it promotes openness, inclusivity and optimism, values that will shape the SCO's future and facilitate strategic agreements.
\n
Technology exchange is another key frontier in the SCO's civilizational dialogue. As a grouping of developing countries, the SCO has been promoting innovation through initiatives such as the SCO Young Scientists Conclave, the science and technology partnership program, and working groups for start-ups and entrepreneurs. These platforms promote scientific thinking, the entrepreneurial spirit, as well as people-centered and innovation-driven cooperation.
\n
By linking scientific progress with human development, the SCO is laying the groundwork for a more equitable digital civilization. Such initiatives aim to protect technological sovereignty, safeguard regional security, improve people's livelihoods, and pioneer new models of shared governance in the digitally-connected world. We are happy to see that the Tianjin Declaration includes concrete steps to bridge digital gaps, promote the digital economy, and strengthen scientific and educational training, which will consolidate the existing ties among youths and scientists from the SCO member states.
\n
The SCO's ultimate strength lies in its philosophy of looking forward together, harnessing the modernization momentum and youth power, introspection and cooperation among diverse cultures. Whether through youth programs or tech partnerships, its efforts to build internal solidarity and global influence are essential to building a community with a shared future, which is necessary to jointly tackle transitions in the world and the regional political environment and deepen long-term bonds.
\n
In today's world of growing geopolitical uncertainty, the SCO's development reflects a broader truth: international cooperation must be rooted not only in realpolitik, but also in the sustainable development of each country and the well-being of its people. The future of global governance depends as much on mutual recognition and cultural empathy as on institutional frameworks.
\n
By fostering civilizational dialogue and encouraging inclusive exchanges, the SCO is not just adapting to a changing world; it is also helping shape it. In doing so, it offers a compelling vision of how humanity can move forward, not in uniformity, but in harmony.
\n
The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.
\n",
@@ -9245,28 +10587,6 @@
"hash": "31b77d5aaa3d013ef5e74e30d71435a4",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "011WORLD - Thai King endorses Anutin as new PM",
- "description": "
Thailand's new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul greets lawmakers from his Bhumjaithai Party in Bangkok on Sunday.
\n
BANGKOK — Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed Anutin Charnvirakul as the country's prime minister on Sunday, two days after he was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed his predecessor.
\n
Anutin, 58, succeeds Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai Party, dismissed last week after being found guilty of ethics violations over a politically compromising phone call with neighboring Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen.
\n
The new prime minister had served in Paetongtarn's Cabinet as a deputy prime minister and an interior minister, but resigned his positions and withdrew his party from her coalition government after news of the leaked phone call caused public uproar.
\n
Anutin received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at his party Bhumjaithai's headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties expected to join his coalition government. They wore white civil servants' uniforms used for royal and state ceremonies.
\n
"I'd like to take an oath that I determine to perform my duties to my fullest capabilities, with honesty and virtue," Anutin said after receiving the endorsement.
\n
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Anutin assured the public that his new government was fully committed to working tirelessly and with steadfast dedication to help Thailand swiftly overcome its current crises, despite several constraints in fulfilling duties.
\n
Priority areas
\n
He outlined four priority areas of action — the economy, the border conflict with Cambodia, natural disasters and crimes.
\n
To address economic challenges, he pledged immediate measures to reduce the cost of living, including expenses on energy, transportation and logistics.
\n
On national security, he said he would resolve Thai-Cambodian border disputes through peaceful means, ensuring that Thailand does not cede territory or compromise national interests.
\n
In addition, Anutin said his administration would actively promote transparency and expedite legal proceedings where appropriate, emphasizing that the justice system must operate independently, in accordance with mechanisms outlined in the constitution and relevant laws.
\n
"My government aims to amend the constitution, clearing the way for drafting a new charter through the prescribed legal process," he said, affirming the intention to dissolve parliament within the agreed time frame of four months after taking office.
\n
The prime minister expressed confidence in gaining support from all sectors, stating that his administration aims to lay a strong foundation for the next government to build upon, ensuring the people's well-being, stability and enduring prosperity.
\n
The royal endorsement paves the way for cabinet formation and policy address to the parliament, a formality required before the new government officially assumes office.
\n
Anutin won the vote in parliament on Friday with support from the main opposition People's Party, which said it would remain part of the opposition, leaving the new government potentially a minority one.
\n",
- "content": "
Thailand's new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul greets lawmakers from his Bhumjaithai Party in Bangkok on Sunday.
\n
BANGKOK — Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed Anutin Charnvirakul as the country's prime minister on Sunday, two days after he was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed his predecessor.
\n
Anutin, 58, succeeds Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai Party, dismissed last week after being found guilty of ethics violations over a politically compromising phone call with neighboring Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen.
\n
The new prime minister had served in Paetongtarn's Cabinet as a deputy prime minister and an interior minister, but resigned his positions and withdrew his party from her coalition government after news of the leaked phone call caused public uproar.
\n
Anutin received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at his party Bhumjaithai's headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties expected to join his coalition government. They wore white civil servants' uniforms used for royal and state ceremonies.
\n
"I'd like to take an oath that I determine to perform my duties to my fullest capabilities, with honesty and virtue," Anutin said after receiving the endorsement.
\n
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Anutin assured the public that his new government was fully committed to working tirelessly and with steadfast dedication to help Thailand swiftly overcome its current crises, despite several constraints in fulfilling duties.
\n
Priority areas
\n
He outlined four priority areas of action — the economy, the border conflict with Cambodia, natural disasters and crimes.
\n
To address economic challenges, he pledged immediate measures to reduce the cost of living, including expenses on energy, transportation and logistics.
\n
On national security, he said he would resolve Thai-Cambodian border disputes through peaceful means, ensuring that Thailand does not cede territory or compromise national interests.
\n
In addition, Anutin said his administration would actively promote transparency and expedite legal proceedings where appropriate, emphasizing that the justice system must operate independently, in accordance with mechanisms outlined in the constitution and relevant laws.
\n
"My government aims to amend the constitution, clearing the way for drafting a new charter through the prescribed legal process," he said, affirming the intention to dissolve parliament within the agreed time frame of four months after taking office.
\n
The prime minister expressed confidence in gaining support from all sectors, stating that his administration aims to lay a strong foundation for the next government to build upon, ensuring the people's well-being, stability and enduring prosperity.
\n
The royal endorsement paves the way for cabinet formation and policy address to the parliament, a formality required before the new government officially assumes office.
\n
Anutin won the vote in parliament on Friday with support from the main opposition People's Party, which said it would remain part of the opposition, leaving the new government potentially a minority one.
Amid escalating climate crisis, African leaders and international partners are rallying around the conviction that Africa holds the potential to spearhead the global response.
\n
At a meeting ahead of the Second Africa Climate Summit, which opens on Monday in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, speakers highlighted the continent's abundant renewable energy resources, its youthful and dynamic population, and its growing culture of innovation as key advantages.
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They stressed, however, that ambition from Africa alone will not suffice. Unlocking this potential depends on fair climate finance, accessible technology transfer, and a justice-centered approach that ensures inclusivity and equity.
\n
Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie said Africa is poised to drive climate-resilient development, thanks to its wealth of critical minerals essential for clean technology.
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"With the right support, Africa's aspirations can fortify global climate action," he said.
\n
He also cautioned against repeating history, when unfair competition and unlawful resource extraction undermined the continent's progress.
\n
"It is critical that advocacy for climate action also addresses this comprehensive economic and just issue," he added.
\n
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chairman of the African Union Commission, underscored the importance of Africa speaking with one voice in global climate talks.
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"Time for decisive action is fleeting," he said. "We call for the international community to stand with Africa by ensuring climate finance is fair, transfer of technologies is effective, and capacity building is prioritized."
\n
Noura Hamladji, deputy executive secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, said the pledge to increase financial flows to developing countries to $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 must move beyond aspiration.
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"It must become implementable, delivered faster and designed for purpose," she said.
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"Bold climate action can drive immense human and economic benefits. Africa can show the world how this can be done."
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The upcoming Africa Climate Summit should "translate pledges into actions that deliver real benefits for communities", she said.
\n
Moral imperative
\n
Meanwhile, youth delegates reminded leaders of the moral imperative of climate action.
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Adela Tuy, a Kaqchikel Mayan from Solola, Guatemala, urged leaders to integrate indigenous knowledge into decision-making, declaring that without justice for indigenous people, there will be no climate justice for the planet.
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"Indigenous people have never been mere spectators in the climate crisis," she said.
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"For years they have cared for and protected their territories, passing knowledge from grandparents to grandchildren."
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Leyla Hasanova, a youth climate champion for the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, called on leaders to ensure that future generations inherit hope rather than fear, by honoring promises and embracing innovation.
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Nigar Arpadarai, the UN climate change high-level champion for the 29th UN Climate Change Conference, said technological innovation should be at the center of the green agenda, driven by human talent and economic opportunity rather than overreliance on regulation.
\n
"As we navigate the evolving global landscape marked by demographic shifts by trade tensions and the renewed arms race, we must also confront the transformative power of emerging technologies, in particular the ongoing revolution in artificial intelligence," she said.
\n
Anthony Nyong, director of climate change and green growth at the African Development Bank, highlighted the paradox of Africa's vast clean energy potential coexisting with 600 million people still without electricity and more than 900 million lacking access to clean cooking.
\n
He warned that climate effects are already costing Africa up to 9 percent of its GDP annually, and called for innovative financing and stronger international support to bridge the funding gap.
Residents flee as the Mushtaha Tower collapses after being hit by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City on Friday.
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GAZA CITY — An Israeli strike flattened a high-rise in Gaza City on Saturday — the second in as many days — after the military warned people to move to a "humanitarian zone" ahead of a planned offensive against the urban center.
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Israel has been warning for weeks of a new assault on the Palestinian territory's largest city, without issuing a timeline.
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It has stepped up airstrikes and ground operations on the city's outskirts, sparking fears it could worsen the already dire conditions.
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On Saturday, Israeli aircraft dropped thousands of leaflets on western neighborhoods calling on residents to evacuate, witnesses and an AFP journalist said.
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Nafez Anis, who has been living in a tent with his family in Gaza City, said he had read the leaflet, but was not planning to leave.
\n
"Where should we go?" he told AFP. "We will wait, and when we see Israeli tanks approaching here, we will leave."
\n
Gaza civil defense agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told AFP that 56 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli fire during the day, including 19 near an aid distribution center in the north.
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The military said on Saturday that it struck a Gaza City high-rise that Hamas was using "to monitor "Israeli troops and added that it had taken "measures to mitigate harm to civilians".
\n
Witnesses identified the building as the Sussi residential tower and said it was destroyed. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz shared a video showing the roughly 15-story structure collapsing in a cloud of dust and smoke.
\n
Hamas condemned the attack and denied using residential or civilian buildings for military purposes.
\n
Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar told reporters on Sunday that the conflict could end immediately if Hamas released the remaining hostages being held in Gaza and laid down its weapons.
\n
In response, senior Hamas official Basem Naim told Reuters that it would not lay down its arms but would release all of the hostages if Israel agreed to end the conflict and withdraw its forces from Gaza.
\n
Last month, Israel launched an assault on Gaza City and its forces are now just a few kilometers from the city center. Overnight, strikes killed 14 people across the city, health officials said, including a strike on a school sheltering displaced Palestinians.
Residents flee as the Mushtaha Tower collapses after being hit by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City on Friday.
\n
GAZA CITY — An Israeli strike flattened a high-rise in Gaza City on Saturday — the second in as many days — after the military warned people to move to a "humanitarian zone" ahead of a planned offensive against the urban center.
\n
Israel has been warning for weeks of a new assault on the Palestinian territory's largest city, without issuing a timeline.
\n
It has stepped up airstrikes and ground operations on the city's outskirts, sparking fears it could worsen the already dire conditions.
\n
On Saturday, Israeli aircraft dropped thousands of leaflets on western neighborhoods calling on residents to evacuate, witnesses and an AFP journalist said.
\n
Nafez Anis, who has been living in a tent with his family in Gaza City, said he had read the leaflet, but was not planning to leave.
\n
"Where should we go?" he told AFP. "We will wait, and when we see Israeli tanks approaching here, we will leave."
\n
Gaza civil defense agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told AFP that 56 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli fire during the day, including 19 near an aid distribution center in the north.
\n
The military said on Saturday that it struck a Gaza City high-rise that Hamas was using "to monitor "Israeli troops and added that it had taken "measures to mitigate harm to civilians".
\n
Witnesses identified the building as the Sussi residential tower and said it was destroyed. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz shared a video showing the roughly 15-story structure collapsing in a cloud of dust and smoke.
\n
Hamas condemned the attack and denied using residential or civilian buildings for military purposes.
\n
Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar told reporters on Sunday that the conflict could end immediately if Hamas released the remaining hostages being held in Gaza and laid down its weapons.
\n
In response, senior Hamas official Basem Naim told Reuters that it would not lay down its arms but would release all of the hostages if Israel agreed to end the conflict and withdraw its forces from Gaza.
\n
Last month, Israel launched an assault on Gaza City and its forces are now just a few kilometers from the city center. Overnight, strikes killed 14 people across the city, health officials said, including a strike on a school sheltering displaced Palestinians.
The Chinese embassy in Afghanistan on Friday handed over $200,000 in emergency humanitarian cash aid provided by the Red Cross Society of China to support Afghanistan's earthquake relief efforts. Bao Xuhui, charge d'affaires of the embassy, met President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society Shahabuddin Dilawar on Friday and conveyed China's deep condolences over the earthquake victims and sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and the injured.
\n
AUSTRALIA
\n
Masked gang kills boys aged 12, 15
\n
A gang of masked attackers armed with machetes stabbed and killed two boys aged 12 and 15 in a "horrific" attack in Melbourne, police said on Sunday. Up to eight people in a suspected youth gang attacked the children separately in nearby locations in western Melbourne on Saturday evening, they said. Police were first called to a street where they found a 12-year-old boy who had been stabbed, said Graham Banks, police detective inspector in the state of Victoria. "Despite resuscitation attempts by paramedics, he was unable to be revived," Banks told a news conference. Soon after, police found the boy's 15-year-old friend in a nearby street with "significant" stabbing wounds. He could not be saved.
The Trump administration is facing a barrage of judicial pushback against its policies, highlighting a growing conflict between the US executive and judicial branches, which could undermine the credibility of the federal government, experts said.
\n
This clash was on full display last week, as US courts ruled against the administration on three high-profile cases, including the freezing of Harvard's research funding, the deployment of military to Los Angeles, and the imposition of reciprocal tariffs on multiple countries.
\n
Since taking office, the Trump administration has pushed numerous highly contentious policies, including strict immigration controls and extensive use of executive power to reshape the federal government. These moves have sparked a wave of litigation, with 337 active cases challenging the administration's actions as of Aug 28, according to data from Lawfare, a US nonprofit multimedia publication.
\n
Diao Daming, a professor of US studies at Renmin University of China's School of International Relations, said, "It's rare in US history to see such a large number of lawsuits targeting a newly elected president's major policies, and to see so many rulings go against the administration."
\n
He attributed this trend to the tension between the administration's unilateral approach to pushing a controversial agenda and the intensifying partisan polarization within the country.
\n
"The Trump administration has relied more heavily on unilateral actions than any previous administration, pushing policies through executive orders without legislative backing," Diao said. "Besides the unilateral approach, the policies the administration is trying to push are also quite contentious in nature, which has led to an unprecedented number of legal challenges."
\n
An article published by the Harvard Kennedy School on June 4 noted that Trump signed 147 executive orders in his first 100 days — a record high — while enacting only five laws, a record low.
\n
Wei Zongyou, a professor at the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, said this reliance on executive power is itself a symptom of a deeper legislative dysfunction.
\n
"Congressional gridlock, fueled by partisan divisions, makes it difficult to pass major legislation. This has forced the president to rely more heavily on executive orders to implement his policies," he said.
\n
According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in March, eight out of ten US adults say that when it comes to important issues facing the country, Republican and Democratic voters not only disagree on plans and policies, but also cannot agree on basic facts.
\n
Experts warned that escalating partisan polarization and social division have transformed the judicial arena into a key battleground in the ongoing partisan struggle.
\n
Diao observed the increasing politicization of the US judiciary. "While judges are not explicitly labeled as Republican or Democratic, the fact that judges are nominated by presidents with partisan affiliations inevitably leads to them being more aligned with the ideologies of the presidents who appointed them."
\n
Wei said the paralysis of Congress has led both sides to increasingly rely on the judiciary to advance or obstruct policy changes, turning the courts into "substitute legislative bodies".
\n
Politicization of courts
\n
"As both parties realize that controlling the power of judicial interpretation is as important as winning elections, the politicization of the courts is only set to escalate," he said.
\n
The ongoing conflict between the executive and judicial branches, fueled by partisan strife, is eroding public trust in the government and significantly increasing the uncertainty surrounding policy implementation, experts said.
\n
Diao said, "The Trump administration followed its own legal team's reading of the US Constitution. But the judiciary has its own interpretation, resulting in divergent interpretations of the Constitution and the powers it grants to different branches among different political forces."
\n
"This divergence is clearly aimed at furthering one's own interests, a manifestation of fragmentation of power within a partisan context." This situation, he argued, leads to fundamental legal principles, including the Constitution, being sacrificed to extreme partisanship, reducing government credibility.
\n
Wei echoed this sentiment, saying that frequent legal challenges and judicial injunctions against newly issued executive orders and policies foster a perception of governmental paralysis.
\n
"Regardless of the legal validity of these rulings, the constant policy reversals confuse and disappoint citizens, undermining the government's credibility."
\n
"Moreover, the inherent instability of executive orders, which can be easily revoked by a successor or halted by courts, further reduces policy continuity and predictability," he said.
\n
According to a report released on Aug 12 by the Washington-based nonprofit Partnership for Public Service, only one in three US citizens trusts the federal institutions.
The Trump administration is facing a barrage of judicial pushback against its policies, highlighting a growing conflict between the US executive and judicial branches, which could undermine the credibility of the federal government, experts said.
\n
This clash was on full display last week, as US courts ruled against the administration on three high-profile cases, including the freezing of Harvard's research funding, the deployment of military to Los Angeles, and the imposition of reciprocal tariffs on multiple countries.
\n
Since taking office, the Trump administration has pushed numerous highly contentious policies, including strict immigration controls and extensive use of executive power to reshape the federal government. These moves have sparked a wave of litigation, with 337 active cases challenging the administration's actions as of Aug 28, according to data from Lawfare, a US nonprofit multimedia publication.
\n
Diao Daming, a professor of US studies at Renmin University of China's School of International Relations, said, "It's rare in US history to see such a large number of lawsuits targeting a newly elected president's major policies, and to see so many rulings go against the administration."
\n
He attributed this trend to the tension between the administration's unilateral approach to pushing a controversial agenda and the intensifying partisan polarization within the country.
\n
"The Trump administration has relied more heavily on unilateral actions than any previous administration, pushing policies through executive orders without legislative backing," Diao said. "Besides the unilateral approach, the policies the administration is trying to push are also quite contentious in nature, which has led to an unprecedented number of legal challenges."
\n
An article published by the Harvard Kennedy School on June 4 noted that Trump signed 147 executive orders in his first 100 days — a record high — while enacting only five laws, a record low.
\n
Wei Zongyou, a professor at the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, said this reliance on executive power is itself a symptom of a deeper legislative dysfunction.
\n
"Congressional gridlock, fueled by partisan divisions, makes it difficult to pass major legislation. This has forced the president to rely more heavily on executive orders to implement his policies," he said.
\n
According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in March, eight out of ten US adults say that when it comes to important issues facing the country, Republican and Democratic voters not only disagree on plans and policies, but also cannot agree on basic facts.
\n
Experts warned that escalating partisan polarization and social division have transformed the judicial arena into a key battleground in the ongoing partisan struggle.
\n
Diao observed the increasing politicization of the US judiciary. "While judges are not explicitly labeled as Republican or Democratic, the fact that judges are nominated by presidents with partisan affiliations inevitably leads to them being more aligned with the ideologies of the presidents who appointed them."
\n
Wei said the paralysis of Congress has led both sides to increasingly rely on the judiciary to advance or obstruct policy changes, turning the courts into "substitute legislative bodies".
\n
Politicization of courts
\n
"As both parties realize that controlling the power of judicial interpretation is as important as winning elections, the politicization of the courts is only set to escalate," he said.
\n
The ongoing conflict between the executive and judicial branches, fueled by partisan strife, is eroding public trust in the government and significantly increasing the uncertainty surrounding policy implementation, experts said.
\n
Diao said, "The Trump administration followed its own legal team's reading of the US Constitution. But the judiciary has its own interpretation, resulting in divergent interpretations of the Constitution and the powers it grants to different branches among different political forces."
\n
"This divergence is clearly aimed at furthering one's own interests, a manifestation of fragmentation of power within a partisan context." This situation, he argued, leads to fundamental legal principles, including the Constitution, being sacrificed to extreme partisanship, reducing government credibility.
\n
Wei echoed this sentiment, saying that frequent legal challenges and judicial injunctions against newly issued executive orders and policies foster a perception of governmental paralysis.
\n
"Regardless of the legal validity of these rulings, the constant policy reversals confuse and disappoint citizens, undermining the government's credibility."
\n
"Moreover, the inherent instability of executive orders, which can be easily revoked by a successor or halted by courts, further reduces policy continuity and predictability," he said.
\n
According to a report released on Aug 12 by the Washington-based nonprofit Partnership for Public Service, only one in three US citizens trusts the federal institutions.
This handout photograph posted on the official Telegram channel of Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on Sunday shows rescue personnel working to extinguish a fire at the Ukrainian government building in Kyiv, following an attack amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Russian strikes across Ukraine overnight killed at least four people and wounded dozens more, Ukrainian authorities said on Sunday.
",
@@ -9377,28 +10653,6 @@
"hash": "d394c64a13bd6dc7d5b6a0b4e1dfee3f",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "012WORLD - 300 detained South Korean workers set to be released: Seoul",
- "description": "
Police stand guard over the detained employees at the Hyundai-LG battery plant in Ellabell, Georgia, the United States, on Thursday.
\n
SEOUL/WASHINGTON — Seoul said on Sunday that negotiations with the United States to secure the release of South Korean workers detained in an immigration raid have been concluded and they would soon be freed.
\n
It follows the arrest of more than 300 South Korean workers at a Hyundai-LG battery plant being built in the southern US state of Georgia on Thursday.
\n
The operation, carried out in the town of Ellabell, was the largest single-site raid implemented so far under US President Donald Trump's nationwide anti-migrant drive, catching Seoul officials off guard.
\n
"As a result of the swift and united response … negotiations for the release of the detained workers have been concluded," Kang Hoonsik, chief of staff to President Lee Jae-myung, said on Sunday.
\n
"Only administrative procedures remain. Once these are completed, a chartered flight will depart to bring our citizens home," he added.
\n
Footage of the raid released by US authorities showed detained workers, in handcuffs and with chains around their ankles, being loaded onto an inmate transportation bus.
\n
Scrambling to contain the fallout, a senior executive at electric vehicle battery maker LG Energy Solution flew to Georgia on Sunday morning.
\n
"The immediate priority now is the swift release of both our LG Energy Solution employees and those of our partner firms," executive Kim Ki-soo told reporters before boarding a plane.
\n
LG Energy Solution has said 47 of its employees had been arrested — 46 South Koreans and one Indonesian. The company has also said that about 250 of those arrested were believed to be employed by its contractor, and most of them were South Koreans.
\n
An official at a partner firm of LG Energy Solution who spoke with one of the detained workers told Yonhap news agency that conditions at the detention center were poor.
\n
The battery maker said it has suspended all business trips to the United States, except for client meetings, and instructed those already there to either "return immediately or stand by at their accommodations".
\n
Hyundai has said none of those arrested are its employees.
\n
South Korea, Asia's fourth-biggest economy, is a key automaker and electronics producer with multiple plants in the US.
\n
Its companies have invested billions of dollars to build factories in the US in a bid to access the US market and avoid tariff threats from the Trump administration.
\n",
- "content": "
Police stand guard over the detained employees at the Hyundai-LG battery plant in Ellabell, Georgia, the United States, on Thursday.
\n
SEOUL/WASHINGTON — Seoul said on Sunday that negotiations with the United States to secure the release of South Korean workers detained in an immigration raid have been concluded and they would soon be freed.
\n
It follows the arrest of more than 300 South Korean workers at a Hyundai-LG battery plant being built in the southern US state of Georgia on Thursday.
\n
The operation, carried out in the town of Ellabell, was the largest single-site raid implemented so far under US President Donald Trump's nationwide anti-migrant drive, catching Seoul officials off guard.
\n
"As a result of the swift and united response … negotiations for the release of the detained workers have been concluded," Kang Hoonsik, chief of staff to President Lee Jae-myung, said on Sunday.
\n
"Only administrative procedures remain. Once these are completed, a chartered flight will depart to bring our citizens home," he added.
\n
Footage of the raid released by US authorities showed detained workers, in handcuffs and with chains around their ankles, being loaded onto an inmate transportation bus.
\n
Scrambling to contain the fallout, a senior executive at electric vehicle battery maker LG Energy Solution flew to Georgia on Sunday morning.
\n
"The immediate priority now is the swift release of both our LG Energy Solution employees and those of our partner firms," executive Kim Ki-soo told reporters before boarding a plane.
\n
LG Energy Solution has said 47 of its employees had been arrested — 46 South Koreans and one Indonesian. The company has also said that about 250 of those arrested were believed to be employed by its contractor, and most of them were South Koreans.
\n
An official at a partner firm of LG Energy Solution who spoke with one of the detained workers told Yonhap news agency that conditions at the detention center were poor.
\n
The battery maker said it has suspended all business trips to the United States, except for client meetings, and instructed those already there to either "return immediately or stand by at their accommodations".
\n
Hyundai has said none of those arrested are its employees.
\n
South Korea, Asia's fourth-biggest economy, is a key automaker and electronics producer with multiple plants in the US.
\n
Its companies have invested billions of dollars to build factories in the US in a bid to access the US market and avoid tariff threats from the Trump administration.
WASHINGTON/CHICAGO — Several thousand protesters marched in Washington, DC, on Saturday to demand that US President Donald Trump end the deployment of National Guard troops patrolling the capital city's streets.
\n
With Trump vowing crackdowns in other Democratic-led cities as well, he appeared to threaten Chicago with migrant deportations in a social media post with an image that parodied the 1979 movie Apocalypse Now.
\n
Protesters at the "We Are All DC "march, including undocumented immigrants and supporters of Palestinian statehood, chanted slogans denouncing Trump and carried posters, some of which read, "Trump must go now", "Free DC "and "Resist Tyranny".
\n
"I'm here to protest the occupation of DC," said Alex Laufer. "We're opposing the authoritarian regime, and we need to get the federal police and the National Guard off our streets."
\n
Claiming that crime was blighting the city, Trump deployed the troops last month to "reestablish law, order, and public safety".
\n
Trump also placed the capital district's Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control and sent federal law enforcement personnel, including members of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to police the city's streets, moves critics have decried as federal overreach.
\n
More than 2,000 troops, including those from six Republican-led states, are patrolling the city. It is unclear when their mission will end, though the Army this week extended orders for the DC National Guard through Nov 30.
\n
Trump was playing golf at his course outside Washington and was not at the White House when protesters marched past on Saturday.
\n
But he appeared to step up pressure on Chicago in a post on his Truth Social platform that said, "I love the smell of deportations in the morning," parodying a line from the 1979 movie.
\n
"Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of WAR," the president wrote, referring to his new order to rename the Department of Defense.
\n
The post was accompanied by a seemingly AI-generated picture of Trump dressed as a military officer in the film with helicopter gunships and explosions in the background.
\n
In downtown Chicago, several thousand demonstrators marched past Trump Tower on Saturday, protesting Trump's threats to flood the city with immigration agents. The protest came after fears of increasing deportations chilled a normally raucous Mexican Independence Day celebration.
\n
Protesters also opposed Trump's threats to deploy National Guard troops to fight crime in Chicago, which would be an extraordinary effort to militarize the country's third-largest city. On Wednesday, however, Vice President JD Vance said there were "no immediate plans" to send the National Guard to Chicago.
\n",
@@ -9421,28 +10675,6 @@
"hash": "686eeef5b760d56a97c02379e7672f24",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "012WORLD - Opportunities for RMB use expected in Australia",
- "description": "
Expanding business links are creating new opportunities for the use of renminbi in Australia's financial sector, as trade settlements, investments and other transactions in the Chinese currency continue to grow, experts said.
\n
James McIntosh, country head for institutional equity broker and corporate advisory group CLSA Australia, said significant growth areas include RMB settlement in major sectors like resources.
\n
"A big part of the growth we see coming in that space is around RMB-denominated futures contracts because they provide the necessary financial instruments for both Chinese and Australian enterprises to manage price risks in the same currency settlement," he said at a business gathering focusing on new opportunities presented by the RMB.
\n
While the US dollar remains the dominant settlement currency, the adoption of the RMB in commodity trading is a big driver of the internationalization of the Chinese currency, McIntosh said.
\n
Shifting to the RMB "would require bilateral agreement with Chinese buyers and a fundamental shift in how global commodity markets operate", Wei Li, a senior lecturer in international business at the University of Sydney Business School, told China Daily.
\n
There is growth in RMB use in sectors where China leads supply chains, such as electric vehicles and machinery, said Li, whose research includes RMB internationalization and the globalization of Chinese enterprises and economy.
\n
Australian businesses still need to strengthen their capability to understand China's institutions and regulatory framework in order to reduce costs and increase efficiency, Li said.
\n
China and Australia have strong cooperation in trade and finance, with collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development and sustainable financing expanding in recent years, said Liang Heng, chief business officer at the China Central Depository and Clearing, or CCDC.
\n
"We are pleased to see more and more Australian financial institutions actively participating in RMB clearing, settlement and investment. This has injected vitality into regional development and advanced RMB internationalization," Liang said.
\n
Strong complementarity
\n
Wang Chunsheng, acting consul general of the Chinese Consulate General in Sydney, highlighted the steady progress of the Chinese currency in the international arena. "In recent years, the RMB's internationalization has advanced steadily, with wider use in cross-border trade and stronger global influence," he said.
\n
Wang emphasized the strong complementarity between the Chinese and Australian economies, covering energy, agriculture, green development and innovation, and said more business exchanges and cooperation in varied fields could be expected in the near future.
\n
The Bank of China, which is marking 40 years of services in Sydney, has significantly facilitated the implementation of major China-Australia cooperation projects and helped Chinese enterprises effectively manage exchange rate risks and transaction costs, said Li Mang, general manager of the bank's Sydney branch.
\n
The branch has also been providing stable and reliable financial support for Australian local businesses to deepen cooperation with China, he said.
\n
As the Chinese bank with the longest operating history in Australia and the only RMB clearing bank in the South Pacific region, the BOC Sydney branch will "continue to serve as a financial bridge, promoting high-quality financial cooperation to help Chinese and Australian enterprises achieve sustainable development", he said.
\n
The branch's premier RMB services include savings, foreign currency exchange, personal and corporate lending, corporation remittance, and offshore negotiated deposits.
\n
Contact the writers at xinxin@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
Expanding business links are creating new opportunities for the use of renminbi in Australia's financial sector, as trade settlements, investments and other transactions in the Chinese currency continue to grow, experts said.
\n
James McIntosh, country head for institutional equity broker and corporate advisory group CLSA Australia, said significant growth areas include RMB settlement in major sectors like resources.
\n
"A big part of the growth we see coming in that space is around RMB-denominated futures contracts because they provide the necessary financial instruments for both Chinese and Australian enterprises to manage price risks in the same currency settlement," he said at a business gathering focusing on new opportunities presented by the RMB.
\n
While the US dollar remains the dominant settlement currency, the adoption of the RMB in commodity trading is a big driver of the internationalization of the Chinese currency, McIntosh said.
\n
Shifting to the RMB "would require bilateral agreement with Chinese buyers and a fundamental shift in how global commodity markets operate", Wei Li, a senior lecturer in international business at the University of Sydney Business School, told China Daily.
\n
There is growth in RMB use in sectors where China leads supply chains, such as electric vehicles and machinery, said Li, whose research includes RMB internationalization and the globalization of Chinese enterprises and economy.
\n
Australian businesses still need to strengthen their capability to understand China's institutions and regulatory framework in order to reduce costs and increase efficiency, Li said.
\n
China and Australia have strong cooperation in trade and finance, with collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development and sustainable financing expanding in recent years, said Liang Heng, chief business officer at the China Central Depository and Clearing, or CCDC.
\n
"We are pleased to see more and more Australian financial institutions actively participating in RMB clearing, settlement and investment. This has injected vitality into regional development and advanced RMB internationalization," Liang said.
\n
Strong complementarity
\n
Wang Chunsheng, acting consul general of the Chinese Consulate General in Sydney, highlighted the steady progress of the Chinese currency in the international arena. "In recent years, the RMB's internationalization has advanced steadily, with wider use in cross-border trade and stronger global influence," he said.
\n
Wang emphasized the strong complementarity between the Chinese and Australian economies, covering energy, agriculture, green development and innovation, and said more business exchanges and cooperation in varied fields could be expected in the near future.
\n
The Bank of China, which is marking 40 years of services in Sydney, has significantly facilitated the implementation of major China-Australia cooperation projects and helped Chinese enterprises effectively manage exchange rate risks and transaction costs, said Li Mang, general manager of the bank's Sydney branch.
\n
The branch has also been providing stable and reliable financial support for Australian local businesses to deepen cooperation with China, he said.
\n
As the Chinese bank with the longest operating history in Australia and the only RMB clearing bank in the South Pacific region, the BOC Sydney branch will "continue to serve as a financial bridge, promoting high-quality financial cooperation to help Chinese and Australian enterprises achieve sustainable development", he said.
\n
The branch's premier RMB services include savings, foreign currency exchange, personal and corporate lending, corporation remittance, and offshore negotiated deposits.
China's latest push to urge rational competition and regulate the promotional activities of major food delivery platforms will help maintain normal market order, ensure fair competition, and promote the healthy, orderly and sustainable development of the platform economy, experts said.
\n
They emphasized that these platforms should shift their focus from providing massive subsidies and huge discounts to improving the quality of services and delivery efficiency, while safeguarding the rights and interests of delivery riders.
\n
"Anti-involution" has become a focus of China's economic policies. Comprehensive measures to address "involution-style" competition will become a priority in economic and social development in the second half of the year, they noted.
\n
A meeting of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs on July 1 stressed efforts to advance the building of a unified national market, regulate enterprises' disorderly price competition in accordance with laws and regulations, and guide enterprises to improve product quality.
\n
Since May this year, many local catering associations have issued documents calling on food delivery platforms to stop "involution-style" competition.
\n
Chinese leading food delivery platforms — Alibaba Group-backed Ele.me, Meituan, and JD — vowed in August to rein in aggressive discounting practices, resist disorderly and vicious competition and foster a win-win ecosystem.
\n
Ele.me and Alibaba's Taobao Instant Commerce pledged to send out subsidies based on the needs of consumers and merchants in a reasonable manner, promising to eliminate large-scale irrational promotions and improve the quality of services.
\n
JD announced it will regulate subsidy activities, firmly avoid unfair competition and resist the vicious subsidies, such as "zero-yuan purchases", aiming to build a simple and transparent subsidy mechanism.
\n
Meituan emphasized its commitment to firmly regulating promotional activities and eliminating unfair competition, saying that any subsidy activities must strictly comply with laws and regulations, and it will promote the establishment of a fair and orderly industry order.
\n
Their move came after the State Administration for Market Regulation summoned the three leading food delivery platforms on July 18, urging them to regulate their promotional activities and engage in rational competition.
\n
The regulator called on the platform companies to strictly adhere to e-commerce, fair competition and food safety laws, and assume more professional responsibility, while fostering a healthy ecosystem that benefits consumers, merchants, delivery riders and platform operators, so as to promote the regulated, healthy and sustainable development of the catering services sector.
\n
The latest move has demonstrated the government's firm determination to maintain fair market order, signaling its "zero-tolerance" attitude toward disorderly subsidies and vicious competition, said Jiang Han, a senior analyst at market consultancy Pangoal, adding that the regulated and healthy development of the food delivery sector is directly related to consumers' rights and interests.
\n
It is of vital significance to safeguard a fair and orderly market environment and avoid the "involution-style" competition in the food delivery sector, which is experiencing a prolonged price war, Jiang said.
\n
He said the competition in China's instant retail sector is intensifying as these platforms have stepped up subsidies to compete for market share, leading to the compression of merchants' profits and the decline in consumer experience.
\n
"The platform enterprises should provide differentiated innovative services, such as optimizing delivery efficiency, enhancing food safety standards and improving after-sales services, thereby creating a healthy competition environment, and promoting the high-quality and sustained development of the food delivery sector," Jiang said.
\n
The authority's meeting with major food delivery platforms followed the increasingly fierce competition in the country's instant retail sector in recent months, with players offering huge discounts and subsidies to grab a bigger slice of the pie, which triggered a relentless price war.
\n
Alibaba's Taobao Instant Commerce has launched a substantial subsidy program worth 50 billion yuan ($7.01 billion) over the next 12 months for both consumers and merchants, while Meituan issued huge discounts and purchase coupons to attract more consumers.
\n
Chinese e-commerce giant JD entered the highly competitive food delivery sector in February, which is dominated by Meituan and Ele.me. JD promised to provide comprehensive support like low or zero commission fees to catering merchants who register on its platform, and step up the recruitment of full-time delivery riders.
\n
In May, the SAMR and four other government departments summoned major food delivery platforms to address prominent issues related to competition in the food delivery sector and to rectify unfair market practices.
\n
The regulator called on the platforms to comply with laws and regulations, fulfill social responsibilities, strengthen internal management, engage in fair and orderly competition, and better safeguard the rights and interests of consumers, merchants and delivery riders.
\n
According to a report from the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, the market scale of China's instant retail sector was 650 billion yuan in 2023, up 28.89 percent year-on-year. The figure is expected to surpass 2 trillion yuan in 2030.
\n
Instant retail refers to a model where shoppers place orders on online trading platforms, followed by retailers from brick-and-mortar stores executing door-to-door deliveries themselves or through third-party delivery platforms. An on-demand delivery order usually requires 30 to 60 minutes to be completed.
\n
Supply chain capabilities, fulfillment efficiency and service quality will be the key factors that determine the future landscape in the food delivery sector, while the platform enterprises should ramp up technological innovation, optimize delivery networks and adopt differentiated strategies to further improve user experience, industry insiders said.
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the CAITEC, said: "Instant retail is regarded as an important development direction for the future retail sector as enterprises can expand their scope of services, enhance user stickiness, and leverage their existing logistics and supply chain advantages to explore new growth points through instant retail."
\n
Hong said the key to success is centered on the optimization of user experience, expansion of service scope and improvement of supply chain efficiency.
\n
Cao Lei, director of the Internet Economy Institute, a domestic consultancy, said the continuous steep discounts and price war pose challenges to platform companies' profitability, intensify competition and further squeeze the survival space of small and medium-sized merchants.
\n
Cao said these platforms should increase investments in technologies such as artificial intelligence-powered algorithms and intelligent scheduling to enhance fulfillment efficiency, while optimizing supply chain management, safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of consumers, and improving the welfare of delivery staff.
\n
To safeguard the rights and interests of delivery riders, Alibaba Group and financial tech company Ant Group have rolled out a plan aimed at providing better benefits guarantees and stimulus measures. The plan includes offering more support to riders and their families, covering special rewards, educational improvement, healthcare assistance and career development.
\n
Ele.me has invested more than 20 million yuan for over 600 family members of riders who have serious illnesses and has provided educational assistance to more than 400 riders and their children.
\n
Meituan announced in July that it will upgrade the benefits guarantee for riders. The pension insurance subsidy will be rolled out nationwide by the end of this year, and it is expected to cover over 1 million riders. Since July 1, the coverage of work-related injury insurance for riders has been expanded to 17 provinces and municipalities, the company said.
\n
JD said it will invest 2 billion yuan to upgrade benefits for its full-time riders. In addition to providing full-time food delivery riders with comprehensive social insurance and housing funds, special allowances will be given to full-time riders each month during summer and winter. By the end of the second quarter, the number of JD's full-time delivery riders exceeded 150,000.
\n
Noting that steep discounts and subsidies cannot continue for extended periods, Guo Tao, deputy head of the China Electronic Commerce Expert Service Center, said the platforms should elevate service quality such as stable fulfillment and after-sales guarantees to enhance customer retention, while expanding the scope of service scenarios, increasing product categories and improving their cost-effectiveness.
\n
Zhu Keli, founding director of the China Institute of New Economy, said it is important that platform enterprises pool more resources into technologies and optimize cost structure through highly efficient inventory management and intelligent warehousing systems.
\n
He stressed the need to establish a stricter merchant access and supervision mechanism to improve the quality of goods, while calling for efforts to strengthen cooperation among different platforms to better integrate resources and further stimulate consumption potential.
\n
fanfeifei@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
@@ -9465,28 +10697,6 @@
"hash": "a5a062b986f006722a0146d2638b525d",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "013BUSINESS - AI injects new dynamism to nation's consumption, trade",
- "description": "
Several months ago, I had an opportunity to interview some exporters in Zhejiang province, who leveraged the fast-developing artificial intelligence technology on e-commerce platforms to boost sales of products.
\n
What impressed me most was that Zhang Min, a toy salesman at Yiwu International Trade Market, posted a video on an online marketplace, in which his virtual avatar could be generated, and speak various foreign languages fluently while introducing commodities.
\n
The AI-powered digital human almost replicated Zhang's expressions, body language, gestures, voice and accent. He also opened a digital showroom to exhibit new products, and buyers can directly make purchases via online marketplaces.
\n
He told me that the platforms for traditional Chinese foreign trade enterprises to win new customers have changed in recent years, as digitalization has become a necessary option for small and medium-sized companies to ramp up sales.
\n
Currently, Zhang's products have been sold to more than 50 countries and regions around the world, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
\n
He is among a growing number of entrepreneurs capitalizing on the innovative AI technology to transform traditional foreign trade models, and expand their presence in emerging markets.
\n
AI is now reshaping the global trade landscape with unprecedented power. China has attached great importance to the development of AI, a strategic emerging field in which major economies are scrambling to gain a competitive edge.
\n
The State Council, China's Cabinet, recently issued a guideline on deeply implementing the "AI Plus" initiative. The country will promote the use of AI in science and technology, industrial development, consumption, people's well-being, governance capability and global cooperation, according to the guideline.
\n
This year's Government Work Report stated that China, under its "AI Plus" initiative, will work to effectively combine digital technologies with its manufacturing and market strengths, and support the extensive application of large-scale AI models.
\n
Industry experts told me that the use of AI is expected to enter a new stage, with major technology companies accelerating AI applications in fields including consumption and manufacturing, and this shift will significantly elevate the efficiency of industries, injecting strong momentum for future innovation and development.
\n
Currently, innovative digital technologies represented by AI have been increasingly applied to online e-commerce sites, with the potential to change the way people shop by providing interactive consumer experiences and propelling the digital transformation of traditional retailers.
\n
Major e-commerce platforms are ramping up efforts to bolster the application of AI across their businesses and operations. For instance, Tmall, Alibaba Group's business-to-customer e-marketplace, offers consumers personalized guidance and advice with its AI-powered customer service chatbots, while online discounter PDD Holdings uses AI tools to analyze market trends and optimize sales strategies.
\n
Consulting firm Bain & Company said in a report merchants trading on China's giant e-commerce platforms are embracing AI even more enthusiastically than Generation Z shoppers — those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s.
\n
It said 52 percent of the merchants surveyed have used at least one generative AI-enabled tool. Slightly more than half have used generative AI-powered customer service chatbot tools. About one in three have used AI to generate content.
\n
Retailers that master generative AI in three key areas — deepening customer engagement, turbocharging productivity and cost savings, and finding new growth beyond trade — could build a lasting strategic advantage, it added.
\n
James Yang, head of Bain & Company Greater China's retail practice, said it is vital that Chinese retailers deepen their customer engagement. "AI tools can energize customer retention efforts, enabling e-commerce players to hyperpersonalize their engagement with consumers and create bespoke shopping experiences for them."
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said a new type of consumption is mainly driven by technological advancements in AI, with a focus on consumers' personalized and diversified demands.
\n
"Nurturing an AI-driven new consumption model is pivotal to expanding domestic demand, driving industrial upgrades and promoting high-quality economic growth," Hong said.
\n",
- "content": "
Several months ago, I had an opportunity to interview some exporters in Zhejiang province, who leveraged the fast-developing artificial intelligence technology on e-commerce platforms to boost sales of products.
\n
What impressed me most was that Zhang Min, a toy salesman at Yiwu International Trade Market, posted a video on an online marketplace, in which his virtual avatar could be generated, and speak various foreign languages fluently while introducing commodities.
\n
The AI-powered digital human almost replicated Zhang's expressions, body language, gestures, voice and accent. He also opened a digital showroom to exhibit new products, and buyers can directly make purchases via online marketplaces.
\n
He told me that the platforms for traditional Chinese foreign trade enterprises to win new customers have changed in recent years, as digitalization has become a necessary option for small and medium-sized companies to ramp up sales.
\n
Currently, Zhang's products have been sold to more than 50 countries and regions around the world, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
\n
He is among a growing number of entrepreneurs capitalizing on the innovative AI technology to transform traditional foreign trade models, and expand their presence in emerging markets.
\n
AI is now reshaping the global trade landscape with unprecedented power. China has attached great importance to the development of AI, a strategic emerging field in which major economies are scrambling to gain a competitive edge.
\n
The State Council, China's Cabinet, recently issued a guideline on deeply implementing the "AI Plus" initiative. The country will promote the use of AI in science and technology, industrial development, consumption, people's well-being, governance capability and global cooperation, according to the guideline.
\n
This year's Government Work Report stated that China, under its "AI Plus" initiative, will work to effectively combine digital technologies with its manufacturing and market strengths, and support the extensive application of large-scale AI models.
\n
Industry experts told me that the use of AI is expected to enter a new stage, with major technology companies accelerating AI applications in fields including consumption and manufacturing, and this shift will significantly elevate the efficiency of industries, injecting strong momentum for future innovation and development.
\n
Currently, innovative digital technologies represented by AI have been increasingly applied to online e-commerce sites, with the potential to change the way people shop by providing interactive consumer experiences and propelling the digital transformation of traditional retailers.
\n
Major e-commerce platforms are ramping up efforts to bolster the application of AI across their businesses and operations. For instance, Tmall, Alibaba Group's business-to-customer e-marketplace, offers consumers personalized guidance and advice with its AI-powered customer service chatbots, while online discounter PDD Holdings uses AI tools to analyze market trends and optimize sales strategies.
\n
Consulting firm Bain & Company said in a report merchants trading on China's giant e-commerce platforms are embracing AI even more enthusiastically than Generation Z shoppers — those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s.
\n
It said 52 percent of the merchants surveyed have used at least one generative AI-enabled tool. Slightly more than half have used generative AI-powered customer service chatbot tools. About one in three have used AI to generate content.
\n
Retailers that master generative AI in three key areas — deepening customer engagement, turbocharging productivity and cost savings, and finding new growth beyond trade — could build a lasting strategic advantage, it added.
\n
James Yang, head of Bain & Company Greater China's retail practice, said it is vital that Chinese retailers deepen their customer engagement. "AI tools can energize customer retention efforts, enabling e-commerce players to hyperpersonalize their engagement with consumers and create bespoke shopping experiences for them."
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said a new type of consumption is mainly driven by technological advancements in AI, with a focus on consumers' personalized and diversified demands.
\n
"Nurturing an AI-driven new consumption model is pivotal to expanding domestic demand, driving industrial upgrades and promoting high-quality economic growth," Hong said.
A staff member takes care of an elderly at a nursing home in Rizhao, East China's Shandong province, on May 25.
\n
BEIJING — On an early morning in August, a woman surnamed Li was waiting at the entrance of a top-tier hospital in Beijing for a hired medical escort who would provide her with the help needed during her hospital visit that day.
\n
With her children living in other cities, 65-year-old Li, who has difficulty moving around, has come to rely on such professional services and has used them several times as they help her navigate the many procedures of seeking medical treatment at the hospital. "The procedures are complicated. I simply can't manage it myself."
\n
Li's case is not unique. A woman surnamed Wang, who lives and works in Beijing, said hiring medical escorts for her parents is a serious need. "Both of my parents are over 80 years old. Because my siblings and I are all busy at work most of the time, we need to hire medical escorts for our parents when they need to see a doctor."
\n
As Li received help from her escort at the Chinese PLA General Hospital in Beijing, a nursing aide at a local hospital in East China's Shandong province was helping a patient turn over, drink water and stay calm in the hospital ward — tasks that once fell to family members.
\n
The rise in demand for medical escorts and nursing aides across various cities is part of a service industry that has been rapidly gaining traction in China in recent years, giving rise to the so-called "companion economy".
\n
This demand has in part been driven by an aging population. By the end of 2024, citizens aged 60 and above had reached over 300 million, accounting for nearly 22 percent of the country's total population. Almost half of them live alone without children immediately nearby, according to official data.
\n
"Older patients often struggle with digital registration, multi-step medical procedures, and navigating large hospitals," said Xu Jianzhong, executive president of the China Association of Social Welfare and Senior Service.
\n
A 2025 report launched by the association revealed that more than 80 percent of home-dwelling seniors lack timely family assistance during hospital visits. Against such a backdrop, Xu observed that medical escort services have transitioned from peripheral demand to rigid demand over the years.
\n
Beyond medical escorts, companion care is also filling gaps in daily life support. With around 35 million disabled elderly people — a number expected to rise to 58 million by 2050 — the need for professional at-home and institutional care is surging in the country.
\n
At the other end of the spectrum, young people in China are also embracing paid companionship to meet their emotional and recreational needs. Online advertisements for companion services had in fact appeared years ago across social platforms, offering a range of emotional support services, from chatting and exercising to dining and museum visits.
\n
Major tech platforms, such as JD.com, Meituan and Alibaba, have entered the functional companionship market, offering structured services like elder escorting and nursing care.
\n
As paid companionship is reshaping how people seek help and connect in a society with diversified needs, it is nurturing a companion economy expected to reach a market size of 50 billion yuan ($7 billion) by the end of 2025, according to an estimate by Sinolink Securities.
\n
But as platform models enable rapid scaling, service quality control, as well as potential risks and trust issues, remain challenges to the development of the companion economy, analysts say. The low entry barrier and lack of regulations mean there is potentially false advertising, poor services and privacy leaks, leaving users vulnerable.
\n
Efforts to standardize these services, particularly medical escort services, are underway. In May, the CASWSS released a systematic set of standards for elderly hospital escort services covering service processes, safety guidelines, personnel training and complaint mechanisms.
\n
In big cities such as Beijing, Wuhan and Shanghai, a number of elder care service institutions have established comprehensive standards for medical escort and nursing services. By combining personnel training, qualification reviews, feedback mechanisms and digital tracking, these organizations aim to enhance service quality and accountability.
\n
"Caregiving isn't just about helping with meals or movement. It requires professional knowledge," said Wang Shuxia, head of the China Home Service Association.
China is revving up the used-car export market, which saw over 400,000 units being shipped to more than 160 countries and regions in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Europe last year, becoming a new engine for automotive consumption and industrial upgrading.
\n
Speaking on Aug 22 at the Used-Car Export Ecosystem Summit 2025 in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province, China Automobile Dealers Association Vice-President Luo Lei affirmed that China is entering a golden era for used-car exports, driven by both policy support and surging demand.
\n
With motor vehicle ownership exceeding 400 million units in the country, a mature supply-chain system and a portfolio of highly cost-effective models, China has a solid foundation, he said.
\n
However, to overcome overseas market barriers, collaborative teamwork — with government guidance, pioneering enterprises and association empowerment — is imperative to build a standardized, globally oriented service system and a more competitive worldwide used-car circulation network, Luo said.
\n
Industry experts said that thanks to the pilot program launched in 2019, China's used-car export market has already achieved numerous breakthroughs, but still needs the dedication and synergy of every industry stakeholder to play their part in taking it to the next level.
\n
As a co-organizer of the summit and a key participant in China's used-car export sector, CAR Inc sent its CEO Gao Dewu to share the company's export achievements: "Since our launch last year, we have leveraged 29 domestic used-car central warehouses and five pre-port warehouses to establish six overseas direct-sales offices."
\n
"Our real-time inventory of 4,000 vehicles now reaches more than 30 countries across the Middle East, Central Asia, North and West Africa, and Latin America," Gao said.
\n
"Through our export practice, we have come to see that reliable vehicle sources are the cornerstone of any ecosystem while transparent information is the bridge of trust," Gao added, stressing that "China's global competitiveness must shift from 'price advantage' to 'brand trust'."
\n
To this end, he said, CAR Inc has built an end-to-end capability covering high-standard pre-sale refurbishment, global logistics and localized after-sales support — from inspection, maintenance and cross-border transport to overseas warranties — creating an efficient and reliable cross-border service system that helps its partners enhance their global competitiveness.
\n
Li Jia, vice-president of CAR Inc, said its three strategic pathways are vital — going global with a direct-sales network in six key countries to cover over 30 neighboring markets; resource integration with domestic institutional suppliers to share overseas opportunities; and promoting the transition of non-standard used cars to standardized products to strengthen market trust.
\n
A core outcome of the summit was the official launch of the "Institutional Vehicle Source Export Task Force" — a member organization under the CADA Used-Car Export Sub-Committee.
\n
Jointly led by CADA and CAR Inc, the founding members comprise 23 original equipment manufacturers, seven financial leasing companies, five rental and mobility firms and three dealers — covering the entire value chain from vehicle supply and financing to circulation services.
\n
With extensive experience gained through the opening-up of many industries, China's ability to organize industrial collaboration and successful supply chain flows will play a key role in the future of the nation's used-car export sector.
\n
Speaking on behalf of the core initiator, Li noted: "Our goal is to weave dispersed institutional vehicle sources, technologies and channel resources into a single network, shifting the country's used-car exports from 'solo battles' to 'joint voyages' and jointly building an overseas reputation that makes China the preferred source for bulk procurement."
\n
"Only by incorporating every link — production, usage, circulation and export — can China's used cars travel far and stand firm in global markets," emphasized Gao, adding that "CAR Inc is committed, alongside industry peers, to rooting ourselves in real market demand and growing toward our shared aspirations."
\n
Li stressed that for the export task force, four strategic areas have been identified.
\n
"First, building vehicle-source standard to promote 'quality at value, and quality going-global', and second, establishing product standards to offer convenient transactions based on bulk supplies that are 'same model, same first-registration year, same condition grade, and same mileage band'," he said.
\n
"Third, boosting transparency, and last, joint construction of a comprehensive overseas service system to ensure long-term sustainable export operations," Li added.
\n
Li noted that CAR Inc will continue to leverage its core advantages in vehicle sources, technology and services, collaborating with partners across the value chain and jointly establishing a "high-quality and trustworthy" brand image for Chinese used cars worldwide.
\n
hanjingyan@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
China is revving up the used-car export market, which saw over 400,000 units being shipped to more than 160 countries and regions in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Europe last year, becoming a new engine for automotive consumption and industrial upgrading.
\n
Speaking on Aug 22 at the Used-Car Export Ecosystem Summit 2025 in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province, China Automobile Dealers Association Vice-President Luo Lei affirmed that China is entering a golden era for used-car exports, driven by both policy support and surging demand.
\n
With motor vehicle ownership exceeding 400 million units in the country, a mature supply-chain system and a portfolio of highly cost-effective models, China has a solid foundation, he said.
\n
However, to overcome overseas market barriers, collaborative teamwork — with government guidance, pioneering enterprises and association empowerment — is imperative to build a standardized, globally oriented service system and a more competitive worldwide used-car circulation network, Luo said.
\n
Industry experts said that thanks to the pilot program launched in 2019, China's used-car export market has already achieved numerous breakthroughs, but still needs the dedication and synergy of every industry stakeholder to play their part in taking it to the next level.
\n
As a co-organizer of the summit and a key participant in China's used-car export sector, CAR Inc sent its CEO Gao Dewu to share the company's export achievements: "Since our launch last year, we have leveraged 29 domestic used-car central warehouses and five pre-port warehouses to establish six overseas direct-sales offices."
\n
"Our real-time inventory of 4,000 vehicles now reaches more than 30 countries across the Middle East, Central Asia, North and West Africa, and Latin America," Gao said.
\n
"Through our export practice, we have come to see that reliable vehicle sources are the cornerstone of any ecosystem while transparent information is the bridge of trust," Gao added, stressing that "China's global competitiveness must shift from 'price advantage' to 'brand trust'."
\n
To this end, he said, CAR Inc has built an end-to-end capability covering high-standard pre-sale refurbishment, global logistics and localized after-sales support — from inspection, maintenance and cross-border transport to overseas warranties — creating an efficient and reliable cross-border service system that helps its partners enhance their global competitiveness.
\n
Li Jia, vice-president of CAR Inc, said its three strategic pathways are vital — going global with a direct-sales network in six key countries to cover over 30 neighboring markets; resource integration with domestic institutional suppliers to share overseas opportunities; and promoting the transition of non-standard used cars to standardized products to strengthen market trust.
\n
A core outcome of the summit was the official launch of the "Institutional Vehicle Source Export Task Force" — a member organization under the CADA Used-Car Export Sub-Committee.
\n
Jointly led by CADA and CAR Inc, the founding members comprise 23 original equipment manufacturers, seven financial leasing companies, five rental and mobility firms and three dealers — covering the entire value chain from vehicle supply and financing to circulation services.
\n
With extensive experience gained through the opening-up of many industries, China's ability to organize industrial collaboration and successful supply chain flows will play a key role in the future of the nation's used-car export sector.
\n
Speaking on behalf of the core initiator, Li noted: "Our goal is to weave dispersed institutional vehicle sources, technologies and channel resources into a single network, shifting the country's used-car exports from 'solo battles' to 'joint voyages' and jointly building an overseas reputation that makes China the preferred source for bulk procurement."
\n
"Only by incorporating every link — production, usage, circulation and export — can China's used cars travel far and stand firm in global markets," emphasized Gao, adding that "CAR Inc is committed, alongside industry peers, to rooting ourselves in real market demand and growing toward our shared aspirations."
\n
Li stressed that for the export task force, four strategic areas have been identified.
\n
"First, building vehicle-source standard to promote 'quality at value, and quality going-global', and second, establishing product standards to offer convenient transactions based on bulk supplies that are 'same model, same first-registration year, same condition grade, and same mileage band'," he said.
\n
"Third, boosting transparency, and last, joint construction of a comprehensive overseas service system to ensure long-term sustainable export operations," Li added.
\n
Li noted that CAR Inc will continue to leverage its core advantages in vehicle sources, technology and services, collaborating with partners across the value chain and jointly establishing a "high-quality and trustworthy" brand image for Chinese used cars worldwide.
Models are on display in an XPeng store in a Shanghai shopping mall in April.
\n
China's new energy vehicle startups notched record sales in August, underscoring how new models, lower prices and growing acceptance of smart car features are reshaping the world's largest auto market.
\n
Leapmotor delivered 57,066 vehicles last month, up 88 percent from a year earlier and the highest monthly total in its history. It was the sixth straight month the company led sales among China's NEV startups.
\n
The company crossed 900,000 cumulative deliveries in August and reported its first half-year net profit, becoming the second Chinese NEV startup to achieve profitability on that basis, after Li Auto.
\n
XPeng delivered 37,709 vehicles in August, a 169 percent jump from a year earlier and a 3 percent rise from July, marking a new monthly record, the Chinese NEV maker said.
\n
The Mona M03 compact sedan remained a major growth driver, with more than 15,000 units delivered last month and over 160,000 sold since launch a year ago.
\n
Nio saw its monthly deliveries over 30,000 units for the first time, hitting 31,305 in August, up 55.2 percent year-on-year.
\n
Voyah, the NEV brand backed by Dongfeng Motor, also reported record shipments of 13,505 units, up 119 percent year-on-year.
\n
The synchronized sales momentum reflects a confluence of factors. "This isn't a coincidence," said one analyst tracking China's EV market.
\n
"We are entering a new product cycle where multiple startups are hitting the sweet spot of design, technology and pricing at the same time."
\n
New model launches were the most immediate catalyst. Many NEV startups introduced key products in the second quarter, with deliveries ramping up in July.
\n
In a market where consumers expect constant innovation, timely rollouts are essential to sustain growth, analysts said.
\n
In the case of Nio, its record-making sales benefited from its sub-brand Onvo's L90, a large-sized electric SUV launched in late July.
\n
Its first full-month deliveries hit 10,575 units, almost one-third of Nio's total deliveries in August.
\n
XPeng said its new P7 sedan, launched late last month, secured more than 10,000 orders within seven minutes — the fastest debut in XPeng's history.
\n
Foot traffic and test drives also hit record highs in the first weekend after launch, said the carmaker.
\n
Voyah said its new Courage SUV garnered 3,000 orders on launch day, while its 2026 Dream MPV received more than 10,000 orders when pre-sales opened at the Chengdu motor show in late August.
\n
Discount schemes such as trade-in subsidies and lower entry prices helped unlock demand in second- and third-tier cities, expanding beyond the premium early-adopter segment.
\n
Voyah drew applause and exclamations of excitement when it launched its Courage SUV, equipped with Huawei smart cabin and driver assistance features, at a starting price of 202,900 yuan ($28,000).
\n
The lower starting price was also a major cause of the popularity of Nio's flagship ES8 SUV as well as its Onvo L90. A Nio sales executive said he has never seen the company's sales system slow down due to an influx of orders.
\n
"We've made adjustments in product definition, learning from past lessons, and that's why models like the L90 and the new ES8 are being well received," said Nio founder and CEO William Li.
\n
Looking ahead, Li said Nio will launch three large SUVs next year — the Nio ES9, ES7 and Onvo L80 — to further strengthen its lineup.
\n
Another driver is the growing consumer appetite for advanced driver-assistance systems and intelligent cockpits.
\n
Features such as navigation-on-autopilot, automated parking and AI-driven in-car assistants are no longer seen as gimmicks, but as must-have capabilities.
\n
That shift has played to the strengths of NEV startups, which have been quicker than traditional carmakers, especially overseas brands, to deploy such functions.
\n
Government incentives have also added fuel. National and local authorities have continued to promote EV adoption through purchase subsidies and replacement programs, dovetailing with rising seasonal demand during the summer travel period.
\n
Perhaps more fundamentally, startups that were once perceived as risky bets are beginning to gain credibility.
\n
Nio's Li said around 30-40 percent of its potential customers still walk away because they worry the startup may go bankrupt at any time.
\n
Nio has been losing money but has vowed to break even in the fourth quarter of this year — a goal analysts say looks more likely given the sudden popularity of the ES8 and Onvo L90.
\n
"Our new-generation products have strong cost competitiveness, supported by long-term in-house R&D and cost-control measures," Li said.
\n
After several years of improving product quality and building service networks, companies such as Nio and XPeng have cultivated user communities that reinforce loyalty and word-of-mouth sales.
\n
But whether August's performance proves sustainable remains to be seen, as more new models enter the fray, including those from traditional brands, and more creative sales campaigns are rolled out.
\n
Volvo launched its XC70 late last month in Chengdu. "You cannot tell it apart from those Chinese brands if you sit in the car and cover the logo," said one attendee at the launch.
\n
Voyah partnered with British iconic cartoon Peppa Pig to launch its Courage SUV, highlighting the model as a family vehicle, while another startup, Avatr, is working with popular Chinese animated film Nobody in an effort to convey the charm of local Chinese creativity.
\n
Analysts said competition in China's NEV market is only intensifying, with BYD, Tesla and a host of legacy automakers trying every means to defend market share.
\n
But the figures signal that some challengers are getting established in the world's largest and most competitive NEV market, they added.
\n
lifusheng@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
@@ -9553,28 +10741,6 @@
"hash": "338f87a2a89da73ef24fdbf390652bb5",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "016MOTORING - BMW's China-made iX3 to be unveiled by year-end",
- "description": "
BMW debuts the iX3, the first production model of its Neue Klasse, on Sept 5.
\n
BMW AG debuted the first production model of its "Neue Klasse "line, the electric iX3, on Friday, adding that the China-made version will be unveiled later this year.
\n
The Neue Klasse models are widely believed by company executives and analysts to defend the German carmaker's position in premium electrification, especially in China, the largest and most competitive NEV market in the world.
\n
Chairman Oliver Zipse described the Neue Klasse as "the biggest future-focused project" in BMW's history, promising a huge leap in design, technology and user experience.
\n
Despite its unveiling later this year, the China-made iX3 will not start production until 2026, at BMW's manufacturing complex in Shenyang, Liaoning province.
\n
The German carmaker said the China-version has been designed with Chinese consumers in mind from day one, and the Chinese engineering team has played a central role in shaping it.
\n
Analysts said the moves underscore China's pivotal role in the German carmaker's electric transition.
\n
Cui Dongshu, secretary-general of the China Passenger Car Association, said China constituted 64.5 percent of the global electric car market in the first half of the year. If plug-in hybrids were included, the figure would rise to 68.3 percent, he said.
\n
From cabin space to digital features and driving assistance, the iX3 reflects local tastes and technological expectations, BMW said.
\n
Among other things, it will integrate sixth-generation eDrive technology with a CLTC range of up to 900 kilometers, aiming to ease lingering anxieties about battery range.
\n
China-specific features abound. The iX3 will embed artificial-intelligence capabilities developed with partners including Alibaba and DeepSeek, while drawing on Huawei's HarmonyOS ecosystem for services such as digital keys and HiCar connectivity.
\n
Smart driving features are being co-developed with Momenta to better adapt to Chinese road conditions.
\n
The company calls the car a benchmark for "China-exclusive intelligence, driving dynamics and luxury".
\n
The iX3 sits on BMW's new NCAR architecture, which consolidates breakthroughs including a panoramic iDrive interface, a new electronic control system dubbed the "super brain" and cylindrical battery cells.
\n
These elements will flow across the Neue Klasse portfolio, which will expand to more than 40 new models globally by 2027, with over 20 slated for China between 2026 and 2027.
\n
BMW's push comes as China cements its place at the center of the global auto industry's technology race, particularly in AI.
\n
China is the decisive battleground, Zipse said, citing the company's collaboration with domestic tech leaders to integrate cutting-edge AI into its vehicles.
\n
Until very recently BMW had been one of the best-selling premium carmakers in China.
\n
But the rise of local NEV rivals, which boast faster model rollouts as well as smart and luxurious cabin features, is wooing some customers away.
\n
"We believe the Neue Klasse should redefine BMW's brand image in China," said Jochen Goller, BMW's board member responsible for customer, brand, and sales, in an interview earlier this year.
\n
BMW is not competing with those startups head-on in areas they excel, said Goller, who highlights a focused strategy for the German carmaker: pure driving pleasure and a spirit of adventure.
\n
"If consumers are simply looking for a 'smartphone on wheels', there are other brands they can choose.
\n
"But for those who seek pure driving passion, a spirit of exploration, and the solid engineering that underpins it all, BMW is the ideal choice," said Goller.
\n",
- "content": "
BMW debuts the iX3, the first production model of its Neue Klasse, on Sept 5.
\n
BMW AG debuted the first production model of its "Neue Klasse "line, the electric iX3, on Friday, adding that the China-made version will be unveiled later this year.
\n
The Neue Klasse models are widely believed by company executives and analysts to defend the German carmaker's position in premium electrification, especially in China, the largest and most competitive NEV market in the world.
\n
Chairman Oliver Zipse described the Neue Klasse as "the biggest future-focused project" in BMW's history, promising a huge leap in design, technology and user experience.
\n
Despite its unveiling later this year, the China-made iX3 will not start production until 2026, at BMW's manufacturing complex in Shenyang, Liaoning province.
\n
The German carmaker said the China-version has been designed with Chinese consumers in mind from day one, and the Chinese engineering team has played a central role in shaping it.
\n
Analysts said the moves underscore China's pivotal role in the German carmaker's electric transition.
\n
Cui Dongshu, secretary-general of the China Passenger Car Association, said China constituted 64.5 percent of the global electric car market in the first half of the year. If plug-in hybrids were included, the figure would rise to 68.3 percent, he said.
\n
From cabin space to digital features and driving assistance, the iX3 reflects local tastes and technological expectations, BMW said.
\n
Among other things, it will integrate sixth-generation eDrive technology with a CLTC range of up to 900 kilometers, aiming to ease lingering anxieties about battery range.
\n
China-specific features abound. The iX3 will embed artificial-intelligence capabilities developed with partners including Alibaba and DeepSeek, while drawing on Huawei's HarmonyOS ecosystem for services such as digital keys and HiCar connectivity.
\n
Smart driving features are being co-developed with Momenta to better adapt to Chinese road conditions.
\n
The company calls the car a benchmark for "China-exclusive intelligence, driving dynamics and luxury".
\n
The iX3 sits on BMW's new NCAR architecture, which consolidates breakthroughs including a panoramic iDrive interface, a new electronic control system dubbed the "super brain" and cylindrical battery cells.
\n
These elements will flow across the Neue Klasse portfolio, which will expand to more than 40 new models globally by 2027, with over 20 slated for China between 2026 and 2027.
\n
BMW's push comes as China cements its place at the center of the global auto industry's technology race, particularly in AI.
\n
China is the decisive battleground, Zipse said, citing the company's collaboration with domestic tech leaders to integrate cutting-edge AI into its vehicles.
\n
Until very recently BMW had been one of the best-selling premium carmakers in China.
\n
But the rise of local NEV rivals, which boast faster model rollouts as well as smart and luxurious cabin features, is wooing some customers away.
\n
"We believe the Neue Klasse should redefine BMW's brand image in China," said Jochen Goller, BMW's board member responsible for customer, brand, and sales, in an interview earlier this year.
\n
BMW is not competing with those startups head-on in areas they excel, said Goller, who highlights a focused strategy for the German carmaker: pure driving pleasure and a spirit of adventure.
\n
"If consumers are simply looking for a 'smartphone on wheels', there are other brands they can choose.
\n
"But for those who seek pure driving passion, a spirit of exploration, and the solid engineering that underpins it all, BMW is the ideal choice," said Goller.
Swedish electric vehicle maker Polestar reported a wider loss for the second quarter after tariffs and intensifying price pressure led to an impairment charge on its Polestar 3, sending its US-listed shares down.
\n
US trade tariffs on global partners have hit the automotive industry hard, with automakers including Polestar scrambling to adjust supply chains and shift manufacturing to mitigate the effect.
\n
Polestar reported a net loss of $1.03 billion for the quarter ended June 30, compared with a loss of $268 million a year earlier.
\n
The company slashed the recoverable value of the Polestar 3 to $25 million, leading to a $739 million impairment charge.
\n
Sweden-based Volvo Cars, which produces the Polestar 3 in its South Carolina factory, also booked a similar impairment charge in the second quarter related to its ES90 and EX90 due to tariffs and launch delays.
\n
"We will not grow in the US at any cost, because the financial exposure is then too high," Polestar said in a post-earnings call.
\n
The company added that 77 percent of its sales were generated from Europe, while 8 percent came from the US in the first half of this year.
\n
"We think their big problem is going to be EV demand in the absence of incentives combined with liquidity," said Garrett Nelson, senior equity analyst at CFRA Research.
\n
Like many other EV startups, Polestar has burned through significant amounts of cash in its push to achieve scale and consistently faced challenges managing liquidity as well as debt levels.
\n
The company initially aimed to reach cash flow break-even by 2025 but adjusted it in January to 2027, before suspending its forecast due to the uncertainty brought on by tariffs.
\n
While it has long risked breaching certain debt covenants, the company repeatedly negotiated amendments with its lenders and said it had agreed with creditors to revise some of the covenants to remain compliant in the second half of the year.
\n
Polestar also said it had handed over 177 cars as collateral, as part of a financing deal.
\n
While a number of startups including Fisker, Lordstown and Arrival have gone under after running out of funds, a few have backers willing to continue funding loss-making operations.
\n
VinFast's founder has kept the Vietnamese EV maker going as it tries to break even by the end of 2026, while Lucid has received around $8 billion in investments from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.
\n
Polestar secured a $200 million equity investment from Geely owner Li Shufu through PSD Investment in June.
Malaysian automaker Proton launched the country's first dedicated EV assembly plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak's Automotive High Tech Valley, on Thursday. The new facility is already ready for production this month, seven months after its groundbreaking ceremony. The plant's first phase cost 47 million ringgit ($11 million) and can produce up to 20,000 EVs per year, with plans to scale up to a 45,000-unit annual capacity. Proton will assemble its e. MAS 7 and e. MAS 5 EV models at the site, and also plans to locally assemble premium brands through its partnership with China's Geely. Proton pointed out that EV production lines require dedicated battery assembly areas and specialized safety testing procedures for high-voltage electrical systems. Proton has fully leveraged the expertise of its co-principal shareholder Geely, which boasts mature technical experience in EV plant construction and has provided professional technical guidance for the new facility to support the plant's efficient launch and operation.
\n
Lotus slashes UK workforce due to tariff
\n
Chinese-owned luxury carmaker Lotus said on Thursday that it planned to cut up to 550 UK jobs, in part due to uncertainty caused by US President Donald Trump's tariffs. The layoffs represent more than 40 percent of its 1,300 employees in Britain. Lotus said the restructuring was necessary to "secure a sustainable future", citing the "rapidly evolving automotive environment, which is seeing uncertainty with rapid changes in global policies, including tariffs". The carmaker, majority-owned by Chinese automaker Geely, has several sites in the UK, including its headquarters in Hethel, eastern England. Another Lotus factory is in Wuhan, China. Automakers have been among the companies hit the hardest by Trump's tariff onslaught as he tries to bring production back to the US. UK exports of vehicles to the US rebounded in July following months of declines as the trade agreement came into force on June 30, industry data showed on Thursday.
\n
VW revives Polo brand for compact launch
\n
Volkswagen said on Wednesday it would use the Polo brand name for its planned compact hatchback electric vehicle, previously dubbed ID.2, a key model in the carmaker's efforts to counter Chinese competition. The ID.Polo, expected to be priced below 25,000 euros ($29,267) in its no-frills version, will be presented at the IAA Mobility auto show in Munich on Sept 8, although the car will still be camouflaged ahead of its official launch in 2026, Volkswagen said. "Our model names are firmly anchored in people's minds," said Thomas Schaefer, head of Volkswagen Passenger Cars and member of the carmaker's management board. "That's why we're moving our well-known names into the future. The ID.Polo is just the beginning." Volkswagen's finance chief Arno Antlitz said earlier this year that the ID.2 could be the carmaker's first battery-electric vehicle to make equal margins to its combustion-engine equivalent.
\n
BYD leads the way in Israel as competitors lag
\n
Chinese car manufacturer BYD led electric car sales in Israel in the first eight months of 2025, according to figures issued by the Israel Vehicle Importers Association on Tuesday. BYD sold 5,912 units between January and August, driven by its subcompact crossover Atto 3 and mid-size SUV Seal U. Chinese automaker XPeng secured second place with 5,076 electric cars sold across three models. Chery ranked third with 4,097, followed by Geely with 2,545 units and US manufacturer Tesla with 2,347. From January to August, Chinese brands accounted for 81.1 percent of all electric car sales in Israel, with a total of 30,725 delivered. Meanwhile, a total of 65,834 Chinese-made cars, gasoline-powered and electric, were sold in Israel during the period. According to the data, South Korea and Japan ranked as Israel's second- and third-largest sources of imported cars in the eight months, with 39,718 and 31,632 sold, respectively.
\n
Russia vehicle deliveries see decline of 25 percent
\n
Russia's Ministry of Industry and Trade reported on Tuesday that sales of new cars in the country fell 25 percent in the January-August period of 2025. According to the ministry, sales of new cars in Russia totaled 877,600 units, including passenger cars, light commercial vehicles, trucks and buses. Sales of domestically produced cars declined 6 percent to 483,000 units. Specifically, passenger car sales decreased 23 percent to 768,200 units, LCV sales dropped 21 percent to 66,400 units, while truck and bus sales saw steeper declines — down 56 percent to 35,960 units and 49 percent to 7,000 units, respectively. In August alone, new vehicle sales decreased 21 percent year-on-year to 135,500 units. However, sales inched up 1 percent on a monthly basis. The Association of European forecast a 24 percent drop in new car sales to 1.25 million units in 2025. It said government support programs and a possible further rate cut would be the key drivers of any market recovery in the near future.
\n",
- "content": "
Geely-backed Proton launches first EV plant
\n
Malaysian automaker Proton launched the country's first dedicated EV assembly plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak's Automotive High Tech Valley, on Thursday. The new facility is already ready for production this month, seven months after its groundbreaking ceremony. The plant's first phase cost 47 million ringgit ($11 million) and can produce up to 20,000 EVs per year, with plans to scale up to a 45,000-unit annual capacity. Proton will assemble its e. MAS 7 and e. MAS 5 EV models at the site, and also plans to locally assemble premium brands through its partnership with China's Geely. Proton pointed out that EV production lines require dedicated battery assembly areas and specialized safety testing procedures for high-voltage electrical systems. Proton has fully leveraged the expertise of its co-principal shareholder Geely, which boasts mature technical experience in EV plant construction and has provided professional technical guidance for the new facility to support the plant's efficient launch and operation.
\n
Lotus slashes UK workforce due to tariff
\n
Chinese-owned luxury carmaker Lotus said on Thursday that it planned to cut up to 550 UK jobs, in part due to uncertainty caused by US President Donald Trump's tariffs. The layoffs represent more than 40 percent of its 1,300 employees in Britain. Lotus said the restructuring was necessary to "secure a sustainable future", citing the "rapidly evolving automotive environment, which is seeing uncertainty with rapid changes in global policies, including tariffs". The carmaker, majority-owned by Chinese automaker Geely, has several sites in the UK, including its headquarters in Hethel, eastern England. Another Lotus factory is in Wuhan, China. Automakers have been among the companies hit the hardest by Trump's tariff onslaught as he tries to bring production back to the US. UK exports of vehicles to the US rebounded in July following months of declines as the trade agreement came into force on June 30, industry data showed on Thursday.
\n
VW revives Polo brand for compact launch
\n
Volkswagen said on Wednesday it would use the Polo brand name for its planned compact hatchback electric vehicle, previously dubbed ID.2, a key model in the carmaker's efforts to counter Chinese competition. The ID.Polo, expected to be priced below 25,000 euros ($29,267) in its no-frills version, will be presented at the IAA Mobility auto show in Munich on Sept 8, although the car will still be camouflaged ahead of its official launch in 2026, Volkswagen said. "Our model names are firmly anchored in people's minds," said Thomas Schaefer, head of Volkswagen Passenger Cars and member of the carmaker's management board. "That's why we're moving our well-known names into the future. The ID.Polo is just the beginning." Volkswagen's finance chief Arno Antlitz said earlier this year that the ID.2 could be the carmaker's first battery-electric vehicle to make equal margins to its combustion-engine equivalent.
\n
BYD leads the way in Israel as competitors lag
\n
Chinese car manufacturer BYD led electric car sales in Israel in the first eight months of 2025, according to figures issued by the Israel Vehicle Importers Association on Tuesday. BYD sold 5,912 units between January and August, driven by its subcompact crossover Atto 3 and mid-size SUV Seal U. Chinese automaker XPeng secured second place with 5,076 electric cars sold across three models. Chery ranked third with 4,097, followed by Geely with 2,545 units and US manufacturer Tesla with 2,347. From January to August, Chinese brands accounted for 81.1 percent of all electric car sales in Israel, with a total of 30,725 delivered. Meanwhile, a total of 65,834 Chinese-made cars, gasoline-powered and electric, were sold in Israel during the period. According to the data, South Korea and Japan ranked as Israel's second- and third-largest sources of imported cars in the eight months, with 39,718 and 31,632 sold, respectively.
\n
Russia vehicle deliveries see decline of 25 percent
\n
Russia's Ministry of Industry and Trade reported on Tuesday that sales of new cars in the country fell 25 percent in the January-August period of 2025. According to the ministry, sales of new cars in Russia totaled 877,600 units, including passenger cars, light commercial vehicles, trucks and buses. Sales of domestically produced cars declined 6 percent to 483,000 units. Specifically, passenger car sales decreased 23 percent to 768,200 units, LCV sales dropped 21 percent to 66,400 units, while truck and bus sales saw steeper declines — down 56 percent to 35,960 units and 49 percent to 7,000 units, respectively. In August alone, new vehicle sales decreased 21 percent year-on-year to 135,500 units. However, sales inched up 1 percent on a monthly basis. The Association of European forecast a 24 percent drop in new car sales to 1.25 million units in 2025. It said government support programs and a possible further rate cut would be the key drivers of any market recovery in the near future.
Customers purchase products at a Pop Mart store in London, Britain, on May 21.
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Customers purchase products at a Pop Mart store in London, Britain, on May 21.
\n
Collectible cards bearing the Palace Museum elements prove a hit among collectors from home and abroad.
\n
Toys themed on Labubu, a popular furry doll from Chinese toy company Pop Mart, at a new Pop Mart store in Bangkok, Thailand, in July 2024.
\n
Li Jing vividly remembers how an American collector carefully examined a card made by her company in his hand during the bustling US National Sports Collectors Convention at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, that was held at the end of July.
\n
The card's surface gleams with a golden drawing of the Palace Museum's (in Beijing, also known as the Forbidden City) Hall of Supreme Harmony, its edges inlaid with delicate filigree, and at the center, a tiny natural gemstone.
\n
This thin card, measuring less than a millimeter in thickness, embodies the marriage of centuries-old Chinese filigree inlay craftsmanship and modern industrial precision.
\n
"The Hall of Supreme Harmony card is from our 'Heritage' series," says Li, a co-founder of Suplay, a Chinese designer toy and collectibles company founded in 2019.
\n
The business produces collectible cards, trendy figurines, and pop-culture merchandise, operating under its card brand Kakawow.
\n
This year marked the company's third invitation to Chicago to participate in the five-day convention, one of the world's largest card and memorabilia expos.
\n
At Suplay's booth, wearing a Tang Dynasty (618-907) style jacket, Disney's Mickey Mouse stood out in playful contrast to the US entertainment company Warner Bros' 100th anniversary commemorative cards sitting next to collectible cards featuring photography from the Chinese National Geography magazine.
\n
The US expo boasts a history of more than four decades. The floors are typically dominated by sports cards — basketball, baseball, and other sports-centered collectibles, such as jersey fragments or autographs. These remain the industry's gold standard, both culturally and economically.
\n
Yet, at Suplay's booth, Forbidden City-themed cards drew equally big crowds. Nearly all of Suplay's showcased products were sold out on-site, purchased primarily by American collectors and distributors.
\n
"These culturally infused collectibles are fast becoming favorites both at home and abroad," Li says.
\n
Kakawow's first Forbidden City series was launched in 2020 and snapped up within two weeks. Its success was further cemented by its performance on secondary markets, where collectors resell items to other collectors. Resale prices for the cards soared significantly, confirming their status as coveted cultural artifacts, not just consumer products, Li notes.
\n
Though Suplay did not offer the Forbidden City series at this year's convention, many US collectors inquired about products related to the Palace Museum — a sign of a strong overseas appetite for Chinese cultural intellectual properties, Li says.
\n
In recent years, trendy and collectible Chinese toys have gained remarkable popularity worldwide, with numerous brands expanding their reach overseas, generating overwhelming enthusiasm both online and offline.
\n
Pop Mart stands out as a prominent example of this global success. By the end of 2024, Pop Mart had expanded to over 30 countries and regions, operating more than 500 physical stores and over 2,300 robotic stores.
\n
TOP TOY, another major player, now operates more than 280 stores worldwide and reported exports worth approximately 47 million yuan ($6.6 million) in 2024.
\n
Hong Yong, an associate research fellow in the Ministry of Commerce's e-commerce research department, notes that with the rise of China's economy and the enhancement of its cultural influences, trendy toys have served as a vehicle for cultural dissemination, successfully integrating Chinese elements with modern trends and demonstrating unique charm.
\n
Hong adds that the overseas popularity of Chinese brands not only boosts their international visibility and influence but also strengthens the domestic market in return, creating a positive feedback loop.
\n
Suplay's entrepreneurial journey began with a creative reinterpretation of traditional culture.
\n
"For our premium card brand Kakawow, we chose the Forbidden City as the first IP because it represents one deep cultural consensus among Chinese people," Li recalls.
\n
Their debut series — totaling 300 boxes — sold out in just two weeks, giving the team enormous confidence.
\n
In 2024, Kakawow launched its "Heritage" series priced at 6,990 yuan, which incorporated intangible cultural heritage techniques such as filigree inlay.
\n
Among them, the Cup of Eternal Stability edition was made using 81 grams of pure gold.
\n
"The market response exceeded all expectations," Li says.
\n
"Ninety-six percent of our buyers are adults over 18, which proves there is significant demand for high-end collectible cards in China," she adds.
\n
Inside Kakawow's creative studio in Beijing, the East and the West merge in imaginative ways. Mickey Mouse dons a traditional Tang-style robe embroidered with auspicious cloud motifs. Beasts from the roof of the Hall of Supreme Harmony leap across holographic card foil.
\n
"This blending of traditions is not only visual, but also rooted in the precision of Chinese manufacturing," Li says.
\n
She picked up a Warner Bros'100th anniversary card to demonstrate: "The PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film layer has a thickness deviation of less than 0.1 millimeters, and the gold stamping position tolerance is controlled within 0.3 millimeters. Only Chinese factories can achieve this level of consistency," she says.
\n
According to a leading card-grading agency in the United States, 75 percent of Kakawow cards achieve a Gem Mint 10 rating, well above the US industry average of 50 percent.
\n
Cao Wei, general manager of the card trading platform Card Hobby, established in 2014, has been a collector since 1997 and has witnessed China's collectible card culture grow over the years.
\n
"To hold a piece of Michael Jordan's game-worn jersey embedded in a card carries immense emotional value for fans. It's not just a card; it's a tangible memory," Cao recalls. His collecting journey started with matchbox covers and stamps, then gradually moved toward modern trading cards.
\n
Today, the platform processes transactions of nearly 300 million yuan monthly, with over 600,000 registered users worldwide, making it a key bridge that links Chinese card culture to global markets.
\n
Though cards with Chinese elements currently account for just 5 to 10 percent of transactions, Cao sees tremendous growth potential.
\n
"The challenge for cultural cards going global is IP appeal," Cao explains.
\n
"You need international customers to buy in. You need a breakout story," he adds.
\n
He cites Ne Zha as proof — after being licensed and distributed as a trading card series, the IP became highly active on the platform, proving to be a successful case of export of cultural product.
\n
Industry veterans note that China's advantage in exporting designer toys and cultural collectibles lies in three areas: a robust supply chain; expertise in social media marketing and cross-border e-commerce; and a maturing, original design ecosystem.
\n
Looking ahead, the outlook is bright. According to the Annual Report on China's Pop Toy and Animation and Comic Industries (2024), the country's designer toy industry is projected to reach 110.1 billion yuan by 2026, with annual growth above 20 percent.
\n
Amid these shifts, Cao underscores the importance of patience.
\n
"The card market requires long-term accumulation. We need time to become friends," Cao says.
\n
He adds that Card Hobby will continue to advance China's card culture globally by participating in international expos, streamlining cross-border transactions, and releasing more products that blend Eastern and Western themes.
\n
As for Suplay, the company plans to push further, experimenting with creative combinations, such as Dunhuang's flying apsaras with the movie Interstellar, and Song Dynasty (960-1279) elements with cyberpunk aesthetics.
\n
"These seemingly contrasting elements will be woven into collectible cards, offering fresh stories with cultural fusion," Li says.
\n
She believes that cultural elements going global cannot be measured by sales numbers alone.
\n
"When I saw an elderly American gentleman at our booth using a magnifying glass to examine the Chinese characters Taihe Dian (Hall of Supreme Harmony), then looking them up to learn their meaning, I realized that cultural integration is truly happening," she says.
\n
Contact the writer at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
@@ -9641,28 +10785,6 @@
"hash": "ace6803ab747c3a3e943b739ea283af2",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "017LIFE - Application of AI bolsters culture and museum sectors",
- "description": "
The culture and museum sectors are seeing accelerating application of artificial intelligence, as shown by a recent meeting pairing industry and cultural institutions in Shanghai in August.
\n
Online Scan the code to watch the video.
\n
The culture and museum sectors are witnessing the acceleration of artificial intelligence use, focusing on various fields, such as museum guidance and immersive exhibitions, as well as the identification, protection, and restoration of cultural relics, according to industry experts at a matchmaking meeting in Shanghai on Aug 25.
\n
The city has been ramping up efforts in innovation in the sector in recent years. In 2018, the Shanghai Museum established the nation's first comprehensive data-based digital management platform. In 2021, the Shanghai History Museum launched the city's first digital twin museum system, significantly improving its digital governance capabilities.
\n
Several immersive exhibitions at various museums across Shanghai are already utilizing advanced technologies, bringing ancient Chinese civilization back to life while offering new cultural experiences.
\n
In cooperation with Chinese AI company SenseTime, a Fourier humanoid robot was demonstrated at the meeting, offering visitors a guided tour of the museum.
\n
Xinke Animation Co set up an immersive space with virtual reality on site to take visitors on an expedition into the mysterious Xixia Imperial Tombs.
\n
BimoAI also showcased an interactive terminal named "BimoAI Camera", which offers visitors to museums and tourist spots instantly customized AIGC (artificial intelligence-generated content) photos and newspapers.
\n
"Artificial intelligence has not only enhanced the interactivity and engagement of the visitor experience, but also optimized the management of cultural institutions and cultural relic protection," says Xiang Yihai, deputy director-general of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Cultural Heritage. "Museums are evolving from traditional exhibition spaces into vibrant interactive venues, and AI is becoming a 'super translator' for telling the stories of Shanghai."
\n
Several cooperative projects were signed during the event to further promote AI's application scenarios in the cultural and museum sectors.
\n
Among them, the Shanghai Museum will partner with BesTV to develop a digital twin museum, and the Shanghai History Museum will work with four technology companies to deepen the exploration of sectors such as spatial scanning, data collection, modeling, digital copyright management, and intelligent guided tours.
\n
At the meeting, Shanghai Jiao Tong University also unveiled the construction of a research center, which will optimize the protection of cultural heritage architecture. With AI technologies, the center will focus on key areas, including the diagnosis of cultural heritage architectural defects, risk prediction, and protection measures.
\n
"We see huge potential and promising prospects for China's cultural tourism market. For instance, the market demand for our BimoAI Camera is growing in Shanghai. We are in talks with about 100 museums and cultural tourism sites about potential collaborations," says Eric Tang, founder and CEO of BimoAI. "I am confident that the application of AI in this sector will continue to grow."
\n
wangxin2@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
The culture and museum sectors are seeing accelerating application of artificial intelligence, as shown by a recent meeting pairing industry and cultural institutions in Shanghai in August.
\n
Online Scan the code to watch the video.
\n
The culture and museum sectors are witnessing the acceleration of artificial intelligence use, focusing on various fields, such as museum guidance and immersive exhibitions, as well as the identification, protection, and restoration of cultural relics, according to industry experts at a matchmaking meeting in Shanghai on Aug 25.
\n
The city has been ramping up efforts in innovation in the sector in recent years. In 2018, the Shanghai Museum established the nation's first comprehensive data-based digital management platform. In 2021, the Shanghai History Museum launched the city's first digital twin museum system, significantly improving its digital governance capabilities.
\n
Several immersive exhibitions at various museums across Shanghai are already utilizing advanced technologies, bringing ancient Chinese civilization back to life while offering new cultural experiences.
\n
In cooperation with Chinese AI company SenseTime, a Fourier humanoid robot was demonstrated at the meeting, offering visitors a guided tour of the museum.
\n
Xinke Animation Co set up an immersive space with virtual reality on site to take visitors on an expedition into the mysterious Xixia Imperial Tombs.
\n
BimoAI also showcased an interactive terminal named "BimoAI Camera", which offers visitors to museums and tourist spots instantly customized AIGC (artificial intelligence-generated content) photos and newspapers.
\n
"Artificial intelligence has not only enhanced the interactivity and engagement of the visitor experience, but also optimized the management of cultural institutions and cultural relic protection," says Xiang Yihai, deputy director-general of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Cultural Heritage. "Museums are evolving from traditional exhibition spaces into vibrant interactive venues, and AI is becoming a 'super translator' for telling the stories of Shanghai."
\n
Several cooperative projects were signed during the event to further promote AI's application scenarios in the cultural and museum sectors.
\n
Among them, the Shanghai Museum will partner with BesTV to develop a digital twin museum, and the Shanghai History Museum will work with four technology companies to deepen the exploration of sectors such as spatial scanning, data collection, modeling, digital copyright management, and intelligent guided tours.
\n
At the meeting, Shanghai Jiao Tong University also unveiled the construction of a research center, which will optimize the protection of cultural heritage architecture. With AI technologies, the center will focus on key areas, including the diagnosis of cultural heritage architectural defects, risk prediction, and protection measures.
\n
"We see huge potential and promising prospects for China's cultural tourism market. For instance, the market demand for our BimoAI Camera is growing in Shanghai. We are in talks with about 100 museums and cultural tourism sites about potential collaborations," says Eric Tang, founder and CEO of BimoAI. "I am confident that the application of AI in this sector will continue to grow."
Chinese Canadian violinist Li Zhe, newly appointed executive director of the NCPA Orchestra.
\n
Maestro Myung-whun Chung conducts a concert during the European tour.
\n
Piano virtuoso Bruce Liu performs with the orchestra on its summer tour.
\n
This year was the first time that the orchestra had embarked on a wider European tour.
\n
The performances in Scotland, England, Spain, and Germany drew an enthusiastic response from concertgoers.
\n
The National Centre for the Performing Arts has named Chinese Canadian violinist Li Zhe as executive director of its resident orchestra, a move announced just as the ensemble returned from its first full-scale European tour. The appointment marks both a personal milestone for Li, long-serving concertmaster and one of the orchestra's most senior players, and a symbolic moment for the group, which is striving for greater international recognition.
\n
Founded in 2010, the Beijing-based NCPA Orchestra has grown rapidly in stature under the direction of internationally renowned conductors. This summer, led by maestro Myung-whun Chung, it performed at major festivals including the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland, Saffron Hall in England, the Santander International Festival in Spain, and in the German cities of Koblenz and Hamburg. In Hamburg, the orchestra received a standing ovation, a sign that the young ensemble is now ready to be measured on Europe's most competitive stages.
\n
With an average age of 32, and comprising musicians from all over the world but mainly China, the orchestra brings together a wide range of young talent. It performs live to around 200,000 people annually, with millions more tuning in online.
\n
General manager Ren Xiaolong recalls suggesting to Chung that they tour together years ago, but the conductor wanted to wait until the group had matured. Only in 2019 did plans begin to take shape.
\n
For Li, who has served as concertmaster since 2012, the timing was right. "It's just about waiting for the opportunity to do a proper tour," he says. "We toured Germany in earlier years, but this was our first true European tour. Europe is very important for classical music as this is where it comes from. The musicians needed to be ready artistically and mentally."
\n
Born in 1978, Li studied at Beijing's Central Conservatory of Music before earning scholarships to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and the Universite de Montreal in Canada.
\n
He gained professional experience with the London Symphony Orchestra and ensembles in Montreal, where he also served as a cultural envoy. Returning to China, he joined the Symphony Orchestra of the China National Opera House and then the NCPA Orchestra, rising to become concertmaster. Over his career, he has worked with celebrated conductors including Zubin Mehta and Lorin Maazel, contributed to the music for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, and twice received an Outstanding Performance Award from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
\n
His new appointment recognizes not only his musical ability but also his role as a bridge between conductor and musicians. "In our orchestra, there are many young players who are passionate and well-trained," he says. "Around one-third come from other countries, including Spain and South Korea. Many have studied abroad. We are a very international orchestra."
\n
That internationalism is reflected in the programming. On its European tour, the orchestra presented a blend of Western classics by composers such as Sergey Prokofiev and Camille Saint-Saens alongside Chinese works less familiar to Western audiences. Among them was Wu Xing (The Five Elements) by Chen Qigang, a student of French composer Olivier Messiaen. Li stresses that such choices demonstrate music's universality. "Music is a common language — Eastern, Western, it's all music," he says. "Chen's harmonies are French, but the melodies are Chinese. That mix is a good example of cultural dialogue."
\n
The NCPA Orchestra also benefits from its home environment. The Beijing center is a cultural hub, hosting opera, ballet, theater, classical concerts, and traditional Chinese opera. Li believes this enhances the orchestra's artistry. "Opera playing is different from symphony playing — it has to fit with long singing phrases," he explains. "It is very good for us to learn both, because you take elements of operatic playing and mingle them with symphony playing, which gives a different spirit."
\n
Chung echoed this sense of growth. While being interviewed in Hamburg, he said the young musicians should be proud of themselves.
\n
Li also says that the ensemble has reached a new level of maturity.
\n
"The average age of the members is much younger than me," he says with a laugh. "But that energy is good."
\n
Ren says, "We are constantly expanding our boundaries — technically, cognitively, and in terms of team spirit. It is a process of self-cultivation for the orchestra."
\n
The international dimension of the summer tour was strengthened by the participation of Bruce Liu, the French-born Chinese Canadian pianist who won the International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw in 2021. At 28, Liu is one of the most sought-after young pianists in the world, and he praised the collaboration as both fun and inspirational. He will perform in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, Guangdong province, later this year.
\n
At home, the orchestra enjoys strong audience support. Concert halls in China now attract large numbers of young people who share reviews online and fuel discussions on platforms such as RedNote. Many parents encourage their children to learn music, and new concert halls have opened across the country. This enthusiasm has helped the NCPA Orchestra build a loyal following.
\n
Li hopes he can guide an orchestra that combines international training, youthful energy, and a growing ambition to represent Chinese artistry abroad. "We are not robots, we are human beings," he says. "You cannot just switch from one style to another. You take elements and mingle them, and that makes for a different spirit. That's what we are aiming for."
\n
From his first years as a student in Beijing to his studies abroad and professional work in London and Montreal, Li's career has mirrored the global journey of Chinese classical music itself. Now, as the NCPA Orchestra begins to establish its reputation in Europe, he is tasked with ensuring that the ensemble continues to grow.
\n
Zhao Haiying, executive vice-president of the NCPA, who led the tour, notes that the tour came shortly after the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. He hoped the performances would help build new bridges of communication.
\n
The European tour is unlikely to be the last. With more opportunities emerging, the orchestra aims to expand its international footprint while continuing to serve audiences at home.
\n
Contact the writer at Julian@mail.chinadailyuk.com
\n",
@@ -9685,28 +10807,6 @@
"hash": "b2b16296bf6b733c0a72d01c1a4ce8d3",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "018CULTURE - Tanzania and China bond through acrobatics legacy",
- "description": "
Acrobat Hamis Adam Nyota (center) holds the hand of a student during a practice session in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Aug 11.
\n
DAR ES SALAAM — In the heart of Ilala Mchikichini, a bustling neighborhood in Tanzania's port city of Dar es Salaam, the sound of spinning hoops and synchronized flips fills the warm afternoon air.
\n
At the center of the action, 9-year-old Aisha Juma, a fourth-grader at Ilala Boma Primary School, twirls hula hoops with remarkable precision.
\n
"I like acrobatics because it makes me healthy and sharpens my mind," she says with a smile.
\n
Since beginning her training two years ago, Aisha has not only built strength and flexibility but also noticed better results in school.
\n
Her story is the latest chapter in a tradition that began nearly six decades ago, when 20 young Tanzanians were sent to China to study acrobatics — a milestone in the history of Sino-Tanzanian cultural exchange.
\n
The program took shape after a Chinese acrobatic troupe performed in Tanzania, impressing national leaders and inspiring the idea of sending young talents for formal training in China.
\n
In the winter of 1965, Hamis Adam Nyota and 19 others — 14 boys and five girls, aged between 9 and 18 — arrived in Wuhan, the capital of Central China's Hubei province.
\n
"Life in China was tough at first," Nyota, born in 1954, recalls. "Most of us fell ill, except for one."
\n
Despite the challenges, they trained diligently at the Wuhan Acrobatic Institute. Their dedication led to a historic meeting in 1968 with Chairman Mao Zedong, during a visit by Tanzania's founding President Julius Nyerere.
\n
"We met Mao face to face, spoke with him, and took photos together. It was a tremendous honor," says Nyota.
\n
Returning home in 1969, the group established the National Acrobatics Troupe, the first of its kind in Africa. Under government guidance, they toured extensively within Tanzania and abroad, performing in Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, the Comoros and Malawi.
\n
Nyota stayed with the troupe until 1977, when the government decentralized acrobatics training. Posted to the Mtwara region, he continued to teach even as many of his peers left the profession. Along with colleague Rajab Zubwa, he later founded Bantu International Acrobatic group to revive the art.
\n
"In time, every performing arts troupe wanted to include acrobatics," Nyota says. "That's how the art grew — both locally and internationally."
\n
One of his proteges, Saidi Ramadhani Yusuph, now serves as an instructor at Happy Center Acrobatic Talent.
\n
Inspired by visiting Chinese performers, Yusuph began training with Nyota at age 16. "He taught me for five years before I entered the profession," Yusuph recalls.
\n
Since becoming a teacher in 2008, Yusuph has trained over 70 students, focusing on balancing skills and teamwork. Despite limited facilities and modest institutional support, he remains dedicated. "Teaching is my passion, and acrobatics is a talent within me," he says.
\n
"Acrobatics brings many benefits. Physically and mentally, it builds strength. Financially, it can provide a livelihood. We've had job opportunities through hotels, weddings, and various events, both in Tanzania and abroad," Yusuph explains.
\n
He notes that public perception has shifted. Once viewed as simple entertainment, acrobatics is now recognized as a legitimate career path. "Some artists have secured contracts abroad, earning between $1,500 and $2,000 a month — a significant income in Tanzanian terms," he says.
\n
Happy Center Acrobatic Talent, a registered institution, now has over 200 members. Alumni include internationally known acts such as the Ramadhani Brothers, who competed on America's Got Talent, a popular US television talent show.
\n
Nyota believes the Tanzania-China bond remains strong. "Comparing the China we visited to the China of today shows a dramatic transformation," he says. "They have progressed impressively."
\n
From the icy streets of Wuhan to the sunlit training grounds of Dar es Salaam, the story of Tanzanian acrobatics continues to unfold.
\n
As young Aisha spins her hoops with poise and joy, she carries forward a tradition that bridges continents and generations.
\n",
- "content": "
Acrobat Hamis Adam Nyota (center) holds the hand of a student during a practice session in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Aug 11.
\n
DAR ES SALAAM — In the heart of Ilala Mchikichini, a bustling neighborhood in Tanzania's port city of Dar es Salaam, the sound of spinning hoops and synchronized flips fills the warm afternoon air.
\n
At the center of the action, 9-year-old Aisha Juma, a fourth-grader at Ilala Boma Primary School, twirls hula hoops with remarkable precision.
\n
"I like acrobatics because it makes me healthy and sharpens my mind," she says with a smile.
\n
Since beginning her training two years ago, Aisha has not only built strength and flexibility but also noticed better results in school.
\n
Her story is the latest chapter in a tradition that began nearly six decades ago, when 20 young Tanzanians were sent to China to study acrobatics — a milestone in the history of Sino-Tanzanian cultural exchange.
\n
The program took shape after a Chinese acrobatic troupe performed in Tanzania, impressing national leaders and inspiring the idea of sending young talents for formal training in China.
\n
In the winter of 1965, Hamis Adam Nyota and 19 others — 14 boys and five girls, aged between 9 and 18 — arrived in Wuhan, the capital of Central China's Hubei province.
\n
"Life in China was tough at first," Nyota, born in 1954, recalls. "Most of us fell ill, except for one."
\n
Despite the challenges, they trained diligently at the Wuhan Acrobatic Institute. Their dedication led to a historic meeting in 1968 with Chairman Mao Zedong, during a visit by Tanzania's founding President Julius Nyerere.
\n
"We met Mao face to face, spoke with him, and took photos together. It was a tremendous honor," says Nyota.
\n
Returning home in 1969, the group established the National Acrobatics Troupe, the first of its kind in Africa. Under government guidance, they toured extensively within Tanzania and abroad, performing in Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, the Comoros and Malawi.
\n
Nyota stayed with the troupe until 1977, when the government decentralized acrobatics training. Posted to the Mtwara region, he continued to teach even as many of his peers left the profession. Along with colleague Rajab Zubwa, he later founded Bantu International Acrobatic group to revive the art.
\n
"In time, every performing arts troupe wanted to include acrobatics," Nyota says. "That's how the art grew — both locally and internationally."
\n
One of his proteges, Saidi Ramadhani Yusuph, now serves as an instructor at Happy Center Acrobatic Talent.
\n
Inspired by visiting Chinese performers, Yusuph began training with Nyota at age 16. "He taught me for five years before I entered the profession," Yusuph recalls.
\n
Since becoming a teacher in 2008, Yusuph has trained over 70 students, focusing on balancing skills and teamwork. Despite limited facilities and modest institutional support, he remains dedicated. "Teaching is my passion, and acrobatics is a talent within me," he says.
\n
"Acrobatics brings many benefits. Physically and mentally, it builds strength. Financially, it can provide a livelihood. We've had job opportunities through hotels, weddings, and various events, both in Tanzania and abroad," Yusuph explains.
\n
He notes that public perception has shifted. Once viewed as simple entertainment, acrobatics is now recognized as a legitimate career path. "Some artists have secured contracts abroad, earning between $1,500 and $2,000 a month — a significant income in Tanzanian terms," he says.
\n
Happy Center Acrobatic Talent, a registered institution, now has over 200 members. Alumni include internationally known acts such as the Ramadhani Brothers, who competed on America's Got Talent, a popular US television talent show.
\n
Nyota believes the Tanzania-China bond remains strong. "Comparing the China we visited to the China of today shows a dramatic transformation," he says. "They have progressed impressively."
\n
From the icy streets of Wuhan to the sunlit training grounds of Dar es Salaam, the story of Tanzanian acrobatics continues to unfold.
\n
As young Aisha spins her hoops with poise and joy, she carries forward a tradition that bridges continents and generations.
China's Li Haotong (left) and Bobby Bai Zhengkai could benefit from new qualifying rules for the Masters and The Open.
\n
Asian golf has long yearned for a moment like this, and China's top golfers could be beneficiaries.
\n
At a time when the region's top amateurs have lit up leaderboards and superstars Hideki Matsuyama, Li Haotong and Im Sung-jae shinning at the highest level, Augusta National Golf Club and The Royal and Ancient dropped a seismic announcement that will reverberate for generations — winners of the Japan Open and Hong Kong Open will now receive invitations to the Masters Tournament and The Open.
\n
For Asia's aspiring champions, the road to the majors has always been a steep climb, especially the Masters. However, the fairways that lead to Augusta National and Royal Birkdale next year will now become shorter. Starting immediately, winners of six leading international golf championships, including the Australian, Scottish, Spanish and South African Opens, will earn exemptions to compete on golf's two most iconic stages.
\n
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley and R&A CEO Mark Darbon framed the alignment of qualification criteria as part of a shared vision to expand opportunities for international players. "Today's announcement strengthens our organizations' collective vision of rewarding top talent around the world. We hope this formal recognition shines a bright light on these players," said Ridley.
\n
The R&A has been ahead of the curve with its innovative Open Qualifying Series, launched in 2013 to provide pathways around the globe to the world's oldest major championship. From the end of this year, 15 tournaments in 13 countries and regions will offer access to Royal Birkdale for the 154th Open next July. Aligning with Augusta National adds greater emphasis to its global vision. "We firmly believe this will continue to enrich the quality of the fields at both major championships," said Darbon, who recently assumed the role of CEO at R&A.
\n
If this new criterion had been created three years ago, Japan's last three national champions, Taiga Semikawa, Aguri Iwasaki and Shugo Imahira would have earned coveted starts at the Masters and The Open. Founded in 1927, the Japan Open is arguably one Asia's crown jewels, and it will no doubt carry a greater purpose when it is played in October.
\n
The inclusion of the Hong Kong Open is equally inspired. Since 1959, the tournament has been a bumper fixture on the Asian sporting calendar, although Asian champions have been rare — Chinese Taipei's Lin Wen-tang in 2008 and South Korea's Kang Wook-soon in 1998 were the last two Asian winners.
\n
The fabled fairways at Fanling, which have been graced by the likes of Rory McIlroy, Tom Watson, Jose Maria Olazabal, Colin Montgomerie and Bernhard Langer, will now become even more attractive as one of the new gateways to the game's grandest stages. Fans can expect an extra spark of ambition when the region's best golfers, including Chinese mainland's Bobby Bai Zhengkai and Sampson Zheng and hometown hope Taichi Kho gather in Hong Kong this November.
\n
"We take great pride in the range of qualification routes we offer to players around the world. We share the same goal as Augusta National to offer places in both The Open and the Masters and, by doing so, help to showcase and strengthen our sport in those regions," said Darbon.
\n
For Asia, the timing of this announcement couldn't be better. Japanese star Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, and South Korea's Im continue to represent the region proudly on the PGA Tour, where they were the only two Asians to qualify for the season-ending Tour Championship, limited to the top-30, in Atlanta the previous week.
\n
Young Asian talent is also knocking loudly on the door. Vietnam's rising star Nguyen Anh Minh became the first player from his country to reach the US Junior Amateur Final this summer, Chinese prospect Paul Chang reached the round of 16 at the US Amateur, while Japan's Rintaro Nakano impressed in the round of 32 — performances that bode well for the future.
\n
Additionally, the annual Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, which will be played at Emirates Golf Club in Dubai in October, will continue to provide another opportunity for aspiring Asians to stand up and be counted, as the winner will also earn invitations to both the Masters and The Open next year.
",
@@ -9729,28 +10829,6 @@
"hash": "f1942d684e4cddd674c043f894ebc1bd",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "019SPORTS - Australia excited as teen sprinter Gout makes worlds debut",
- "description": "
Australia's teen sprint sensation Gout Gout celebrates winning the men's 200m at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic in June.
\n
MELBOURNE — Teen sprinter Gout Gout will make a much-anticipated world championships debut in Tokyo this month, as he marks an early milestone in a career that Australians hope will peak with Olympic gold at Brisbane 2032.
\n
Still only 17, Gout is already one of the most exciting prospects in global athletics, earning comparisons with Jamaican great Usain Bolt and training with Adidas stablemate Noah Lyles in Florida.
\n
All this while juggling homework and exams in his final year of high school in Ipswich, Queensland.
\n
Gout is skipping school for a few days to run in the 200 meters in Tokyo, only his second senior race abroad.
\n
His first, in June, saw him win the 200m at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic in 20.02 seconds, improving on his Australian record.
\n
While impressive for his age, that time only puts him equal-20th in the season rankings, meaning he may need to raise the bar considerably to earn a spot in the worlds final.
\n
Just doing that much would send Australia into another frenzy of excitement.
\n
Unheard of outside athletics circles a year ago, the son of Sudanese immigrants has become the poster boy of Australian track and field, boosting ticket sales at domestic events and bringing in a new, youthful audience.
\n
Fans flocked to a Victorian gold rush town on the Easter weekend to see Gout race in the Stawell Gift, a local handicap footrace on a grass track.
\n
Gout failed to make the final of the 120m sprint but the crowd of 6,000 was double the usual attendance, and organizers were thrilled.
\n
Gout's 200m run at the Maurie Plant Meet in Melbourne in the previous month drew 10,000 to Lakeside Stadium, the nation's first sellout crowd for a one-day athletics event in over 20 years.
\n
Athletes and officials have warned Australia not to expect too much, too soon, in case the pressure becomes overwhelming for the teenager.
\n
The warnings have largely flown out the window.
\n
"What is also now a matter not open for debate is that Gout is the real thing," said a typical testimonial in a Melbourne newspaper after the national athletics championships.
\n
"We are witnesses to greatness emerging in front of us by the race."
\n
Gout can no longer go out in public without being swamped by well-wishers despite being largely sheltered from the media by his handlers.
\n
Although signed to Adidas in a long-term deal worth a reported A$6 million ($3.90 million), Gout lives as normal a childhood as he can on the outskirts of Brisbane.
\n
One of seven siblings, he shares a room with his brother in the family home in Spring Hill.
\n
His coach, Di Sheppard, is no former champion athlete, but a silver-haired 60-year-old who once worked in the uniform shop at Gout's school. A renowned disciplinarian who scatters expletives throughout her interviews, she is convinced Gout will dominate the world in time.
\n
"I'm not suggesting it. He's going to go to that level," she told Australian TV earlier this year.
\n
"Olympic gold. It might not be in'28 (Los Angeles), but it's definitely going to happen in 2032."
\n
For the moment, Gout is still a work in progress, relatively sluggish out of the blocks, but impressive in the back half of races.
\n
It will take around 20 seconds in Tokyo to get a read on his place among the big dogs of track and field, but possibly years of development before he can hope to leave them in his wake.
\n",
- "content": "
Australia's teen sprint sensation Gout Gout celebrates winning the men's 200m at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic in June.
\n
MELBOURNE — Teen sprinter Gout Gout will make a much-anticipated world championships debut in Tokyo this month, as he marks an early milestone in a career that Australians hope will peak with Olympic gold at Brisbane 2032.
\n
Still only 17, Gout is already one of the most exciting prospects in global athletics, earning comparisons with Jamaican great Usain Bolt and training with Adidas stablemate Noah Lyles in Florida.
\n
All this while juggling homework and exams in his final year of high school in Ipswich, Queensland.
\n
Gout is skipping school for a few days to run in the 200 meters in Tokyo, only his second senior race abroad.
\n
His first, in June, saw him win the 200m at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic in 20.02 seconds, improving on his Australian record.
\n
While impressive for his age, that time only puts him equal-20th in the season rankings, meaning he may need to raise the bar considerably to earn a spot in the worlds final.
\n
Just doing that much would send Australia into another frenzy of excitement.
\n
Unheard of outside athletics circles a year ago, the son of Sudanese immigrants has become the poster boy of Australian track and field, boosting ticket sales at domestic events and bringing in a new, youthful audience.
\n
Fans flocked to a Victorian gold rush town on the Easter weekend to see Gout race in the Stawell Gift, a local handicap footrace on a grass track.
\n
Gout failed to make the final of the 120m sprint but the crowd of 6,000 was double the usual attendance, and organizers were thrilled.
\n
Gout's 200m run at the Maurie Plant Meet in Melbourne in the previous month drew 10,000 to Lakeside Stadium, the nation's first sellout crowd for a one-day athletics event in over 20 years.
\n
Athletes and officials have warned Australia not to expect too much, too soon, in case the pressure becomes overwhelming for the teenager.
\n
The warnings have largely flown out the window.
\n
"What is also now a matter not open for debate is that Gout is the real thing," said a typical testimonial in a Melbourne newspaper after the national athletics championships.
\n
"We are witnesses to greatness emerging in front of us by the race."
\n
Gout can no longer go out in public without being swamped by well-wishers despite being largely sheltered from the media by his handlers.
\n
Although signed to Adidas in a long-term deal worth a reported A$6 million ($3.90 million), Gout lives as normal a childhood as he can on the outskirts of Brisbane.
\n
One of seven siblings, he shares a room with his brother in the family home in Spring Hill.
\n
His coach, Di Sheppard, is no former champion athlete, but a silver-haired 60-year-old who once worked in the uniform shop at Gout's school. A renowned disciplinarian who scatters expletives throughout her interviews, she is convinced Gout will dominate the world in time.
\n
"I'm not suggesting it. He's going to go to that level," she told Australian TV earlier this year.
\n
"Olympic gold. It might not be in'28 (Los Angeles), but it's definitely going to happen in 2032."
\n
For the moment, Gout is still a work in progress, relatively sluggish out of the blocks, but impressive in the back half of races.
\n
It will take around 20 seconds in Tokyo to get a read on his place among the big dogs of track and field, but possibly years of development before he can hope to leave them in his wake.
Tennis tournaments on the WTA Tour and ATP Tour, such as the Shanghai Masters (pictured), are at the vanguard of a new government push aimed at driving the high-quality development of the sports industry in China.
\n
All of the tennis tournaments to be held in China in the next two months are expected to attract a total of one million spectators, generating a collective revenue of over $280 million, according to official estimates.
\n\n
As China pushes ahead with its sports industry upgrade, the expansion of the women's professional tennis circuit has served it up a boost by opening up more business opportunities in the sports entertainment sector.
\n
Already a busy stretch on the pro tennis calendar, the annual "China Swing" has got bigger and better this year, with five new WTA 125 events added in the country, anchored by a beyond-its-class leg in Suzhou, Jiangsu province. Combined, they are expected to further elevate the sport's profile, offer local talent more competitive playing time and boost consumption in relevant businesses.
\n
The inaugural Suzhou Open, which swings off its main draw action on Sept 29 at the Sungent International Tennis Center, features an above-average field for a tournament on the entry-level WTA circuit, with all the 23 direct entries in the singles draw ranked within the top-100, and four of whom are inside the top-50.
\n
Slovakia's world No 35 Rebecca Sramkova, the French Open's homegrown semifinalist Lois Boisson (No 46) and the Philippines' rising star Alexandra Eala (No 75) will spearhead the 32-player singles draw, where four qualifiers, four wild-card entries and one special exemption will fill up the remaining spots.
\n
China's current third-highest ranked woman Yuan Yue (No 100), two-time major quarterfinalist Zhang Shuai and former world No 47 Wang Yafan are among a competitive legion of home aces coveting main-draw appearances, either through wildcards or as alternates.
\n
"In terms of the quality of the field, I think it's safe to say that we are almost as competitive as some of the tournaments on the Tour's next level," tournament director Zhou Yunsong said at the launch ceremony of the Suzhou Open on Friday.
\n
"We didn't expect it, to be honest, that so many high-ranking players have signed up to play at a WTA 125 event here.
\n
"I think it all came down to the collective qualities of service and facilities, as well as the accessibility of not just one or two, but a string of events in China that has made a greater number of international players want to come every year."
\n
With six Tour-level tournaments already on the schedule, China is hosting a total 11 WTA events this fall, with the 125-level drills serving up a launchpad for the country's ambitious newcomers to progress to the top-tier stage, such as the WTA 1000-level China Open and Wuhan Open.
\n
Scheduled prudently to maximize playing and earning opportunities, the WTA 125 circuit, which has mushroomed to 50 legs this year, up from 24 in 2022, and offers a total prize pool of $6 million, has also provided a stepping stone for established players returning from injury and maternity leave as they transition back to the pro stage.
\n
"This is the first WTA event to be held in Jiangsu province, and we hope to build a stage for all the up-and-coming players to launch the pursuit of their professional dreams," Helene He, WTA Asia-Pacific director of operations, said of the Suzhou event's purpose.
\n
"We'd like to also develop it into a sports entertainment event during the National Day holiday that will benefit local tourism and cultural promotion."
\n
Built on the picturesque shore of Yangcheng Lake, the Sungent tennis center hosts 11 courts, including nine featuring the same hard surface as the Australian Open and two covered by the same red clay used at the French Open, across an area of 8,788 square meters.
\n
Four of the courts are equipped with all-weather retractable roofs to ensure uninterrupted training and matches if necessary, while a new four-star hotel, with breathtaking views of the lake and the tennis center, is within walking distance of the center court.
\n
A fitting addition
\n
The Suzhou Open was launched just one day after China's central government issued a set of guidelines on Thursday aimed at unleashing the consumption potential in sports-related businesses to drive the high-quality development of the sports industry.
\n
At the core of the 20-measure guideline, which was issued by the State Council, is a desire to diversify and expand the supply of sporting events as an entertainment product for consumers who are not necessarily sports fans.
\n
Tourism, accommodation, sales of club merchandise and youth training in relevant sports are among areas where consumption potential could be further tapped with the hosting of more sports events, according to the guideline.
\n
Specific proposals also include the development of the outdoor sports industry, boosting the snow-and-ice economy around operations of mountain resorts and indoor rinks and upgrading the manufacturing sector of sporting goods.
\n
China plans to cultivate a number of sports enterprises and sporting events with global influence, build a full-fledged sports industry worth 7 trillion yuan (about $985 billion) by 2030, per the guideline.
\n
The new guideline reflects the country's goal to leverage sports events as a driver of economic growth in a variety of businesses, and the increasing number of pro tennis events being held in China, for instance, is setting an example, according to Bai Xilin, director of the tennis administration center under the General Administration of Sport of China.
\n
"The more tournaments being hosted, the bigger the slice of the pie," Bai said at a recent media event to reveal a series of measures to promote the "China Swing" as a whole.
\n
"Week in, week out, tennis tournaments will help generate revenues from ticket sales, retail, catering and tourism, among other businesses, from one city to another."
\n
All of the tournaments to be held in China over the next two months are expected to attract a total of one million spectators, generating a collective revenue of over 2 billion yuan, according to an estimate by the center.
",
@@ -9773,28 +10851,6 @@
"hash": "4d6908c7d5c6b688369aff07e12aadfe",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "020SPORTS - Sabalenka says emotional control was key to US Open win",
- "description": "
Aryna Sabalenka celebrates with the trophy after beating Amanda Anisimova to retain her US Open title on Saturday.
\n
NEW YORK — Aryna Sabalenka credited her newfound mental approach on Saturday after producing a controlled performance that saw her power to victory at the US Open.
\n
The 27-year-old world No 1 from Belarus defeated American eighth seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6 (3) to retain her US Open crown and capture a fourth career Grand Slam title.
\n
Sabalenka said afterwards that her victory came after defeats in the Australian and French Open finals this season prompted her to rethink how she approached major finals.
\n
"After the Australian Open, I thought that the right way would be just to forget it and move on, but then the same thing happened at the French Open," she said.
\n
"So, after the French Open, I figured that, 'OK, maybe it's time for me to sit back and to look at those finals and maybe learn something', because I didn't want it to happen again and again and again."
\n
A holiday in Mykonos, where she read the self-help memoir Into the Magic Shop by neurosurgeon James Doty, provided a lightbulb moment.
\n
"Reading that book, I realized a lot of things," she said.
\n
"That book really helped me to stay focused, and to focus on the right things at important points.
\n
"I was just thinking 'why did I let my emotions take control over me in those two finals?' I thought that, 'OK, if I made it to the final, it means that I'm going to win it'."
\n
Approaching Saturday's final, Sabalenka said she had been determined to keep her temperament in check.
\n
"I'm not going to let (my emotions) take control of me, and it doesn't matter what happens during the match," said Sabalenka, who arrived at her post-match news conference clutching an open bottle of champagne.
\n
Sabalenka greeted victory by collapsing to the baseline, an expression of joy mixed with relief. The Belarusian said Saturday's win had carried extra meaning, given her two previous defeats in Grand Slam finals this year.
\n
"This one felt different," she said. "You know, it felt like I had to overcome a lot of things to get this one.
\n
"I knew that, with the hard work we put in, like, I deserved to have a Grand Slam title this season.
\n
"To bring the fight and be able to handle my emotions the way I did in this final, it means a lot.
\n
"I'm super proud of myself right now."
\n
Sabalenka meanwhile paid tribute to her late father, Sergey, who died from meningitis in 2019 at the age of 43.
\n
"When he passed away, you know, I was very depressed. It was a tough moment for me, for my family," Sabalenka said.
\n
"But, in that moment, I decided to take it as motivation, to put our family name in the history books.
\n
"I want to believe, and I think I feel his protection from up there, and I know that he became my power."
\n
So close, yet so far
\n
For the second consecutive Grand Slam, Anisimova found herself tantalizingly close to etching her name into the tennis history books — only to watch it slip away in straight sets.
\n
The 24-year-old American's loss to Sabalenka on Saturday marked another painful chapter in a story of near-misses on the sport's biggest stages.
\n
After falling short at Wimbledon earlier this year, Anisimova again struggled to find her best in the pressure cooker of a major final.
\n
"I feel like, with finals, I have a lot of nerves, and it's something I'm trying to work on," Anisimova admitted in her post-match news conference.
\n
The aggressive baseline game that carried her past former champions Iga Swiatek and Naomi Osaka was on display, as she struck 22 winners to Sabalenka's 13.
\n
But, a high-risk strategy produced costly errors, with the American committing 29 unforced errors to her opponent's 15.
\n
Anisimova said her rhythm was thrown off by an unexpected factor: the lighting under the closed roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium for the day session.
\n
"Well, I haven't played on the court during the day with the roof closed, and it was literally, like, white, and I couldn't see the ball when I was serving," she explained.
\n
The loss was a cruel blow for the former junior US Open champion, but her run to the final ensures she will break into the top five of the world rankings for the first time.
\n
"It has been a great summer. Losing in two finals is great, but it is also super hard," Anisimova said on court, capturing the bittersweet nature of her breakthrough season.
\n",
- "content": "
Aryna Sabalenka celebrates with the trophy after beating Amanda Anisimova to retain her US Open title on Saturday.
\n
NEW YORK — Aryna Sabalenka credited her newfound mental approach on Saturday after producing a controlled performance that saw her power to victory at the US Open.
\n
The 27-year-old world No 1 from Belarus defeated American eighth seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6 (3) to retain her US Open crown and capture a fourth career Grand Slam title.
\n
Sabalenka said afterwards that her victory came after defeats in the Australian and French Open finals this season prompted her to rethink how she approached major finals.
\n
"After the Australian Open, I thought that the right way would be just to forget it and move on, but then the same thing happened at the French Open," she said.
\n
"So, after the French Open, I figured that, 'OK, maybe it's time for me to sit back and to look at those finals and maybe learn something', because I didn't want it to happen again and again and again."
\n
A holiday in Mykonos, where she read the self-help memoir Into the Magic Shop by neurosurgeon James Doty, provided a lightbulb moment.
\n
"Reading that book, I realized a lot of things," she said.
\n
"That book really helped me to stay focused, and to focus on the right things at important points.
\n
"I was just thinking 'why did I let my emotions take control over me in those two finals?' I thought that, 'OK, if I made it to the final, it means that I'm going to win it'."
\n
Approaching Saturday's final, Sabalenka said she had been determined to keep her temperament in check.
\n
"I'm not going to let (my emotions) take control of me, and it doesn't matter what happens during the match," said Sabalenka, who arrived at her post-match news conference clutching an open bottle of champagne.
\n
Sabalenka greeted victory by collapsing to the baseline, an expression of joy mixed with relief. The Belarusian said Saturday's win had carried extra meaning, given her two previous defeats in Grand Slam finals this year.
\n
"This one felt different," she said. "You know, it felt like I had to overcome a lot of things to get this one.
\n
"I knew that, with the hard work we put in, like, I deserved to have a Grand Slam title this season.
\n
"To bring the fight and be able to handle my emotions the way I did in this final, it means a lot.
\n
"I'm super proud of myself right now."
\n
Sabalenka meanwhile paid tribute to her late father, Sergey, who died from meningitis in 2019 at the age of 43.
\n
"When he passed away, you know, I was very depressed. It was a tough moment for me, for my family," Sabalenka said.
\n
"But, in that moment, I decided to take it as motivation, to put our family name in the history books.
\n
"I want to believe, and I think I feel his protection from up there, and I know that he became my power."
\n
So close, yet so far
\n
For the second consecutive Grand Slam, Anisimova found herself tantalizingly close to etching her name into the tennis history books — only to watch it slip away in straight sets.
\n
The 24-year-old American's loss to Sabalenka on Saturday marked another painful chapter in a story of near-misses on the sport's biggest stages.
\n
After falling short at Wimbledon earlier this year, Anisimova again struggled to find her best in the pressure cooker of a major final.
\n
"I feel like, with finals, I have a lot of nerves, and it's something I'm trying to work on," Anisimova admitted in her post-match news conference.
\n
The aggressive baseline game that carried her past former champions Iga Swiatek and Naomi Osaka was on display, as she struck 22 winners to Sabalenka's 13.
\n
But, a high-risk strategy produced costly errors, with the American committing 29 unforced errors to her opponent's 15.
\n
Anisimova said her rhythm was thrown off by an unexpected factor: the lighting under the closed roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium for the day session.
\n
"Well, I haven't played on the court during the day with the roof closed, and it was literally, like, white, and I couldn't see the ball when I was serving," she explained.
\n
The loss was a cruel blow for the former junior US Open champion, but her run to the final ensures she will break into the top five of the world rankings for the first time.
\n
"It has been a great summer. Losing in two finals is great, but it is also super hard," Anisimova said on court, capturing the bittersweet nature of her breakthrough season.
Two humanoid robots from Unitree Robotics punch their way at a boxing match, attracting a great number of spectators during the World Smart Industry Expo 2025, which opened in Chongqing on Friday.
\n
President Xi Jinping has highlighted China's commitment to engaging in extensive international cooperation on artificial intelligence with countries around the world, saying that AI should be an international public good that benefits humanity.
\n
Xi made the remarks in a congratulatory message sent to the World Smart Industry Expo 2025, which opened in Chongqing on Friday.
\n
He said in the message that AI technology is rapidly evolving, profoundly transforming human production and lifestyles, and reshaping the global industrial landscape.
\n
China attaches great importance to AI development and governance and actively promotes the deep integration of AI technological innovation with industrial innovation to empower high-quality economic and social development, thereby helping to improve people's lives, he added.
\n
Xi expressed China's willingness to strengthen international cooperation and coordination with other countries in development strategies, governance rules and technical standards to promote the healthy and vigorous development of the AI industry, and bring greater benefits to people in all countries.
\n
The four-day expo, with the themes of "AI+" and "Intelligent Connected New Energy Vehicles", is co-hosted by the governments of Chongqing and Tianjin.
\n
With Singapore acting as the guest country of honor and Sichuan province as the guest province of honor, it features participation from over 600 leading domestic and international companies, showcasing more than 3,000 innovative products and technologies.
\n
At the opening ceremony, investment agreements worth more than 200 billion yuan ($28 billion) were signed, covering sectors such as intelligent connected new energy vehicles, electronic information, advanced materials, smart equipment and intelligent manufacturing, and the low-altitude economy, according to Zheng Xiangdong, vicemayor of Chongqing.
\n
Antonio Yung, chief representative of the China Office of Sacramento, the capital of the US state of California, said that Xi's message highlighted the significance of the expo, as the whole world is paying attention to AI development and in particular, China is one of the major developers in the sector.
\n
The State Council, China's Cabinet, issued a guideline on Aug 26 to implement the "AI Plus" initiative, promoting the extensive and in-depth integration of AI in various fields.
\n
Cai Guangzhong, vice-president of Tencent, one of China's top tech firms, said at the expo that Tencent has consistently responded actively to the national strategy, and has taken a long-term approach by increasing investment in technology to solidify the foundation of "AI Plus".
\n
"Tencent will continue to invest in AI research and development, leveraging its rich application ecosystem to comprehensively promote the presence of 'useful AI' closer to users and industries," Cai said.
\n
"This will enable everyone to become a 'super individual' empowered by AI, transform AI into new quality productive forces across various sectors, and allow every enterprise to become an AI company, achieving truly useful, accessible and beneficial AI for all," he added.
\n
Tan Kiat How, Singapore's senior minister of state for digital development and information, said that he sees tremendous scope for Singapore and Chongqing to deepen practical collaboration in AI applications and smart urban solutions.
\n
Contact the writers at caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
@@ -9817,28 +10873,6 @@
"hash": "076953feb6bec591fe70f636a909a52d",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "001FRONT - Media ties bolster voice of Global South",
- "description": "
Foreign guests use stamps bearing their names to mark a handdrawn scroll ahead of the South and Southeast Asian Media Network Annual Meeting, which took place in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, on Friday.
\n
The role of media collaboration in amplifying the voice of the Global South and enhancing cross-border understanding was highlighted at this year's South and Southeast Asian Media Network Annual Meeting.
\n
Participants called for joint efforts to foster common prosperity and contribute to global development and security at the meeting held in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, on Friday.
\n
In his opening remarks at the meeting, Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, highlighted the role of the media in promoting regional and global peace and development as a "stabilizer" and "power source", as the world is rapidly changing and is once again experiencing the turbulence of transformation.
\n
Initiated by China Daily Asia Pacific and the Yunnan International Communication Center for South and Southeast Asia in January 2024, the network aims to leverage the strength of Yunnan as a gateway to open up to South and Southeast Asia, deepen cooperation among media outlets in the region, and contribute to regional socioeconomic development. It has attracted more than 100 media outlets from 12 countries to take part in the network.
\n
"South and Southeast Asian countries have long histories, similar cultures and shared pursuits. We should continue to explore the cultural treasures of the region via storytelling and actively organizing diverse exchange activities," Qu said.
\n
Zeng Yan, head of the publicity department of the Yunnan Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, said that the founding of the network has received active responses from mainstream media in South and Southeast Asia, and is expected to establish a new model for media cooperation in Asia.
\n
"The media serves as a crucial force for the Global South to achieve sustainable development and news reports on boosting peace, communication, exchanges and common interests are essential," she said.
\n
As the gateway connecting China with South and Southeast Asia, Zeng said that Yunnan enjoys geographical proximity, cultural affinity, and close people-to-people connections and business interactions with these countries.
\n
"The network helps to bring such relationships even closer. Members of the network will collaborate on publishing newspapers and magazines, and managing websites and new media platforms," she said, and reaffirmed that network members will stick to the principle of openness, tolerance and mutual benefits.
\n
Khamphanh Pheuyavong, secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee, who is also chairman of the LPRP Central Committee's Commission for Propaganda and Training, urged network members to further strengthen communication and cooperation to enhance news reporting skills empowered by new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
\n
He also suggested completing the network's news sharing mechanism, especially to exchange ideas on emerging trends and cooperation opportunities.
\n
Maung Maung Ohn, Myanmar's minister of information, noted that South Asia and Southeast Asia are currently among the regions with the fastest economic growth in the world.
\n
"In terms of the news industry, we should also stay at the forefront of technology … China now holds strong technical competence. In the future, we hope to work closely with China under the network's framework, sending our media professionals to the country to learn new technologies," he said.
\n
His words were echoed by Wu Xu, executive secretary of the All-China Journalists Association.
\n
"The technological revolution is now fundamentally changing the media landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges. We will continue to collaborate with Asian media to utilize new technologies and further expand cooperation with the network members, jointly improving news productivity and enhancing communication efficiency," Wu said.
\n
Contact the writers at yangwanli@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
Foreign guests use stamps bearing their names to mark a handdrawn scroll ahead of the South and Southeast Asian Media Network Annual Meeting, which took place in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, on Friday.
\n
The role of media collaboration in amplifying the voice of the Global South and enhancing cross-border understanding was highlighted at this year's South and Southeast Asian Media Network Annual Meeting.
\n
Participants called for joint efforts to foster common prosperity and contribute to global development and security at the meeting held in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, on Friday.
\n
In his opening remarks at the meeting, Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, highlighted the role of the media in promoting regional and global peace and development as a "stabilizer" and "power source", as the world is rapidly changing and is once again experiencing the turbulence of transformation.
\n
Initiated by China Daily Asia Pacific and the Yunnan International Communication Center for South and Southeast Asia in January 2024, the network aims to leverage the strength of Yunnan as a gateway to open up to South and Southeast Asia, deepen cooperation among media outlets in the region, and contribute to regional socioeconomic development. It has attracted more than 100 media outlets from 12 countries to take part in the network.
\n
"South and Southeast Asian countries have long histories, similar cultures and shared pursuits. We should continue to explore the cultural treasures of the region via storytelling and actively organizing diverse exchange activities," Qu said.
\n
Zeng Yan, head of the publicity department of the Yunnan Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, said that the founding of the network has received active responses from mainstream media in South and Southeast Asia, and is expected to establish a new model for media cooperation in Asia.
\n
"The media serves as a crucial force for the Global South to achieve sustainable development and news reports on boosting peace, communication, exchanges and common interests are essential," she said.
\n
As the gateway connecting China with South and Southeast Asia, Zeng said that Yunnan enjoys geographical proximity, cultural affinity, and close people-to-people connections and business interactions with these countries.
\n
"The network helps to bring such relationships even closer. Members of the network will collaborate on publishing newspapers and magazines, and managing websites and new media platforms," she said, and reaffirmed that network members will stick to the principle of openness, tolerance and mutual benefits.
\n
Khamphanh Pheuyavong, secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee, who is also chairman of the LPRP Central Committee's Commission for Propaganda and Training, urged network members to further strengthen communication and cooperation to enhance news reporting skills empowered by new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
\n
He also suggested completing the network's news sharing mechanism, especially to exchange ideas on emerging trends and cooperation opportunities.
\n
Maung Maung Ohn, Myanmar's minister of information, noted that South Asia and Southeast Asia are currently among the regions with the fastest economic growth in the world.
\n
"In terms of the news industry, we should also stay at the forefront of technology … China now holds strong technical competence. In the future, we hope to work closely with China under the network's framework, sending our media professionals to the country to learn new technologies," he said.
\n
His words were echoed by Wu Xu, executive secretary of the All-China Journalists Association.
\n
"The technological revolution is now fundamentally changing the media landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges. We will continue to collaborate with Asian media to utilize new technologies and further expand cooperation with the network members, jointly improving news productivity and enhancing communication efficiency," Wu said.
\n
Contact the writers at yangwanli@chinadaily.com.cn
At just 26 years old, Tibetan-language teacher Nie Chang has become one of the most recognizable online voices, introducing learners worldwide to the language.
\n
With his fluent greetings in the Lhasa dialect and his structured lessons tailored for beginners, Nie draws students from China to Europe, turning his personal passion into a cultural bridge.
\n
Raised in Shaanxi province and educated far from the Tibetan Plateau, Nie had little exposure to the Tibetan language until college, when an introductory course drew him in.
\n
Nie, who was born to a Han ethnic father and a Tibetan mother, incorporates both cultural backgrounds into his teaching. Students from Liaoning province to Germany often say that his classes feel less like nontypical lessons and are more like bridges between cultures.
\n
He is now one of the most popular and recognizable Tibetan-language teachers online.
\n
Nie began studying Tibetan in 2017 and mastered the basic spelling rules at Zhejiang University. There were few affordable, beginner-friendly resources, and most courses were designed by native speakers whose methods did not always suit outsiders.
\n
"Many Tibetan teachers, (despite) being native speakers, struggle to explain grammar and word formation from a non-Tibetan perspective," Nie said.
\n
He purchased dozens of textbooks and dictionaries and practiced day and night, writing his own summaries. Over time, he developed a structured curriculum specifically designed for learners without a Tibetan background.
\n
After graduating, Nie moved to Lhasa, the capital of the Xizang autonomous region, for a job. In September 2021, he launched his first online class with only three students. Nearly four years later, more than 250 students have completed his courses, which cover levels from beginner to advanced.
\n
Ninety percent of his students live outside of Tibetan-speaking areas, with about one-third residing overseas in countries such as the United States, Germany, France and Italy. Some are scholars interested in Tibetan culture and history, while others simply seek a deeper connection with "the roof of the world".
\n
Drawing on his own learning journey, Nie emphasizes language and culture in his classes, where he blends grammar with everyday conversation and provides cultural context tailored to learners who, like him, grew up outside the plateau.
\n
He also creates online content, including vlogs from the streets of Lhasa, short videos on Tibetan food and festivals and cultural anecdotes with Tibetan annotations. He has posted them across Bilibili, Weibo and other social media platforms.
\n
"I always put myself in the shoes of non-native learners," he said. "That's why I can design a system that works for them and continue to attract more students."
\n
The diversity of his classroom reflects how the Tibetan language is reaching new spaces. Civil servants in Xizang, young people in mixed-ethnic marriages, travelers seeking a deeper experience of culture, and overseas researchers exploring Tibetan studies all gather for his lessons.
\n
For Sun Zhiquan, a Yi ethnic group graduate student, the lessons were a lifeline before a yearlong volunteer teaching program in Chamdo, Xizang, starting in June 2023.
\n
"Tibetan is a helpful tool for communicating with the local residents," Sun said. "Even saying a few simple phrases makes them light up. It's a sign that their culture is being respected."
\n
Beyond teaching, learning Tibetan helped Sun form friendships and develop a deeper understanding of the region.
\n
Liu Xiaojia, 24, a trainee in Nie's intermediate course, is preparing to pursue his PhD at the Chinese University of Hong Kong in September.
\n
"I'd like to study literature in China," he said. "Tibetan literature, which is an important part of that, has its own charm. It is closely tied to Buddhism and philosophy and it gives me a different lens through which to understand China's diversity."
\n
Nie's classes cost about 2,500 yuan ($348) for a four-month term — a price students say is affordable compared with traditional programs. Online learning has lowered the barriers for those who would otherwise never have the opportunity to study Tibetan.
\n
"It is really inspiring to be a Tibetan teacher," Nie said. "The joy comes when a student who once couldn't read a single letter can now hold a basic conversation and share experiences."
\n
His next goal is to create textbooks written specifically for non-native speakers that reflect the challenges he once faced.
\n
"Language is more than words," he said. "It is a bridge. Once you cross it, you discover another world."
\n
guoyanqi@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
@@ -9861,28 +10895,6 @@
"hash": "5a17245c6efa087dfcce143c868dc11f",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "001FRONT - New 1st-tier cities gain ground in talent battle",
- "description": "
While China's capital city of Beijing and major cities like Shanghai remain top destinations for young job seekers, new first-tier cities, especially in East China's Yangtze River Delta, are gaining ground in the battle for talent, as they offer robust manufacturing and innovation capabilities, flexible talent programs and promising career prospects, according to a recent report.
\n
The report, by Beijing-based education consultancy MyCOS, indicated that Beijing and Shanghai have been the two most attractive cities for undergraduates over the past three years.
\n
It noted that, from 2022 to 2024, 82 percent of surveyed undergraduates who found jobs in Beijing came from outside the city. They were attracted by Beijing's strong economy, abundant job opportunities and higher potential for wellpaid positions. In Shanghai, the figure was 75 percent.
\n
However, since salary is no longer the sole factor in a city's appeal to young job seekers, smaller cities are using flexible talent programs, lower living costs, improved quality of life, and strong economies to attract talent, according to MyCOS.
\n
In Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, 67 percent of surveyed undergraduates who found jobs from 2022 to 2024 were from outside the city, up from 65 percent from 2018 to 2020. Other cities in the Yangtze River Delta, including Suzhou and Nanjing in Jiangsu province and Ningbo in Zhejiang, have also seen an increase in out-oftown undergraduates taking local jobs, thanks to favorable talent policies and improved public services.
\n
According to the Nanjing-based Yangtze Evening Post, undergraduates looking for jobs in Nanjing can receive free accommodation for up to 14 days. They can also apply for a 2,000 yuan ($280) subsidy and secure a loan of up to 500,000 yuan for their first entrepreneurial venture in the city.
\n
Li Zhiyuan, a 28-year-old engineer at a small artificial intelligence tech company in Hangzhou, told China Daily: "My parents thought I was crazy when I decided to take a job here since I've never lived or studied in the city before."
\n
After earning his bachelor's degree in Beijing and his master's in Shanghai, Li chose Hangzhou because of its favorable talent programs, digital economy strength and slower work pace.
\n
"The city grants generous onetime subsidies of 10,000 yuan ($1,400) to undergraduates, 30,000 yuan to postgraduates, and 100,000 yuan to doctoral graduates. The working and living environment is good, and I think I can get myself good prospects here," he said.
\n
Li Chang'an, a professor at the Academy of China Open Economy Studies at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, noted the growing preference among young people for smaller cities.
\n
"China has an increasing number of college graduates each year, leading to growing employment pressure and intensified competition," the professor said. "More young people are seeking new opportunities in new first-tier and second-tier cities, or even counties, to ease the pressure."
\n
He added that supportive government policies in smaller cities have helped to attract young talent. "These new first-tier or smaller cities have a better living environment with lower living costs and more opportunities for entrepreneurship, but it is still important for them to figure out ways to retain talent," he said.
\n
chengsi@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
While China's capital city of Beijing and major cities like Shanghai remain top destinations for young job seekers, new first-tier cities, especially in East China's Yangtze River Delta, are gaining ground in the battle for talent, as they offer robust manufacturing and innovation capabilities, flexible talent programs and promising career prospects, according to a recent report.
\n
The report, by Beijing-based education consultancy MyCOS, indicated that Beijing and Shanghai have been the two most attractive cities for undergraduates over the past three years.
\n
It noted that, from 2022 to 2024, 82 percent of surveyed undergraduates who found jobs in Beijing came from outside the city. They were attracted by Beijing's strong economy, abundant job opportunities and higher potential for wellpaid positions. In Shanghai, the figure was 75 percent.
\n
However, since salary is no longer the sole factor in a city's appeal to young job seekers, smaller cities are using flexible talent programs, lower living costs, improved quality of life, and strong economies to attract talent, according to MyCOS.
\n
In Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, 67 percent of surveyed undergraduates who found jobs from 2022 to 2024 were from outside the city, up from 65 percent from 2018 to 2020. Other cities in the Yangtze River Delta, including Suzhou and Nanjing in Jiangsu province and Ningbo in Zhejiang, have also seen an increase in out-oftown undergraduates taking local jobs, thanks to favorable talent policies and improved public services.
\n
According to the Nanjing-based Yangtze Evening Post, undergraduates looking for jobs in Nanjing can receive free accommodation for up to 14 days. They can also apply for a 2,000 yuan ($280) subsidy and secure a loan of up to 500,000 yuan for their first entrepreneurial venture in the city.
\n
Li Zhiyuan, a 28-year-old engineer at a small artificial intelligence tech company in Hangzhou, told China Daily: "My parents thought I was crazy when I decided to take a job here since I've never lived or studied in the city before."
\n
After earning his bachelor's degree in Beijing and his master's in Shanghai, Li chose Hangzhou because of its favorable talent programs, digital economy strength and slower work pace.
\n
"The city grants generous onetime subsidies of 10,000 yuan ($1,400) to undergraduates, 30,000 yuan to postgraduates, and 100,000 yuan to doctoral graduates. The working and living environment is good, and I think I can get myself good prospects here," he said.
\n
Li Chang'an, a professor at the Academy of China Open Economy Studies at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, noted the growing preference among young people for smaller cities.
\n
"China has an increasing number of college graduates each year, leading to growing employment pressure and intensified competition," the professor said. "More young people are seeking new opportunities in new first-tier and second-tier cities, or even counties, to ease the pressure."
\n
He added that supportive government policies in smaller cities have helped to attract young talent. "These new first-tier or smaller cities have a better living environment with lower living costs and more opportunities for entrepreneurship, but it is still important for them to figure out ways to retain talent," he said.
Stilwell family members take a group photo in front of the newly unveiled statue of General Joseph W. Stilwell at the Chongqing Stilwell Museum in Chongqing on Thursday.
\n
A new full-size bronze statue of the late United States Army General Joseph W. Stilwell (1883-1946) was unveiled at the Chongqing Stilwell Museum in Southwest China's Chongqing city recently.
\n
This statue, replacing the previous head sculpture, commemorates the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Stilwell Road during World War II and the enduring friendship between China and the US.
\n
The statue, located in the museum that was once the general's residence, depicts him with a carbine slung over his shoulder, striding confidently and gazing resolutely forward.
\n
As this year also marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the event, attended by Stilwell's descendants and scholars, highlighted the historical significance of the Stilwell Road — a vital military supply route during World War II — and paid tribute to General Stilwell's legacy and his wartime contributions.
\n
The Stilwell Road, also known as the China-India Road, was a significant military supply route constructed under General Stilwell's leadership. Built from late 1942 and completed in early 1945, this over-1,700-kilometer route connected China with India and Burma (today's Myanmar).
\n
"The unveiling was magnificent," said Susan Mai Easterbrook Cole, General Stilwell's great-granddaughter, during her sixth visit to Chongqing on Thursday. "I think it is a testament to how the Chinese people feel about him, and in return, how he has always felt about the Chinese people."
\n
The statue's unveiling was part of a broader commemoration. On Friday, nine members of the Stilwell family, along with experts from Chongqing city and Yunnan province, embarked on a journey to retrace the Stilwell Road in Yunnan. Their journey will conclude in a visit to the Flying Tigers Museum in Kunming, capital of Yunnan, on Tuesday.
\n
Stilwell commanded the China-Burma-India theater during the war. He had developed deep respect for the Chinese people through multiple tours of duty in the 1920s and 1930s.
\n
The museum received several significant donations on Thursday. Stilwell's great-granddaughter, Nancy Easterbrook Millward, on behalf of her father, John Easterbrook, donated a collection of historical materials. Other donations came from Manny Dume, CEO of the Stilwell Academy, and Tang Xuefeng, an expert from the Chongqing Stilwell Research Center.
\n
Additionally, Tang Boming, former president of Chongqing Jiaotong University, donated a book he edited, Traffic History of the Second World War — The Stilwell Road, to the Stilwell family, Dume and Tamara Roper, headmaster of the Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership.
\n
Notably, on Wednesday, the two great-granddaughters of Stilwell were invited to the V-Day military parade staged at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing.
\n
"The parade celebration showcased a wonderful display of Chinese patriotism and love of the country, and you just could not get over how spectacular the entire event was," Nancy Easterbrook Millward said. "I think General Stilwell would be so proud to see how far we have come in 80 years in the relationship between the US and China."
\n
Mou Zhixian, former chief expert of the Chongqing Stilwell Research Center and adviser to the Chongqing Flying Tigers Museum, said: "Stilwell was an energetic and talented general who knew a lot about China and spoke Chinese fluently. He led an army known for its strong cohesion and combat effectiveness. He introduced principled, advanced military practices to China and greatly contributed to military aid. He also played an important role in building friendship and cultural exchanges between China and the US."
A child runs holding a national flag as his mother films him to mark their moment at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing on Thursday. The square reopened to the public after Wednesday's commemoration to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, attracting a number of citizens and tourists.
\n",
- "content": "
A child runs holding a national flag as his mother films him to mark their moment at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing on Thursday. The square reopened to the public after Wednesday's commemoration to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, attracting a number of citizens and tourists.
In a concerted effort to bolster bird conservation, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, alongside 16 other national government bodies, has initiated a comprehensive three-year campaign aimed at curbing illegal bird hunting and trafficking.
\n
The campaign, the launch of which coincides with the start of the southward migration of migratory birds in China that usually runs from September to November, will focus on three key initiatives: enhancing bird protection, cracking down on illegal activities, and promoting public education, according to a media release from the administration.
\n
As a key measure for the bird protection initiative, relevant authorities will beef up field patrols and monitoring, particularly in the four migratory bird flyways passing through China and 1,140 key areas with frequent bird activities across the country, the administration stated.
\n
"Responsible agencies will be designated to ensure effective patrolling, strictly preventing illegal bird netting and hunting, as well as habitat destruction," it said.
\n
It noted further enhancement of the country's network for bird protection monitoring as another priority of the initiative, with the monitoring of wintering waterbirds as a focus.
\n
Measures will also be rolled out to restore and transform key bird habitats, the release added.
\n
As part of the initiative to combat illegal activities, law enforcement officers will conduct more rapid operations against bird poaching and trafficking, with a primary focus on organized crime syndicates and illegal activities involving nationally protected bird species, the administration said.
\n
The initiative seeks to dismantle numerous criminal groups, and eliminate bird netting and other illegal hunting activities along migratory bird flyways and in areas where birds frequently appear, it emphasized. Additionally, a series of high-profile cases will be publicly exposed to serve as a strong deterrent.
\n
The release also highlighted the initiative's intensified cross-departmental collaboration, stating that joint inspections and law enforcement operations will be conducted.
\n
The joint operations will primarily focus on spontaneously formed bird trading hubs, it noted. Additionally, online trading platforms will be urged to conduct self-inspections to eliminate the possibility of illegal bird sales.
\n
China is home to 1,505 bird species, representing about one-sixth of the world's total, making it one of the countries with the richest bird resources globally, according to the administration.
\n
Of these species, over 800 are migratory.
\n
Four of the world's nine major migratory bird flyways pass through China, encompassing nearly all of the country's land and sea territories.
A team of Chinese and Italian scientists has developed a groundbreaking method for splitting hydrogen at room temperature, potentially enhancing the efficiency and quality of producing key chemical products. The study, published in the journal Science on Friday, addresses a long-standing challenge in heterolytic hydrogen dissociation chemistry.
\n
Hydrogenation, a fundamental reaction in the chemical industry, involves hydrogen dissociation, which can occur through homolytic or heterolytic pathways. It is estimated that 25 percent of all the chemical processes include at least one hydrogenation step.
\n
Heterolytic dissociation is crucial for producing fine chemicals, as it generates reactive, polar hydrogen species that selectively reduce polar functional groups. However, this process usually requires high temperatures and pressures, leading to increased energy consumption and safety concerns.
\n
To overcome these challenges, the researchers developed a lightinduced strategy to achieve heterolytic hydrogen dissociation at room temperature. Using titanium dioxide supported with gold nanoparticles as a photocatalyst, they found that exposure to ultraviolet light causes electrons to migrate from titanium dioxide to gold nanoparticles.
\n
Concurrently, holes are captured at interfacial defects formed by the gold-oxygen-titanium connection, facilitating heterolytic hydrogen dissociation. The activity scales almost linearly with light intensity, confirming the photocatalytic nature of the process.
\n
The strategy's advantages were demonstrated by reducing inert carbon dioxide with the dissociated hydrogen species. The scientists found that these species could almost fully reduce carbon dioxide at room temperature, producing ethane as the sole product.
\n
By connecting this process with a photocatalytic ethane dehydrogenation device, they could convert carbon dioxide into ethylene with a yield exceeding 99 percent. This process remained stable for over 1,500 hours under ultraviolet light, indicating the catalyst's long-term stability.
\n
Further research showed that light-induced hydrogen dissociation is universal and can be extended to visible-light responsive photocatalysts.
\n
A demonstration using solar energy to convert carbon dioxide achieved an ethane selectivity of up to 90 percent.
\n
"This work offers a promising route to produce high-value chemicals like ethane and ethylene from hydrogen and carbon dioxide under mild conditions, which could lower the energy cost and reduce carbon emissions," said Wang Feng, the study's first corresponding author and a researcher at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
\n
"In the future, we hope the strategy can develop into a scalable, sunlight-driven or photothermal coupled technique to upgrade modern coal-based chemical industries," Wang added.
\n
limenghan@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "\n
A team of Chinese and Italian scientists has developed a groundbreaking method for splitting hydrogen at room temperature, potentially enhancing the efficiency and quality of producing key chemical products. The study, published in the journal Science on Friday, addresses a long-standing challenge in heterolytic hydrogen dissociation chemistry.
\n
Hydrogenation, a fundamental reaction in the chemical industry, involves hydrogen dissociation, which can occur through homolytic or heterolytic pathways. It is estimated that 25 percent of all the chemical processes include at least one hydrogenation step.
\n
Heterolytic dissociation is crucial for producing fine chemicals, as it generates reactive, polar hydrogen species that selectively reduce polar functional groups. However, this process usually requires high temperatures and pressures, leading to increased energy consumption and safety concerns.
\n
To overcome these challenges, the researchers developed a lightinduced strategy to achieve heterolytic hydrogen dissociation at room temperature. Using titanium dioxide supported with gold nanoparticles as a photocatalyst, they found that exposure to ultraviolet light causes electrons to migrate from titanium dioxide to gold nanoparticles.
\n
Concurrently, holes are captured at interfacial defects formed by the gold-oxygen-titanium connection, facilitating heterolytic hydrogen dissociation. The activity scales almost linearly with light intensity, confirming the photocatalytic nature of the process.
\n
The strategy's advantages were demonstrated by reducing inert carbon dioxide with the dissociated hydrogen species. The scientists found that these species could almost fully reduce carbon dioxide at room temperature, producing ethane as the sole product.
\n
By connecting this process with a photocatalytic ethane dehydrogenation device, they could convert carbon dioxide into ethylene with a yield exceeding 99 percent. This process remained stable for over 1,500 hours under ultraviolet light, indicating the catalyst's long-term stability.
\n
Further research showed that light-induced hydrogen dissociation is universal and can be extended to visible-light responsive photocatalysts.
\n
A demonstration using solar energy to convert carbon dioxide achieved an ethane selectivity of up to 90 percent.
\n
"This work offers a promising route to produce high-value chemicals like ethane and ethylene from hydrogen and carbon dioxide under mild conditions, which could lower the energy cost and reduce carbon emissions," said Wang Feng, the study's first corresponding author and a researcher at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
\n
"In the future, we hope the strategy can develop into a scalable, sunlight-driven or photothermal coupled technique to upgrade modern coal-based chemical industries," Wang added.
The deep integrated development between the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Guangdong province, and the Macao Special Administrative Region has demonstrated a new model of China's practice of "one country, two systems" while promoting moderate and diversified economic development in Macao, according to a statement issued on Friday, which marked the fourth anniversary of the release of the overall plan for the zone.
\n
According to the statement, the zone's "Macao + Hengqin" cooperation and development plan is emerging as a new model for enriching the country's practice of "one country, two systems", setting a new height for advancing the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and forming a new platform for advancing the country's high-level opening-up to the outside world, authorities said.
\n
Since the overall plan for the zone in Hengqin was introduced four years ago, the mechanism of "joint consultation, construction, management, and sharing" between Guangdong and Macao has operated smoothly in Hengqin, which is located at the mouth of the Pearl River.
\n
Meanwhile, the zone has also played a big part in expanding the development space of Macao and helping the special administrative region integrate into the national development strategy, said authorities. With innovation accelerating their agglomeration, Hengqin's characteristic industries have grown steadily, and the public services and social security systems have gradually aligned with those of Macao.
\n
More than 7,300 Macao-funded enterprises have been attracted to the cooperation zone, and more than 28,000 Macao residents have lived and worked in Hengqin, demonstrating a deep integrated development of the two sides and a momentum of continuous development, said the statement.
\n
Li Jizhao, public relations director of True Health (Guangdong Hengqin) Medical Technology, said the construction of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin is a major national strategy.
\n
"The zone has excellent policy environment and location advantages, which can provide favorable soil and broad space for the development and growth of enterprises," said Li, noting that enterprises in the zone can enjoy a reduction of 15 percent in both corporate income tax and individual income tax.
\n
Yan Baihong, general manager of Bio-Sincerity (Macao), said his company would continue to leverage its advantages in technological R&D and global supply chain, integrate the industrial policy support from Macao and Hengqin, and enhance the regional biopharmaceutical strength.
\n
The company will also fully utilize Macao's role as a bridge for Portuguese-speaking countries to explore overseas markets, promote the integrated development of the Guangdong-Macao pharmaceutical industry and facilitate the rapid access of traditional Chinese medicine products to the global market, he added.
\n
In order to further accelerate the integrated development of people's livelihood on both sides, the zone and Macao jointly held a signing ceremony in late August for an administrative cooperation memorandum on "hospital-to-hospital" cross-border transfer services.
\n
Besides, a new special cross-border student shuttle service has also been launched since the beginning of September.
\n
Contact the writers at zhengcaixiong@chinadaily.com.cn
As the biggest and deadliest war in history, World War II involved most of the countries and regions of the world and claimed tens of millions of lives. But due to the Western-centric narrative of the war, China's immense contribution to the Allied victory in World War II has often been downplayed or overlooked.
\n
With the rise of China's global status in recent years, however, some Western historians have begun to acknowledge the significance of China's great contribution to the ultimate victory in World War II, prompting a reassessment of the Western-centric narrative.
\n
The "Age of Exploration" from the early 15th to early 17th centuries saw the capitalist Western powers leveraging their first-mover advantage to establish a colonial system across most parts of the world and foster a cultural bias that promotes the idea of the Western civilization's "superiority".
\n
This colonial cultural prejudice has profoundly influenced Western historiography since then, leading to the gross underestimation of the protracted and complex Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), and neglect of the strategic significance of the Chinese theater in tying down the fascist Japanese forces. For instance, British military historian B.H. Liddell Hart, in his work History of the Second World War, focused predominantly on the European and Pacific theaters, only scantly mentioning the Chinese front.
\n
Among the different fronts of World War II, the Chinese theater lasted the longest and made huge sacrifices. It tied the majority of Japanese forces for 14 years, contributing immensely to the Allied powers' operations in the Pacific and other parts of Asia. This is a historical reality the Western-centric narrative cannot erase.
\n
From the Sept 18 Incident staged by the Japanese army in 1931 to its surrender in August 1945, Tokyo deployed 97 infantry divisions, five aviation divisions, three tank divisions, along with substantial naval fleets and biological warfare units in China.
\n
Japan thought it could quickly occupy the whole of China and use its resources and strategic advantages to establish its hegemony in Asia. But the strong resistance by the Chinese people thwarted Japan's design. By preventing Japan from achieving its goal in China, the Chinese people disrupted the Imperial Japanese Army's strategic deployment plan and strained its military resources in the Pacific and Southeast Asia, creating favorable conditions for the Allied counteroffensive.
\n
Through their heroic resistance, the Chinese people demonstrated to the world their resolve and strength in fighting invaders, and earned the international community's respect and support. As noted by Japanese historian Koketsu Atsushi, while the atomic bombs dropped by the United States on Hiroshima and Nagasaki accelerated Japan's surrender, the continuous resistance by the Chinese people was the decisive factor in the defeat of Japan.
\n
The main Eastern theater played a strategically crucial role in the World Anti-Fascist War — a fact that should never be forgotten. It is therefore necessary to change the Western-centric narrative of the war, and acknowledge China's invaluable contributions to the Allied victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
The end of the Cold War prompted some Western historians to pay more attention to China's invaluable contribution to the victory in World War II. In his work, China at War: Triumph and Tragedy in the Emergence of the New China, British historian Hans van de Ven provides a detailed account of China's contributions to the global anti-fascist war and its crucial role in the Allied victory.
\n
Another historian Rana Mitter has conducted deeper research into the history of the war of resistance. In his book, Forgotten Ally: China's World War II, 1937-1945, Mitter emphasizes that China's battlefield is a neglected yet vital part of World War II and acknowledges China's key role among the Allied nations. The book has become essential reading in the West for understanding the Chinese people's war of resistance, playing a vital role in challenging the Western-centric narrative.
\n
Another book by Mitter, China's Good War: How World War II Is Shaping a New Nationalism, connects the memory of the war of resistance with the development of modern China, broadening Western perspectives on the country. The research works of both Van de Ven and Mitter have helped reshape Western understanding of the significance of the war of resistance and its lasting impact on New China.
\n
Some scholars have also focused on China's contributions to the British forces in South and Southeast Asia. Representative works in this regard include Forgotten Armies: Britain's Asian Empire and the War with Japan and Forgotten Wars: Freedom and Revolution in Southeast Asia by Christopher Bayly and Tim Harper. Both books acknowledge the role of Chinese workers and soldiers in the liberation of South and Southeast Asian countries, broadening the scope of the Chinese theater's influence and further signifying China's contribution to the Allied victory.
\n
On the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, it is essential to rebuild a just historical memory.
\n
As more and more Western scholars have begun to acknowledge China's historical contribution to the Allied victory, there is a growing call to break away from the Western-centric narrative. As such, Western historians and other scholars must reexamine the history of World War II and duly highlight China's contributions to the outcome of the war.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
\n",
- "content": "\n
As the biggest and deadliest war in history, World War II involved most of the countries and regions of the world and claimed tens of millions of lives. But due to the Western-centric narrative of the war, China's immense contribution to the Allied victory in World War II has often been downplayed or overlooked.
\n
With the rise of China's global status in recent years, however, some Western historians have begun to acknowledge the significance of China's great contribution to the ultimate victory in World War II, prompting a reassessment of the Western-centric narrative.
\n
The "Age of Exploration" from the early 15th to early 17th centuries saw the capitalist Western powers leveraging their first-mover advantage to establish a colonial system across most parts of the world and foster a cultural bias that promotes the idea of the Western civilization's "superiority".
\n
This colonial cultural prejudice has profoundly influenced Western historiography since then, leading to the gross underestimation of the protracted and complex Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), and neglect of the strategic significance of the Chinese theater in tying down the fascist Japanese forces. For instance, British military historian B.H. Liddell Hart, in his work History of the Second World War, focused predominantly on the European and Pacific theaters, only scantly mentioning the Chinese front.
\n
Among the different fronts of World War II, the Chinese theater lasted the longest and made huge sacrifices. It tied the majority of Japanese forces for 14 years, contributing immensely to the Allied powers' operations in the Pacific and other parts of Asia. This is a historical reality the Western-centric narrative cannot erase.
\n
From the Sept 18 Incident staged by the Japanese army in 1931 to its surrender in August 1945, Tokyo deployed 97 infantry divisions, five aviation divisions, three tank divisions, along with substantial naval fleets and biological warfare units in China.
\n
Japan thought it could quickly occupy the whole of China and use its resources and strategic advantages to establish its hegemony in Asia. But the strong resistance by the Chinese people thwarted Japan's design. By preventing Japan from achieving its goal in China, the Chinese people disrupted the Imperial Japanese Army's strategic deployment plan and strained its military resources in the Pacific and Southeast Asia, creating favorable conditions for the Allied counteroffensive.
\n
Through their heroic resistance, the Chinese people demonstrated to the world their resolve and strength in fighting invaders, and earned the international community's respect and support. As noted by Japanese historian Koketsu Atsushi, while the atomic bombs dropped by the United States on Hiroshima and Nagasaki accelerated Japan's surrender, the continuous resistance by the Chinese people was the decisive factor in the defeat of Japan.
\n
The main Eastern theater played a strategically crucial role in the World Anti-Fascist War — a fact that should never be forgotten. It is therefore necessary to change the Western-centric narrative of the war, and acknowledge China's invaluable contributions to the Allied victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
The end of the Cold War prompted some Western historians to pay more attention to China's invaluable contribution to the victory in World War II. In his work, China at War: Triumph and Tragedy in the Emergence of the New China, British historian Hans van de Ven provides a detailed account of China's contributions to the global anti-fascist war and its crucial role in the Allied victory.
\n
Another historian Rana Mitter has conducted deeper research into the history of the war of resistance. In his book, Forgotten Ally: China's World War II, 1937-1945, Mitter emphasizes that China's battlefield is a neglected yet vital part of World War II and acknowledges China's key role among the Allied nations. The book has become essential reading in the West for understanding the Chinese people's war of resistance, playing a vital role in challenging the Western-centric narrative.
\n
Another book by Mitter, China's Good War: How World War II Is Shaping a New Nationalism, connects the memory of the war of resistance with the development of modern China, broadening Western perspectives on the country. The research works of both Van de Ven and Mitter have helped reshape Western understanding of the significance of the war of resistance and its lasting impact on New China.
\n
Some scholars have also focused on China's contributions to the British forces in South and Southeast Asia. Representative works in this regard include Forgotten Armies: Britain's Asian Empire and the War with Japan and Forgotten Wars: Freedom and Revolution in Southeast Asia by Christopher Bayly and Tim Harper. Both books acknowledge the role of Chinese workers and soldiers in the liberation of South and Southeast Asian countries, broadening the scope of the Chinese theater's influence and further signifying China's contribution to the Allied victory.
\n
On the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, it is essential to rebuild a just historical memory.
\n
As more and more Western scholars have begun to acknowledge China's historical contribution to the Allied victory, there is a growing call to break away from the Western-centric narrative. As such, Western historians and other scholars must reexamine the history of World War II and duly highlight China's contributions to the outcome of the war.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
Beijing held a grand military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War on Sept 3, with 26 foreign heads of state and government attending the event. Leaders of parliaments, deputy prime ministers and high-level officials from various countries, along with international organization chiefs, witnessed the parade.
\n
The parade emphasized the principle of nonalignment, in contrast to "bloc politics" that those with the Cold War mentality propagate. Through the parade, China showcased its independent foreign and defense policies, and its goal of helping maintain global peace, while demonstrating its resolve to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
China has always adhered to nonaligned diplomacy, more so after the launch of reform and opening-up. Since the Opium War (that started in 1840), China has learned a valuable lesson: it can only safeguard its core national interests by maintaining its independence and pursuing self-determination.
\n
Unlike the bloc confrontation policy of NATO or the Warsaw Pact and the military parades held by the two blocs during the Cold War, China's parades are not aimed at creating "friend-or-foe" divisions, as they reflect a defense policy that transcends bloc politics.
\n
Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War was achieved through the collective efforts of many countries' people. That's why guests from a diverse array of nations were invited to the parade. The gathering embodied China's approach to international relations in the new era: dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance, and win-win cooperation over zero-sum games.
\n
The parade also served as a significant platform for China to demonstrate its transparent defense philosophy. The display of new generation equipment, including advanced tanks, carrier-based aircraft and fighter jets reflects the Chinese military's system-based operational capabilities, while advanced systems such as new types of combat drones, directed-energy weapons, and electronic jamming systems highlighted the People's Liberation Army's strengths in new domains and cutting-edge technologies.
\n
Sophisticated equipment, including hypersonic weapons, air and missile defense systems, and strategic missiles underscored China's strategic capability to strengthen deterrence. But their display was not a "show of force". Instead, it was a demonstration of the practical means to safeguard national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Through such open and confident display of defense equipment, China showed its commitment to safeguarding world peace.
\n
China's contribution to the United Nations' peacekeeping missions is evidence of the country fulfilling its global peace-maintenance responsibility. The Chinese "blue berets", which include engineers, carry the legacy of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army, and have been deployed on many peacekeeping missions. This not only commemorates the victory in the war of resistance against Japanese aggression but also highlights China's role as a major country.
\n
The Chinese "blue berets" embody China's steadfast commitment to pursue peaceful development and engage in winwin cooperation, emphasizing a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security.
\n
For 16 consecutive years, the Chinese escort fleet in the Gulf of Aden has protected both Chinese and foreign vessels. The PLA hospital ship — Peace Ark — has sailed across three oceans, while the maritime cooperation network under the Belt and Road Initiative continues to expand. These efforts demonstrated China's unwavering commitment to collaborate with the international community, safeguard shipping channels, forge international bonds of lifesaving assistance with the hospital ship, and promote shared regional development by improving connectivity.
\n
Since ancient times, harmony and coexistence for a shared future have been the aspirations of the Chinese people. In today's world, China's military parades are part of its efforts to foster a new type of international relations characterized by mutual respect, fairness, justice, and win-win cooperation. The parades have reflected China's firm commitment to advance the cause of global peace and development.
\n
At this critical juncture, when the global landscape is undergoing profound changes and the international order is being restructured, the Sept 3 parade was much more than a ceremony displaying national pride and military strength. It served as a declaration to the world that China's approach to strengthening its military is by no means about expansion, but rather a commitment to peace and development in the new era and the fulfillment of commitments.
\n
That China will never seek hegemony, expansion, or spheres of influence is evidenced in China's voluntary decisions to reduce its troops, peacefully settle its border issues with 12 land neighbors through negotiations, and its implementation of cooperative projects in Africa and other regions without political conditions.
\n
Through the parade, China showed the world that true strength lies not only in having a powerful military but, more importantly, in the ability to safeguard peace without resorting to military means. Dignity is supported not only by the military but also the wisdom of guiding humanity toward a shared future with a peaceful vision. The Sept 3 parade — a magnificent event laden with historical memory and aspirations — is destined to become a lasting symbol of peace in the collective memory of humanity.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
\n",
@@ -10037,28 +10983,6 @@
"hash": "8a3c97ca324d6409e563cef8b66fced0",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "004COMMENT - China plays a vital role in SCO's green transition",
- "description": "
In recent years, despite sustained growth in global investment in renewable energy, some developed countries' new policies favor increasing the use of fossil fuels. With major changes in clean energy tax credit policies in the United States' "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" of 2025 — such as the introduction of an annual rent on wind and solar projects and the reduction of tax incentives for clean energy — the global energy landscape seems to be subtly shifting back toward fossil fuels. The US tilt toward traditional energy projects, along with some other countries' continued reliance on advanced fossil fuel technologies to meet their short-term economic growth needs, show why climate change is worsening. These countries' policy orientation is disturbing the balance between global energy supply and demand, and could hinder the green transition.
\n
Given this development, China — as a large country and core member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization — must not only adapt to external environmental shifts but also seek fresh opportunities within multilateral cooperation frameworks. Utilizing the SCO as a collaborative platform and upholding the Shanghai Spirit, China prioritizes people-centered development, reforming and refining of the global governance system, enhancing the well-being of SCO member states' populations, protecting the ecological environment, achieving energy transition, strengthening green industry cooperation, and making greater contributions to advance the community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
In response to this complex situation, the Chinese government has taken a series of measures to strengthen national energy security and expeditiously optimize and upgrade its energy structure. First, by continuing to promote the development of China's new energy sector, the government is supporting R&D in clean energy technologies such as wind and solar power, and encouraging enterprises to innovate through subsidy policies that reduce costs.
\n
Second, in response to potential price fluctuations and unstable supply in the international market, China has strengthened its strategic relationships with major oil-producing countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, by signing multiple long-term oil supply agreements to diversify crude oil import channels.
\n
Besides, China has been participating in global energy governance through multilateral platforms such as the SCO and BRICS to call for joint efforts by all countries to address climate change and promote the formation of a fair and reasonable global energy governance system.
\n
At the sixth meeting of the environmental ministers of SCO member states, held recently, the participants signed a joint statement and announced that the SCO would take measures to strengthen cooperation in order to achieve sustainable development. Moreover, the SCO summit in Tianjin announced to promote cooperation in green industry and sustainable energy development.
\n
Regarding sustainable energy development, the SCO emphasizes the imperative to safeguard energy security, ensure stability in energy markets, and advance a proper energy transition tailored to each nation's specific circumstances and developmental priorities. Within the framework of SCO energy cooperation, member states will engage in pragmatic collaboration through joint projects such as new energy infrastructure development. Cooperation in scientific and technological innovation is to be advanced by developing and applying advanced energy technologies, while simultaneously refining talent cultivation mechanisms to foster favorable conditions for technological innovation.
\n
Regarding green industry cooperation, the statement underscores that protecting the ecological environment and promoting green development constitute vital areas of collaboration among SCO member states. Member states are to deepen policy and information exchange by advancing the integrated development of green industry product supply chains and researching unified green industry standards compliant with international norms, while sharing experiences and best practices in the green industry sector. Green industry cooperation is to be strengthened through measures such as promoting the research, development, and dissemination of advanced green technologies via scientific research cooperation projects.
\n
The Shanghai Spirit, comprising "mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development" is not only the basic principle on which SCO member states' relations are based but also provides a solid theoretical foundation for deepening energy cooperation in the region.
\n
China, guided by the Shanghai Spirit, has been deepening cooperation with other SCO member states in the energy sector. For example, in infrastructure construction, China is promoting the joint construction of key facilities such as oil pipelines and power grids along the Belt and Road routes, thus meeting local economic development needs and promoting interconnectivity among regions.
\n
In terms of technological exchanges, China shares its rich experiences and technical expertise in the development and use of clean energy with other SCO member states, while also collaborating with them to overcome technical challenges during their transition to clean energy. And when it comes to financial support, the China-Eurasia Economic Cooperation Fund has been advancing green energy projects to support SCO member states looking for investment in the green economy, especially green energy, thereby promoting long-term sustainable development.
\n
As a responsible major country, China is committed to contributing to the resolution of global issues. Amid the fast-changing global energy landscape, China should adhere to its low-carbon and green development path, and play a leading role in the development of the green economy, setting an example for other countries and regions.
\n
Through joint efforts, within the framework of the SCO, China can achieve even more fruitful results that help to maintain global energy security and promote sustainable development.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
\n",
- "content": "
In recent years, despite sustained growth in global investment in renewable energy, some developed countries' new policies favor increasing the use of fossil fuels. With major changes in clean energy tax credit policies in the United States' "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" of 2025 — such as the introduction of an annual rent on wind and solar projects and the reduction of tax incentives for clean energy — the global energy landscape seems to be subtly shifting back toward fossil fuels. The US tilt toward traditional energy projects, along with some other countries' continued reliance on advanced fossil fuel technologies to meet their short-term economic growth needs, show why climate change is worsening. These countries' policy orientation is disturbing the balance between global energy supply and demand, and could hinder the green transition.
\n
Given this development, China — as a large country and core member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization — must not only adapt to external environmental shifts but also seek fresh opportunities within multilateral cooperation frameworks. Utilizing the SCO as a collaborative platform and upholding the Shanghai Spirit, China prioritizes people-centered development, reforming and refining of the global governance system, enhancing the well-being of SCO member states' populations, protecting the ecological environment, achieving energy transition, strengthening green industry cooperation, and making greater contributions to advance the community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
In response to this complex situation, the Chinese government has taken a series of measures to strengthen national energy security and expeditiously optimize and upgrade its energy structure. First, by continuing to promote the development of China's new energy sector, the government is supporting R&D in clean energy technologies such as wind and solar power, and encouraging enterprises to innovate through subsidy policies that reduce costs.
\n
Second, in response to potential price fluctuations and unstable supply in the international market, China has strengthened its strategic relationships with major oil-producing countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, by signing multiple long-term oil supply agreements to diversify crude oil import channels.
\n
Besides, China has been participating in global energy governance through multilateral platforms such as the SCO and BRICS to call for joint efforts by all countries to address climate change and promote the formation of a fair and reasonable global energy governance system.
\n
At the sixth meeting of the environmental ministers of SCO member states, held recently, the participants signed a joint statement and announced that the SCO would take measures to strengthen cooperation in order to achieve sustainable development. Moreover, the SCO summit in Tianjin announced to promote cooperation in green industry and sustainable energy development.
\n
Regarding sustainable energy development, the SCO emphasizes the imperative to safeguard energy security, ensure stability in energy markets, and advance a proper energy transition tailored to each nation's specific circumstances and developmental priorities. Within the framework of SCO energy cooperation, member states will engage in pragmatic collaboration through joint projects such as new energy infrastructure development. Cooperation in scientific and technological innovation is to be advanced by developing and applying advanced energy technologies, while simultaneously refining talent cultivation mechanisms to foster favorable conditions for technological innovation.
\n
Regarding green industry cooperation, the statement underscores that protecting the ecological environment and promoting green development constitute vital areas of collaboration among SCO member states. Member states are to deepen policy and information exchange by advancing the integrated development of green industry product supply chains and researching unified green industry standards compliant with international norms, while sharing experiences and best practices in the green industry sector. Green industry cooperation is to be strengthened through measures such as promoting the research, development, and dissemination of advanced green technologies via scientific research cooperation projects.
\n
The Shanghai Spirit, comprising "mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development" is not only the basic principle on which SCO member states' relations are based but also provides a solid theoretical foundation for deepening energy cooperation in the region.
\n
China, guided by the Shanghai Spirit, has been deepening cooperation with other SCO member states in the energy sector. For example, in infrastructure construction, China is promoting the joint construction of key facilities such as oil pipelines and power grids along the Belt and Road routes, thus meeting local economic development needs and promoting interconnectivity among regions.
\n
In terms of technological exchanges, China shares its rich experiences and technical expertise in the development and use of clean energy with other SCO member states, while also collaborating with them to overcome technical challenges during their transition to clean energy. And when it comes to financial support, the China-Eurasia Economic Cooperation Fund has been advancing green energy projects to support SCO member states looking for investment in the green economy, especially green energy, thereby promoting long-term sustainable development.
\n
As a responsible major country, China is committed to contributing to the resolution of global issues. Amid the fast-changing global energy landscape, China should adhere to its low-carbon and green development path, and play a leading role in the development of the green economy, setting an example for other countries and regions.
\n
Through joint efforts, within the framework of the SCO, China can achieve even more fruitful results that help to maintain global energy security and promote sustainable development.
\n
The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
Huawei's latest tri-fold smartphone attracts buyers at one of its stores in Shanghai.
\n
Huawei Technologies Co launched its latest tri-fold smartphone, Mate XTs, on Thursday, marking the first time in four years that the Chinese company has publicly disclosed the model of its in-house Kirin processor.
\n
At the launch event, Richard Yu, Huawei's executive director and head of consumer business, said that the device is powered by the Kirin 9020 chip and runs on HarmonyOS 5, and that it delivers a 36 percent performance enhancement over its predecessor.
\n
The disclosure signaled a more confident stance on Huawei's chip technology after years of supply chain pressure. The move, industry experts said, underscores Huawei's push to demonstrate greater self-sufficiency in semiconductors.
\n
"Even with access to more advanced nodes constrained, Huawei is showing it can still advance chip performance through design and architecture," said Xiang Ligang, director-general of the Zhongguancun Modern Information Consumer Application Industry Technology Alliance, a telecom industry association.
\n
In addition to the chip upgrade, the Mate XTs also features improvements in imaging capabilities and its broader ecosystem of HarmonyOS as well. The new gadget marks the first time that the industry is bringing personal computer-level applications to a smartphone, supporting multiwindow interactions comparable to a desktop PC.
\n
The Mate XTs starts at 17,999 yuan ($2,480), 2,000 yuan cheaper than the company's first tri-fold device released a year ago.
\n
According to market consultancy International Data Corp, Huawei currently leads China's foldable smartphone market with a 75 percent share in the first half of 2025, shipping 3.74 million units.
\n
Xiang said: "Huawei's momentum is not only reshaping consumer expectations but also driving growth of the country's foldable market. The tri-fold device is gaining user trust and pushing the industry into maturity."
\n
Huawei's latest move also comes amid preparation by rivals for their own next-generation devices. Companies including Samsung, Motorola, and Google have ventured into foldable smartphones.
\n
According to a media report, Apple is also working on its first foldable iPhone.
\n
Apple's foldable smartphone, which is expected to feature significant changes in display technology, connectivity and biometrics, is expected to roll out next year.
Once a heavy industrial base built on steel and rare earths, Baotou in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region is reinventing itself as a key player in China's green energy transition, with onshore wind power equipment becoming its latest industrial cluster.
\n
At the Ming Yang New Energy Equipment Manufacturing Industrial Park, the shift is visible.
\n
Assembly lines are working in full swing, with robotic arms moving with steady precision, fastening bolt after bolt. At first glance, the pace does not seem extraordinary, but the difference is striking.
\n
"Forty-two bolts on a single unit would take three workers nearly 16 hours with heavy hydraulic wrenches. The robots finish the job in just four," said He Changguo, general manager of Ming Yang Group's northern manufacturing center.
\n
"Our production lines are running flat out for more than 10 projects, piecing together turbines bound for projects across Inner Mongolia and neighboring provinces," said He.
\n
Baotou hosts 44 onshore wind power equipment makers spanning turbines, blades, generators, gearboxes and towers. Guangdong-headquartered Ming Yang Group, a major renewable power equipment and solutions maker, which entered the city in 2021, has since expanded from a single plant into the anchor of the local supply chain.
\n
The parts localization rate for turbine units is expected to reach 85 percent this year, allowing most core components from gearboxes and generators to bolts to be produced within the city.
\n
The city's ambition is tangible at one of the country's largest blade testing centers which started operations in 2024. A colossal 113-meter blade, longer than a soccer field, is strapped into a massive rig. It will swing millions of times over seven months, enduring fatigue tests designed to mimic years of operation.
\n
Much of Inner Mongolia's wind potential comes from the desert and Gobi areas which offer abundant wind resources and also pose challenges for turbine design and operation such as frequent sandstorms and extreme temperature swings.
\n
Ming Yang's new 10 megawatt turbines are designed to withstand — 35 C to 60 C, and are equipped with sand-resistant blades, advanced filters, and smart sensors to adjust automatically to harsh conditions. Each turbine sweeps an area the size of six soccer fields and can generate enough electricity in a single day to power about 1,300 households for a month.
\n
Since production began in 2022, the Baotou facility has supplied equipment for more than 100 projects nationwide, generating around 55 billion kilowatt-hours of green electricity.
\n
Research and innovation backstop this shift. In 2022, Ming Yang Group and the Baotou government established a smart energy research institute, followed by an academician workstation for wind, solar, and hydrogen. Backed by more than 50 researchers and support from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the center has developed recyclable blades and models tailored to low-wind, desert, and coastal sites.
\n
"Baotou's wind power equipment industrial park is a model of developing new quality productive forces," said Sun Yue, deputy government head of Shiguai district, which is home to the industrial park.
\n
"We've built the onshore wind power industrial base with annual capacity for 1,500 turbines and 1,800 ultra-long blades."
\n
Baotou's industrial shift is also evident at Baogang Group, the city's steelmaker. The company has developed 500 MPa-grade rare earth wind power steel, among the highest globally, offering improved welding and fatigue resistance. The material is now widely used in turbine towers, giving Baogang a foothold in the renewable supply chain.
\n
"Baotou is moving from an old industrial base to a high-quality development hub," Sun added.
\n
"By linking manufacturing, research and development, testing, maintenance and recycling, we are building a competitive cluster with national and global influence."
\n
This strategy aligns with Inner Mongolia's goal of installing 300 gigawatts of new energy sources by 2030. In 2024, Inner Mongolia's installed capacity of new energy sources exceeded 135 GW, making it the first region in China where renewable energy capacity overtook that of coal-fired power. This figure is more than triple the level recorded at the end of 2019. As of May 2025, the installed capacity of new energy sources in the region had further surpassed 143 GW.
\n
Contact the writers at lijing2009@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
Once a heavy industrial base built on steel and rare earths, Baotou in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region is reinventing itself as a key player in China's green energy transition, with onshore wind power equipment becoming its latest industrial cluster.
\n
At the Ming Yang New Energy Equipment Manufacturing Industrial Park, the shift is visible.
\n
Assembly lines are working in full swing, with robotic arms moving with steady precision, fastening bolt after bolt. At first glance, the pace does not seem extraordinary, but the difference is striking.
\n
"Forty-two bolts on a single unit would take three workers nearly 16 hours with heavy hydraulic wrenches. The robots finish the job in just four," said He Changguo, general manager of Ming Yang Group's northern manufacturing center.
\n
"Our production lines are running flat out for more than 10 projects, piecing together turbines bound for projects across Inner Mongolia and neighboring provinces," said He.
\n
Baotou hosts 44 onshore wind power equipment makers spanning turbines, blades, generators, gearboxes and towers. Guangdong-headquartered Ming Yang Group, a major renewable power equipment and solutions maker, which entered the city in 2021, has since expanded from a single plant into the anchor of the local supply chain.
\n
The parts localization rate for turbine units is expected to reach 85 percent this year, allowing most core components from gearboxes and generators to bolts to be produced within the city.
\n
The city's ambition is tangible at one of the country's largest blade testing centers which started operations in 2024. A colossal 113-meter blade, longer than a soccer field, is strapped into a massive rig. It will swing millions of times over seven months, enduring fatigue tests designed to mimic years of operation.
\n
Much of Inner Mongolia's wind potential comes from the desert and Gobi areas which offer abundant wind resources and also pose challenges for turbine design and operation such as frequent sandstorms and extreme temperature swings.
\n
Ming Yang's new 10 megawatt turbines are designed to withstand — 35 C to 60 C, and are equipped with sand-resistant blades, advanced filters, and smart sensors to adjust automatically to harsh conditions. Each turbine sweeps an area the size of six soccer fields and can generate enough electricity in a single day to power about 1,300 households for a month.
\n
Since production began in 2022, the Baotou facility has supplied equipment for more than 100 projects nationwide, generating around 55 billion kilowatt-hours of green electricity.
\n
Research and innovation backstop this shift. In 2022, Ming Yang Group and the Baotou government established a smart energy research institute, followed by an academician workstation for wind, solar, and hydrogen. Backed by more than 50 researchers and support from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the center has developed recyclable blades and models tailored to low-wind, desert, and coastal sites.
\n
"Baotou's wind power equipment industrial park is a model of developing new quality productive forces," said Sun Yue, deputy government head of Shiguai district, which is home to the industrial park.
\n
"We've built the onshore wind power industrial base with annual capacity for 1,500 turbines and 1,800 ultra-long blades."
\n
Baotou's industrial shift is also evident at Baogang Group, the city's steelmaker. The company has developed 500 MPa-grade rare earth wind power steel, among the highest globally, offering improved welding and fatigue resistance. The material is now widely used in turbine towers, giving Baogang a foothold in the renewable supply chain.
\n
"Baotou is moving from an old industrial base to a high-quality development hub," Sun added.
\n
"By linking manufacturing, research and development, testing, maintenance and recycling, we are building a competitive cluster with national and global influence."
\n
This strategy aligns with Inner Mongolia's goal of installing 300 gigawatts of new energy sources by 2030. In 2024, Inner Mongolia's installed capacity of new energy sources exceeded 135 GW, making it the first region in China where renewable energy capacity overtook that of coal-fired power. This figure is more than triple the level recorded at the end of 2019. As of May 2025, the installed capacity of new energy sources in the region had further surpassed 143 GW.
\n
Contact the writers at lijing2009@chinadaily.com.cn
Chinese power operators are using high-tech tools to enhance transmission line reliability and automation. Employees from State Grid Xuzhou in Jiangsu province have introduced multi-vehicle cluster coordination to conduct interruption-free maintenance work. Prior to an overhaul of the 10 kilovolt Qiaoshen line, staff members completed a "drone + live-line inspection" to accurately pinpoint the sections that required maintenance, identifying defects such as damaged insulators before formulating an integrated maintenance plan. During the overhaul, four teams worked under unified command, eliminating 27 defects and installing three new automated switches without any interruption in power supply.
\n
Shanghai's automotive industry reports growth
\n
In the first seven months of this year, Shanghai's automotive industry maintained steady growth, with its industrial output value reaching 391.12 billion yuan ($54.8 billion), a year-on-year increase of 10.6 percent. Notably, Shanghai promoted more than 160,000 new energy vehicles citywide during the period, up 19.9 percent year-on-year, according to the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Economy and Informatization.
A staff member of State Grid Taizhou in Jiangsu province briefs pupils on power safety awareness and protection at the Jiulong Experimental School in Hailing district, in a bid to publicize safe electricity use among the public.
A staff member of State Grid Taizhou in Jiangsu province briefs pupils on power safety awareness and protection at the Jiulong Experimental School in Hailing district, in a bid to publicize safe electricity use among the public.
Taking advantage of the ecological wetland of the Jialing River, the Fengyi Bay China-France agricultural technology park in Nanchong, Southwest China's Sichuan province, is transforming natural endowments into consumption momentum, and attracting a greater number of visitors.
\n
The park, which held thematic activities throughout last year, saw 1.2 million visits, generating 800 million yuan ($112 million) in sales revenue.
\n
The park has driven significant growth in consumption of catering and accommodation services in its surroundings, and new models such as online direct sales and livestreaming sales have begun to show results.
\n
This has enabled farmers to share in the development dividends and promote the extension of the agricultural product processing as well as cultural and creative development industry chain.
\n
The tomato valley in the park is capable of producing 200,000 kilograms of tomatoes per year. The tomato-themed science popularization exhibition hall sees 100,000 visits annually.
\n
The international flight campsite at the park provides helicopter and hot air balloon sightseeing, and has been selected as a typical case of national transportation and tourism integration.
\n
Cute Island Water World in the park has become a summer hit with over 30 water projects, setting a record for sales exceeding 1 million yuan in six hours.
\n
Furthermore, the Fengyi Bay Grand Stage in the park drove 50 million exposures to the scenic area in 23 days since opening.
\n
The park has also become a gathering place for fishing enthusiasts in the Southwest, and scenes such as equestrian clubs and water sports centers continue to attract visitors. This year, four film and television dramas will be filmed, further enriching the cultural and tourism aspects of the park.
\n
Zhang Tao, president and general manager of Fengyi Bay Agricultural Development Co Ltd, said: "The original intention of building the park was to increase the income of local farmers. The park, planned in 2016, began construction in 2017 and was completed in 2018.
\n
During peak hours on weekends, there are 50,000 to 60,000 visitors. Throughout the whole of last year, there were 1.2 million visits."
\n
In the future, Fengyi Bay will focus on continuous iteration and innovation of new consumption scenarios, continuously explore deep integration with health and wellness vacations, art and cultural creativity, digital technology and other fields.
\n
It will also plan new and diverse consumption scenarios, further strengthen brand influence, enhance the experience of tourists, and stimulate consumption, he noted.
\n
Contact the writers at zhengyiran@chinadaily.com.cn
With its expanding research output and active participation in international collaboration, China's scientific community is expected to play an increasingly vital role in shaping global innovation, said a renowned industry expert.
\n
"China's progress across science as a whole, particularly in the physical sciences, has been truly impressive. It has grown into one of the leading contributors to global science," said Matteo Cavalleri, global head of journal strategy at AIP Publishing (AIPP), the publishing arm of the American Institute of Physics.
\n
As a participant in this year's ChinaNANO conference, which came to a close in Beijing on Monday, Cavalleri said he found China's strong focus on addressing real-world challenges for the benefit of humanity to be especially important, and one area that reflects this drive is nanotechnology which is being used for detection, diagnostics and overall improvements in people's health and quality of life.
\n
According to a white paper released during ChinaNANO 2025, of the more than 1.078 million nanotechnology patents granted worldwide, China accounted for 464,000, representing 43 percent of the total — the largest share of any country.
\n
Cavalleri said the number reflects not only the scale and quality of Chinese research, but also the fact that Chinese scientists focus on translating basic research into practical applications.
\n
"For research translation, you ultimately need something that works, plus patience and sustained investment. This is something China has been doing well, having that long-term vision and future-oriented focus, rather than just looking for immediate results," he said.
\n
The combination of strong investment, infrastructure, research vitality, problem-driven focus and global collaboration makes China an "especially dynamic and central force" in today's scientific landscape, the executive added.
\n
According to Cavalleri, for inherently interdisciplinary fields like nanotechnology, having editors from different disciplines and regions could help foster collaboration which is key for research and applications, and scientific journals should actively promote this kind of diversity.
\n
In this regard, AIPP has appointed two Chinese editors-in-chief in recent years, reflecting not geography but scientific excellence.
\n
"Having Chinese editors-in-chief is quite natural, considering how China has established itself as a center of excellence in physics," Cavalleri said, adding that a large proportion of submitted articles now come from Chinese researchers, making it natural for editorial teams to mirror this diversity.
\n
"Editors select reviewers based on trust in their expertise, so having editors who know the Chinese research community helps increase the number of qualified reviewers, which naturally leads to greater diversity in the overall editorial system," he said.
\n
According to AIPP data, although still falling short of matching the more than 50 percent share of submissions from China, Chinese participation in peer review has grown significantly. In 2020, the figure was only 9 percent, while in 2024 the number had reached 22 percent, up 5 percentage points from the year earlier.
\n
Cavalleri believes expanding editorial teams in China will naturally bring more reviewers into the system and programs such as AIPP's Reviewers Academy are also helping to train a new generation of reviewers.
\n
Looking ahead, the publisher said it will continue to bridge Chinese researchers with the international research community through enhanced local operations.
\n
It has already sealed several partnerships with Chinese universities and institutions, and the collaborations go beyond journal subscriptions to also include publishing partnerships, helping Chinese researchers increase global impact.
\n
"What strikes me most when I come here is the willingness of Chinese researchers to open up their work, drive collaboration and lead initiatives that benefit not only China but the global community," Cavalleri said. "My recommendation would be to continue this approach. Science is borderless, and anyone who disagrees with that is mistaken."
\n
lijiaying@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
Matteo Cavalleri
\n
With its expanding research output and active participation in international collaboration, China's scientific community is expected to play an increasingly vital role in shaping global innovation, said a renowned industry expert.
\n
"China's progress across science as a whole, particularly in the physical sciences, has been truly impressive. It has grown into one of the leading contributors to global science," said Matteo Cavalleri, global head of journal strategy at AIP Publishing (AIPP), the publishing arm of the American Institute of Physics.
\n
As a participant in this year's ChinaNANO conference, which came to a close in Beijing on Monday, Cavalleri said he found China's strong focus on addressing real-world challenges for the benefit of humanity to be especially important, and one area that reflects this drive is nanotechnology which is being used for detection, diagnostics and overall improvements in people's health and quality of life.
\n
According to a white paper released during ChinaNANO 2025, of the more than 1.078 million nanotechnology patents granted worldwide, China accounted for 464,000, representing 43 percent of the total — the largest share of any country.
\n
Cavalleri said the number reflects not only the scale and quality of Chinese research, but also the fact that Chinese scientists focus on translating basic research into practical applications.
\n
"For research translation, you ultimately need something that works, plus patience and sustained investment. This is something China has been doing well, having that long-term vision and future-oriented focus, rather than just looking for immediate results," he said.
\n
The combination of strong investment, infrastructure, research vitality, problem-driven focus and global collaboration makes China an "especially dynamic and central force" in today's scientific landscape, the executive added.
\n
According to Cavalleri, for inherently interdisciplinary fields like nanotechnology, having editors from different disciplines and regions could help foster collaboration which is key for research and applications, and scientific journals should actively promote this kind of diversity.
\n
In this regard, AIPP has appointed two Chinese editors-in-chief in recent years, reflecting not geography but scientific excellence.
\n
"Having Chinese editors-in-chief is quite natural, considering how China has established itself as a center of excellence in physics," Cavalleri said, adding that a large proportion of submitted articles now come from Chinese researchers, making it natural for editorial teams to mirror this diversity.
\n
"Editors select reviewers based on trust in their expertise, so having editors who know the Chinese research community helps increase the number of qualified reviewers, which naturally leads to greater diversity in the overall editorial system," he said.
\n
According to AIPP data, although still falling short of matching the more than 50 percent share of submissions from China, Chinese participation in peer review has grown significantly. In 2020, the figure was only 9 percent, while in 2024 the number had reached 22 percent, up 5 percentage points from the year earlier.
\n
Cavalleri believes expanding editorial teams in China will naturally bring more reviewers into the system and programs such as AIPP's Reviewers Academy are also helping to train a new generation of reviewers.
\n
Looking ahead, the publisher said it will continue to bridge Chinese researchers with the international research community through enhanced local operations.
\n
It has already sealed several partnerships with Chinese universities and institutions, and the collaborations go beyond journal subscriptions to also include publishing partnerships, helping Chinese researchers increase global impact.
\n
"What strikes me most when I come here is the willingness of Chinese researchers to open up their work, drive collaboration and lead initiatives that benefit not only China but the global community," Cavalleri said. "My recommendation would be to continue this approach. Science is borderless, and anyone who disagrees with that is mistaken."
Leader of Bhumjaithai Party Anutin Charnvirakul (left), talks to lawmakers at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday.
\n
BANGKOK — Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the opposition Bhumjaithai Party, was elected as Thailand's new prime minister on Friday after winning a majority in a parliamentary vote.
\n
Anutin beat his sole contender, nominated by the ruling Pheu Thai Party, Chaikasem Nitisiri, to lead the next government, following a court ruling last week that removed Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her premiership over an ethics breach.
\n
Anutin led from the start and won 63 percent of the votes, doubling the tally of Chaikasem.
\n
After a one-hour roll call vote, Second Deputy House Speaker Chalad Khamchuang announced that Anutin received 311 votes in favor from the 490 members present in the House of Representatives, exceeding the simple majority required for approval.
\n
A phalanx of media surrounded him as he left the chamber, his aides fending off a crowd of journalists who jostled and shouted while he slowly made his way to a waiting car.
\n
"I will work my hardest, every day, no holidays, because there is not a lot of time," Anutin said, his face lit up by bursts of camera flashes. "We have to ease problems quickly."
\n
China expressed congratulations on Friday to Anutin on his election, saying it stands ready to work with Thailand to strengthen strategic communication and deepen practical cooperation.
\n
The remarks were made in an online statement issued by the foreign ministry.
\n
China and Thailand are close friends and neighbors, and the two countries, like one family, are as close as ever, a foreign ministry spokesperson was quoted as saying.
\n
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
\n
Traditional friendship
\n
Beijing is willing to work with Bangkok to carry forward the traditional friendship, achieve greater progress in the building of the China-Thailand community with a shared future, and contribute to peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region, according to the statement.
\n
Anutin is awaiting formal endorsement by Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn to become the 32nd prime minister of the Southeast Asian country.
\n
Anutin's victory resulted from pact with the progressive opposition People's Party, the largest force in parliament, which he persuaded with promises to hold a referendum on amending the constitution and call an election within four months.
\n
Anutin will lead a minority government, which People's Party will not join, and take the helm of a country with an economy struggling from weak consumption, tight lending and soaring levels of household debt.
\n
The Pheu Thai Party said on Friday it would return to power to deliver on its agenda, after its candidate lost a parliamentary vote for prime minister.
\n
"On all the pending policies, we will return to finish the job for all the Thai people," it said in a statement on social media, adding it was ready to be in the parliamentary opposition.
\n
Pheu Thai Party's crisis was triggered in June by Anutin's withdrawal from its alliance, which left the coalition government clinging to power with a razor-thin majority amid protests and plummeting popularity.
\n
The hammer blow was last week's dismissal by a court of Thaksin Shinawatra's daughter, Paetongtarn.
\n
Thailand's Constitutional Court ruled to dismiss Paetongtarn from office on Friday, after finding her guilty of violating the constitution during a controversial leaked phone call between her and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.
Russia will reciprocate the decision of Chinese authorities to introduce visa-free travel for Russian citizens, President Vladimir Putin told an economic forum in Vladivostok on Friday. China has said it will extend visa-free travel to ordinary passport holders from Russia on a trial basis. The visa exemption will be valid for a period of one year from Sept 15, allowing entry to China for no more than 30 days.
\n
UNITED STATES
\n
Trump to sign order to rename department
\n
US President Donald Trump was reportedly preparing to sign an executive order on Friday to rebrand the Department of Defense as the Department of War. The order would allow the name to be used as a secondary title in official correspondence, with references such as "Secretary of War", reported local media outlets. A full legal change would still require congressional approval. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had argued the revival underscores a stronger "warrior ethos". Critics warned it could incur high costs and distract from security priorities.
\n
ITALY
\n
Fashion designer Giorgio Armani dies
\n
Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian designer, passed away at the age of 91, the company he founded and led for five decades announced on Thursday. Armani was one of the most recognizable names and faces in the global fashion industry. He founded his self-titled brand in 1975, and it now generates some $2.7 billion in annual revenue. Armani died at home, "peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones", the fashion house said.
\n
SRI LANKA
\n
Passenger bus skids off a cliff, killing 15
\n
A Sri Lankan bus carrying local tourists visiting lush tea plantation hill towns plunged nearly 300 meters in a mountainous region, with the crash killing 15 people and injuring 16 others, a police spokesman said on Friday. The accident occurred near the town of Wellawaya, about 280 kilometers east of the capital Colombo. The group was returning home after a holiday when the bus hit another vehicle, crashed through guardrails and then shot over the side before toppling off the cliff. The accident is the worst since May, when 23 passengers died in a bus crash in Kotmale.
\n",
- "content": "
RUSSIA
\n
Visa-free policy will be reciprocated: Putin
\n
Russia will reciprocate the decision of Chinese authorities to introduce visa-free travel for Russian citizens, President Vladimir Putin told an economic forum in Vladivostok on Friday. China has said it will extend visa-free travel to ordinary passport holders from Russia on a trial basis. The visa exemption will be valid for a period of one year from Sept 15, allowing entry to China for no more than 30 days.
\n
UNITED STATES
\n
Trump to sign order to rename department
\n
US President Donald Trump was reportedly preparing to sign an executive order on Friday to rebrand the Department of Defense as the Department of War. The order would allow the name to be used as a secondary title in official correspondence, with references such as "Secretary of War", reported local media outlets. A full legal change would still require congressional approval. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had argued the revival underscores a stronger "warrior ethos". Critics warned it could incur high costs and distract from security priorities.
\n
ITALY
\n
Fashion designer Giorgio Armani dies
\n
Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian designer, passed away at the age of 91, the company he founded and led for five decades announced on Thursday. Armani was one of the most recognizable names and faces in the global fashion industry. He founded his self-titled brand in 1975, and it now generates some $2.7 billion in annual revenue. Armani died at home, "peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones", the fashion house said.
\n
SRI LANKA
\n
Passenger bus skids off a cliff, killing 15
\n
A Sri Lankan bus carrying local tourists visiting lush tea plantation hill towns plunged nearly 300 meters in a mountainous region, with the crash killing 15 people and injuring 16 others, a police spokesman said on Friday. The accident occurred near the town of Wellawaya, about 280 kilometers east of the capital Colombo. The group was returning home after a holiday when the bus hit another vehicle, crashed through guardrails and then shot over the side before toppling off the cliff. The accident is the worst since May, when 23 passengers died in a bus crash in Kotmale.
A summit in Paris on Thursday brings together European leaders in a push to finalize security guarantees for Ukraine.
\n
PARIS/MOSCOW — French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that 26 countries, mostly European, have formally pledged to deploy troops as part of a future Russian-Ukrainian ceasefire, though not directly on the front line.
\n
Speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at a news conference following the meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing", Macron said the countries would contribute to a "reassurance force" that could deploy troops in Ukraine or provide support on land, at sea, or in the air.
\n
He added that after the summit, participants held a call with US President Donald Trump and the United States is expected to finalize its contributions to the security guarantees in the coming days.
\n
Zelensky welcomed the announcement as a "concrete" step forward and stressed that a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whether bilateral or trilateral, is "necessary" for advancing peace efforts.
\n
Later, asked if the US president planned to speak to Putin in the near future, Trump said: "Yeah, I will be. We are having a very good dialogue."
\n
"The day the conflict stops, the security guarantees will be deployed," Macron told a news conference at the Elysee Palace in Paris, standing alongside Zelensky.
\n
European officials say peace looks like a distant prospect for now, but they want to be ready whenever the war ends. They also see the planning of security guarantees as a way to reassure Kyiv of their support and hope Trump will join their efforts.
\n
Macron initially said the 26 nations, which he did not name, would deploy to Ukraine. But he later said that some countries would provide guarantees while remaining outside Ukraine, for example, by helping to train and equip Kyiv's forces. He did not say how many troops would be involved in the guarantees.
\n
US involvement
\n
Germany and other countries pledged they would be involved in that effort. But Berlin said it would decide on a military commitment only when conditions were clear, including the extent of US involvement in security guarantees.
\n
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made it clear that she would not send troops to Ukraine, but said Italy was open to monitoring a ceasefire and training Ukrainian troops outside the country.
\n
France and Britain, which co-chair the meeting, have indicated that they are open to deploying troops to Ukraine after the fighting ends.
\n
The Kremlin said on Friday that security guarantees for Ukraine cannot be provided by foreign military contingents, and much work needs to be done before a high or top-level meeting between Moscow and Kyiv to settle the conflict in Ukraine.
\n
"Can Ukraine's security guarantees be ensured and provided by foreign, especially European and American, military contingents? Definitely not, they cannot," the Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russia's RIA state news agency on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum in the city of Vladivostok.
\n
"This cannot serve as a security guarantee for Ukraine that would be acceptable to our country."
\n
Putin said on Friday that any foreign troops deployed to Ukraine before a peace agreement has been signed would be considered "legitimate targets" by Moscow's forces.
\n
"If any troops appear there, especially now while fighting is ongoing, we assume that they will be legitimate targets," he said during a panel at the Eastern Economic Forum in the city of Vladivostok.
\n",
@@ -10257,28 +11093,6 @@
"hash": "d281844f35742b794b89302835db7f3d",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "006WORLD - US trade gap widens as tariffs drive stockpiling",
- "description": "
The US trade deficit widened in July to a four-month high as companies raced to import goods and materials before US President Donald Trump unveiled new tariffs on global trading partners, local media reported on Thursday.
\n
The US Commerce Department released a report on Thursday showing that the US trade deficit enlarged to $78.3 billion in July, higher than economists' forecast of $77.9 billion.
\n
A sharp increase in non-monetary gold shipments, partly in anticipation of new tariffs, has also contributed to the overall rise in imports.
\n
"While imports bounced back in July, more than half of the increase was due to gold as trade policy and safe-haven demand brought about a resurgence in trade", said Matthew Martin, senior economist at Oxford Economics, in a statement.
\n
Analysts at Pantheon Macroeconomics expected a growing trade gap in connection with "another wave of pre-tariff stockpiling," they said in a recent report.
\n
The latest figures showed that many US businesses rushed to bring goods into the country in July to get ahead of the tariffs that kicked in early in August, leading to a surge in imports.
\n
Most of the global tariff rates issued on Aug 7 range from 10 to 41 percent, The Budget Lab at Yale found. China's goods are subject to a 30 percent tariff.
\n
In June, the US trade deficit with China decreased to its lowest level in 21 years, as the impact of tariffs led to a sharp decline in imports of consumer goods that month.
\n
Overall, the US trade deficit narrowed to $60.2 billion in June, the lowest since September 2023, according to the Department of Commerce. A trade deficit occurs when the value of a country's imports exceeds the value of its exports, resulting in a negative balance of trade.
\n
Since returning to the office for his second term, Trump has said his tariffs are, in part, aimed at reducing the US trade deficit with key trading partners. Trump used the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to issue the levies, as the law gives a president the ability to act against "unusual and extraordinary" threats.
\n
However, the administration currently faces a series of challenges over the legality of its use of tariffs.
\n
The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, DC, ruled that the reciprocal tariffs on China, Mexico, Canada and other countries were illegal. On Aug 29, the court voted 7-4 that Trump's key economic policy was not permitted under the emergency economic powers, branding them "invalid as contrary to law".
\n
Trump blasted the ruling in a post on Truth Social, saying: "If allowed to stand, this decision would literally destroy the United States of America."
\n
Mark Zandi, chief economist for Moody's Analytics, predicted that this year the US trade deficit will likely be as large as in 2024.
\n
"There is no indication, at least not yet, that the higher US tariffs will result in a meaningfully lower US trade deficit," Zandi told The New York Times.
\n
Xinhua and agencies contributed to this story.
\n
belindarobinson@chinadailyusa.com
\n",
- "content": "
The US trade deficit widened in July to a four-month high as companies raced to import goods and materials before US President Donald Trump unveiled new tariffs on global trading partners, local media reported on Thursday.
\n
The US Commerce Department released a report on Thursday showing that the US trade deficit enlarged to $78.3 billion in July, higher than economists' forecast of $77.9 billion.
\n
A sharp increase in non-monetary gold shipments, partly in anticipation of new tariffs, has also contributed to the overall rise in imports.
\n
"While imports bounced back in July, more than half of the increase was due to gold as trade policy and safe-haven demand brought about a resurgence in trade", said Matthew Martin, senior economist at Oxford Economics, in a statement.
\n
Analysts at Pantheon Macroeconomics expected a growing trade gap in connection with "another wave of pre-tariff stockpiling," they said in a recent report.
\n
The latest figures showed that many US businesses rushed to bring goods into the country in July to get ahead of the tariffs that kicked in early in August, leading to a surge in imports.
\n
Most of the global tariff rates issued on Aug 7 range from 10 to 41 percent, The Budget Lab at Yale found. China's goods are subject to a 30 percent tariff.
\n
In June, the US trade deficit with China decreased to its lowest level in 21 years, as the impact of tariffs led to a sharp decline in imports of consumer goods that month.
\n
Overall, the US trade deficit narrowed to $60.2 billion in June, the lowest since September 2023, according to the Department of Commerce. A trade deficit occurs when the value of a country's imports exceeds the value of its exports, resulting in a negative balance of trade.
\n
Since returning to the office for his second term, Trump has said his tariffs are, in part, aimed at reducing the US trade deficit with key trading partners. Trump used the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to issue the levies, as the law gives a president the ability to act against "unusual and extraordinary" threats.
\n
However, the administration currently faces a series of challenges over the legality of its use of tariffs.
\n
The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, DC, ruled that the reciprocal tariffs on China, Mexico, Canada and other countries were illegal. On Aug 29, the court voted 7-4 that Trump's key economic policy was not permitted under the emergency economic powers, branding them "invalid as contrary to law".
\n
Trump blasted the ruling in a post on Truth Social, saying: "If allowed to stand, this decision would literally destroy the United States of America."
\n
Mark Zandi, chief economist for Moody's Analytics, predicted that this year the US trade deficit will likely be as large as in 2024.
\n
"There is no indication, at least not yet, that the higher US tariffs will result in a meaningfully lower US trade deficit," Zandi told The New York Times.
Australian wine brand Penfolds is aiming for a larger presence in the increasing important Chinese market, such as by offering a broader range of high-quality wines that cater to the preferences of predominantly younger consumers.
\n
The plan comes amid robust exports and earnings in the group's recent financial year, which ended in June, and after it acquired a winery in China's Ningxia Hui autonomous region late last year to enable local production.
\n
In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Penfolds managing director Tom King said China has always been a "strategically important market for us".
\n
"We've got records of Penfolds first being shipped from Adelaide to Shanghai in 1893, so we've got a very long history of Penfolds being available in China," King said.
\n
"The connection Penfolds has with Chinese consumers has been built up over many decades, and we're really proud of it."
\n
Penfolds parent group Treasury Wine Estates posted underlying net profit after tax of A$470.6 million ($307.3 million) for the year ended June, up from A$407.5 million a year ago, according to a company statement, reflecting "a successful return to China for the Australian country of origin portfolio and continued positive momentum in a number of other key Asian markets".
\n
Penfolds' worldwide country of origin wine production series now includes a winery in China's Ningxia, a fast-growing quality-grape growing area and winemaking hub. In December, Treasury Wine Estates announced that it had acquired a major stake in a 43-hectare luxury vineyard and modern winery in the region.
\n
"When I think about the role that China plays for us now, historically it has been a sales market, but it's a production market for us now as well," King said.
\n
"So similar to Australia, we're making wine in China, to sell in China and around the world. And we're bringing our wines from around the world to consumers in China. Our business has evolved somewhat over recent years to be not just fully functional from a production perspective, but more embedded in the local industry," he said.
\n
To that effect, the Australian winemaker is involved in partnerships with the Chinese industry, including tertiary training and a China-Australia winemaker exchange program for talent development.
\n
"We'd like to think that we're playing a more meaningful role in industry, in collaboration and learning. There's a lot to learn from each other. We see the real benefit of trade and cultural exchange not just for our business but for the industry as a whole, both here in Australia and in China," King said.
\n
Penfolds is looking to build on its leading role amid the latest trends in the industry, including younger consumers' preferences for lighter, higher quality wines, he said, adding that the share of grape wine in the Chinese alcohol market is still low compared with that of local drinks like baijiu distilled liquor, which means there is much growth potential.
\n
Young consumers who have "a luxury lifestyle or luxury-oriented repertoire of brands that play a meaningful role in their life" present a significant opportunity in China, King said.
\n
In the 12 months to June, Australian wine exports rose by 13 percent in value to A$2.48 billion and 3 percent in volume to 639 million liters, according to the statutory body Wine Australia.
\n
"We've adapted our business over that period of time, and certainly in the last 12 months, we're very much back to being full strength in the market with the right capability and the full portfolio. So we're very pleased with how the business is performing … we're very optimistic around the opportunity ahead for our business and the Penfolds brand in China," he said.
\n
Contact the writers at xinxin@chinadaily.com.cn.
\n",
@@ -10301,28 +11115,6 @@
"hash": "0cd5d68ecb9a4b21f9998f6ec006a05f",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "007WORLD - Grand parade seen as China's pledge to peace",
- "description": "
Experts worldwide said that the military parade China held in Beijing on Wednesday, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War, is a reaffirmation of its commitment to peaceful development and a solemn call to remember history.
\n
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, oversaw the parade and reviewed the troops.
\n
In his speech delivered before the parade, Xi noted that the Chinese people made a significant contribution to the salvation of human civilization and the defense of world peace through immense sacrifices in the war. Reiterating China's commitment to peaceful development, Xi called on nations to prevent historical tragedies from recurring.
\n
David Orzan, ambassador in World of Excellence of the northeastern Italian city of Gorizia, said that China's sacrifices and perseverance "should be remembered by the entire world". He said that Xi's speech helped the world remember history and prevent the recurrence of tragedy.
\n
Atsushi Koketsu, a professor emeritus at Yamaguchi University in Japan, said that Xi's address underscored the vital role of history as a mirror reflecting the present and the future.
\n
He also expressed regret that Japan remains "extremely weak" in its attitude toward acknowledging historical truths, warning that "those who do not learn from history are bound to be punished by it".
\n
Kumiko Haba, a distinguished professor at Josai International University, said the Japanese government should follow the example of former prime minister Tomiichi Murayama and issue a sincere apology.
\n
'Heartfelt apology'
\n
In 1995, on the 50th anniversary of Japan's surrender, then-prime minister Tomiichi Murayama issued the "Murayama Statement", acknowledging that Japan's colonial rule and aggression had caused "tremendous damage and suffering" to many countries, and expressed "deep remorse and heartfelt apology".
\n
But successive politicians of the Liberal Democratic Party, including current Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, have failed to deliver words of profound apology, and "this is truly regrettable", Haba said.
\n
"I hope people will not forget that many Japanese citizens hold the conviction of 'never starting another war, never being enemies with China'," she added. "I sincerely hope to promote peaceful exchanges among young people and see them continue to develop."
\n
Takakage Fujita, secretary-general of the Association for Inheriting and Propagating the Murayama Statement, emphasized that Japan, because of its misguided national policy, launched a war of aggression against China. The Japanese people must deeply recognize this aggression, express profound remorse, and sincerely apologize to the Chinese people who suffered enormous sacrifices and damage, he said.
\n
"At the same time, Japan must make every effort and take concrete actions to ensure that it will never again launch aggression against Asia or China," Fujita added.
\n
Common development
\n
The commemorative events solemnly declare to the world the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, he said, adding that for more countries around the world to achieve common development, shared prosperity and collective happiness, it is essential to embrace the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity proposed by President Xi and emphasized at the commemoration.
\n
"Today, humanity again has to choose between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation, win-win cooperation and zero-sum game," Xi said, stressing that, "The Chinese people firmly stand on the right side of history and the progress of human civilization. We will remain committed to the path of peaceful development, and join hands with all peoples around the world in building a community with a shared future for humanity."
\n
Haba from Japan said she was impressed by Xi's vision of a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
She strongly endorsed the principle of equality and cooperation among all countries and peoples, and held profound respect for the idea of harmony without uniformity in Chinese culture.
\n
Stephen Ndegwa, a Kenyan expert on international issues, said he believed that Xi's speech reinforced "the need for fairness, justice and cooperation in today's global order".
\n
"The speech speaks directly to the challenges of our time … and it affirms China's vision of peace and development as inseparable pillars of global progress — something Africa strongly identifies with," the scholar said.
\n
Xinhua contributed to this story.
\n
Contact the writers at houjunjie@chinadaily.com.cn
\n",
- "content": "
Experts worldwide said that the military parade China held in Beijing on Wednesday, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War, is a reaffirmation of its commitment to peaceful development and a solemn call to remember history.
\n
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, oversaw the parade and reviewed the troops.
\n
In his speech delivered before the parade, Xi noted that the Chinese people made a significant contribution to the salvation of human civilization and the defense of world peace through immense sacrifices in the war. Reiterating China's commitment to peaceful development, Xi called on nations to prevent historical tragedies from recurring.
\n
David Orzan, ambassador in World of Excellence of the northeastern Italian city of Gorizia, said that China's sacrifices and perseverance "should be remembered by the entire world". He said that Xi's speech helped the world remember history and prevent the recurrence of tragedy.
\n
Atsushi Koketsu, a professor emeritus at Yamaguchi University in Japan, said that Xi's address underscored the vital role of history as a mirror reflecting the present and the future.
\n
He also expressed regret that Japan remains "extremely weak" in its attitude toward acknowledging historical truths, warning that "those who do not learn from history are bound to be punished by it".
\n
Kumiko Haba, a distinguished professor at Josai International University, said the Japanese government should follow the example of former prime minister Tomiichi Murayama and issue a sincere apology.
\n
'Heartfelt apology'
\n
In 1995, on the 50th anniversary of Japan's surrender, then-prime minister Tomiichi Murayama issued the "Murayama Statement", acknowledging that Japan's colonial rule and aggression had caused "tremendous damage and suffering" to many countries, and expressed "deep remorse and heartfelt apology".
\n
But successive politicians of the Liberal Democratic Party, including current Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, have failed to deliver words of profound apology, and "this is truly regrettable", Haba said.
\n
"I hope people will not forget that many Japanese citizens hold the conviction of 'never starting another war, never being enemies with China'," she added. "I sincerely hope to promote peaceful exchanges among young people and see them continue to develop."
\n
Takakage Fujita, secretary-general of the Association for Inheriting and Propagating the Murayama Statement, emphasized that Japan, because of its misguided national policy, launched a war of aggression against China. The Japanese people must deeply recognize this aggression, express profound remorse, and sincerely apologize to the Chinese people who suffered enormous sacrifices and damage, he said.
\n
"At the same time, Japan must make every effort and take concrete actions to ensure that it will never again launch aggression against Asia or China," Fujita added.
\n
Common development
\n
The commemorative events solemnly declare to the world the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, he said, adding that for more countries around the world to achieve common development, shared prosperity and collective happiness, it is essential to embrace the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity proposed by President Xi and emphasized at the commemoration.
\n
"Today, humanity again has to choose between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation, win-win cooperation and zero-sum game," Xi said, stressing that, "The Chinese people firmly stand on the right side of history and the progress of human civilization. We will remain committed to the path of peaceful development, and join hands with all peoples around the world in building a community with a shared future for humanity."
\n
Haba from Japan said she was impressed by Xi's vision of a community with a shared future for humanity.
\n
She strongly endorsed the principle of equality and cooperation among all countries and peoples, and held profound respect for the idea of harmony without uniformity in Chinese culture.
\n
Stephen Ndegwa, a Kenyan expert on international issues, said he believed that Xi's speech reinforced "the need for fairness, justice and cooperation in today's global order".
\n
"The speech speaks directly to the challenges of our time … and it affirms China's vision of peace and development as inseparable pillars of global progress — something Africa strongly identifies with," the scholar said.
\n
Xinhua contributed to this story.
\n
Contact the writers at houjunjie@chinadaily.com.cn
Members of social movements participate in a march to celebrate Amazon Day in Brasilia, Brazil, on Thursday. The Amazon Day in Brazil is celebrated annually on Sept 5 to raise awareness about the importance of the Amazon rainforest and its conservation.
Emergency workers remove one of the funiculars following derailment and crash of the Elevador da Gloria, which resulted in multiple casualties, in Lisbon, Portugal, on Friday.
\n
LISBON — Portugal held a day of national mourning on Thursday after one of Lisbon's famous funicular trains violently derailed and killed 16 people, including 11 foreigners, and left more than 20 injured.
\n
The distinctive yellow-and-white Elevador da Gloria, which is classified as a national monument, was packed with locals and international tourists on Wednesday evening when it came off its rails.
\n
Multiple agencies are investigating what Portugal's Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has described as "one of the biggest tragedies of our recent past".
\n
"This tragedy … goes beyond our borders," Montenegro said in a televised address on Thursday.
\n
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed condolences over the death of the funicular crash.
\n
"We mourn deeply for people who were killed, and offer our sympathy to families who lost their loved ones," Guo said. "We wish for an early recovery of those injured in the accident."
\n
Lisbon hosted around 8.5 million tourists last year, and long lines of people typically form for the streetcar's short and picturesque trip a few hundred meters up and down a city street.
\n
Hundreds of people attended a somber Mass on Thursday evening at Lisbon's majestic Church of Saint Dominic. Montenegro, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas were among the stricken attendees, some dressed in black, in the candlelit sanctuary.
\n
The electric streetcar, also known as a funicular, is harnessed by steel cables and can carry more than 40 people. Officials declined to comment on whether a faulty brake or a snapped cable may have prompted the descending streetcar to careen into a building where the steep downtown road bends.
\n
"The city needs answers," the mayor said, adding that talk of possible causes is "mere speculation".
\n
The streetcar's wreckage was removed from the scene overnight and placed in police custody.
\n
After coroners identified more bodies, police on Friday updated the list of fatalities that includes five Portuguese citizens, three British citizens, two South Koreans, two Canadians, and one citizen each from France, Switzerland, Ukraine and the United States. More than 20 people were injured.
\n
A preliminary report on the accident will take six weeks to complete, according to Portuguese authorities. While they do not rule out any possible cause, police sources told the Publico daily there were no signs of foul play.
\n
The municipal transport company Carris has said "all maintenance protocols have been carried out", including monthly and weekly maintenance and daily inspections, the latest just hours before the incident with no faults detected.
\n",
- "content": "
Emergency workers remove one of the funiculars following derailment and crash of the Elevador da Gloria, which resulted in multiple casualties, in Lisbon, Portugal, on Friday.
\n
LISBON — Portugal held a day of national mourning on Thursday after one of Lisbon's famous funicular trains violently derailed and killed 16 people, including 11 foreigners, and left more than 20 injured.
\n
The distinctive yellow-and-white Elevador da Gloria, which is classified as a national monument, was packed with locals and international tourists on Wednesday evening when it came off its rails.
\n
Multiple agencies are investigating what Portugal's Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has described as "one of the biggest tragedies of our recent past".
\n
"This tragedy … goes beyond our borders," Montenegro said in a televised address on Thursday.
\n
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed condolences over the death of the funicular crash.
\n
"We mourn deeply for people who were killed, and offer our sympathy to families who lost their loved ones," Guo said. "We wish for an early recovery of those injured in the accident."
\n
Lisbon hosted around 8.5 million tourists last year, and long lines of people typically form for the streetcar's short and picturesque trip a few hundred meters up and down a city street.
\n
Hundreds of people attended a somber Mass on Thursday evening at Lisbon's majestic Church of Saint Dominic. Montenegro, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas were among the stricken attendees, some dressed in black, in the candlelit sanctuary.
\n
The electric streetcar, also known as a funicular, is harnessed by steel cables and can carry more than 40 people. Officials declined to comment on whether a faulty brake or a snapped cable may have prompted the descending streetcar to careen into a building where the steep downtown road bends.
\n
"The city needs answers," the mayor said, adding that talk of possible causes is "mere speculation".
\n
The streetcar's wreckage was removed from the scene overnight and placed in police custody.
\n
After coroners identified more bodies, police on Friday updated the list of fatalities that includes five Portuguese citizens, three British citizens, two South Koreans, two Canadians, and one citizen each from France, Switzerland, Ukraine and the United States. More than 20 people were injured.
\n
A preliminary report on the accident will take six weeks to complete, according to Portuguese authorities. While they do not rule out any possible cause, police sources told the Publico daily there were no signs of foul play.
\n
The municipal transport company Carris has said "all maintenance protocols have been carried out", including monthly and weekly maintenance and daily inspections, the latest just hours before the incident with no faults detected.
When 100-year-old Flying Tigers veteran Mel McMullen took his seat at the Consulate General of China in Los Angeles on Wednesday, the room fell into a respectful hush. He was among more than 100 guests attending a film reception themed "Remember History, Promote Peace Together", held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.
\n
The evening combined remembrance and reflection. Guests from art, business and academic circles, as well as Chinese communities and students, watched The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru, a documentary that sheds light on one of World War II's forgotten tragedies.
\n
In his remarks, Consul General Guo Shaochun reviewed China's long and bitter struggle against Japanese aggression and the shared fight against fascism.
\n
"Eighty years ago, after 14 years of relentless struggle, the Chinese people defeated the brutal Japanese fascist invaders. It was a victory of justice over evil, light over darkness and progress over reaction. This triumph not only changed the course of world history, but also became an enduring part of our shared human memory," Guo said.
\n
He emphasized that the commemoration was not about prolonging grievances but about preserving peace. "The purpose of commemorating this 80th anniversary is not to perpetuate hatred, but to learn from history and defend the legacy of victory," he noted.
\n
Guo reminded the audience that China bore some of the heaviest losses of the war. More than 35 million military and civilian lives were lost, nearly one-third of global wartime casualties, and the country endured enormous economic devastation.
\n
Indelible contribution
\n
"China made an indelible contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, and in doing so fundamentally reshaped the spirit and historical course of the Chinese nation," he said.
\n
Guo also highlighted the wartime cooperation between China and the United States, recalling the Flying Tigers commanded by General Claire Chennault. The volunteer pilots crossed the Pacific to aid China, shooting down over 2,600 Japanese aircraft. The Chinese people, in turn, risked their own lives to rescue US airmen.
\n
"We will never forget that China's war of resistance was greatly supported by the peace-loving forces worldwide, including the United States," Guo said. McMullen's presence in the hall was a reminder of that friendship. His son, Tim, later reflected on the film and its lessons.
\n
The screening of The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru introduced the audience to a little-known episode of World War II. In October 1942, the Japanese transport ship Lisbon Maru, carrying 1,816 British prisoners of war from Hong Kong to Japan, was struck by a US submarine off the coast of Zhejiang province.
\n
Unmarked as a POW vessel, the ship sank after being torpedoed. Japanese guards sealed prisoners below deck, and those who managed to escape were met with gunfire. In all, 828 men drowned. Amid the chaos, local Chinese fishermen risked everything, launching their boats under fire to rescue 384 survivors.
\n
For decades, the story was largely silenced. Japanese authorities denied responsibility, and the suffering of the prisoners remained confined to family memories. The film restores those voices, honoring both the victims and the Chinese villagers who showed courage in the darkest hour.
\n
Tim McMullen said the film left a deep impression, not only because of its vivid retelling of the tragedy, but also because it revealed the human cost of war in a way that statistics alone cannot capture.
\n
"The movie is a very powerful statement. I think it's important that we understand the sacrifices that people make and the tragedy of war," he said.
\n
Another guest, Andre Bartkoviak, praised the documentary for its power and urgency. "We cannot forget history, because history repeats itself," he said.
\n
As the evening came to a close, Guo urged those present to carry forward the spirit of remembrance into action.
\n
"Peace is never a gift but should be safeguarded by generations. Cherishing peace and upholding justice are shared responsibilities of both China and the United States," he said.
\n
renali@chinadailyusa.com
\n",
@@ -10389,28 +11159,6 @@
"hash": "ca5fb3d9826337690150c3bfd0686329",
"highlights": []
},
- {
- "title": "007WORLD - Swift Chinese aid praised amid Afghan earthquake",
- "description": "
Chinese delegates hand over earthquake relief donations to Afghan delegates in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Tuesday.
\n
China's humanitarian relief effort was hailed after the devastating earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Aug 31, killing over 2,200 people and injuring thousands more.
\n
China decided to provide Afghanistan with 50 million yuan ($7.04 million) in emergency humanitarian aid for earthquake relief, said Li Ming, spokesman for the China International Development Cooperation Agency, on Thursday.
\n
At the request of the Afghan government, China will provide tents, blankets, and food that are urgently needed in the earthquake-affected areas, Li said.
\n
Rescue operations remain underway amid reports that many people are still trapped beneath the rubble of collapsed homes. Casualty figures are based on preliminary information and were expected to rise further, according to the latest report from the Afghan Red Crescent Society.
\n
Rugged terrain is hampering rescue operations and aid delivery, leaving survivors to plead for urgent assistance.
\n
Earlier this week, China also became one of the first countries to donate relief funds to Afghanistan for earthquake relief efforts. Bao Xuhui, charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy in Afghanistan, handed over earthquake relief donations from the embassy, Chinese institutions and the overseas Chinese.
\n
Bao said at the event on Tuesday that the strong earthquake that struck Kunar and other Afghan provinces has caused significant casualties and property damage, which has deeply touched the hearts of the Chinese people.
\n
The Chinese embassy, Chinese institutions and the Overseas Chinese Association in Afghanistan quickly raised the funds and relief supplies, hoping to help the people in the affected areas overcome their difficulties, he said.
\n
Muhammad Alam Alamyar, general-director of administration of the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, thanked China for the kind gesture and briefed on Afghanistan's earthquake disaster and relief efforts, noting that a friend in need is a friend indeed.
\n
Afghanistan cherishes the friendship of the Chinese people toward the Afghan people and will properly utilize the donations and relief supplies, dedicating them entirely to disaster relief and reconstruction, he said.
\n
Pakistan on Wednesday also dispatched 105 metric tons of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar said.
\n
Whenever such tragedies occur, China is always among the first to step forward, standing with nations and supporting them in recovery, said Khalid Taimur Akram, executive director of the Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future in Islamabad.
\n
"In recent years, China has emerged as one of the largest and most reliable sources of humanitarian aid for countries facing disasters, with a timely donation of 50 million yuan being a prime example," said Shakeel Ahmad Ramay, chief executive officer of the Asian Institute of Eco-civilization Research and Development in Pakistan.
\n
It is pertinent to highlight here that, following the withdrawal of US forces, China has continued to provide humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people, meeting their basic needs, including food, shelter and medical care, the expert added.
\n
In the recent disaster, the efforts have been accelerated. "But the most prominent feature of Chinese aid is that China provides humanitarian assistance without conditionalities," Ahmad said.
\n
vivienxu@chinadailyapac.com
\n",
- "content": "
Chinese delegates hand over earthquake relief donations to Afghan delegates in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Tuesday.
\n
China's humanitarian relief effort was hailed after the devastating earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Aug 31, killing over 2,200 people and injuring thousands more.
\n
China decided to provide Afghanistan with 50 million yuan ($7.04 million) in emergency humanitarian aid for earthquake relief, said Li Ming, spokesman for the China International Development Cooperation Agency, on Thursday.
\n
At the request of the Afghan government, China will provide tents, blankets, and food that are urgently needed in the earthquake-affected areas, Li said.
\n
Rescue operations remain underway amid reports that many people are still trapped beneath the rubble of collapsed homes. Casualty figures are based on preliminary information and were expected to rise further, according to the latest report from the Afghan Red Crescent Society.
\n
Rugged terrain is hampering rescue operations and aid delivery, leaving survivors to plead for urgent assistance.
\n
Earlier this week, China also became one of the first countries to donate relief funds to Afghanistan for earthquake relief efforts. Bao Xuhui, charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy in Afghanistan, handed over earthquake relief donations from the embassy, Chinese institutions and the overseas Chinese.
\n
Bao said at the event on Tuesday that the strong earthquake that struck Kunar and other Afghan provinces has caused significant casualties and property damage, which has deeply touched the hearts of the Chinese people.
\n
The Chinese embassy, Chinese institutions and the Overseas Chinese Association in Afghanistan quickly raised the funds and relief supplies, hoping to help the people in the affected areas overcome their difficulties, he said.
\n
Muhammad Alam Alamyar, general-director of administration of the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, thanked China for the kind gesture and briefed on Afghanistan's earthquake disaster and relief efforts, noting that a friend in need is a friend indeed.
\n
Afghanistan cherishes the friendship of the Chinese people toward the Afghan people and will properly utilize the donations and relief supplies, dedicating them entirely to disaster relief and reconstruction, he said.
\n
Pakistan on Wednesday also dispatched 105 metric tons of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar said.
\n
Whenever such tragedies occur, China is always among the first to step forward, standing with nations and supporting them in recovery, said Khalid Taimur Akram, executive director of the Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future in Islamabad.
\n
"In recent years, China has emerged as one of the largest and most reliable sources of humanitarian aid for countries facing disasters, with a timely donation of 50 million yuan being a prime example," said Shakeel Ahmad Ramay, chief executive officer of the Asian Institute of Eco-civilization Research and Development in Pakistan.
\n
It is pertinent to highlight here that, following the withdrawal of US forces, China has continued to provide humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people, meeting their basic needs, including food, shelter and medical care, the expert added.
\n
In the recent disaster, the efforts have been accelerated. "But the most prominent feature of Chinese aid is that China provides humanitarian assistance without conditionalities," Ahmad said.
Costumes from Uzbekistan on show. Collections from both the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan and the State Museum of Arts of Uzbekistan are on display at the Beijing exhibition.
\n
A jade pig-dragon belongs to the Neolithic Hongshan culture, one of the earliest known jade carvings in the shape of a dragon in China.
\n
A dragon head bas-relief of the eighth century, from the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan.
\n
A quern with a dragon-face fish from the Islamabad Museum in Pakistan.
\n
Plates with rich decorative motifs from the State Historical Museum, Russia, on show at the National Museum of China.
\n
Also on show are textiles from the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
\n
The mutual influences among different cultures are sometimes preserved in inconspicuous details, if not told or paid great attention to.
\n
In the Islamabad Museum in Pakistan sits a red sandstone quern dated between the second century BC and the second century AD. It holds flower and leaf patterns on its surface and a carved animal motif on one side of its pedestal.
\n
"You think it's a fish, but take a closer, longer look. It has a dragon head," says Wang Zhiqiang, a scholar at the National Museum of China, where the quern is on display. "According to our counterparts in Islamabad, it incorporates the image of the Chinese dragon, which was introduced via the ancient Silk Road."
\n
This quern, with its dragon-faced fish, is one of the over 220 cultural objects displayed in the exhibition Where Civilizations Meet: Collections from Museums of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Member States at the National Museum of China.
\n
The objects come from the collections of 10 museums and cultural institutions of Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states to celebrate the diverse cultures that are thriving on the vast, fertile Eurasian soil, says Wang, the exhibition's curator.
\n
The exhibition opened on Aug 27, ahead of the SCO Summit 2025 held in Tianjin on Aug 31 and Monday, and will run until Nov 16.
\n
The SCO, a permanent intergovernmental international organization, was announced in Shanghai in 2001. Upholding the Shanghai Spirit, it pursues the principles of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development.
\n
The Where Civilizations Meet exhibition addresses the Shanghai Spirit's two pursuits — cultural diversity and common development — and includes representative objects that illuminate the ancient civilizations and highlight mutual influences among the member states.
\n
"The exhibits span from the prehistoric period to the early 20th century, telling a brief history of each member state on show," Wang says.
\n
Also at the exhibition is a dragonhead bas-relief from the eighth century, speculated to be an architectural component, from the collection of the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan. Its teeth are visible from the open mouth, and it has several curved horns on its head.
\n
To complement the two dragons from afar, the National Museum of China displays a jade pig-dragon belonging to the Neolithic Hongshan culture dating back more than 5,000 years. It has a pig's head and a dragon's body to symbolize the fertility of farmland. The object is believed to be one of the country's earliest known jade carvings shaped like a dragon.
\n
The communication between China and other ancient civilizations is vividly celebrated on the yellow-brown patterned surface of a Tang Dynasty (618-907) ceramic bowl. The ware is believed to be a product of the Changsha kiln that reached its firing climax in the middle to late Tang Dynasty.
\n
The bowl is patterned with relief date palms, which suggests it was one of a great number of wares ordered by overseas customers, says Wang.
\n
Changsha kiln products were among the export commodities transported to other parts of Asia and Africa. Wang says: "Over 80 percent of ceramics found at the Batu Hitam (black rock) Shipwreck, off the shores of Sumatra and discovered in 1998, were from the Changsha kiln." The inscription on one bowl dates the cargo ship to the Tang era.
\n
Wang says the Changsha kiln-fired bowl testifies to the Tang's prosperity and it embraced openness and extensive exchanges with other cultures.
\n
Ibrahimzoda Zafarsho Safo, director of the National Museum of Tajikistan, says the museum brings 24 artifacts to the Beijing exhibition, including gold and copper wares, musical instruments, stones with inscriptions and pottery, to testify to the country's role in the communications between the East and the West along the ancient Silk Road, as well as various ancient cultural influences in the country.
\n
One of those who witnessed the exchange was Xuan Zang, a Tang Buddhist monk, who was believed to have reached Central Asia in 630. In his work Datang Xiyu Ji (Records of the Western Regions of the Great Tang), Xuan Zang mentioned the Sogdians — ancestors of the Tajik people — along with their language, traditions and customs.
\n
The Tajikistan section displays a stone with a Sogdian inscription dating between the seventh and eighth centuries. The writing was done with black ink, in three lines. The elegant style indicates that it was created by a professional scribe, according to Safo, and exhibits a well-developed writing system by the Sogdians at the time.
\n
Another object of interest is a lamp component, on which the bottom depicts Buddha heads. It was traced to the second and third centuries during the Kushan Empire (1st — 3rd centuries), reflecting the spread of Buddhism in the multicultural territory.
\n
Safo says the objects show that the Silk Road was "not only a network of routes for trading, but it also connected people via culture, arts and religions" — that is, "a diversity of cultures on one major road".
\n
Eldar Ianibekov, deputy director of the State Historical Museum located in Moscow's Red Square, says that as one of the largest museums in Russia, it is exhibiting a selection of treasures at the Beijing museum from a collection of over 5 million objects that represent the unique features of Russian culture.
\n
He says the artifacts on display "span from the seventh century BC to the 19th century, parts of which focus on nomadic tribes and others that unveil the glorious royal court life and timeless aesthetics".
\n
Over the years, Russian works of art and crafts have been shown at the National Museum of China in various themed exhibitions. The Russian Banquet, a four-month-long exhibition that opened in November 2024, offered a glimpse into the gastronomic artistry and customs at royal palaces and grassroots households, by showing dinning apparatuses from the collection of Moscow Kremlin Museums. Ilya Repin: Encyclopedia of Russian Life, an exhibition of the life and art of the great painter, is ongoing at the Beijing museum.
\n
Safo, of the National Museum of Tajikistan, adds that presenting the unique, historic cultural features of different civilizations in one place offers a great opportunity to bring the SCO member states and partners closer to better understanding each other.
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![\"13](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Copy-of-appinn-homework-2025-09-08T160319.305.jpg\" "\\"13")
![\"13](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250908154452@2x.avif\" "\\"13")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Copy-of-appinn-homework-2025-09-08T110640.706.jpg\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250904212250@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/2025-09-05_093609_538.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"🍌\"](\"https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f34c.png\")
Nano Banana Images ![\"✨\"](\"https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/2728.png\")
项目的![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250904224219@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Image-1757001146513.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905000233@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905000625@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905002524@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905002926@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905003106@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905003422@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905005159@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905005744@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"全网爆火的](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Screen-20250905010637@2x.avif\" "\\"全网爆火的")
![\"ByePhotos](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2024/12/Copy-of-appinn-homework-2025-07-10T222244.498.jpg\" "\\"ByePhotos")
![\"ByePhotos](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2024/12/lizhibyephotos.avif\" "\\"ByePhotos")
![\"ByePhotos](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2024/12/lizhi-byephotos-3.avif\" "\\"ByePhotos")
![\"ByePhotos](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2024/12/lizhi-byephotos-4.avif\" "\\"ByePhotos")
![\"ByePhotos](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2024/12/lizhi-byephotos-5.avif\" "\\"ByePhotos")
![\"ByePhotos](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2024/12/lizhi-byephotos-6.avif\" "\\"ByePhotos")
![\"ByePhotos](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2024/12/lizhi-byephotos-7.avif\" "\\"ByePhotos")
![\"11](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Copy-of-appinn-homework-2025-09-05T145044.734.jpg\" "\\"11")
![\"11](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/monument-valley-rc6m0.avif\" "\\"11")
![\"🙈\"](\"https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f648.png\")
![\"著名浏览器](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/Copy-of-appinn-homework-2025-09-05T102354.009.jpg\" "\\"著名浏览器")
![\"著名浏览器](\"https://do-cdn.appinn.com/static3/images/2025/09/tab-overload.avif\" "\\"著名浏览器")
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