Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort 20th Anniversary Party – The Most Magical Party of All today (June 28):
Jill (President and Managing Director, Disney Parks International, Ms Jill Estorino), everyone,
Good morning. What a pleasure it is to join you all today to kick off the party celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort!
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
High-frequency indicators for the first two months of FY26 indicate resilient performance of the domestic economy amid the heightened geopolitical situation, Finance Ministry’s ‘Monthly Economic Review for May 2025’ said on Friday, adding that overall, the outlook for the Indian economy remains positive.
The economy demonstrates resilience amid a turbulent global environment, supported by robust domestic demand, easing inflationary pressures, a resilient external sector, and a steady employment situation.
“The positive trajectory appears to be continuing in FY26, with initial high-frequency indicators (HFI) indicating that economic activity has remained resilient. HFIs such as e-way bill generation, fuel consumption, and PMI indices point to continued resilience,” the Economic Review noted.
Rural demand has strengthened further, supported by a healthy rabi harvest and a positive monsoon outlook. Urban consumption is being supported by increased leisure and business travel, as seen in the rise of air passenger traffic and hotel occupancy.
“However, there are signs of softening in areas like construction inputs and vehicle sales. Retail and food price inflation registered a sustained and broad-based decline in May 2025, driven by robust agricultural production and effective government interventions,” the Economic Review emphasised.
While domestic indicators have remained largely positive, financial markets experienced volatility as a result of external developments. The significant escalation of trade tensions in early 2025, followed by a partial de-escalation in the second quarter, contributed to considerable volatility in the financial markets.
However, the Indian government bond market exhibited stability and certainty in May, driven by factors such as the announcement of a record surplus dividend by the RBI and a robust growth reading of Q4 FY25. Consequently, the risk premium on India’s government bonds decreased to 182 basis points as of May 30.
On the external front, India’s total exports (merchandise and services) recorded a YoY growth rate of 2.8 per cent in May 2025, reflecting the resilience of our exports amid tariff uncertainties and subdued global economic conditions, said the Review.
As of June 13, foreign exchange reserves remain strong, standing at $699 billion, which provides an import cover of 11.5 months. Additionally, the Indian rupee has experienced moderate volatility, in contrast to the more pronounced adjustments observed in other economies.
The labour market indicators show signs of stability. White-collar hiring witnessed a rise in hiring with core sectors such as AI/ML professionals, Insurance, Real Estate, BPO/ITES, and Hospitality leading the hiring growth.
“The employment sub-indices of the PMI indicate strong employment growth, with the employment sub-indices reaching a high. Formal job creation is also on the rise, as indicated by the growing net payroll additions under the Employee Provident Fund Organisation,” the Review noted.
Steady economic performance in FY25 underscores the resilience of domestic growth drivers amid a challenging global environment. Robust private consumption and resilient services sector activity were key contributors to overall economic expansion.
“The positive momentum has been extended into the early months of FY26, as reflected in the performance of high-frequency indicators such as e-way bill generation, fuel consumption and PMI indices among others,” according to the Economic Review.
(IANS)
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 28 (Xinhua) — China’s National Meteorological Center (NMC) on Saturday extended a blue alert for continued heavy rainfall in some parts of the country.
According to the agency’s forecast, heavy rains are expected to hit areas of the provinces of Hebei, Shandong, Henan, Jiangsu, Anhui, Hubei, Hunan, Zhejiang, Yunnan, Guangdong, Heilongjiang, and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region from 08:00 Saturday to 08:00 Sunday.
Experts believe that daily rainfall in northern Jiangsu Province will exceed 150 mm.
The NMC advised local authorities to be prepared for heavy rainfall and take necessary drainage measures in urban areas and agricultural lands.
Let us recall that China has adopted a four-level warning system for adverse weather conditions, in which the highest level of danger is indicated by red, followed by orange, yellow and blue. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Yichang /China/, June 28 /Xinhua/ – The great, proud and wild Yangtze River, its energy has been “tamed” and used for good thanks to the many hydroelectric power plants on it. Among them, the most grandiose is the Sanxia /Three Gorges/ hydroelectric power station, the largest hydroelectric project in the world.
The Sanxia Dam is located in Yichang City, Hubei Province, Central China. Its construction began in late 1994 and was completed in 2009. The length of the Sanxia Dam is 2,309 m, the design mark is 185 m.
The Sanxia hydroelectric power station has 34 hydroelectric units and a generating capacity of 22.5 million kilowatts. Its design electricity generation capacity is 88.2 billion kWh per year.
The Sanxia hydropower station has set an example of combining the power of engineering with environmental care. As of December 2024, the Sanxia hydropower station has generated more than 1.7 trillion kWh of electricity, the amount of clean electricity equivalent to the electricity generated by more than 550 million tons of standard coal, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by about 1.49 billion tons and promoting the construction of a clean, low-carbon, safe and highly efficient energy system in China.
At the same time, the environmental situation of the Sanxia hydroelectric complex is also improving. As of the end of 2024, the daily wastewater treatment capacity of the reservoir has increased by 1.58 million tons. In the main zones, forest and grass coverage has expanded, and the forest cover has reached 50 percent, which has increased the ability to preserve soil and water.
China Electric Power Corporation Sanxia, as the world’s largest hydropower producer and a leader in clean energy in China, supports global energy transformation through the “Chinese technology, Chinese standards” scheme, said Qu Weihua, vice president of China Yangtze Power International of Sanxia Corporation. According to him, the installed generation capacity of the clean energy operator in China has exceeded 130 million kW. Sanxia Corporation is also developing operations in more than 20 countries, such as Pakistan, Peru, Brazil, etc. Its total installed capacity abroad has exceeded 20 million kW.
He noted that in the future, Sanxia Group will continue to deepen international cooperation so that China’s clean energy solutions can benefit more countries. –0–
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
MEXICO CITY, June 27 (Xinhua) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Friday that her government will protect Mexican migrants in the United States, where 252 Mexican citizens have been arrested in a series of immigration raids.
“Our solidarity, our support and everything we can. We will do everything to protect our migrant brothers and sisters,” the president said at a daily press conference.
She also noted that as part of a strategy to strengthen protections for Mexican migrants, the country’s consulates in the United States have been instructed to visit Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection detention centers at least once a day.
K. Sheinbaum added that consuls are required to hold public hearings once a week “to listen and understand what is happening and take action.”
The president stressed that her government will spare no effort or resources to protect migrants from threats and abuses. She promised that complaints and concerns raised by Mexicans abroad will be addressed without exception. –0–
Source:
On July 31 July 2024, CFA was called to a car fire in Traralgon South. When firefighters arrived at their station, they discovered the station had been broken into and the brigade’s slip-on vehicle was missing.
The brigade alongside Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to the incident and found the burnt vehicle was the missing CFA vehicle.
Traralgon South Captain Pieter van der Leest said he would like to thank everyone who worked hard to get the brigade the replacement vehicle.
“We were pretty shocked and devastated that someone would break into the station and do that to a community asset,” he said.
“The replacement vehicle is a welcome addition to our brigade.
“We live in a very hilly area, and it is great for that sort of terrain. It is a great asset not just for the district but for the state as a whole as it is also able to go on strike teams.”
With improved lighting and stowage, the new ultralight comes with a 500 litres per minute diesel powered pump, a 550-litre water tank, a class A foam system, a permanently connected suction hose, and a live hose reel fitted with 30 meters of lightweight 19mm hose.
The lockers now have hinge-up doors for improved access and have been redesigned to give more room for personal gear as well as helmets.
Deputy Chief Officer for the south east region, Trevor Owen, said this ultralight would improve brigade capability and offer better outcomes for the community.
“The theft of the brigade’s slip-on was a low act, so it was extremely rewarding to help hand over this brand-new vehicle to the brigade,” he said.
“The new Ultralight really prioritises crew safety and comfort allowing them to focus on giving their best every time they are responding to an incident.
“It is now built on the new ANCAP five-rated, four-wheel drive next generation Ford Ranger with all the modern driver enhancements and safety features you would expect in a new vehicle.
“It has a 10-speed automatic transmission, and has an electric rewind for the live reel, making it easier to restow thereby reducing fatigue.
“I have no doubt this replacement vehicle will the see brigade well into the future.”
| Submitted by | CFA Media |
|---|
Source:
On July 31 July 2024, CFA was called to a car fire in Traralgon South. When firefighters arrived at their station, they discovered the station had been broken into and the brigade’s slip-on vehicle was missing.
The brigade alongside Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to the incident and found the burnt vehicle was the missing CFA vehicle.
Traralgon South Captain Pieter van der Leest said he would like to thank everyone who worked hard to get the brigade the replacement vehicle.
“We were pretty shocked and devastated that someone would break into the station and do that to a community asset,” he said.
“The replacement vehicle is a welcome addition to our brigade.
“We live in a very hilly area, and it is great for that sort of terrain. It is a great asset not just for the district but for the state as a whole as it is also able to go on strike teams.”
With improved lighting and stowage, the new ultralight comes with a 500 litres per minute diesel powered pump, a 550-litre water tank, a class A foam system, a permanently connected suction hose, and a live hose reel fitted with 30 meters of lightweight 19mm hose.
The lockers now have hinge-up doors for improved access and have been redesigned to give more room for personal gear as well as helmets.
Deputy Chief Officer for the south east region, Trevor Owen, said this ultralight would improve brigade capability and offer better outcomes for the community.
“The theft of the brigade’s slip-on was a low act, so it was extremely rewarding to help hand over this brand-new vehicle to the brigade,” he said.
“The new Ultralight really prioritises crew safety and comfort allowing them to focus on giving their best every time they are responding to an incident.
“It is now built on the new ANCAP five-rated, four-wheel drive next generation Ford Ranger with all the modern driver enhancements and safety features you would expect in a new vehicle.
“It has a 10-speed automatic transmission, and has an electric rewind for the live reel, making it easier to restow thereby reducing fatigue.
“I have no doubt this replacement vehicle will the see brigade well into the future.”
| Submitted by | CFA Media |
|---|
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Staff members test an unmanned aerial vehicle in the workshop of the United Aircraft Group in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, June 26, 2025. Guangdong has positioned its burgeoning low-altitude economy as a key driver for developing new quality productive forces and cultivating new economic growth points. Shenzhen stands out as China’s “Drone Capital”, boasting a concentration of over 1,700 drone-related enterprises. (Xinhua/Li An)
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The Chinese Football Association (CFA) announced on Friday the dismissal of national team head coach Branko Ivankovic following China’s failure to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The CFA confirmed in an official statement that its contract with Ivankovic has been automatically terminated after China failed to advance into the playoff stage of the World Cup Asian qualifiers.
“The Chinese Football Association expresses gratitude to Mr. Branko Ivankovic and his coaching staff for their dedicated efforts during their tenure with the men’s national team and their contributions to Chinese football. We wish Mr. Ivankovic all the best in his future work and life,” the statement said.
The CFA also announced that Dejan Djurdjevic as caretaker manager of the men’s national team, and the Serbian will lead China’s campaign at the East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Football Championship.
In February, Djurdjevic led China’s U-20 national team to the quarterfinals of the AFC U-20 Asian Cup.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The Spanish women’s football team warmed up for its challenge for the forthcoming European Championship with a solid 3-1 home win over Japan on Friday night.
The match was played in difficult conditions at Leganes’ Butarque Stadium with temperatures at 35 degrees centigrade at kick-off.
Unsurprisingly, things didn’t get off to a flying start as both sides looked to be trying to conserve some energy in the extreme heat, with Spain’s Cata Coll being the first of the two goalkeepers called into action to cut out a cross ahead of Manaka Matsukubo.
The Japanese team suffered an early injury setback when left back Hikaru Kitagawa seemed to twist her knee on the dry playing surface and was replaced by Saori Takarada.
Japan took the lead in the 30th minute when Laia Aleixandri inexplicably gave the ball away to Mina Tanaka, who put the ball out wide, before receiving the cross, turning Maria Mendez and scoring with a smart shot that sent Coll the wrong way.
Claudia Pina came close to leveling with a shot that curled just wide of the post and the Barcelona forward was on hand to continue her excellent recent form when she made it 1-1 on the stroke of halftime.
Mariona Caldentey threaded a precise pass to Ona Batlle and her low ball was met by the onrushing Pina to score in the bottom corner.
Spain dominated the start of the second half with Pina and Vicky Lopez going close as the home team had Japan pinned deep into its own half.
Despite Spain’s control, it took a bad defensive error for them to take the lead as Momoko Tanikawa misplayed the ball while trying to build from the back, giving it to Vicky Lopez, who made no mistake from eight meters out.
At the other end, Cata Coll made a good block as Tanaka received the ball in space, but shot too close to the Spain goalkeeper, while Mariona was unlucky to see her free kick bounce back off the Japan crossbar.
Mariona then got the assists as Spain made it 3-1 in the 88th minute, breaking the offside trap to pull the ball back for Athenea Del Castillo to score with her left foot.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Subcommittee on the Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement following her vote on the War Powers Resolution related to future offensive attacks on Iran:
“As a strong pro-Israel Democrat, I remain hopeful that the mission U.S. servicemembers carried out last weekend will ultimately lead to the full dissolution of Iran’s nuclear facilities. I remain eternally grateful for our servicemembers’ bravery and service, and I’m particularly proud that most of the pilots involved in this mission are graduates of the Air Force Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.
“A nuclear Iran is a threat to the United States, Israel, and the entire world, which is why we must ensure they can never acquire or develop a nuclear weapon. While I am thankful Israel was able to reach a ceasefire with Iran and am hopeful that we are able to proceed with a diplomatic solution, I will continue to back Israel should it need to respond to a break in the agreement. Similarly, if there are any attacks on U.S. personnel in the region, the United States will always defend itself.
“At the same time, the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war and authorize any offensive attacks on other sovereign nations. The decision to go to war and put our troops in harm’s way is one that cannot be made lightly, and must be made by Congress, which is why I voted today to advance the War Powers Resolution. Let’s be clear: nothing in this resolution would prevent the U.S. from defending our servicemembers or from continuing to provide Israel with the critical support and intelligence it needs. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure Israel has the necessary resources to defend itself.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Subcommittee on the Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement following her vote on the War Powers Resolution related to future offensive attacks on Iran:
“As a strong pro-Israel Democrat, I remain hopeful that the mission U.S. servicemembers carried out last weekend will ultimately lead to the full dissolution of Iran’s nuclear facilities. I remain eternally grateful for our servicemembers’ bravery and service, and I’m particularly proud that most of the pilots involved in this mission are graduates of the Air Force Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.
“A nuclear Iran is a threat to the United States, Israel, and the entire world, which is why we must ensure they can never acquire or develop a nuclear weapon. While I am thankful Israel was able to reach a ceasefire with Iran and am hopeful that we are able to proceed with a diplomatic solution, I will continue to back Israel should it need to respond to a break in the agreement. Similarly, if there are any attacks on U.S. personnel in the region, the United States will always defend itself.
“At the same time, the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war and authorize any offensive attacks on other sovereign nations. The decision to go to war and put our troops in harm’s way is one that cannot be made lightly, and must be made by Congress, which is why I voted today to advance the War Powers Resolution. Let’s be clear: nothing in this resolution would prevent the U.S. from defending our servicemembers or from continuing to provide Israel with the critical support and intelligence it needs. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure Israel has the necessary resources to defend itself.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Subcommittee on the Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement following her vote on the War Powers Resolution related to future offensive attacks on Iran:
“As a strong pro-Israel Democrat, I remain hopeful that the mission U.S. servicemembers carried out last weekend will ultimately lead to the full dissolution of Iran’s nuclear facilities. I remain eternally grateful for our servicemembers’ bravery and service, and I’m particularly proud that most of the pilots involved in this mission are graduates of the Air Force Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.
“A nuclear Iran is a threat to the United States, Israel, and the entire world, which is why we must ensure they can never acquire or develop a nuclear weapon. While I am thankful Israel was able to reach a ceasefire with Iran and am hopeful that we are able to proceed with a diplomatic solution, I will continue to back Israel should it need to respond to a break in the agreement. Similarly, if there are any attacks on U.S. personnel in the region, the United States will always defend itself.
“At the same time, the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war and authorize any offensive attacks on other sovereign nations. The decision to go to war and put our troops in harm’s way is one that cannot be made lightly, and must be made by Congress, which is why I voted today to advance the War Powers Resolution. Let’s be clear: nothing in this resolution would prevent the U.S. from defending our servicemembers or from continuing to provide Israel with the critical support and intelligence it needs. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure Israel has the necessary resources to defend itself.”
Source: Government of Sweden
The Swedish economy is in a protracted recession, but recovery is expected to begin in early 2025. Inflation is expected to be around the inflation target going forward. These are the conclusions of the Ministry of Finance in a new economic forecast.
Source: Government of Sweden
Sweden needs new nuclear power to cover energy needs, provide a secure supply of electricity to the national grid and carry out the energy transition. As of 1 August 2025, companies seeking to build reactors will be able to apply for state aid. The Government has now approved a new ordinance regulating the application process.
Source: Government of Sweden
On Thursday 28 November, the Task Force for Jewish life in Sweden held its final meeting of the year. The main topic was education, which has been the task force’s main focus in 2024. Representatives from a number of organisations were invited to take part and talk about their work in this area.
Source: Government of Sweden
Sweden aims to be one of the world’s leading countries in research and innovation. In the research and innovation bill, the Government is investing SEK 6.5 billion on research and innovation of the highest quality. Investments include funding for excellent research, increased and competitive funding for higher education institutions, enhanced research infrastructure and investments in groundbreaking technologies to position Sweden at the forefront.
Source: Government of Sweden
The Government is announcing a new action plan to combat racism and hate crime. Through this concerted action, the Government is taking important steps in the efforts to free Sweden from racism and hate crime. The efforts in this area will be accurate, measurable and long-term. Schools, judiciary, welfare and working life will be in focus.
Source: Government of Sweden
In 2025, the 250th anniversary of established Jewish life in Sweden will be celebrated. This will be an opportunity to highlight the Jewish minority, culture and cultural heritage throughout the country. The Government has therefore, in appropriation directions for 2025, instructed a number of government agencies to help highlight the 250th anniversary. The year 2025 also marks 80 years since the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.
Source: Government of Sweden
Today, the Government adopted new guidelines for the Swedish National Debt Office’s central government debt management in 2025. The Swedish National Debt Office will continue to issue inflation-linked bonds, but the outstanding volume will be reduced. The aim is inflation-linked debt of around SEK 80 billion by the end of 2029. In addition, from now on, the central government debt’s term to maturity will be measured in average time to refixing (ATR).
Source: Government of Sweden
In connection with the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sweden and Colombia, Minister for Public Administration Erik Slottner is visiting Colombia this week. The aim of his visit is to further develop cooperation on digitalisation and cybersecurity, and to present Sweden as an innovative, sustainable country in the area of digitalisation, with an advanced security approach.
Source: Greenpeace Statement –
Aotearoa – Greenpeace Aotearoa activists have confronted a bottom trawler off the East Coast of New Zealand, writing “ocean killer” on the side of the ship, after bearing witness to it hauling in a net straining with marine life.
Launching from the Greenpeace vessel the Rainbow Warrior, activists came alongside the New Zealand-flagged vessel, Talley’s Amaltal Atlantis, on the Chatham Rise[1], an area of ocean floor to the east of New Zealand, and painted the message on its side using non-toxic paint. The vessel is owned by seafood group Talley’s.
Speaking from onboard the Rainbow Warrior, Greenpeace Aotearoa oceans campaigner Juan Parada says:
“Activists rebranded this Talley’s vessel today to expose the bottom trawling industry for what they are: ocean killers. When Talley’s drag their heavy trawl nets across the seafloor and over seamounts, they bulldoze everything in their path, including killing precious coral.
“Faced with a fishing industry that profits from trashing the ocean, and a government that condones bottom trawling, ocean defenders have taken peaceful action today to call out this destruction and demand that bottom trawling stop.
“The Amaltal Atlantis trawls extensively in the waters of Aotearoa and has previously received permits to trawl in the High Seas of the South Pacific. Their trail of destruction is wide and long-lasting,” says Parada.
Talley’s has a long history of carrying out bottom trawling destruction. In 2018, the Amaltal Apollo trawled in a protected area on the Lord Howe Rise, in the international waters of the Tasman Sea. The Amaltal Mariner was convicted of trawling in a marine reserve off Kaikōura in 2019.
The at-sea action comes just months after a deep sea expedition led by Greenpeace Aotearoa documented whole swathes of destroyed coral in areas of the Tasman Sea that have been intensively trawled by New Zealand bottom trawlers. This area has been earmarked for one of the first high seas ocean sanctuaries, using the Global Ocean Treaty.
New Zealand is the only country still bottom trawling in the High Seas of Tasman.
Parada says, “As the rest of the world moves towards more comprehensive ocean protection for international waters, New Zealand is standing in the way of progress by continuing to advocate for the bottom trawling industry.”
“From depleted fish numbers to smashed coral, dead sharks and seabirds, the cost of bottom trawling is too high. To protect the ocean for the future and safeguard the ocean we all love, bottom trawling must stop.”
In response to the activist’s painting activity, Talley’s responded saying they would seek legal action which “may include the arrest of the Rainbow Warrior.”
ENDS
Photos and videos from the at-sea action are available in the Greenpeace Media Library.
Notes:
[1] The action took place in the Chatham Rise area, where it was recently revealed a New Zealand vessel dragged up six tonnes of coral in a single trawl.
Contacts:
Nick Young, Greenpace Aoteaora, Head of Communications, +64-21-707727, [email protected]
Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHENYANG, June 28 (Xinhua) — In a rehearsal hall in Shenyang, China’s Liaoning Province, a 71-member symphony orchestra is deep in its work. In the center of the hall stands Russian conductor Anton Torbeev from Moscow, dressed in a black shirt and waving his arms. Under his direction, all the orchestra members are immersed in the music of a ballet based on the ancient Chinese love legend “Qixi.”
40-year-old A. Torbeev graduated from the St. Petersburg State Conservatory named after N. A. Rimsky-Korsakov and an assistant-internship at the Moscow State Conservatory named after P. I. Tchaikovsky. In 2018-2022, he was a member of the conductor-intern group of the National Philharmonic Orchestra of Russia.
At the invitation of the Liaoning Symphony Orchestra, A. Torbeev began conducting the symphony concert “Eternal Classics” in 2024, which is the flagship cultural brand of this orchestra and has been held for 9 years in a row.
In 2025, A. Torbeev came to China again. In addition to continuing to conduct the symphony concert “Eternal Classics”, he also joined the conducting and arrangement of the ballet “Qixi”.
Qixi /7th day of the 7th month of the lunar calendar/ has been called Chinese Valentine’s Day in recent years. According to Chinese folk tales, the lovers Niulang and Zhinyu /translated as Cowherd and Weaver/ were separated by the Tianhe /Heavenly River or Milky Way/ because their love was not approved by the gods. They could only be reunited once a year, when a flock of magpies formed a bridge across the Tianhe.
“Chinese audiences have a great interest in symphonic music and deep musical literacy,” said A. Torbeev. “During the performance, they also interacted with the orchestra – such an atmosphere gives me, as a conductor, great pleasure.”
The ballet “Qixi” is an original work co-created by the Liaoning Ballet Company and French dancers based on the classical Chinese myth “Niulang and Zhinyu”. This ballet premiered in Shenyang, Northeast China, in August 2024. The production is performed in the form of neoclassical ballet, combining elements of Eastern and Western art.
“In order to better perform the music created by the artists for ‘Qixi’, we specially invited Anton as the conductor to better present this work with the combination of Eastern and Western arts,” said Yu Aoyou, deputy director of the Liaoning Symphony Orchestra.
In April 2025, A. Torbeev, together with the Liaoning Ballet Troupe and the Liaoning Symphony Orchestra, was invited to the city of Xiamen /Fujian Province, East China/ to perform the ballet “Qixi”. The audience applauded the performance, which made A. Torbeev very happy.
“The audience was very enthusiastic and it left a deep impression on me. These trips to China allowed me to feel the enthusiasm of the Chinese public and the fact that China is becoming more and more open and international,” said A. Torbeev.
This time he came to China with his wife. In addition to performing and rehearsing, he and his wife strolled through the picturesque places and gastronomic streets of Shenyang and Xiamen.
“My wife and I love Chinese dumplings, barbecue, sauerkraut and other delicacies. Our Chinese friends are very hospitable and took us to learn about Chinese customs,” said A. Torbeev, adding that he and his wife enjoyed their trip to China.
Wang Jiyuan, deputy director of the Liaoning Provincial Public Cultural Service Center, said that in the future, Liaoning Province will continue to strengthen international cooperation and invite more outstanding musicians and conductors to Liaoning to help local symphony orchestras improve their professional level and strengthen the formation of talented teams.
In addition, the Qixi Ballet is scheduled to tour internationally in the second half of 2025. The ballet will invite more international artists to perform in order to promote traditional Chinese culture to the world. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHENYANG, June 28 (Xinhua) — In a rehearsal hall in Shenyang, China’s Liaoning Province, a 71-member symphony orchestra is deep in its work. In the center of the hall stands Russian conductor Anton Torbeev from Moscow, dressed in a black shirt and waving his arms. Under his direction, all the orchestra members are immersed in the music of a ballet based on the ancient Chinese love legend “Qixi.”
40-year-old A. Torbeev graduated from the St. Petersburg State Conservatory named after N. A. Rimsky-Korsakov and an assistant-internship at the Moscow State Conservatory named after P. I. Tchaikovsky. In 2018-2022, he was a member of the conductor-intern group of the National Philharmonic Orchestra of Russia.
At the invitation of the Liaoning Symphony Orchestra, A. Torbeev began conducting the symphony concert “Eternal Classics” in 2024, which is the flagship cultural brand of this orchestra and has been held for 9 years in a row.
In 2025, A. Torbeev came to China again. In addition to continuing to conduct the symphony concert “Eternal Classics”, he also joined the conducting and arrangement of the ballet “Qixi”.
Qixi /7th day of the 7th month of the lunar calendar/ has been called Chinese Valentine’s Day in recent years. According to Chinese folk tales, the lovers Niulang and Zhinyu /translated as Cowherd and Weaver/ were separated by the Tianhe /Heavenly River or Milky Way/ because their love was not approved by the gods. They could only be reunited once a year, when a flock of magpies formed a bridge across the Tianhe.
“Chinese audiences have a great interest in symphonic music and deep musical literacy,” said A. Torbeev. “During the performance, they also interacted with the orchestra – such an atmosphere gives me, as a conductor, great pleasure.”
The ballet “Qixi” is an original work co-created by the Liaoning Ballet Company and French dancers based on the classical Chinese myth “Niulang and Zhinyu”. This ballet premiered in Shenyang, Northeast China, in August 2024. The production is performed in the form of neoclassical ballet, combining elements of Eastern and Western art.
“In order to better perform the music created by the artists for ‘Qixi’, we specially invited Anton as the conductor to better present this work with the combination of Eastern and Western arts,” said Yu Aoyou, deputy director of the Liaoning Symphony Orchestra.
In April 2025, A. Torbeev, together with the Liaoning Ballet Troupe and the Liaoning Symphony Orchestra, was invited to the city of Xiamen /Fujian Province, East China/ to perform the ballet “Qixi”. The audience applauded the performance, which made A. Torbeev very happy.
“The audience was very enthusiastic and it left a deep impression on me. These trips to China allowed me to feel the enthusiasm of the Chinese public and the fact that China is becoming more and more open and international,” said A. Torbeev.
This time he came to China with his wife. In addition to performing and rehearsing, he and his wife strolled through the picturesque places and gastronomic streets of Shenyang and Xiamen.
“My wife and I love Chinese dumplings, barbecue, sauerkraut and other delicacies. Our Chinese friends are very hospitable and took us to learn about Chinese customs,” said A. Torbeev, adding that he and his wife enjoyed their trip to China.
Wang Jiyuan, deputy director of the Liaoning Provincial Public Cultural Service Center, said that in the future, Liaoning Province will continue to strengthen international cooperation and invite more outstanding musicians and conductors to Liaoning to help local symphony orchestras improve their professional level and strengthen the formation of talented teams.
In addition, the Qixi Ballet is scheduled to tour internationally in the second half of 2025. The ballet will invite more international artists to perform in order to promote traditional Chinese culture to the world. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 28 (Xinhua) — The maximum daily number of vehicles that passed through the Irkeshtam checkpoint on the Chinese-Kyrgyz border recently reached a record high of 1,243 units, Zhongxinshe news agency reported.
The increase in the number of vehicles passing through the checkpoint after inspection was due to the launch of 24/7 customs clearance of goods in a test format on June 1.
Irkeshtam, China’s westernmost land border crossing, is located in Uqia County, Kyzylsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The checkpoint was officially opened in May 2002. The road connects Irkeshtam, Kyrgyzstan’s Osh Region, Andijan and other logistics hubs.
Thus, Irkeshtam became the second Xinjiang checkpoint after Khorgos, where it was possible to ensure continuous operation in the area of customs clearance of goods.
The local customs service reported that the Chinese and Kyrgyz sides have established permanent contacts in order to ensure uninterrupted trade turnover. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 28 (Xinhua) — The maximum daily number of vehicles that passed through the Irkeshtam checkpoint on the Chinese-Kyrgyz border recently reached a record high of 1,243 units, Zhongxinshe news agency reported.
The increase in the number of vehicles passing through the checkpoint after inspection was due to the launch of 24/7 customs clearance of goods in a test format on June 1.
Irkeshtam, China’s westernmost land border crossing, is located in Uqia County, Kyzylsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The checkpoint was officially opened in May 2002. The road connects Irkeshtam, Kyrgyzstan’s Osh Region, Andijan and other logistics hubs.
Thus, Irkeshtam became the second Xinjiang checkpoint after Khorgos, where it was possible to ensure continuous operation in the area of customs clearance of goods.
The local customs service reported that the Chinese and Kyrgyz sides have established permanent contacts in order to ensure uninterrupted trade turnover. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 28 (Xinhua) — Manzhouli Port ranked first in China in terms of the number of freight trains entering the country on the China-Europe international freight transport route in the first five months of this year, according to the press service of the people’s government of the city of the same name in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
According to statistics, during the reporting period, a total of 1,826 freight trains passed through the said checkpoint, transporting 189 thousand standard containers (twenty-foot equivalent, TEU).
In particular, 1,123 such trains passed through the border crossing in the opposite direction, delivering 116,000 standard containers to the country. In terms of these indicators, Manzhouli exceeded other checkpoints in the country.
The Manzhouli checkpoint is located on the border of China with the Zabaikalsky Krai of Russia. Currently, freight trains traveling in the opposite direction as part of China-Europe cargo transportation connect Manzhouli with more than 60 cities in the country, including Harbin, Shenyang, Xi’an, Nanjing, Zhengzhou, Changsha and Chengdu. The range of products imported to China through the checkpoint includes essential goods, equipment, metals, agricultural products, timber, etc. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 28 (Xinhua) — Manzhouli Port ranked first in China in terms of the number of freight trains entering the country on the China-Europe international freight transport route in the first five months of this year, according to the press service of the people’s government of the city of the same name in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
According to statistics, during the reporting period, a total of 1,826 freight trains passed through the said checkpoint, transporting 189 thousand standard containers (twenty-foot equivalent, TEU).
In particular, 1,123 such trains passed through the border crossing in the opposite direction, delivering 116,000 standard containers to the country. In terms of these indicators, Manzhouli exceeded other checkpoints in the country.
The Manzhouli checkpoint is located on the border of China with the Zabaikalsky Krai of Russia. Currently, freight trains traveling in the opposite direction as part of China-Europe cargo transportation connect Manzhouli with more than 60 cities in the country, including Harbin, Shenyang, Xi’an, Nanjing, Zhengzhou, Changsha and Chengdu. The range of products imported to China through the checkpoint includes essential goods, equipment, metals, agricultural products, timber, etc. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
ATHENS, June 28 (Xinhua) — A delegation led by Baima Chilin, president of the China Society for Human Rights Studies, concluded a three-day visit to Greece on Friday to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning.
During the visit, which took place from June 25 to 27, Baima Chilin attended an international symposium on human rights wisdom in classical civilizations and met with former Greek Foreign Minister, independent expert on international order of the UN Human Rights Council Giorgos Katrougalos and former Ambassador to China, President of the Greek-Chinese Association Ioannis Theofanopoulos.
The Chinese delegation gave a detailed presentation of China’s view on human rights governance and outlined the development path of human rights in China and the achievements in this field in Xi Jinping, China.
The two sides held in-depth discussions on expanding exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and Greek civilizations and improving global human rights governance. They also expressed their willingness to play an active role in promoting exchanges and mutual understanding between China and Europe on human rights. –0–
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
NEW YORK, June 27 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the United States will halt all trade talks with Canada over Ottawa’s plan to impose a digital services tax on American tech companies.
On his Truth Social page, the American leader wrote that Canada had just announced a digital services tax on American tech companies, which is a direct and blatant attack on the United States.
“Based on this outrageous tax, we are ending all trade discussions with Canada, effective immediately,” Trump said.
He said the United States would notify Canada within the next seven days of the amount of duties it would have to pay for doing business with the United States.
Canada is copying the actions of the European Union by introducing a tax on digital services, D. Trump noted.
The United States is trying to complete trade talks with a number of trading partners as the government’s July 9 deadline approaches.
However, White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt said on Thursday that Trump might push back the deadline. –0–