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  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Japan: Momentum for marriage equality grows with Tokyo High Court ruling

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In response to today’s Tokyo High Court ruling recognizing the unconstitutionality of Japan’s ban on same-sex marriage, Amnesty International’s East Asia Researcher Boram Jang said:

    “This decision marks a critical step towards marriage equality in Japan and offers renewed hope to same-sex couples across the country.

    “This case is also a reminder of the lengthy and fragmented legal battles couples must endure to exercise rights to equality that should already be protected. It is an injustice that weighs heavily on their lives.

    “The Japanese government must take action to legalize same-sex marriage across the country. It is time to introduce national legislation that brings marriage equality to everyone in Japan, rather than relying on inconsistent and inadequate responses at the local government level. All couples, no matter their gender or sexual orientation, deserve the same legal rights, protections, and the dignity that comes with recognition under the law.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s anti-graft chief stresses promoting high-quality disciplinary inspection

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the central leading group on disciplinary inspection, addresses a meeting on national disciplinary inspection work. The meeting also marked the initiation of the fourth round of disciplinary inspection missions of the 20th CPC Central Committee. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China’s top anti-graft official Li Xi on Tuesday urged efforts to promote high-quality disciplinary inspection, thus providing a strong guarantee for further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing Chinese modernization.
    Li, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the central leading group on disciplinary inspection, made the remarks at a meeting on national disciplinary inspection work. The meeting also marked the initiation of the fourth round of disciplinary inspection missions of the 20th CPC Central Committee.
    The meeting made arrangements for inspections of departments related to communication, ideology, culture and united front work.
    In his speech, Li urged efforts to step up oversight and inspection of the implementation of major reforms, promote the implementation of various reform measures and conduct targeted and effective political oversight.
    He demanded efforts to identify and promote the resolution of prominent issues in order to better contribute to the overall interests of the Party and the country.
    On the same day, a list of 34 targets of the fourth round of inspection was announced, including the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, the All-China Women’s Federation and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: School suspended due to rainstorms in Chinese island province

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Classes have been suspended and roads waterlogged in some cities and counties in south China’s island province of Hainan due to heavy rainfall starting Monday, which was induced by a combination of the remnants of Typhoon Trami and cold air, local authorities said.
    In the city of Sanya, many roads in the urban area were waterlogged, while some sections experienced a power outage. Primary and secondary schools as well as kindergartens in Sanya suspended classes at noon on Monday, and continued to suspend classes on Tuesday morning. Classes were resumed on Tuesday afternoon as the rainfall weakens. The city of Qionghai and the Tunchang and Chengmai counties also issued class suspension notices on Tuesday.
    The provincial disaster prevention, reduction and relief commission has upgraded its emergency response for flood control and typhoon prevention from Level III to Level II on Tuesday.
    At 9 a.m. on Tuesday, the provincial government issued a Level-II rainstorm warning, saying heavy rain in excess of 250 mm is expected to fall in the cities of Wanning and Danzhou and the Qiongzhong Li and Miao Autonomous County during the next 24 hours.
    The province on Tuesday morning also issued a meteorological risk warning for geological disasters.
    From Saturday to Monday, Typhoon Trami rotated over the waters off the southern coast of Hainan and the Xisha Islands.
    China has a four-tier emergency response system, with Level I being the most severe response, and a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe level, followed by orange, yellow and blue. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shenzhou-19 astronauts start journey to China’s space station for new endeavors

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe (C), Song Lingdong (R) and Wang Haoze attend a see-off ceremony at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on Oct. 30, 2024. A see-off ceremony for three Chinese astronauts of the Shenzhou-19 crewed space mission was held early Wednesday morning at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China launched the Shenzhou-19 crewed spaceship on Wednesday, sending three astronauts — including the country’s first female space engineer — to its orbiting space station for a six-month mission.
    The spaceship, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, blasted off at 4:27 a.m. (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, said the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
    About 10 minutes after the launch, the Shenzhou-19 spaceship separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success, the CMSA announced.
    The spaceship will then perform a fast, automated rendezvous and docking with the front port of the space station core module Tianhe in about 6.5 hours, forming a combination of three modules and three spacecraft.
    The Shenzhou-19 crew consists of mission commander Cai Xuzhe, and astronauts Song Lingdong and Wang Haoze.
    Cai is a seasoned astronaut who previously journeyed into orbit on the Shenzhou-14 mission in 2022. With this ongoing mission, he set a new record for the shortest interval between two spaceflights for Chinese astronauts.
    Song and Wang, part of the third batch of Chinese astronauts, are newcomers to space, both born in the 1990s.
    Wang is currently China’s only female space engineer and the third Chinese woman participating in a crewed spaceflight mission, the agency noted.
    Diverse sci-tech tasks
    The new crew has numerous tasks ahead, including conducting space science and application tests, performing extravehicular activities, installing protective devices against space debris, and managing the installation and recycling of extravehicular payloads and equipment. They will also engage in science education, public interest activities, and other payload tests, Lin Xiqiang, CMSA spokesperson told a press conference on Tuesday.
    They will carry out 86 space science research and technology experiments, covering various fields including space life science, microgravity fundamental physics, space material science, space medicine and new space technologies, Lin added.
    The CMSA revealed in April that China had undertaken over 130 scientific research and application projects in its space station, while 300 scientific experiment samples had been brought back from space by manned missions in five batches.
    In addition, more than 500 scientific research institutes worldwide had participated in these projects, achieving significant results in space life science, space medicine, space material science and microgravity fluid physics, with over 280 papers published in top international journals, the CMSA said.
    The Shenzhou-19 astronauts will complete in-orbit rotation with the Shenzhou-18 trio and stay at the space station for approximately six months.
    Cai Xuzhe told the press that he and the other two crew members have been training as a team for more than a year.
    Multiple extravehicular activities are scheduled during the Shenzhou-19 mission. “We have conducted comprehensive ground training, considering all possible scenarios, learning from previous extravehicular activities and thoroughly preparing for every potential plan and contingency,” Cai said.
    Wang Haoze explained that she will be mainly responsible for space experimental projects, cargo management, and space station operation management.
    Upgraded transport capability
    Researchers with the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) have optimized the equipment and adjusted the layout within the orbital module of the spaceship to increase its loading capacity for the Shenzhou-19 space mission.
    “Compared with Shenzhou-18, the payload space of Shenzhou-19 has been increased by 20 percent, making it possible to transport more time-sensitive and essential supplies for astronauts and related systems,” said Chen Tongxiang, an expert with the CASC.
    This not only allows for the transport of more scientific research equipment and supplies into space but also ensures more efficient and stable in-orbit support for the long-term operation of China’s space station, she said.
    China is also exploring ways to reduce the cargo transportation costs for its space station.
    In 2023, a notice was issued to solicit overall schemes for the low-cost cargo transportation system. After two rounds of selection, schemes respectively from the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and from the Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute under the Aviation Industry Corporation of China finally won the contracts for the flight verification phase, Lin said.
    The selection process has engaged scientific research institutes and commercial space companies in developing spacecraft, rockets and other flight products for China’s manned space program, which will help reduce operating costs for the space station and foster the rapid, orderly and healthy development of the commercial space industry, he added.
    Excellent cooperation platform
    China’s space station boasts a wealth of scientific application resources and comprehensive support capabilities, and the Shenzhou manned system and Tianzhou cargo system can ensure reliable and stable round-trip transportation for personnel and supplies between Earth and the space.
    “China’s space station is an excellent platform for international collaboration,” Lin said, noting that it serves not only as a national asset but also as a platform for advancing space technology and bringing benefits to all of humanity.
    China has carried out international collaborations with major space-faring nations and developing countries across various areas, including astronaut selection and training, space science applications, in-orbit facilities, space debris protection and ground support, with abundant outcomes, Lin said.
    Currently, the first batch of payloads selected through cooperation between China and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs are undergoing experiments in orbit, Lin said, adding that more international collaborative research initiatives are in the pipeline.
    China is also engaging in discussions to select and train astronauts from partner nations, inviting international counterparts to join its space station flight missions, Lin noted.
    “No matter which country participates, it is humanity’s collective quest to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos,” said Lin. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Launch of Shenzhou-19 crewed spaceship a complete success: CMSA

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The launch of the Shenzhou-19 crewed spaceship is a complete success, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
    China on Wednesday launched the Shenzhou-19 crewed spaceship，sending three astronauts — including the country’s first female space engineer — to its orbiting space station for a six-month mission.
    The spaceship, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, blasted off at 4:27 a.m. (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, said the CMSA.
    About 10 minutes after the launch, the Shenzhou-19 spaceship separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit, the CMSA said.
    The spaceship will then perform a fast, automated rendezvous and docking with the front port of the space station core module Tianhe in about 6.5 hours, forming a combination of three modules and three spacecraft.
    Shenzhou-19 is the 33rd flight mission of China’s manned space program and the fourth manned mission during the application and development stage of China’s space station. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ByteDance’s Zhang Yiming tops the list of Chinese billionaires

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    ByteDance’s founder Zhang Yiming’s wealth value has topped 350 billion yuan ($49.15 billion) this year, increasing by 105 billion yuan from 2023, and nominated as China’s richest person of 2024, according to the Hurun Research Institute on Tuesday.

    This is his first time being nominated as China’s richest person, the first one to make the list who was born after the 1980s and an entrepreneur that started from scratch, the report said.

    ByteDance’s global revenue surpassed 850 billion yuan in 2023, up 30 percent year-on-year, according to the report.

    The Hurun Rich List report for 2024 based wealth calculations as a snapshot of Aug 30, 2024. It identified the threshold for top 10 at 165 billion yuan.

    A total of 1,094 entrepreneurs with a personal wealth of more than 5 billion yuan made the list this year, the institute said.

    Nongfu Spring’s Zhong Shanshan and Tencent’s Ma Huateng grabbed the second and third spots on the list, with wealth values of 340 billion yuan and 315 billion yuan, respectively.

    Moreover, the top five sectors of wealth for listed entrepreneurs are industrial products, consumer goods, general health, real estate as well as food and beverage.

    The top three cities with the highest concentration of entrepreneurs on the list are Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s logistics sector reports steady growth

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Staff members work at a Jingdong logistics center in Zhengzhou, central China’s Henan Province, Feb. 7, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s logistics sector maintained steady growth in the first three quarters of the year, according to the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing on Tuesday.

    During the period, social logistics rose 5.6 percent year on year to 258.2 trillion yuan (about 36.22 trillion U.S. dollars), said the federation.

    Specifically, logistics for industrial products increased by 5.6 percent year on year, while that for renewable resources climbed by 10.1 percent, said the federation.

    During the period, social logistics costs rose 2.3 percent year on year to 13.4 trillion yuan, according to the federation.

    The ratio of social logistics costs to GDP was 14.1 percent during the period, down 0.2 percentage points from the same period last year.

    In the first three quarters, the total revenue of the logistics industry stood at 10 trillion yuan, an increase of 3.7 percent year on year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China renews anti-dumping duties on imported ethanolamines

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOC) on Tuesday announced its decision to renew anti-dumping duties on ethanolamines imported from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

    The duties were initially introduced in 2018 for a period of five years as such imports had caused substantial damage to China’s domestic industry.

    Following the end of the term last year, the MOC launched investigations to review the anti-dumping at the request of the domestic industry.

    The MOC said in a ruling that if the duties were terminated, the dumping practice and related damage would likely continue or reoccur.

    The duties will be levied for another five years starting Wednesday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ARJ21 jetliner completes its longest commercial route flight

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An ARJ21 jetliner is pictured at Wuhan Tianhe International Airport in Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province, Oct. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s homegrown regional jetliner, the ARJ21, successfully completed its longest commercial route flight Tuesday, landing in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou from Manado, Indonesia.

    According to the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC), this is also the first China-bound international flight operated by an overseas airline using the Chinese aircraft.

    Starting from the end of November, there will be a daily round trip between the two cities, up from three round trips per week in the initial stage, all operated by TransNusa of Indonesia using the ARJ21 aircraft.

    TransNusa has received three ARJ21 aircraft from COMAC since December 2022 and opened eight routes with ARJ21.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Detailed fiscal package set to be unveiled

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Detailed stimulus policies, including proactive fiscal expansion, are likely to be rolled out to address China’s local government debt issue and facilitate a steady economic recovery, as China’s top legislature is set to convene a highly anticipated session next month.

    The Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress will convene its 12th session from Nov 4 to 8 in Beijing, and analysts said the meeting is widely expected to flesh out details of the fiscal package, including a swap program for local government hidden debt, and sales of government bonds to inject capital into banks.

    Vice-Minister of Finance Liao Min said during the World Bank’s 110th Development Committee meeting on Friday in Washington, DC, that China will leverage more fiscal firepower to strengthen its countercyclical adjustments.

    Countercyclical adjustments are macroeconomic tools used to neutralize possible negative effects of economic cycles.

    Liao said that details of China’s fiscal initiatives would be announced after the conclusion of the meeting of the NPC Standing Committee, as fiscal policy in China requires going through legislative procedures.

    Through government spending, China aims to catalyze investment from the private sector and shore up consumer spending, thereby increasing effective demand, Liao said, adding that the country is confident of achieving its annual growth target of around 5 percent.

    In October last year, China’s top legislature approved a plan to increase treasury bond issuance by 1 trillion yuan ($140 billion).

    Moreover, earlier this month, Finance Minister Lan Fo’an said at a news conference that the central government plans to significantly increase the debt ceiling to conduct a one-time swap of local governments’ existing hidden debt.

    This policy is the largest support measure introduced in recent years to aid the debt resolution process, and is pending legislative approval, Lan added.

    Wang Qing, chief macroeconomic analyst at Golden Credit Rating International, said, “This means that the local government debt quota, currently at around 46.79 trillion yuan, will be raised substantially this year.”

    The quota increase will pave the way for the issuance of large-scale special local government refinancing bonds in the fourth quarter, which is estimated to reach around 2 to 3 trillion yuan and will be used to swap out the existing hidden local debt. This process is unlikely to be slow, Wang added.

    The government’s debt restructuring program has extended repayment periods and reduced financing costs, enabling local authorities to free up more funds for current economic development and public service provision, said Luo Zhiheng, chief economist at Yuekai Securities.

    Furthermore, the easing of local government debt helps optimize the local business environment, which is a significant boon for foreign companies investing in China, Luo added.

    Meanwhile, analysts said the current round of fiscal initiatives also includes measures to replenish bank capital, which will boost the lending and bond-purchasing abilities of large commercial banks, with the aim of driving these major banks to further enhance support for the real economy.

    The volume of special treasury bonds issued to replenish the core tier 1 capital of State-owned commercial banks could potentially reach around 1 trillion yuan, said Wang of Golden Credit Rating International.

    “As a result, new yuan-denominated loans in the fourth quarter are expected to reverse the previous trend of slowdown and return to a growth trajectory, which is an important focus area for the current economic stabilization efforts,” Wang added.

    While Lan, the finance minister, has hinted at the considerable headroom the central government has to raise debt levels and increase the fiscal deficit, analysts said that increases in the government deficit and treasury bond issuance are likely to be outlined in next year’s Government Work Report.

    Tao Chuan, chief economist at Minsheng Securities Research Institute, said that given the relatively slower pace of issuance of special treasury bonds and local government bonds at the moment, the current fiscal policy thinking is likely tilting more toward effectively utilizing existing policy tools and larger-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hezbollah appoints Naim Qassem as new chief

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Hezbollah announced on Tuesday the election of Naim Qassem as party secretary-general, succeeding Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli raid on the party’s headquarters in Beirut’s southern suburb on Sept. 27.

    “Hezbollah’s Shura Council agreed to elect His Eminence Sheikh Naim Qassem as Hezbollah’s secretary-general,” said Hezbollah in a statement.

    The statement pledged “to work together to achieve Hezbollah’s principles and goals and to keep the flame of resistance shining and its banner raised until victory is achieved.”

    Qassem has been Hezbollah’s deputy secretary-general since 1991 and is considered one of the party’s prominent theorists.

    Qassem, 71, was born in 1953 and is from the village of Kafr Fila in the Iqlim al-Tuffah region of southern Lebanon. He is married and has six children.

    He studied under senior Shiite scholars in Lebanon while pursuing a master’s and bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Lebanese University and worked as a chemistry teacher for several years in secondary schools.

    Qassem began his political career in the 1970s as he joined the Amal movement, a Lebanese political party and former militia affiliated with the Shia community of Lebanon. He was one of the secretaries of the movement’s leadership council and resigned from it after the Iranian Islamic Revolution in 1979.

    He participated in the founding meetings that led to the formation of Hezbollah in 1982 and served on the group’s Shura Council for three terms, where he was responsible for the educational and scouting programs within the group in Beirut.

    Qassem was appointed as the Deputy Secretary-General of Hezbollah when Sayyed Abbas al-Moussawi assumed the position of General Secretary in 1991 and remained in the position after Israel assassinated al-Moussawi, who was succeeded by Nasrallah in 1992.

    Qassem has been the general coordinator of Hezbollah’s parliamentary election campaigns since the group first participated in 1992.

    He has authored many books, the most prominent of which was in 2005 the book “Hezbollah,” which presents the party’s goals, history, and political vision in various matters.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Myanmar mark 10 years of biodiversity conservation partnership

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China and Myanmar celebrated a decade of collaboration in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development at a ceremony held in Nay Pyi Taw on Tuesday.

    The event highlighted a decade of commitment, collaboration and collective actions of China and Myanmar towards biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

    Deputy Minister for Myanmar’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation U Min Thu expressed gratitude to the Chinese Academy of Sciences for its financial and technical support to Myanmar for biodiversity conservation and cooperation research.

    He noted that the decade of Myanmar-China cooperation has provided valuable opportunities and experiences for mutual learning in biodiversity conservation.

    Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar Zheng Zhihong said that over the past 10 years, China-Myanmar cooperation on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development has achieved fruitful results. China and Myanmar have established the Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute, carried out nine large-scale joint scientific expeditions, collected and recorded tens of thousands of species, and published more than 100 papers.

    Relying on the Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute, the two sides have helped Myanmar cultivate scientific research talent, and contributed to Myanmar’s economic development and people’s livelihood, he added.

    By building on the solid foundation of the past decade, the two countries will further strengthen cooperation in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, making greater contributions to the sustainable development of the two countries, especially Myanmar, the minister counselor said.

    Gong Haihua, director of the Division of Asian and African Affairs, the International Cooperation Bureau of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said that in the past years, the two sides witnessed successful cooperation in many areas, and she expressed hope that more fruitful cooperation will be carried out in the future.

    About 100 participants, including officials and researchers from the two countries, attended the event. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock, Ossoff Announce Over $48 Million in Federal Funding for Clean Energy Upgrades at Savannah, Brunswick Ports 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senators Reverend Warnock, Ossoff Announce Over $48 Million in Federal Funding for Clean Energy Upgrades at Savannah, Brunswick Ports 

    Federal funds made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act, championed by Georgia’s U.S. Senators for its investments in Georgia’s clean energy economy
    Georgia Ports Authority to receive over $48 million to install new electric charging infrastructure for ships at the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick
    Senator Reverend Warnock penned a letter of support for GPA’s bid to receive federal funding for clean energy infrastructure upgrades
    In addition to boosting the local economy, this grant will result in less smog from diesel emissions for surrounding port communities, strengthening air quality and the health of dock workers 
    Earlier this year, Georgia’s U.S. Senators announced over $15 million in clean energy and infrastructure investments for the Port of Savannah
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “As a son of coastal Georgia, I know the importance of Georgia’s ports and its workers to our state and national economies. As we continue moving toward a clean energy economy, it is critical Georgia and its workers remain on the frontlines of these federal investments and reap the benefits of our hard work in Washington”
    Senator Ossoff: “Today we are delivering new resources through the EPA’s Clean Ports program to upgrade the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick with vessel shore power systems and install new electric charging infrastructure. This is a win-win for our economy and for local communities”

    Washington, D.C. —  Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), a member of the Senate Commerce committee charged with overseeing the nation’s transportation policies, and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) announced they secured $48,763,746 to install new electric charging infrastructure for ships at the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick. The funding will go to the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) to invest in the vessel shore power systems, which will allow ships to ‘plug-in’ to electric grid power and turn off diesel engines while at port. In addition, the project includes the scrappage and replacement of diesel terminal tractors with new electric terminal tractors. GPA plans to engage with communities through their network and conduct classroom and on-the-job training for workers related to shore power, zero-emission vehicles, and charging stations. In addition to boosting the local economy, this grant will result in less smog from diesel emissions for surrounding port communities, helping enhance overall quality of life. The decrease in diesel emissions will also strengthen air quality, and in turn, the health of dock workers spending long hours keeping our ports running. This latest investment reflects both senators’ commitment to bolstering Georgia’s clean energy infrastructure, helping Georgia’s ports maintain their competitive edge in the U.S. economy, and ensuring workers receive the support and training needed in an evolving economy. 

    “As a son of coastal Georgia, I know the importance of Georgia’s ports and its workers to our state and national economies. As we continue moving toward a clean energy economy, it is critical Georgia and its workers remain on the frontlines of these federal investments and reap the benefits of our hard work in Washington, which is why I was proud to champion this award for the Georgia Ports Authority,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Senator Ossoff and I will continue delivering investments for Georgia’s ports to keep our state at the forefront of the nation’s clean energy economy.”

    “Senator Warnock and I continue working to upgrade Georgia’s port infrastructure and establish Georgia as the national leader in advanced energy technology. Today we are delivering new resources through the EPA’s Clean Ports program to upgrade the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick with vessel shore power systems and install new electric charging infrastructure. This is a win-win for our economy and for local communities,” said Senator Ossoff.

    The latest announcement is part of a larger set of awards unveiled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that includes 55 applicants across 27 states and territories to receive nearly $3 billion through EPA’s Clean Ports Program. The grants are funded by the Inflation Reduction Act—the largest investment in combating climate change and promoting clean energy in history, and legislation only made possible by Georgia voters electing Senators Warnock and Ossoff to cast the decisive votes—and will advance environmental justice by reducing diesel air pollution in U.S. ports and surrounding communities while promoting good-paying and union jobs that help America’s ports thrive.

    A longtime advocate for strong federal funding for Georgia’s ports, this latest effort follows Senator Warnock’s bipartisan, bicameral push with Georgia’s full congressional delegation urging officials to study expanding the Port of Savannah to ensure it can continue accommodating increasingly large container vessels. Earlier this year, Senators Warnock and Ossoff announced over $15 million in clean energy and infrastructure investments for the Port of Savannah. Also this year, Senator Warnock successfully secured $11.3 million for the Brunswick Harbor through the FY ’24 government funding bill for modifications to improve the efficiency, cost and reliability of ship traffic in the harbor, as well as $44.7 million for the Savannah Harbor to support operations and maintenance. Additionally, in January 2024, Senators Warnock and Ossoff announced a $15 million federal grant to the Port of Brunswick for critical infrastructure upgrades, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law championed by both Georgia senators.

    In May 2023, Sen. Ossoff and EPA Administrator visited the Port of Savannah to announce the Clean Ports Program and the availability of funding to electrify transportation and logistics to reduce air pollution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China and Zambia celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China and Zambia on Tuesday held a ceremony to mark 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    The ceremony was held at the TAZARA Memorial Park in Chongwe District, about 39 km east of Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. A wreath laying was conducted in honor of the Chinese nationals who died during the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) line.

    The event, held under the theme “Pass on the TAZARA spirit to the next generation and jointly build a shared future,” was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Han Jing and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema as well as officials from both the Chinese Embassy and the Zambian government.

    In his remarks, the Chinese ambassador paid gratitude to the founding leaders of the two countries for establishing the long-standing relationship which has stood the test of time and has been seen as a fine example of China-Africa relations and South-South cooperation.

    He said the unwavering spirit of perseverance, hard work, and selfless dedication exhibited by both Chinese and local people during the construction of the TAZARA line serves as an inspiration and a driving force for China-Zambia and China-Africa cooperation.

    According to him, the revitalization of the railway line following a memorandum of understanding signed recently will not only enhance Zambia’s trade and export, in particular but will also help the country become a regional industrial hub.

    “I look forward to an even closer partnership between the Zambian government and the Chinese contractor to support the revitalization of TAZARA (line), for it is not just an enduring monument of our time-honored friendship, but also a pilot on how an aid project could sustain itself by market operations,” he said.

    The Chinese ambassador also underscored the importance of sensitizing the younger generation of the joint heritage as they were going to be future torchbearers of the China-Zambia friendship. He said the stories of the TAZARA line construction were the best illustration of the two countries’ fight against oppression for freedom, adding that the TAZARA heroes and the spirit they embodied deserve to be properly documented and remembered by the young people through textbooks and stories of freedom fighters.

    On his part, the Zambian president said the theme was appropriate as it emphasizes the need to pass on the spirit of the partnership between the two countries to the next generation with a shared future. He said the spirit of a shared partnership was evident in the way the two countries have related to each other in various areas over the years.

    The Zambian president said the two countries were celebrating 60 years of partnership with renewed vigor and more focus on what the partnership means to the two governments. He, however, said there was a need to water and nurture the partnership so that it continues growing, adding that it was the duty of all stakeholders to nurture the partnership.

    He also paid glowing tribute to the Chinese nationals who died during the construction of the TAZARA line, with the youngest being 22 years old, saying they sacrificed their lives and paid the utmost price.

    The Zambian president and the Chinese ambassador also unveiled the commemorative envelope for the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Zambia during the ceremony.

    And some students from universities, who attended the commemoration, said they were ready to contribute to further strengthening of the relationship between China and Zambia.

    Lillian Mumbi, a student from the Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies, said in an interview that she would share information about the relationship between the two countries with other young people. She said the students will use various platforms to share information on the bilateral relations between the two countries.

    Kenneth Kasulo, a student from the University of Zambia, said the theme was appropriate as it was important for young people to understand the importance of the development of the country.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: At least 12 killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An injured boy is seen at a hospital after an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on Oct. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At least 12 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City, Palestinian sources reported on Tuesday.

    Israeli aircraft targeted a shop in the crowded Al-Sahaba market in eastern Gaza City, which was bustling with vendors and shoppers, according to local sources and eyewitnesses.

    Paramedics reported that medical teams retrieved six bodies from the site, and more than 20 individuals with various injuries were transported to hospitals in the city.

    In addition, six were killed and dozens of others wounded in an Israeli strike on a gathering of Palestinians awaiting the arrival of aid on Al-Bahr Street near al-Khaldi mosque in Gaza City, according to paramedics.

    The Israeli army has not commented on the incidents yet.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China deplores US rule on investment restrictions against China

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China deplores and rejects the latest U.S. rule on investment restrictions aimed at China, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday.

    Lin made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked to respond to reports that the Biden administration has finalized restrictions on investments by U.S. individuals and companies into advanced tech in China, including the semiconductor, quantum computing and AI sectors.

    Lin said China deplores and rejects the United States’ Final Rule to curb investment in China. “China has protested to the United States and will take all measures necessary to firmly defend its lawful rights and interests.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 60th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Zambia celebrated

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    60th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Zambia celebrated

    CHONGWE, Zambia, Oct. 29 — China and Zambia on Tuesday held a ceremony to mark 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    The ceremony was held at the TAZARA Memorial Park in Chongwe District, about 39 km east of Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. A wreath laying was conducted in honor of the Chinese nationals who died during the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) line.

    The event, held under the theme “Pass on the TAZARA spirit to the next generation and jointly build a shared future,” was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Han Jing and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema as well as officials from both the Chinese Embassy and the Zambian government.

    In his remarks, the Chinese ambassador paid gratitude to the founding leaders of the two countries for establishing the long-standing relationship which has stood the test of time and has been seen as a fine example of China-Africa relations and South-South cooperation.

    He said the unwavering spirit of perseverance, hard work, and selfless dedication exhibited by both Chinese and local people during the construction of the TAZARA line serves as an inspiration and a driving force for China-Zambia and China-Africa cooperation.

    According to him, the revitalization of the railway line following a memorandum of understanding signed recently will not only enhance Zambia’s trade and export, in particular but will also help the country become a regional industrial hub.

    “I look forward to an even closer partnership between the Zambian government and the Chinese contractor to support the revitalization of TAZARA (line), for it is not just an enduring monument of our time-honored friendship, but also a pilot on how an aid project could sustain itself by market operations,” he said.

    The Chinese ambassador also underscored the importance of sensitizing the younger generation of the joint heritage as they were going to be future torchbearers of the China-Zambia friendship. He said the stories of the TAZARA line construction were the best illustration of the two countries’ fight against oppression for freedom, adding that the TAZARA heroes and the spirit they embodied deserve to be properly documented and remembered by the young people through textbooks and stories of freedom fighters.

    On his part, the Zambian president said the theme was appropriate as it emphasizes the need to pass on the spirit of the partnership between the two countries to the next generation with a shared future. He said the spirit of a shared partnership was evident in the way the two countries have related to each other in various areas over the years.

    The Zambian president said the two countries were celebrating 60 years of partnership with renewed vigor and more focus on what the partnership means to the two governments. He, however, said there was a need to water and nurture the partnership so that it continues growing, adding that it was the duty of all stakeholders to nurture the partnership.

    He also paid glowing tribute to the Chinese nationals who died during the construction of the TAZARA line, with the youngest being 22 years old, saying they sacrificed their lives and paid the utmost price.

    The Zambian president and the Chinese ambassador also unveiled the commemorative envelope for the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Zambia during the ceremony.

    And some students from universities, who attended the commemoration, said they were ready to contribute to further strengthening of the relationship between China and Zambia.

    Lillian Mumbi, a student from the Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies, said in an interview that she would share information about the relationship between the two countries with other young people. She said the students will use various platforms to share information on the bilateral relations between the two countries.

    Kenneth Kasulo, a student from the University of Zambia, said the theme was appropriate as it was important for young people to understand the importance of the development of the country.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Peng Liyuan chats over tea with wife of Finnish president

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, chats over tea with Suzanne Innes-Stubb, wife of Finnish President Alexander Stubb, in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, Oct. 29 — Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, chatted over tea with Suzanne Innes-Stubb, wife of Finnish President Alexander Stubb, in Beijing on Tuesday.

    Noting that both China and Finland have time-honored historical traditions and profound cultural heritage, Peng voiced the hope that the two sides will strengthen exchanges and cooperation in fields like art and winter sports, and continuously enhance the friendship between the two peoples.

    Peng expressed appreciation for Suzanne’s active commitment to public interest and introduced China’s achievements in relevant fields, noting that China and Finland can share valuable experience to jointly enhance the well-being of the two peoples.

    Suzanne expressed deep appreciation for Peng’s longstanding efforts to advance the rights of women and children globally. She also expressed her willingness to further promote people-to-people and cultural exchanges between Finland and China.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: A glimpse of classical gardens in Suzhou, E China’s Jiangsu

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    A glimpse of classical gardens in Suzhou, E China’s Jiangsu

    Updated: October 30, 2024 09:44 Xinhua
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows the scenery of Lion Grove Garden in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. About a 20-minute ride by high-speed train from east China’s Shanghai, Suzhou is one of the richest cities in China, with its more than 100 classical gardens considered some of the most beautiful in the country, and nine of them serving as UNESCO world heritage sites. Throughout history, the garden design has always been intertwined with Chinese literature and the art of landscape painting. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows tourists visiting the Lingering Garden in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows tourists visiting the Lingering Garden in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows the scenery of Humble Administrator’s Garden in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows people visiting Lion Grove Garden in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows people visiting Humble Administrator’s Garden in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows the scenery at the Tiger Hill scenic area in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows tourists visiting the Tiger Hill scenic area in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Venom’ boosts Chinese box office as hopes rise for sustained market heat

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    “I never thought Venom was anything more than a villain, but this film moved me to tears,” one Weibo user remarked, reflecting on the unexpectedly strong response to “Venom: The Last Dance.”

    The latest installment in Sony’s “Venom” franchise debuted in China on Oct. 23, striking an emotional chord with local audiences. Maroon 5’s “Memories” scored the film’s reflective moments, adding to its impact on moviegoers.

    Opening during what is typically a quiet period for China’s box office — between the National Day holiday in early October and the end-of-year moviegoing period, which begins in late November — “Venom: The Last Dance” defied seasonal expectations and drove total box office revenue for Oct. 21-27 to 620 million yuan (about 87 million U.S. dollars). According to ticketing platform Maoyan, “Venom: The Last Dance” alone raked in 326 million yuan over the course of the week, more than 50 percent of the overall figure.

    Maoyan projects the film to end its China box office run with over 580 million yuan in earnings.

    Sony Pictures took to Chinese social media to celebrate the film’s success, highlighting its impressive five-day run at the top of China’s daily box office — a rare feat for Hollywood releases in recent years.

    While the influence of Hollywood films has generally waned in China compared to a decade ago, the success of “Venom” suggests certain U.S. franchise titles can still capture a diverse range of viewers.

    This can also be seen in the mixed reception other recent Hollywood releases have received in China. “Joker: Folie à Deux,” which premiered on Oct. 16, hasn’t matched the box office impact of its 2019 predecessor but has nevertheless found an audience in fans of more complex narratives. While some viewers have found the sequel’s introspective tone to be a departure from the first installment, others have lauded it as a bold, deconstructed take on the Joker mythos.

    The real test now is whether “Venom” can sustain its momentum through the schedule of upcoming releases.

    Dong Wenxin, a film critic and cinema manager, has noted the surprising strength of the post-holiday period, which is often considered a cold season for the box office. “Is this truly a cold season?” Dong asked, noting that strong releases can keep theaters busy even in typically quiet months.

    She expressed hope that “Cesium Fallout,” a disaster film starring Hong Kong veteran actor Andy Lau and set for release on Nov. 1, could be a candidate to sustain the market heat following “Venom.”

    Hollywood’s broader performance in China this year has been mixed, with “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” and “Alien: Romulus” currently standing as the only two U.S. films in the annual top 12, grossing close to 960 million and 790 million yuan, respectively.

    Industry watchers are now setting their sights on the end-of-year moviegoing period, which begins on Nov. 22, with Dwayne Johnson’s “Red One” scheduled to arrive in theaters on Nov. 8.

    Johnson’s name recognition in China, cemented by his role in the “Fast & Furious” film series, has generated widespread anticipation for “Red One.” “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw,” the last installment in the blockbuster franchise to feature the U.S. actor, earned 1.4 billion yuan in China in 2019.

    Despite no longer being a guaranteed box office draw, Hollywood titles still provide the variety that keeps China’s theatrical landscape dynamic. As 2024 enters its final quarter, industry insiders are cautiously optimistic that a well-curated slate can maintain momentum, offering a promising close to the year.

    To date, China’s 2024 box office has totaled 38.3 billion yuan — a 22 percent drop from the same period last year, underscoring the high stakes for Hollywood and domestic releases alike in the months ahead. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Further scrutiny for relics-related posts

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China has pledged to tighten scrutiny over content related to ancient tombs on livestreaming and short-video platforms, as the nation aims to intensify the fight against crimes involving cultural relics.

    The move was announced by the National Cultural Heritage Administration and the Cyberspace Administration of China after a number of livestreamers and video producers were found to have streamed or posted inappropriate or illegal content related to tomb explorations.

    For example, it was discovered that some netizens posted videos in which they recreated scenes resembling archaeological sites and presented them as genuine in their posts, while some visited real sites and unearthed cultural relics illegally and then posted their findings, or identified them despite not being qualified to do so. Others posted content about ancient superstitions and provided information about tomb raiding and reselling cultural relics offline, according to the administrations.

    “The internet users posted such content to get more online views, but those videos have misled the public and also disturbed the management of cultural relics and endangered their safety,” the administrations said.

    In one case disclosed by prosecutors from Longli county, Guizhou province, a man surnamed Chen was sentenced to nine months with a one-year reprieve in November last year for damaging cultural relics after he illegally entered an ancient cave in the area and livestreamed his visit on his mobile phone at around 11 pm on March 28, 2022.

    The cave, which was used as a burial site by the Miao ethnic group during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), is one of Guizhou’s cultural relics protection sites.

    That night, Chen opened coffins and removed the human remains he found to film them in order to attract more online viewers, the prosecutors said.

    His livestreaming damaged the relics in the tomb, and it was difficult to repair them, they added.

    “With the rise of short-video platforms in recent years, some netizens and livestreamers have been overstepping moral and legal boundaries to gain profits, resulting in the frequent occurrence of vulgar content in cyberspace,” they said.

    While calling for stronger oversight on livestreaming platforms, the prosecutors also emphasized that judicial action will be taken swiftly if someone is found to have crossed legal red lines.

    In an official statement released on Monday, the administrations said that they have launched a campaign to tighten supervision over online platforms, during which internet operators should strengthen their reviews of posted content and better regulate livestreaming and short-video services.

    If suspected violations or crimes are found, internet platforms should cooperate with law enforcement, the statement said, calling for cyberspace and cultural relics protection agencies to increase information exchanges.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Dragons take over cultural event in Zhejiang

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Colorful dragons danced in merry performances as a cultural parade unfolded on Friday during Qiandao Lake Creative Life Week in Chunan county, Zhejiang province. The performances embraced the charm of loong culture in the Year of the Dragon.

    Loong culture is an important folk tradition in the Xin’an River Basin. The loong, or dragon, is a legendary creature in Chinese mythology and folklore. It was represented joyfully in the dances. Each dance was unique, with various types of loongs in elaborate group performances — grass loongs, fish lantern loongs, bench loongs and bamboo leaf loongs.

    Thirteen local teams and five from other places — nearly a thousand actors altogether — collaborated in the performances to showcase the dazzling folk style.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-Bulgaria cultural ties strengthened with Dragon Boat exhibition

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Xu Yan, vice mayor of Ningbo in Zhejiang province, presented the plaque for the “Dragon Boat Culture Exchange Base and Dragon Boat Culture Exhibition” to Evgenia Alexieva, mayor of Pancharevo district in Bulgaria on Monday, marking a new phase in cultural exchange between China and Bulgaria with the establishment of Chinese dragon boat culture in the nation.

    The Dragon Boat Culture Exhibition presented Chinese dragon boat culture in multiple forms, including pictures, physical exhibits and multimedia.

    Ningbo, known as the hometown of Chinese dragon boat culture, showcased its historical heritage and contemporary innovation, illustrating the city as a place where ancient and modern knowledge converge and connect the world, as seen through the friendship between China and Bulgaria.

    This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The Dragon Boat Culture Exchange Base and Dragon Boat Culture Exhibition at the China Cultural Center in Sofia hold significant importance.

    Evgenia Alexieva said, “I hope this is a new starting point for deepening cultural exchanges between China and Bulgaria. In the future, we will continue to leverage our respective strengths, explore cooperation potential, establish more communication platforms, steadily deepen exchanges and visits and contribute greater efforts to further enhance bilateral relations between China and Bulgaria.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: TV festival attracts global cultural exchange in entertainment

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The China Pavilion appeared at the Palace of Festivals and Conferences for MIPCOM Cannes in France from Oct 21 to 24, marking the 21st time it has participated in the autumn TV festival, which offers a series of events under the theme “Focus on China, Stories Without Limits”.

    Cao Shumin, director of the National Radio and Television Administration, attended the forum and delivered a speech noting that 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France. MIPCOM Cannes is the world’s largest market for international studios and distributors of entertainment content. It serves as a window for showcasing audio-video programs and a platform for discussing industry development.

    Cao shared three characteristics of the Chinese audiovisual content market.

    The quality of audio works is continuously improving, with numerous hits emerging, particularly realistic works that reflect common human experiences and emotions that resonate with audiences worldwide.

    Cultural exchanges and cooperation always adhere to inclusiveness and mutual appreciation, using audio/visual works to enhance understanding and communication in promoting the coexistence and development of diverse global cultures.

    The market has enormous potential and unlimited space for cooperation and innovation. Efforts are being made to deeply integrate and develop radio, television and online audiovisual content and dissemination, using technology to empower innovative audiovisual program forms and improve service quality, thus providing broad prospects.

    At the panel session of the forum, Yang Xiaopei, founder of Xixi Pictures from China, discussed the latest trends in international audiovisual content cooperation.

    Works produced by Yang’s team have been broadcast on streaming platforms and TV stations in various countries. By collecting audience comments and feedback, they found audiences in many countries that appreciate Chinese culture and stories, which greatly encourages and motivates her team, she said.

    The China Pavilion covered a total area of 258 square meters, featuring over 30 outstanding Chinese audiovisual content production, distribution and broadcasting organizations, showcasing 179 works.

    The festival gathered over 1,500 leading distribution and production companies from over 100 countries and regions, with more than 320 booths and 31 national and regional pavilions.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s pickup truck sales up 3% in September

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Sales of pickup trucks in China rose 3 percent year on year in September, driven by surging market demand, industry data showed Tuesday.

    Some 45,000 pickup trucks were sold in the country last month, surging 17 percent month on month, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

    The exports of such vehicles accounted for 52 percent of the country’s total pickup truck sales, or 27 percent of overall truck sales, the CPCA data revealed.

    The robust demand in overseas markets has promoted the continued growth of China’s pickup truck exports since 2022, the CPCA said.

    In the first three quarters of the year, China’s pickup truck sales reached 386,000 units, up 2 percent year on year.

    However, pickup truck production in the country fell by 4.5 percent year on year in September to 42,900 units, the data showed.

    The performance of the domestic pickup market remained relatively stable, according to the CPCA.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Equipment makers, high-tech lift power

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Driven by the rapid development of the high-tech and equipment manufacturing sectors, China saw its electricity consumption, a key barometer of economic activity, rise 7.9 percent year-on-year in the first three quarters, said the China Electricity Council.

    Electricity consumption in the two key sectors grew 11.4 percent year-on-year during the period, a 1.3 percentage point increase from the same period last year, said Jiang Debin, deputy director of the council’s statistics and data center.

    Soaring electricity consumption in these advanced sectors and the production of specialized equipment and machinery reflect an ongoing trend of transformation and upgrade within manufacturing, Jiang said.

    High-tech and equipment manufacturing sectors include areas involved in electronics, aerospace, robotics, precision machinery and other high-value tech-intensive manufacturing activities. These sectors typically require advanced engineering, specialized manufacturing techniques, and often high levels of automation to meet the demands for quality and precision.

    Within these key sectors, electrical machinery and equipment manufacturing led with a robust 19.1 percent increase, while computers, communications and electronics equipment manufacturing saw a 14.4 percent uptick. Instrumentation manufacturing followed closely behind, posting an 11.6 percent rise, and the auto industry grew by 11.1 percent, said the council.

    In a sign of the growing emphasis on renewable energy, electricity consumption for photovoltaic equipment and component manufacturing surged 36.2 percent compared to last year. Additionally, wind power equipment production in the general equipment sector climbed 19.6 percent, underscoring China’s commitment to supporting green technology development as part of its broader industrial upgrade, it said.

    Jiang said that driven by mobile internet, big data and cloud computing sectors, electricity consumption for internet data services also increased 24.4 percent year-on-year during the first nine months.

    The rapid growth of electric vehicles, meanwhile, led to a 56.7 percent year-on-year increase in electricity consumption for charging and battery swapping services, he said.

    Analysts say that given the country’s ambitious targets of peaking carbon emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060, the power sector is likely to keep investing in the development of new energy sources.

    The energy sector is poised to accelerate investment in new energy sources, driven by the strong policy support for renewable energy as solar and wind power remain central to reducing emissions across the grid, said Wang Lining, director of the oil market department of the Economics and Technology Research Institute under China National Petroleum Corp.

    As these technologies mature, we’re likely to see power consumption being increasingly driven by the expansion of these sectors and the transition will fuel substantial infrastructure investment, Wang said.

    Lin Boqiang, head of the China Institute for Studies in Energy Policy at Xiamen University, said solar and wind are expected to be major growth engines in the next decade with continuous investment in the power sector.

    “As these investments intensify, the energy sector will need to develop robust power storage solutions and grid modernization efforts to support an influx of intermittent renewable sources, paving the way for a more resilient and greener energy landscape, Lin said.

    The council said earlier that total electricity consumption is expected to grow by approximately 6.5 percent year-on-year in 2024.

    According to the council, power investment continues to grow rapidly, with new wind and solar power installations reaching a combined 200 gigawatts, accounting for over 80 percent of total newly installed capacity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Norwegians optimistic about opportunities at CIIE

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A truck loaded with exhibits for the upcoming 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) is greeted with a water salute during an accession ceremony for exhibits at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the main venue for the CIIE, in east China’s Shanghai, Oct. 22, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    As the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) approaches, Henning Kristoffersen, head of Innovation Norway in China, expressed optimism about growing opportunities for Norwegian businesses to deepen presence in Chinese market in a recent interview with Xinhua.

    Highlighting last year’s participation of Norwegian companies in the CIIE, Kristoffersen, also commercial counselor of the Norwegian Embassy in Beijing, said the event had provided a valuable platform for the businesses, particularly those in nutrition and health sectors, to showcase their products.

    They have realized that the CIIE is “an excellent arena to highlight their innovations,” he said.

    This year, Norway will participate in the Country Exhibition for the first time, hosting a variety of activities aimed at engaging with Chinese consumers and stakeholders.

    “This year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Norway and China … As ocean nations, maritime and marine sectors present substantial opportunities for both countries,” Kristoffersen said, adding, “We also look forward to increased cooperation in research and development.”

    Kristoffersen expressed belief that China will offer significant opportunities for Norwegian businesses in its promotion of green transition and innovation-driven growth.

    Sigmund Bjorgo, Norwegian Seafood Council’s country director to China, emphasized the importance of the CIIE as a major meeting point for Norwegian seafood companies to connect with industry stakeholders and consumers.

    “The CIIE has become an essential event for the Norwegian seafood industry. Being part of the Country Exhibition this year will elevate our profile and help us expand our presence in the Chinese market,” Bjorgo told Xinhua.

    Expressing confidence in the Chinese market, Bjorgo, who had previously served in the same position, said, “The growth of Norwegian seafood exports has been impressive, particularly for salmon, which has grown fivefold since 2018.”

    The 7th CIIE, scheduled to be held in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10, has attracted participants from 152 countries, regions and international organizations, and achieved a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders set to attend.

    Since its first edition in 2018, this expo has become an important stage spotlighting China’s new development paradigm, a platform for high-level opening up, and a public good for the whole world.

    The previous six editions saw nearly 2,500 new products, technologies and services make their debuts, with combined intended turnover reaching over 420 billion U.S. dollars.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: All nations should ensure universal, consistent application of int’l humanitarian law: Chinese ambassador

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    All nations should translate their political commitments under the Geneva Conventions into concrete actions, ensuring the universal and consistent application of international humanitarian law, China’s permanent representative to the UN Office in Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland said on Tuesday.

    Chen Xu made the remarks at the 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent held from October 28 to 31. Chen highlighted the unprecedented severity of the current global humanitarian situation, stressing that all parties should uphold genuine multilateralism and jointly advance the cause of global peace and progress for humanity.

    Addressing the Palestine-Israel conflict, he emphasized that achieving an immediate and lasting ceasefire is crucial to alleviating humanitarian suffering, urging major powers with influence over the parties involved to play a constructive role.

    He also underscored that civilians and civilian infrastructure must not be targets in military operations, and that safe, unimpeded humanitarian access should be ensured in conflict areas to protect humanitarian organizations and their staff.

    Developed countries should take on greater responsibilities in providing support and assistance to developing countries, he said.

    Chen reaffirmed China’s longstanding commitment to upholding and implementing international humanitarian law, its active involvement in global humanitarian aid, and its consistent role as an advocate, participant, and contributor to international humanitarian efforts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-backed training enhances fight against landmines in Somalia

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The Somali Explosives Management Authority (SEMA) on Tuesday launched a three-day capacity-building training, focusing on enhanced administration and human resource management to strengthen its fight against explosive devices.

    Funded by the Chinese Embassy in Somalia, the initiative seeks to boost SEMA’s administrative and operational effectiveness in the crucial areas of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW) clearance operations.

    The training gathered representatives from Somalia’s government and federal states, showcasing a unified national approach to managing explosive hazards across the country.

    In his opening remarks, SEMA’s Director General Dahir Abdirahman Abdulle expressed gratitude for China’s continued support in fortifying the authority’s work.

    “China’s support has been vital in helping us strengthen our institution to more effectively eliminate landmines and other explosive remnants, enhancing the safety and security of our communities,” he said.

    Abdulle said the cooperation also positively impacts Somalia’s broader state-building efforts, adding that “we are grateful for China’s steadfast support for the Somali government, and particularly for SEMA. This partnership is key in building our capabilities and improving the way we serve our people.”

    The training highlights China’s commitment to peace, governance, and the development of Somalia’s public sector. Sessions will concentrate on advancing SEMA’s administrative and operational efficiency, aligning with the authority’s mission to make Somalia safer for all its citizens.

    According to the United Nations, 1,500 civilians have been killed or injured by about 600 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Somalia over the past year. In 2023 alone, the Somali National Army reported 378 deaths and 451 injuries due to IEDs, underscoring the persistent risks for both military personnel and civilians.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 16 Palestinians killed in Israeli attack on house in N. Gaza

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    At least 16 people were killed in an Israeli attack on a house in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza Strip, Palestinian sources said Tuesday.

    A brief statement issued by the Civil Defense said that Israeli aircraft bombed a house near the Beit Lahia Square. The residents had called for civil defense and medical services, but unfortunately, there are no such services in northern Gaza now, said the statement.

    The Israeli army has not commented on this incident yet.

    Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and around 250 others taken hostage.

    The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza has risen to 43,061, the Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Tuesday.

    MIL OSI China News –