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Category: China

  • MIL-OSI China: China-LatAm trade set to skyrocket

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

    An electric and combustion dual-power train manufactured in China awaits departure at Central Station in Santiago, Chile. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The steady advancement of the Belt and Road Initiative, coupled with a growing network of bilateral free trade agreements, will unlock fresh potential for trade and investment ties between China and Latin America in the years ahead, said market watchers and exporters on Monday.

    As infrastructure connectivity improves under the BRI through enhanced port facilities, logistics networks and digital trade corridors, they said regional integration is advancing, reducing transportation costs and expanding access to global markets.

    Although several countries are facing challenges posed by protectionism and unilateralism, high-standard free trade agreements, such as the China-Chile FTA, China-Ecuador FTA and China-Costa Rica FTA, will serve as benchmarks for future economic partnerships, promoting rules-based trade, intellectual property protection and sustainable development practices, said Wang Qian, a researcher specializing in international trade at Shanghai University of International Business and Economics.

    As China continues to expand its high-standard opening-up, and Latin American countries pursue diversification strategies, the evolving bilateral framework will not only deepen economic interdependence but also foster inclusive growth and shared prosperity across both sides, said Wang.

    China is currently negotiating upgrades to the China-Peru FTA and discussing new FTAs with Panama and Honduras. Additionally, the nation has conducted a feasibility study on a China-Colombia FTA, aiming to strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation, according to information released by the Ministry of Commerce.

    Sun Yanfeng, a researcher specializing in Latin American studies at the Beijing-based China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, said that the complementary nature of the two sides’ economies further amplifies the potential for deeper cooperation.

    Latin America’s abundant natural resources and agricultural output align seamlessly with China’s manufacturing prowess and vast consumer market, creating robust trade synergies, said Sun.

    “Chinese companies, such as BYD, China General Nuclear Power Corp and China COSCO Shipping Corp, are also increasingly investing in sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, transportation, mining and agribusiness across Latin America, bringing capital, technology and know-how to local economies,” he added.

    China’s direct investment flow to Latin America totaled $14.71 billion in 2024. During the first quarter of 2025, Chinese investment in the region reached $270 million. As of March 2025, Latin American countries had established a total of 37,000 businesses in China, data from the Ministry of Commerce showed.

    China-Latin America trade volume reached a record high of $518.47 billion in 2024, up 6 percent year-on-year. Their total trade value stood at $162.21 billion between January and April, said the General Administration of Customs.

    Changzhou Samkit Electric Co Ltd, a Changzhou, Jiangsu province-based home appliance manufacturer, shipped 1.15 million yuan ($159,420) worth of smart vacuum cleaners to Brazil earlier this month and will participate in more trade shows in Latin America in the second half of this year, according to Nanjing Customs.

    “Shifting our focus from a single market — primarily the United States — to emerging markets like Brazil will be our most important transformation this year,” said Qiu Riju, the company’s general manager.

    Chaoyang Jinda Molybdenum Co Ltd, a ferromolybdenum and molybdenum oxide manufacturer based in Chaoyang, Liaoning province, saw its exports soar 19 percent on a yearly basis to 260 million yuan in the first four months, with Latin American economies serving as the primary destinations, according to Shenyang Customs.

    “Driven by rapid urbanization and industrialization, Latin American countries such as Peru and Chile have seen a sharp rise in demand for our products in recent years,” said Li Jinling, vice-president of the company.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: An Evening of Magic: The Safronov Brothers Show at the RCC

    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

    On May 16, 2025, the Russian Cultural Center in Beijing hosted a presentation of the debut show of the famous Russian illusionists, the Safronov brothers, “Russian-Chinese Night of Magic,” which was a great success. The evening was organized as part of the Years of Culture of Russia and China and attracted about a hundred spectators, becoming a vivid confirmation of the strong cultural and humanitarian ties between the two countries.

    The dangerous trick “Blade”, tricks with scarves and ropes – Sergey, Ilya and Andrey did not just show numbers, but literally made the audience forget about reality and be transported to a world of wonders.

    “It is a great honor for us to perform in China, a country with a thousand-year history. We have prepared many amazing numbers. We hope that the Chinese public will like them!” – said the artists. Already in June of this year, they will present a grand magic show on the stage of the Beijing Exhibition Center.

    At the end of the evening, when asked about the main message to the Chinese audience, the brothers responded with their signature motto: “Believe in miracles, and they will definitely come true!” and then added in Chinese: “See you in Beijing!”

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: An Evening of Magic: The Safronov Brothers’ Show at the RCC

    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

    On May 16, 2025, the Russian Cultural Center in Beijing hosted a presentation of the debut show of the famous Russian illusionists, the Safronov brothers, “Russian-Chinese Night of Magic,” which was a great success. The evening was organized as part of the Years of Culture of Russia and China and attracted about a hundred spectators, becoming a vivid confirmation of the strong cultural and humanitarian ties between the two countries.

    The dangerous trick “Blade”, tricks with scarves and ropes – Sergey, Ilya and Andrey did not just show numbers, but literally made the audience forget about reality and be transported to a world of wonders.

    “It is a great honor for us to perform in China, a country with a thousand-year history. We have prepared many amazing numbers. We hope that the Chinese public will like them!” – said the artists. Already in June of this year, they will present a grand magic show on the stage of the Beijing Exhibition Center.

    At the end of the evening, when asked about the main message to the Chinese audience, the brothers responded with their signature motto: “Believe in miracles, and they will definitely come true!” and then added in Chinese: “See you in Beijing!”

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Shenzhen to record over 100 million border crossings since early 2025

    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

    SHENZHEN, May 20 (Xinhua) — The number of border crossings through ports in the city of Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, has exceeded 100 million since the beginning of 2025 as of May 19.

    This year, the 100 million mark was passed 24 days earlier than last year, according to the Shenzhen General Border Control Authority. The daily number of border crossings during the period reached nearly 730,000, with a peak of 1.04 million crossings per day.

    The service linked the surge to the growing “one-hour principle” in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the global promotion of the “China Travel” brand, and the easing of visa policies.

    The country’s measures to facilitate travel for foreign tourists since 2024, such as the 240-hour visa-free transit and the introduction of a unilateral visa-free regime, have contributed to the growth of tourist flow to Shenzhen. As of May 19, the number of foreign travelers passing through Shenzhen checkpoints increased by 41 percent year-on-year to 2.64 million person-times, of which 560,000 took advantage of the visa-free regime, 105 percent more than a year ago. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Three missing after coal mine accident in northwest China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    LANZHOU, May 20 (Xinhua) — Three people are missing after a coal mine accident in Pingchuan District of Baiyin City, northwest China’s Gansu Province, local authorities said Tuesday morning.

    The accident occurred on Monday at 19:43 as a result of a groundwater breakthrough. Of the 133 miners working at the time, 130 were safely evacuated. The remaining three, as of 8:10 Tuesday morning, are missing.

    Local authorities quickly launched an emergency response mode after the accident. Rescue operations at the scene continue. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ukrainian President orders creation of permanent peace negotiating group

    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

    KYIV, May 20 (Xinhua) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ordered the formation of a permanent expanded national group to conduct peace talks, he said on his Telegram channel on Monday following a meeting devoted to diplomatic efforts to achieve peace.

    V. Zelensky highly praised the work of the Ukrainian delegation at the recent talks with Russia, emphasizing that it “managed to keep the conversation within a decent framework.” The key result was reaching an agreement on the exchange of prisoners in the “1000 for 1000” format, the president said. According to him, Ukraine’s proposal for a 30-day truce remains in force.

    The talks between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations took place on May 16 in Istanbul. This was the first meeting between representatives of the two countries since March 2022. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “China Travel” Becomes Trend Amid Relaxation of Visa and Tax Policies

    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, May 20 (Xinhua) — China’s streamlined visa rules and tax refund system are boosting the country’s inbound tourism, boosting the global popularity of the “China Travel” trend, officials said.

    Speaking on the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable (organized by Xinhua News Agency), Liu Jia, an official from China’s National Immigration Administration, stressed that China’s updated visa-free entry rules reduce bureaucratic procedures as well as time and cost for foreign tourists.

    Since 2023, China has implemented a set of measures to stimulate inbound tourism, including expanding mutual visa-free agreements, unilateral visa-free regime for individual countries, and extending the visa-free stay in China for foreign tourists.

    To date, China has established full mutual visa-free regimes with 29 countries, unilateral visa-free entry for citizens of 38 countries, and a transit visa-free regime for 54 countries (including the UK, US and Canada).

    At the same time, the tax refund system for foreign tourists has been optimized. Shoppers can now instantly receive VAT refunds at duty-free stores, while China has lowered the minimum purchase amount for a tax refund, increased the limit on the amount of tax refunds in cash, and expanded the range of goods eligible for tax refunds.

    Shi Zeyi, an official from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, noted that thanks to the improvement of visa, payment and tax policies, “China Travel” has shown a steady recovery and significant growth potential.

    According to 2024 data, China recorded 132 million inbound tourist trips, and total tourist spending reached US$94.2 billion, accounting for 97.2 percent and 93.5 percent of those in 2019, respectively.

    Liu Jia added that the increase in foreign tourist flow has stimulated consumption in the hotel, retail and cultural and entertainment sectors, which is conducive to the development of trade in services and attracting foreign investment.

    He stressed that these updated measures demonstrate China’s commitment to opening up, adding that they can help deepen cultural understanding between China and the international community while breaking down bad stereotypes that exist in some countries.

    “The personal experiences of foreign tourists help dispel misunderstandings and prejudices, allowing the world to see, feel and perceive an open, inclusive, prosperous, stable and safe China,” Liu Jia concluded. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM holds talks with Danish counterpart

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

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark Lars Lokke Rasmussen in Beijing, capital of China, May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, May 19 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark Lars Lokke Rasmussen in Beijing on Monday.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, noted that Denmark was one of the first Western countries to recognize and establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.

    The two sides have always respected and treated each other as equals, developed a comprehensive strategic partnership, and created a high-level mutually beneficial cooperation led by green development, he added.

    The most important experience of developing healthy and stable China-Denmark relations over the past 75 years is to adhere to the principle that all countries, big or small, are equal, and accommodate each other’s core interests, Wang said.

    He noted that China fully respects Denmark’s sovereignty and territorial integrity on the Greenland issue and hopes that Denmark will continue to support China’s legitimate position on issues related to its own sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    China is willing to work with Denmark to adhere to two-way opening up, take green development as the key point to give new impetus to practical cooperation, and continue to deepen cooperation in economy and trade, scientific research and innovation, green economy and other fields, he said.

    China is committed to expanding high-level opening up, which will create broader development space for foreign-funded enterprises, and Danish enterprises are welcome to invest and start businesses in China, Wang said. “We also hope Denmark can provide a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises.”

    Wang noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, and China-EU relations have shown stable and positive momentum since the beginning of this year.

    China is willing to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the European side to jointly promote the sound development of China-EU relations and hopes that Denmark will play an active role in this regard, Wang said.

    China stands ready to enhance coordination and cooperation with European countries including Denmark to jointly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core, Wang noted.

    Rasmussen said the Danish government and parliament are firmly committed to upholding the one-China principle, willing to strengthen high-level exchanges, enhance dialogue and mutual understanding in various fields, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in investment and green transition, and intensify people-to-people and cultural exchanges to promote the robust development of bilateral relations.

    “The Danish side holds an open attitude towards Chinese enterprises’ investment in Denmark, and Danish enterprises are also willing to make long-term investments in the Chinese market,” he added.

    Denmark firmly upholds free trade and opposes decoupling, and looks forward to working with China to jointly safeguard the multilateral system and international order, and to maintain the momentum of globalization, Rasmussen said.

    The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and other international and regional issues.

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark Lars Lokke Rasmussen in Beijing, capital of China, May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM urges China, Germany to deepen win-win cooperation, jointly oppose unilateralism, protectionism

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

    Chinese FM urges China, Germany to deepen win-win cooperation, jointly oppose unilateralism, protectionism

    BEIJING, May 19 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday urged China and Germany to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and jointly oppose unilateralism and protectionism.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during his phone call with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul.

    Wang congratulated Wadephul on assuming office, saying that China-Germany relations carry significance beyond the bilateral scope and exert an important influence on global economic development and strategic stability.

    Noting that China and Germany share a comprehensive strategic partnership, Wang expressed his hope that the new German government will maintain this position and pursue a rational and pragmatic policy towards China.

    Emphasizing that the Taiwan question concerns China’s core interests, Wang said he believes that the German side will firmly adhere to the one-China principle, just as China has supported Germany’s reunification.

    For China and Germany, whose economies are highly complementary, industries deeply intertwined and interests closely integrated, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation is a natural choice, said Wang, stressing that both sides should prevent the undermining of normal bilateral cooperation in the name of so-called “de-risking.”

    This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union (EU), which is an important juncture bridging the past and the future, said Wang, expressing his hope that Germany will play an active role as a core major country of the EU, and inject fresh momentum into the development of China-EU relations through high-quality China-Germany cooperation.

    China expects that the EU will work with the Chinese side in the same direction, properly resolve the anti-subsidy case involving Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) at an early date, and promote the upgrading of China-EU cooperation in both quality and scale, he said.

    China and Germany should shoulder their responsibilities as major countries, jointly advocate and uphold free trade, jointly oppose unilateralism and protectionism, safeguard the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains, practice true multilateralism and uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, he added.

    For his part, Wadephul said that the relationship between Germany and China is of great significance to the world economic development and the future of the international community, adding that the new German government attaches great importance to relations with China and is willing to pursue a proactive policy towards China.

    Germany has firmly adhered to the one-China policy and will continue to do so, and is willing to be a reliable and predictable partner of China, he said.

    Taking a leading role in the EU, Germany is willing to devote itself to resolving differences through dialogue and consultation, and supports the EU and China in resolving issues such as the anti-subsidy case against China’s EVs through negotiations, Wadephul said.

    The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis. Wang said that China has been committed to promoting peace talks and supports reaching a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement through direct dialogues.

    Wadephul said he hopes that China will exert its influence to push for a ceasefire and bring the Ukraine crisis to an early end.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China expects Poland to further promote China-EU relations as rotating EU chair: FM

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

    China expects Poland to further promote China-EU relations as rotating EU chair: FM

    BEIJING, May 19 — As this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union (EU), China expects Poland, the holder of the rotating EU presidency, to play a greater constructive role in advancing China-EU relations toward new progress, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during his phone call with Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski.

    Poland is an important strategic partner of China in Europe, Wang said, adding that China stands ready to maintain high-level exchanges with Poland and expand practical cooperation across various fields.

    Noting that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations, Wang said that China is willing to work with Poland to uphold the post-World War II international order, safeguard the central role of the United Nations, and defend the international law and the basic norms governing international relations.

    The return of Taiwan to China is an integral part of the victory in World War II and the postwar international order, he said, voicing his hope that Poland will uphold the international consensus, continue to adhere to the one-China policy, and oppose any form of “Taiwan independence” separatist attempts.

    Sikorski said that Poland attaches great importance to its relations with China, will adhere to the one-China policy, and is committed to strengthening exchanges at all levels with China, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, jointly maintaining the post-World War II international order, so as to promote the continuous development of Poland-China and EU-China relations.

    The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis. Wang said that the development of the situation in Ukraine has proved that the four-point proposal by Chinese President Xi Jinping has taken into account the concerns of all parties and is an important guiding principle for promoting the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

    China has always been committed to promoting peace talks and has never given up its peace efforts, including jointly establishing the “Friends of Peace” group with other countries in the Global South, Wang said.

    Russia and Ukraine have recently resumed direct negotiations, taking the first step towards peace despite their different positions, Wang said, adding that China expects all parties to further demonstrate their willingness to resolve the crisis politically, and eventually reach a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement through continued dialogue.

    Sikorski said that he expects China to continue to play an active role in promoting lasting peace in Europe.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mainland slams DPP for disrupting cultural exchanges across Taiwan Strait

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

    A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Monday slammed the recent move of Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities to target certain performing artists from Taiwan who support closer cross-Strait relations.

    Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said at a press briefing that the mainland will continue to support and encourage cultural exchanges and cooperation across the Taiwan Strait.

    The mainland welcomes Taiwan’s performing artists to pursue careers on the mainland, and will take necessary measures to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests, Chen said.

    In recent years, more and more people from the entertainment sector of Taiwan have come to the mainland to share the development opportunities and chase their dreams. Based on their personal experiences, they have voiced their support for exchanges and the peaceful development of relations between both sides of the strait, Chen added.

    The spokesperson said the DPP’s targeting of these performing artists constitutes a serious violation of the basic rights and freedom of speech enjoyed by Taiwan compatriots, which again exposes its hypocritical and despicable nature.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: WHA rejection of Taiwan-related proposal reflects intl consensus: Mainland spokesperson

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

    A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Monday said a recent decision by the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) once again proved that the one-China principle is a universal consensus of the international community.

    Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks in response to the decision made by the WHA, the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), not to include in its agenda a Taiwan-related proposal.

    Noting that the international community’s commitment to the one-China principle as a basic norm shall not be challenged, Chen said that as a result of Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities’ obstinate separatist stance, the political foundation for the Taiwan region to participate in the WHA no longer exists.

    Therefore, the DPP authorities’ attempt to push the so-called proposal concerning Taiwan, which violates the consensus upheld by the international community, rightly failed once again, said Chen.

    Despite Taiwan not being a WHA participant, the Taiwan region has unimpeded channels to participate in the WHO’s communication and cooperation in the technical domain as well as effective pathways to acquire public health emergency information and assistance. The rights of the people of Taiwan regarding health are effectively protected, said Chen.

    However, for some time, the DPP authorities have colluded with external forces to distort and challenge the fundamental principle established by the UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1. Such acts challenge not only China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but also international justice and consensus as well as the postwar international order, he added.

    The spokesperson warned the DPP authorities that all separatist provocations will be met with resolute countermeasures and all attempts to collude with external forces to seek “Taiwan independence” are doomed to fail.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’ remake draws warm reception at Beijing premiere

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

    Disney’s live-action remake of “Lilo & Stitch” premiered in Beijing on May 16, with the story of a Hawaiian girl and her alien companion drawing positive reactions from Chinese audiences.

    A still from “Lilo & Stitch.” [Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures]

    The film, directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, stars Maia Kealoha as Lilo alongside Sydney Agudong, Billy Magnussen, Tia Carrere and Hannah Waddingham, with Chris Sanders, who directed the original 2002 animated version, returning to voice Stitch.

    The film follows a young Hawaiian girl who befriends a troublemaking alien, in a story about family bonds that mirrors the plot of the popular original.

    Stitch, officially designated Experiment 626, a fugitive alien from Planet Turo, has become both a global fan favorite and merchandising phenomenon. Disney aims to capitalize on the character’s enduring popularity with this new film. The original animated film remains a Disney cornerstone, known for its humor, emotional depth and Hawaiian setting.

    The live-action adaptation, written by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, maintains the original’s themes of family and belonging while showcasing Hawaiian landscapes and culture, according to Disney.

    Director Dean Fleischer Camp aimed to update the story for contemporary audiences while preserving the characters’ appeal.

    “The original has always been my favorite Disney film, and I was blown away when I first saw it,” Camp said, noting the film’s unique visual style, rooted in Sanders’ artistic vision, set it apart from other Disney productions. He described it as an unconventional fairytale set in contemporary Hawaii, focusing on ordinary characters pursuing happiness. This realistic foundation, he said, made it ideal for a live-action adaptation that could explore deeper emotional truths while staying faithful to the original.

    Sanders, who directed the 2002 original and created Stitch’s distinctive design to challenge alien movie conventions, insisted on continuing to voice the character despite working on another project.

    “I’m going to do this voice for as long as I possibly can. This is a very personal character to me,” said Sanders, who was producing “The Wild Robot” for DreamWorks when casting for the remake began.

    Singer Lars Huang poses with a giant Stitch statue installation at Taikoo Li Sanlitun shopping district in Beijing for the China premiere, May 16, 2025. [Photo courtesy of The Walt Disney Company]

    “Having Chris Sanders back was a dream come true,” said Camp. “He has been so generous with not just his voice, but his time and his mind in guiding us and telling us when we’re off track and making himself open to advice and answering questions. And then getting into the ADR booth and just seeing that voice come out of his face was totally surreal. I know, intellectually, Chris Sanders does the voice of Stitch, and I know Chris Sanders, but then my brain exploded when I saw the two together.”

    The film stars Hawaiian newcomer Maia Kealoha as Lilo, a spirited 6-year-old with a love for hula and Elvis Presley. Filmmakers reviewed over 800 audition tapes before casting the Big Island native, who they said captures the character’s distinctive personality and emotional depth.

    “Maia’s a born performer, but it was her inherent curiosity and imagination that struck us,” the director said.

    The China premiere featured singer Lars Huang performing the Chinese theme song for “Lilo & Stitch” — his Mandarin cover of Elvis Presley’s “Burning Love” — along with a meet-and-greet session and a ceremony illuminating a giant Stitch statue at Beijing’s Taikoo Li Sanlitun shopping district.

    “‘Burning Love’ is a vibrant and romantic song,” Huang said of his Mandarin cover. “Through my vocals, I hope to capture Stitch’s irresistible charm while conveying the song’s passionate message of love. May it inspire listeners to embrace life courageously and find their own ‘ohana.”

    The song will be released simultaneously with the film on May 23.

    Guests pose for a group photo on a Stitch-themed flight of China Eastern Airlines from Shanghai to Beijing for the “Lilo & Stitch” premiere, May 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of The Walt Disney Company]

    China Eastern Airlines operated a “Lilo & Stitch”-themed flight from Shanghai to Beijing on May 15, carrying premiere attendees, with the decorated aircraft set to continue serving international routes, the airline said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 34th Harbin Intl Economic & Trade Fair held in Heilongjiang

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

    People visit the 34th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, May 19, 2025. The fair showcased cutting-edge technologies such as autonomous driving, commercial satellites and humanoid robots from over 100 tech firms. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao)

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Consumers go big on emotional comfort beyond China’s rising ‘Guzi economy’

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

    Consumers select blind boxes at a Pop Mart store in Xidan Joy City, a shopping mall in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    For Chen Qiwei, a financial analyst from the southern metropolis of Shenzhen, most of her precious leisure time after long, grueling workdays is spent with her daughter in various Pop Mart stores, a popular toy chain known for fueling the blind box craze and beloved for its signature Labubu toy line.

    “My daughter and I love wandering through Pop Mart, digging through those fun blind boxes and picking out whatever catches our eye. It’s our happy little escape,” Chen said.

    “A monthly splurge of a couple thousand yuan (about 139 to 278 U.S. dollars) on these collectibles feels like a worthwhile investment in our emotional well-being,” she added, having just scored a mint-condition Labubu doll — at a hefty markup — on the secondhand marketplace app Xianyu.

    Chen and her daughter are part of the growing wave of Chinese consumers powering the rise of the “Guzi” economy, a catchall term derived from a phonetic pun on the word “goods” in Chinese that refers to spin-off merchandise linked to the worlds of anime, music and gaming.

    Walk into any urban mall across China today, one will discover that “Guzi” has become increasingly accessible as there is no shortage of stores selling everything from themed collectibles to quirky stress-relief plush toys and whimsically-named desk plants.

    According to Aiqicha, a Chinese corporate information search engine, over 10,000 enterprises specialized in “stress relief” have popped up over the past five years, with more than a third registered in the past year.

    For many, buying “Guzi” is much more than a simple transaction. It is an act steeped in emotional resonance, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends materialistic fulfillment or fandom.

    “These items make me feel connected to a community,” said a middle school student surnamed Wu from Guilin, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, as he clutched a long-coveted limited-edition anime figurine from a recent Comic Con. “The thrill of scoring one of these is far greater than acing a school test.”

    In recent years, the “Guzi” economy has risen to the forefront of the consumer market, marking a profound shift in how a new generation of buyers chooses to spend, not just on products, but on passion and identity.

    According to a 2024 report by market research firm iiMedia Research, the market value for “Guzi” in China skyrocketed with a whopping 40.63 percent annual growth in 2024, reaching 168.9 billion yuan, and it is projected to continue on its high-growth trajectory, hitting 300 billion yuan in 2029.

    Fueled by a quest for comfort, connection and sometimes even emotional fulfillment, young Chinese are driving up the demand for products and services that are instrumental to smooth the rough edges of modern life.

    “These products may seem jejune and odd in the eyes of the older generation,” said Dang Qiong, associate professor of journalism at Guangxi University. “But they often serve a deeper and more meaningful purpose, offering quick emotional resets in a high-pressure society, be it a young professional scrambling his way up the greasy pole or a student trying to work his way into a good college.”

    Some experts attribute this emerging consumer trend to the rise of “kidulting,” a cultural phenomenon in which adults embrace playful, youthful behaviors and products as part of their emotional support.

    Dang sees the idea of adults seeking experiences by acting like children as a healthy coping mechanism for an increasing number of people, especially Gen Z and millennials, navigating economic uncertainties and societal pressures.

    “Buying cute and playful stuff or engaging with whimsical behaviors helps build up my emotional resilience,” said Li Xin, a middle school teacher from Nanning, capital of Guangxi. “It’s a welcoming break from the repetitive and often mundane daily routine and an effective way to reclaim joy.”

    As the physical products continue to gain traction, digital solutions have also been playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the burgeoning “Guzi” economy.

    AI-powered virtual companions, mostly digital platforms, are able to engage with users with empathetic responses and help process their emotions in real time, said Zhang Yuqiang, a founder of a Guangxi-based AI service company.

    The use of advanced algorithms to offer customized interactions allows such virtual “companions” to act as a digital “tree hole,” a Chinese internet buzzword for a safe space to relax and confide, for those who may feel cagey about sharing their vulnerabilities with friends or family, Zhang said.

    According to tech consultancy analysis, China’s AI companionship market is estimated to scale from the current size of over 3.86 billion yuan to more than 59.5 billion yuan in 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 148.74 percent.

    However, some experts have cautioned against over-reliance on AI for emotional needs and connections.

    While forming a relationship with AI is likely to become commonplace soon, noted Zeng Runxi, vice dean of the school of journalism at Chongqing University. “But the users of such products should always maintain their cognitive and emotional autonomy, even when engaging with AI.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: IOC celebrates first-ever Fair Play Day

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

    The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Monday marked the first World Fair Play Day, highlighting the values of fair play and sportsmanship. The day will be celebrated annually on May 19, following its official designation by the United Nations General Assembly in July 2024.

    “Since the Olympic Games Antwerp 1920, athletes have sworn an oath at the opening ceremony to compete ‘in the true spirit of sportsmanship.’ This commitment has guided generations of Olympians in how they approach both victory and defeat. Throughout Olympic history, athletes have demonstrated that fair play is not just a value – it’s a commitment to the Olympic spirit,” IOC wrote in a statement on Monday.

    IOC President Thomas Bach said, “Fair play is at the heart of our Olympic mission. When Pierre de Coubertin founded the IOC, he saw fair play as fundamental to all sports; fair play is therefore one of our most cherished Olympic values. The establishment of World Fair Play Day, now officially recognised by the United Nations, is a testament to our commitment to our Olympic mission.”

    Fair Play Awards have been presented by the IOC, in collaboration with the International Fair Play Committee, to athletes, coaches and officials who demonstrate outstanding acts of sportsmanship during the Olympic Games. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China committed to continuing contributions to global health

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

    The 78th World Health Assembly is held in Geneva, Switzerland, May 19, 2025. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

    The Chinese delegation to the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) has briefed the press on China’s recent health development and its contribution to global health governance, reaffirming China’s commitment to building a global community of health for all.

    At a press conference on Saturday, Lei Haichao, head of China’s National Health Commission (NHC) and leader of the Chinese delegation, said that China upholds the principle of putting people and life first, and has rolled out 18 major programs nationwide under its comprehensive public health strategy – the Healthy China Initiative.

    According to Lei, China’s average life expectancy has risen to 79 years in 2024 while maternal and infant mortality rates have reached historic lows.

    Lei emphasized that China is deeply involved in global health governance, continuously contributing Chinese wisdom and strength to building a global community of health for all. He reaffirmed China’s firm advocacy for multilateralism and its strong support for the World Health Organization (WHO) in its central and coordinating role in global health affairs.

    He added that China welcomes the WHO’s internal reforms to improve efficiency and better serve its member states, and stands ready to participate in the process through both financial and personnel support.

    People communicate with a medical expert at a hospital in Bouyei-Miao Autonomous Prefecture of Qianxinan, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, April 24, 2025. A congenital heart disease (CHD) screening program in the province has supported nearly 10,000 children born with the CHD by offering them free surgeries. (Xinhua/Liu Yongzhen)

    On the Taiwan-related proposal, Chen Xu, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations (UN) Office at Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland, reaffirmed China’s consistent and clear position that Taiwan’s participation in the WHA must be handled in strict accordance with the one-China principle, as established by UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1.

    “We firmly oppose any Taiwan-related proposals,” Chen said. He emphasized that, under the one-China principle, the central government has made appropriate arrangements for Taiwan’s participation in global health affairs. Over the past year, 12 experts from Taiwan have been approved to attend WHO technical activities in 11 groups. He added that any technical exchanges involving Taiwan that comply with the one-China principle can proceed smoothly.

    Yu Yanhong, director of China’s National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), stated that China has fully utilized the unique advantages and potential of TCM to promote universal health coverage, offering high-quality, efficient, convenient, and affordable TCM services to the entire population through all stages of life.

    China maintains close cooperation with the WHO, Yu stressed, citing the inclusion of a chapter on traditional medicine in the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases for the first time.

    A participant enjoys acupoint massage during an event featuring traditional Chinese medicine at Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, Oct. 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

    Xia Gang, deputy director of the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration, noted that in recent years, China has actively explored disease control strategies tailored to its national conditions, achieving positive results, especially concerning the monitoring and early warning system development.

    Xia added that China will continue to support the WHO’s leadership and coordination role in global public health governance, fulfill its obligations under the International Health Regulations and related work on the pandemic agreement, and work to safeguard global public health security. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Microgrids power China green energy transition

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

    At a new energy vehicle industrial park in the city of Xuzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, a large digital screen flashes real-time data on solar power generation and carbon dioxide reduction.

    Sprawling across the park’s rooftops are 52,000 square meters of photovoltaic panels, supported by an energy storage system. Together, they form a self-sufficient microgrid that generates nearly 7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually — enough to power the entire park.

    “This clean energy solution replaces 2,800 tonnes of coal consumption while cutting carbon emissions by about 7,500 tonnes every year,” said Zhang Dong, a technician at the State Grid Xuzhou Power Supply Company, noting that companies in the park could save over 20 percent on energy costs.

    Zhang added that demand for microgrid projects is surging in industrial parks across China, as companies see them as a way to help cut costs and transition toward greener growth.

    A microgrid is a localized power network typically composed of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, alongside energy storage systems. These systems can operate independently or in sync with the main power grid, making them flexible, environmentally friendly and stable.

    China has channeled substantial investment into microgrids. According to the action plan on accelerating the construction of new power systems, local governments are encouraged to build smart microgrid projects that cater to regional needs. The country’s 14th five-year plan for modern energy systems also underscores the importance of microgrid construction.

    More than 300 green microgrid projects are currently operational or under construction in the industrial sector, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

    One of the leaders in the construction boom is the city of Changzhou in Jiangsu, both a manufacturing hub and a major new energy base. It has already launched nearly 40 microgrid projects and plans to increase the number to 300 by the end of 2027.

    “The microgrid expansion is both a result and a driver of China’s energy transformation,” said Zhang. “The falling costs of wind and solar power have made it feasible, while the decentralized energy model enhances grid stability and ensures cleaner power is available where it’s needed most.”

    China is steadily advancing toward its dual carbon goals of peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. In the first quarter of 2025, newly installed wind and solar power capacity reached 74.33 million kilowatts, bringing the cumulative installed capacity to 1.482 billion kilowatts, surpassing coal-fired capacity for the first time, according to the National Energy Administration.

    In many densely populated Chinese cities like Suzhou in Jiangsu, where energy demand is high but land is scarce, centralized solar farms are not a viable option. Instead, distributed solar generation coupled with smart microgrids has emerged as the optimal approach to sustainable urban development.

    “Microgrids offer tremendous advantages in remote islands, deserts and areas where grid coverage is limited or electricity demand is high,” said Chen Hao, an associate professor at Renmin University of China.

    Suzhou’s microgrid system can now regulate over 20,000 kilowatts daily. During peak demand periods, these networks can achieve short-term self-balancing, supplying power to more than 5,000 households.

    Microgrids are also making energy management smarter. In many highway service areas across China, prime locations for microgrid deployment, AI-powered systems are used to optimize the real-time allocation of clean energy for electric vehicle charging based on traffic volume and weather conditions.

    A highway service area in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu Province, has recently launched a smart microgrid featuring solar power, energy storage, fast-charging stations, and battery-swap infrastructure for light trucks. The system can dynamically allocate green electricity to meet the demand of vehicle charging services.

    “After years of development, microgrids are going beyond technological research and development to commercial applications,” said Tang Xisheng, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

    “We can expect to see their footprint expand across more industrial parks, residential communities, and rural regions in the future,” Tang added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Aerial tourism the modern ‘journey to the west’

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

    Instead of climbing thousands of steps to see the centuries-old Buddhist sculptures carved into the towering cliff face, visitors to the Maiji Mountain Grottoes in northwest China have a new thrilling option: boarding an aircraft and enjoying a spectacular view from high in the sky.

    The local scenic spot has launched an eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft program since March, offering visitors an opportunity to soar at an altitude of 300 meters and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the 1,600-year-old grottoes.

    This aerial sightseeing service has infused heritage exploration with a futuristic vibe, giving visitors an unprecedented immersive experience.

    “That should be the way we travel in the 21st century,” a web user commented on a WeChat post.

    This is just one of the latest examples of scenic spots in northwest China incorporating low-altitude technologies into tourism. As National Tourism Day marked on May 19, low-altitude tourism is now under a spotlight as the country prioritizes the orderly development of low-altitude sectors to stimulate consumption.

    Home to a wealth of stunning natural and cultural attractions spread across vast distances, the northwest region is full of unique opportunities. Unlike the southern and eastern parts of China, which are relatively flat and often obscured by fog and rain, this high-altitude inland region with abundant sunshine is filled with mountains and canyons, making it an ideal landscape for aerial sightseeing.

    For example, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region alone boasts a flight area of around 1.8 million square km, accounting for one-sixth of the country’s total. There are more than 320 days of good flying weather each year.

    Deng Lili is one enthusiast. During the recent May Day holiday, she took a 25-minute helicopter ride from Shihezi City in northern Xinjiang, flying over some of the region’s iconic landscapes, including the Tianshan Mountains and the Manas River Grand Canyon.

    “It was gorgeous,” she recalled with exhilaration. “Seeing the emerald rivers and winding red rocks from above was a truly fantastic experience.”

    In Gansu Province, sightseeing tours with aircraft and gliders over the Yellow River and alongside reservoirs have taken off over the past two years.

    Known for its Danxia landforms, or reddish sandstone and rocks, the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot in Gansu is seeing more travelers trading traditional viewing strolls for the more thrilling experiences of helicopters and hot air balloons.

    Visitors like Wang Jiao, from Henan Province in central China, described her recent aerial adventure as a sensory delight. “Flying above the multicolored ridges of weathered strata feels as if I could reach out and touch the vibrant hues with my fingertips.”

    According to the local tourism bureau, aerial tourism has evolved from a niche to sought-after choice, becoming a new growth driver in the industry.

    Behind the success of aerial tourism is a strategic effort to drive China’s emerging low-altitude economy, which refers to activities within airspace below 1,000 meters.

    Since being highlighted in the nation’s 2024 government work report as a “new engine for economic growth,” many provincial regions in the country’s west have begun formulating plans to accelerate the development of low-altitude economy. For instance, Xinjiang aims to build a total of 98 general aviation airports by 2035, equating to around 5.9 airports for every 100,000 square km once completed.

    Data from the lifestyle app Xiaohongshu shows that topics related to drones in Xinjiang have garnered over 820,000 views, with many users sharing detailed tips on how to take picturesque drone photos. Some popular scenic areas have begun offering shared drone services and training for certified pilots.

    Wei Xiang, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences who specializes in tourism market, said China’s low-altitude tourism features integration of advanced aerial technologies.

    Some cutting-edge flying vehicles, such as the “Land Aircraft Carrier,” a flying car developed by Chinese EV company Xpeng, have made local headlines by conducting high-temperature and high-altitude tests in Xinjiang and Qinghai. Meanwhile, aviation enterprises in Xinjiang are exploring the deployment of EHang’s EH216-S autonomous eVTOL aircraft for scenic tourism applications.

    Wei attributed the advancements to China’s strong manufacturing and innovation capabilities.

    “China has an extremely comprehensive supply chain and system in the manufacturing sector, which accounts for the richness of low-altitude vehicles,” Wei said.

    Wei also calls for simplified airspace regulations, accelerated infrastructure development and enhanced talent cultivation to drive better development in this area. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s green system wins key approval

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

    China Daily | May 20, 2025

    China’s energy market is becoming more accessible to green businesses worldwide, now that a key global renewable energy initiative has given its full backing to the nation’s green electricity certificates, authorities said.

    The National Energy Administration is pushing for wider use of the certificates to boost green power consumption, following the recent unconditional recognition given to the GEC system by RE100, a global campaign involving more than 400 member businesses that have committed to eventually using 100 percent renewable electricity in their operations.

    Wan Jinsong, deputy head of the NEA, said that RE100’s unconditional acceptance of the GECs is a “landmark achievement” that signals the international standing of the system.

    The move confirms that China’s renewable electricity market has made a crucial step forward in providing confidence to companies that use the GEC system, as they can make credible claims about using green power, knowing that their renewable energy purchases have a verifiable impact, according to the RE100 website.

    It also said that China has become an attractive international market for companies’ drive toward 100 percent renewable electricity, as proving their use of renewables in the country is now easier.

    Furthermore, the GEC system ensures that renewable energy use by large manufacturers in China is recognized throughout global supply chains, it said.

    Currently, 270 RE100 member companies purchase green electricity in China, according to Helen Clarkson, CEO of the Climate Group, which co-launched RE100.

    They reported an annual green electricity volume of 77 billion kilowatt-hours, accounting for 59 percent of their electricity consumption. Among these, the manufacturing sector consumed the most green electricity, reaching 63.876 billion kWh, said Clarkson.

    She added that RE100’s unconditional approval shows the influence of China’s GECs on the international stage. The system helps RE100 members and their suppliers meet renewable energy commitments, offering them more flexible ways to do so.

    This recognition followed successful discussions between RE100 and the China Renewable Energy Engineering Institute based on the mutual consensus on improvements to China’s GEC system that were led by the Chinese government.

    RE100 was launched in 2014 by the Climate Group and Carbon Disclosure Project. Member companies commit to using 100 percent renewable electricity by no later than 2050. Its technical guidelines influence how global companies and their supply chains buy renewable electricity.

    Yi Yuechun, deputy head of the China Renewable Energy Engineering Institute, said the GEC system helps assess provincial-level renewable energy targets and the use of green power by industries such as aluminum production. It also supports carbon accounting and carbon footprint calculations, he said.

    Manufacturing sectors such as telecommunications and automotive account for 70 percent of green electricity certificate purchases, he added.

    The GECs are the sole proof of the environmental attributes of renewable energy in China and serve as the only certificate for verifying renewable energy production and consumption. One certificate is generated for every 1,000 kWh of green electricity.

    China started its GEC system in 2017. Previously, China’s green certificates were only conditionally accepted by RE100, requiring extra proof. China improved the system by expanding the GECs to cover all renewable power projects in 2023 and making it the sole proof of renewable energy attributes.

    German chemical giant BASF was one of the first foreign companies to buy green power in China. BASF has been investing in new energy projects while also buying green electricity in China through power trading and the GECs to reduce its carbon emissions, it said.

    Pan Huimin, deputy head of the NEA’s new and renewable energy department, said the RE100 recognition will significantly increase the willingness and enthusiasm of RE100 member companies and their supply chains to purchase green electricity and use China’s certificates. This is expected to further expand the demand for the GECs, she said.

    Pan said that the NEA will continue to work with relevant departments to strengthen communication and exchanges with RE100. It will encourage RE100 to issue technical guidelines related to purchasing the GECs, which would better assist Chinese companies in buying them.

    The NEA will also enhance communication on the GEC system with China’s major trading partners to accelerate the process of achieving international mutual recognition.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Greater openness, diverse offerings attract global tourists to relish real China

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

    Tourists from Australia pose for photos at the Tiantan (Temple of Heaven) Park in Beijing, capital of China, May 1, 2025. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

    From viral social media buzz to rising foot traffic at immigration counters, global enthusiasm for “China Travel” continued to soar this year as an increasing number of travelers head to China to savor the country’s diverse landscapes, rich heritage and modern dynamism.

    As China rolls out a wave of initiatives aimed at making travel to the country easier and more immersive for international visitors, a new era of inbound tourism is emerging — one that is unfiltered, inclusive and rich in cultural depth.

    In the first quarter of 2025, China recorded 17.44 million entries and exits by foreign nationals, marking a 33.4 percent year-on-year rise. From May 1 to 5, which coincided with China’s May Day holiday, foreign entries and exits reached 1.12 million, up 43.1 percent compared to the same period last year.

    So, what is fueling this growing appeal? What new trends are shaping travel in China? And what steps lie ahead as the country continues to enhance cross-border mobility to attract more global tourists?

    These questions were front and center in the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency, where a panel of policymakers and a tourism industry insider shared their insights.

    Foreign tourists visit the Tianjin Ancient Culture Street in Tianjin, north China, May 3, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Ran)

    FRESH EXPERIENCES

    During the discussion, Shi Zeyi, deputy head of the international exchanges and cooperation bureau under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, pointed to a notable shift among inbound tourists toward independent travel and more diverse itineraries, highlighting how interest is expanding beyond traditional hotspots like Beijing and Shanghai to lesser-known regions across China.

    This trend is supported by data from major Chinese travel platforms. According to a report from Qunar, cities like Zhuhai, Qingdao, and Wuhan saw hotel bookings by foreign travelers surge by 70 percent, 60 percent, and 50 percent year on year, respectively, during the five-day May Day holiday. Meanwhile, smaller cities such as Suzhou, Huzhou and Foshan also made the list of the top 20 inbound destinations.

    Chiming in, Qin Jing, vice president of Ctrip, noted that booking patterns on the online travel platform during the same period suggest a broader shift from basic sightseeing and landmark visits to more immersive, hands-on cultural experiences.

    “Many foreign visitors are now engaging in activities like learning tea brewing in Wuyishan, watching face-changing performances in Chengdu, or crafting porcelain in Jingdezhen,” Qin said.

    These insights are consistent with a recent survey by the China Tourism Academy, which found that over 60 percent of respondents cited experiencing Chinese culture as their primary reason for visiting the country.

    Amid the travel boom, shopping has also taken center stage after China introduced new measures to optimize its departure tax refund policy in late April, including lowering the minimum purchase threshold for refunds, expanding the network of participating stores, and widening the range of products available.

    Ctrip data revealed that inbound travel bookings for popular shopping hubs like Shanghai, Shenzhen and Yiwu increased by 138 percent, 188 percent, and 60 percent year on year, respectively, during the May Day holiday.

    Speakers also highlighted the powerful role of social media in driving interest in China. Viral videos of high-speed trains, AI-powered hotel robots, and everyday scenes of modern Chinese life, posted by visiting foreign travel influencers and tourists, have offered unfiltered views of China, breaking down stereotypes.

    “Seeing is believing,” said Liu Jia, an official with the National Immigration Administration (NIA). “When people experience China firsthand, they are better positioned to overcome misunderstandings and appreciate the country for what it truly is — open, inclusive, prosperous, safe and well-ordered.”

    A border inspection officer guides foreign tourists at Sunan Shuofang International Airport in Wuxi, east China’s Jiangsu Province, May 3, 2025. (Photo by Zhu Jipeng/Xinhua)

    EXPANDING ACCESS

    Despite the influence of social media and enhancements like the improved departure tax refund policy, guest speakers emphasized that China’s recent surge in inbound travel is primarily driven by its ongoing efforts to expand access for international visitors. And this momentum continues to build steadily.

    China’s visa policies have been continuously adjusted and optimized. Since late 2023, China has introduced an expanding suite of traveler-friendly policies. In its latest move, the country announced last week that nationals of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay will be eligible for visa-free entry starting June 1. Currently, the country grants unilateral visa-free entry to 38 countries.

    China has also extended the transit visa-free period to 240 hours for travelers from 54 countries.

    These measures have significantly boosted cross-border exchanges between China and other countries, leading to an immediate impact: in 2024, China recorded 20.12 million visa-free entries, marking an impressive 112.3 percent surge compared to the previous year. During this year’s May Day holiday, there were 380,000 visa-free entries, representing a 72.7 percent year-on-year growth.

    According to Tong Xuejun, an official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China will negotiate additional visa-waiver agreements and work to improve the online visa application system for foreigners.

    Liu, from the NIA, added that the immigration administration will continue coordinating with other departments to make it easier for foreigners to enter, stay, and travel in China.

    A staff member provides departure tax refund service for a tourist from Russia at a shopping center in Beijing, capital of China, April 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

    Acknowledging the diversity of global travelers, Shi noted that the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is promoting tailored offerings to cater to different groups, ranging from young backpackers and business travelers to senior tourists. These include educational tours, wellness retreats, and seasonal products such as ski holidays and summer getaways.

    To stimulate inbound tourism spending, China will expand the number of duty-free shops and broaden the selection of products eligible for instant tax refunds, especially focusing on high-tech gadgets like smartphones, smartwatches and drones, Shi added.

    In 2024, 132 million inbound visits to China generated 94.2 billion U.S. dollars in revenue, recovering to over 97.2 percent and 93.5 percent, respectively, of pre-pandemic levels.

    Cities across China are enhancing services to facilitate inbound tourism. For example, Beijing has launched a free half-day tour for international transit passengers, offering a glimpse of traditional Chinese culture at landmarks such as Qianmen and the Temple of Heaven.

    Qin from Ctrip said the company is enhancing services for inbound tourists by training multilingual tour guides, partnering with foreign travel influencers for promotions, and introducing new offerings such as immersive cultural and dining experiences.

    Wrapping up the discussion, Tong emphasized the importance of collaborative feedback. He said the government welcomes suggestions from tourism businesses and is equally eager to hear from various international travelers. “So we can work together to further enhance the China travel experience.”

    “As China continues to open its doors wider, the ‘China Travel’ brand will only shine brighter on the world stage,” he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Asian economies unite to counter ‘American risks’

    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

    Xiang Haoyu, a visiting fellow at the Department of Asia-Pacific Studies at the China Institute of International Studies, believes that tariff barriers and protectionism pose severe challenges to Asia’s economic growth. However, with its strong development resilience and consensus on unity and cooperation, the Asian region is poised to play a key role in the new round of reconstruction of the global economic order and continue to provide strong incentives for the stable growth of the world economy.

    According to a report by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), in 2024, the global economy of Asia will account for 49%, and its contribution to the world economy will reach 60%. Not only does Asia account for 53% of the total value added of world GDP in the manufacturing sector, Asia is also increasingly dominant in the high-tech sector. In the future, Asia is expected to continue to play a driving role in global economic growth through the expansion of the intra-regional market, industrial upgrading, technological innovation, and regional economic integration.

    In the international community’s view, Asia’s growth is of utmost importance to global economic stability. In terms of the current situation, it should be noted that Asia’s economy remains highly resilient and confident in many aspects.

    Above all, Asia’s dominance in high technology and manufacturing is a key advantage in driving the global economy. In recent years, Asian technological innovations in artificial intelligence, 5G communications, and electric vehicles have injected great vitality into the global economy. Facing tariff blackmail from the US, Asia’s manufacturing supply chain, relying on its own continuity and exceptionalism, is better able to withstand the disruption of foreign policy changes, helping the region maintain its status as a global manufacturing hub.

    Second, the deepening of regional economic integration in Asia has created strong domestic momentum. The further implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is expected to increase bilateral trade between ASEAN countries and China by US$19 billion in 2025. In particular, trade in services and the digital economy will become new growth points, helping to accelerate the transformation and upgrading of the Asian economy.

    Third, protectionism and economic persecution by the United States contribute to the implementation of the strategy of diversification of Asian exports. The main economic entities of Asia are expanding the markets of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, etc., reducing their dependence on the U.S. market and at the same time increasing their capabilities in the field of global economic integration. Most transnational corporations with comprehensive development in Asia are also adapting to changes, overcoming risks and rebuilding their own global development strategies. The vast majority of them will not only not leave Asia, but will also strive for deeper integration with the local Asian market, stimulating domestic demand in Asia and accelerating their global deployment.

    Fourth, Asia’s intra-regional market potential will continue to be stimulated, which will help achieve more balanced growth. With Asia’s total population exceeding 4 billion, huge domestic demand will support sustainable economic growth.

    Faced with a highly uncertain external environment, Asian countries are reaching new agreements, agreeing that only unity and cooperation can effectively address external challenges.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Young Ordos entrepreneur Chen Yelong develops technology in Western China, fulfilling dreams and serving the motherland

    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

    Chen Yelong is an entrepreneur from the 90s generation. He leads a team that has developed more than a hundred scientific and technological solutions, accelerating the digital transformation of his hometown. As the CEO of Carving Dragons Network Technology, Chen Yelong has always focused on technological innovation. His goal is not only to develop his own company, but also to promote local economic development through scientific and technological progress.

    Chen Yelong was born in 1991 in Edzhen Horo, Ordos City, Inner Mongolia. He has been working in the information technology industry since 2010 and founded Carving Dragons Network Technology in 2015. As a CPC member, he leads a team to overcome the toughest technical challenges. Together, they have developed a series of cutting-edge scientific and technological products for more than 500 organizations, including Party and government agencies, private enterprises, and more.

    In the more than 9 years since its establishment, the company has become a national-level high-tech enterprise, obtaining over 100 exclusive intellectual property rights, and has successfully entered the register of science and technology small and medium enterprises. Chen Yelong has become a model for young people to take root in their homeland in the west of the country and develop their own business based on science and technology.

    Under the leadership of Chen Yelong, the company has been actively involved in local digital construction, providing key technological support to emergency management, smart government, culture, education and other fields. He often says, “The West needs more young people to drive development through innovation.”

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Sen. Cramer Op-Ed: If Countries Want Access to Our Markets, They Must Abide By Our Standards

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    BISMARCK, N.D. – On President Trump’s “Liberation Day” last month, he argued non-tariff trade barriers are often more damaging to America’s competitiveness than actual tariffs imposed by foreign governments. He rightly called out unfair practices like currency manipulation, export subsidies, and intellectual property theft. But one often-overlooked offense stands out: lax environmental standards, enforcement, and compliance.
    In his remarks, the President blasted other countries for accusing America of committing environmental crimes and demanding that our producers pay for damages for which they were not responsible. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, penned an op-ed in RealClearEnergy, arguing for an America First approach to foreign pollution, and that the rules we impose on ourselves reflect our stewardship values. If countries want access to our markets they should abide by our standards, and we shouldn’t devolve to theirs. 

    If Countries Want Access to Our Markets, They Must Abide By Our Standards
    RealClearEnergy – May 19, 2024
    On President Trump’s “Liberation Day,” he argued non-tariff trade barriers are often more damaging to America’s competitiveness than actual tariffs imposed by foreign governments.  
    The President called out several unfair practices used to create an artificial advantage in trade – currency manipulation, export subsidies, intellectual property theft, exorbitant value-added taxes, and unfair rules. But one often-overlooked offense stands out: lax environmental standards, enforcement, and compliance. He is right to pinpoint this disparity as it undermines U.S. competitiveness and directly harms the wellbeing of Americans.
    Emissions from industrial activities across the Pacific, particularly in China, contribute up to 30% of surface ozone and 20% of fine particulate matter in the western U.S., making it more difficult for states to meet their air quality targets under the Clean Air Act. In addition, mercury pollution from coal-fired plants in Asia accounts for 20 to 40% of mercury deposition in the West.
    If American facilities fail to comply with our environmental statutes, a state’s federal highway funds can be withheld, or strict regulatory constraints impacting the permitting and investment of new industrial facilities could be imposed. This is why U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin recently announced the removal of red tape that placed excessive burden on states’ ability to prove their pollution problem was linked to foreign sources. He understands Americans should not be punished for another country’s’ pollution.
    U.S. companies work hard to meet EPA requirements. They spend hundreds of billions on environmental compliance, with our manufacturing and energy-intensive sectors bearing the highest burden. A National Association of Manufacturers’ report found the average U.S. producer pays over $10,000 per employee annually on meeting environmental standards.
    When a regulation’s costs outweigh its public benefits, it should be eliminated. But Americans live by the old Boy Scout adage to “leave this world a little better than you found it.” We want safe environments for our workers, clean air and water, and for our innovators to create more efficient ways to produce more in America. The rules we impose on ourselves reflect our stewardship values. If countries want access to our markets they should abide by our standards, and we shouldn’t devolve to theirs. 
    “Free-trade-at-any-cost” idealogues portend all commodities are created equal, as if there isn’t intrinsic value in where a product is made. In their mind, a barrel of Russian or Iranian oil is the same as one out of North Dakota or Alaska, or a rod of Chinese steel is no different than one out of Cleveland or Pittsburgh. Never mind these foreign producers are dirtier, use their profits to promulgate foreign wars, and exploit abhorrent labor standards.
    In his remarks, the President blasted other countries for accusing America of committing environmental crimes and demanding that our producers pay for damages for which they were not responsible.   
    He’s right to decry this hypocrisy and I’m committed to working with him to hold overseas polluters accountable.
    Last Congress, Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) and I introduced the PROVE IT Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to develop a dataset to compare the relative carbon efficiency of U.S. production to our foreign competitors. Existing data compiled by the Climate Leadership Council already shows the United States has a clear carbon advantage over its competitors. While the idea of using carbon as a metric might confuse those who seek to punish overseas producers for traditional pollutants, it serves as an excellent proxy for actual emissions. 
    On paper, China’s environmental regulatory regime appears reasonable, but enforcement and compliance suffer from corruption that results in cheating. Chinese companies, especially coal-fired power plants and heavy industries, have been documented turning off or bypassing pollution scrubbers to cut costs. Our bill requires DOE to strictly review foreign data to make sure this type of cheating isn’t tolerated.
    The President is right to focus on the effects of unfair trade practices to level the playing field. An America First approach on foreign pollution, however, can do much more – it can rewrite the script on how conservatives view U.S. environmental progress.
    Paired with effective trade measures that hold overseas polluters accountable, we can monetize the superior environmental performance of our workers and industry and protect public health. At the same time, we can create a durable and transparent trade agenda that not only encourages domestic investment in manufacturing but also cleans up the global environment. 
    Global demand for virtually everything is growing. If we want cleaner, more secure supply chains, we won’t get there by punishing ourselves. The solution is recognizing our excellence and making more in America!
    President Trump gets this. But first, we need the comparative emissions data authorized by the PROVE IT Act to determine the scope of this unfair trade practice and to help understand the impact of foreign pollution on America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 78th World Health Assembly opens in Geneva with focus on ‘One World for Health’

    Source: People’s Republic of China Ministry of Health

    GENEVA — The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) opened Monday in Geneva, Switzerland, under the theme “One World for Health.”

    Addressing the opening ceremony, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said every WHA is significant, but this year’s gathering is particularly historic as member states are expected to consider and potentially adopt the pandemic agreement.

    Tedros also called on member states to approve the next round of assessed contribution increases to help ensure the WHO’s long-term financial sustainability and independence.

    Lei Haichao, head of China’s National Health Commission and leader of the Chinese delegation, delivered a statement during the general debate Monday, highlighting China’s active engagement in global health cooperation.

    He stated that over the past six decades, China has dispatched more than 30,000 medical personnel to 77 countries and regions, providing treatment to over 300 million patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, China supplied 500 billion personal protective items and 2.3 billion doses of vaccines globally.

    Lei reiterated that China will continue to support the WHO and multilateralism through concrete actions. He welcomed the organization’s internal reforms and expressed China’s willingness to work with other member states to build a global community of health for all.

    He also said that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and the WHA has long made clear decisions not to include in its agenda a so-called proposal on Taiwan’s participation in the annual assembly as an observer.

    The remarks made by a small number of countries concerning Taiwan disrupted the agenda and went against the will of the international community, he noted, adding that China urges these countries to stop interfering in its internal affairs.

    A major focus of this year’s assembly is the deliberation of the much-anticipated pandemic agreement. The WHO announced on April 16 that, following more than three years of intensive negotiations, member states have reached a consensus on a draft of the agreement.

    Delegates will also review the 2024 results report and deliberate on around 75 agenda items covering a wide range of topics, including the health and care workforce, antimicrobial resistance, health emergencies, polio and climate change, among other issues.

    Sustainable financing is another key issue. The Assembly is expected to discuss the proposed program budget for 2026-2027, which may be reduced from 5.3 billion US dollars to 4.267 billion dollars, alongside efforts to refocus priorities, strengthen core functions, and enhance organizational efficiency.

    The World Health Assembly is the WHO’s highest decision-making body and is typically held every May in Geneva. Its main responsibilities include setting organizational policies and reviewing and approving the program budget. This year’s Assembly is scheduled to conclude on May 27. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Tourism Day marked across China

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

    Tourism Day marked across China

    Updated: May 20, 2025 08:03 Xinhua
    Tourists visit a scenic area in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, May 19, 2025. This year’s May 19 marks the 15th China Tourism Day. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 19, 2025 shows tourists visiting the Penglai Pavilion scenic spot in Yantai, east China’s Shandong Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 19, 2025 shows tourists interacting with seabirds on a boat on the waters near east China’s Shandong Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists visit Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, northwest China’s Gansu Province, May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Baotu Spring in Jinan, east China’s Shandong Province, May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists enjoy themselves at a national forest park at Tonglu County in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 19, 2025 shows tourists visiting the Slender West Lake scenic spot in Yangzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: EPC summit ends in multiple challenges

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

    Attendees chat during the 6th European Political Community (EPC) Summit in Tirana, Albania, May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Amid rising political and economic pressures, the sixth summit of the European Political Community (EPC) concluded in Tirana on Friday with few substantive results.

    Themed “New Europe in a new world: unity – cooperation – joint action,” the summit marked the EPC’s first gathering in the Western Balkans. Yet, despite mounting calls for solidarity, deep divisions and growing anxieties were difficult to settle.

    Around 50 national and regional leaders, as well as heads of European Union (EU) and international institutions, gathered in the Albanian capital, facing an array of unresolved issues ranging from enlargement fatigue and economic headwinds to migration dilemmas and pressing security concerns.

    Strategic anxiety

    Launched by French President Emmanuel Macron in May 2022, the EPC was intended to serve as a platform for policy coordination and political dialogue among European countries.

    Three years on, however, that vision appears increasingly strained.

    As transatlantic divisions deepen, particularly over the Ukraine conflict, European nations are increasingly grappling with the implications of a diminished American commitment.

    Agathe Demarais, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said that Europe is not a priority for the United States. “I don’t think that in any field — be it trade or defense or anything else,” she said.

    Faruk Boric, a political analyst from Bosnia and Herzegovina, said that for many years, the EU had followed the United States in terms of external politics. “But nowadays you can see that (U.S. President Donald) Trump is trying to make America great again without the EU,” he said.

    Europe’s economic concerns are also growing as a new wave of U.S. tariffs poses a serious challenge to sustaining growth and enhancing competitiveness. Negotiations between the EU and the United States on related issues have yet to yield a breakthrough.

    The EU is currently facing a 25 percent U.S. import tariff on steel, aluminum and automobiles, along with a 10 percent baseline duty on nearly all other goods. In April, Washington announced a 20 percent “reciprocal tariff” on EU products, which was later postponed for 90 days.

    Migration remains another intractable issue. The EU faces both illegal migration flows and labor shortages, creating both political and logistical strain. Recent discussions have broadened to include legal migration pathways, cooperation with countries of origin and transit, and managing so-called “weaponized” migration.

    Divisions persist among EPC-participating countries on migration-related issues. There is no consensus over the proposal of offshore deportation centers or to provide greater facilitation for admitting more young migrants.

    More symbolic than substantive

    Now in its sixth edition, the EPC still lacks a permanent secretariat, formal declarations or binding commitments. While it provides a flexible platform for dialogue, critics argue that a loose structure limits its political impact.

    “The EPC has become little more than a photo-op of unity,” said He Zhigao, associate researcher with the Institute of European Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. “It can neither replace the EU nor NATO. It offers no real public goods like security guarantees or economic aid, and it lacks the power to advance meaningful EU enlargement.”

    Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, who co-chaired the meeting, called for a broader vision for the EPC beyond defense. “Why not imagine an EPC of education, science, and artificial intelligence and transnational lines beyond weaponry? A terrain of interconnected sources of knowledge, research and innovation, where Non-EU or Not-Yet-EU territories can become new frontiers for investments, free from bureaucracy, regulations and fiscal burdens…” he said.

    Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized at the summit Europe’s responsibility to pursue unity despite diversity, noting that Western Balkan countries “must have a clear perspective for integration.”

    However, no concrete steps toward accession were taken during the summit, once again leaving candidate countries in a state of waiting.

    With no non-EU country volunteering to host the 2026 summit, doubts about the EPC’s long-term viability continue to grow. As the European Policy Centre warned, “without reform, the EPC risks becoming irrelevant.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Moscow prepared for long-term work on settlement of Ukraine crisis

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

    Moscow is prepared for long-term work focused on reaching a settlement of the Ukraine crisis, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.

    He confirmed that the Russian side is ready to engage in detailed and potentially long-term work to solve the crisis, adding that “the settlement involves a large number of nuances that need to be discussed.”

    At the same time, Peskov said that a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump is not being prepared at the moment.

    Trump said Saturday that he will speak separately with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday to push for a ceasefire deal between the two countries.

    The Kremlin confirmed Monday that Putin would hold a telephone conversation with Trump later in the day. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump says phone call with Putin ‘went very well’

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump arrive for a bill signing ceremony of the Take It Down Act at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    U.S. President Donald Trump said his telephone conversation Monday morning with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin “went very well.”

    Trump made the remarks in a social media post after the two-hour phone call about the war in Ukraine, saying Russia and Ukraine would start a negotiation in which the conditions could only be set by the two sides themselves.

    “Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a Ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War,” Trump wrote. “The conditions for that will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be, because they know details of a negotiation that nobody else would be aware of.”

    Trump noted that Russia wants to “do largescale TRADE with the United States” when the current catastrophic situation is over and he expressed the belief Ukraine could benefit from trade as well.

    “There is a tremendous opportunity for Russia to create massive amounts of jobs and wealth. Its potential is UNLIMITED. Likewise, Ukraine can be a great beneficiary on Trade, in the process of rebuilding its Country,” the post read.

    Trump also said he shared details of the call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other leaders, including President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Finnish President Alexander Stubb. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: UK-EU ties reset with new bilateral deal

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

    British Prime Minister Keir Starmer (C), European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (L) and European Council President Antonio Costa are seen ahead of the UK-EU summit in London, Britain, on May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Britain and the European Union (EU) reached a wide-ranging agreement on Monday, which is expected to generate nearly 9 billion pounds (about 12.02 billion U.S. dollars) for the British economy by 2040, Downing Street announced.

    The deal was unveiled ahead of the first-ever UK-EU summit held in London, a meeting hailed by both sides as a “historic moment.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the agreement a “new chapter” in the relationship, as the two sides seek to reset ties after years of post-Brexit friction.

    Major highlights

    Hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the summit brought together von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. All three praised the deal as a major step forward during a joint press conference.

    One major highlight is a youth mobility scheme, described by Downing Street as “capped and time-limited,” and modeled on similar agreements with countries like Australia and New Zealand. The UK and EU will also work toward restoring British participation in the Erasmus+ academic exchange program, from which the UK withdrew during the current 2021-2027 cycle.

    Von der Leyen stressed that the mobility initiative will help rebuild long-term academic and cultural connections between European and British youth.

    The agreement also includes a sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) deal aimed at easing trade in food and agricultural goods. It will eliminate many routine checks on animal and plant products, cutting costs, reducing red tape, and reopening EU markets to British exports such as burgers and shellfish. It will also streamline goods movement between Britain and Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework.

    “This deal slashes red tape for exporters and will bring down food prices in British supermarkets,” Starmer said. “It directly impacts working people across the country.”

    In the fisheries sector, Britain and the EU agreed to a 12-year framework that preserves British access to EU waters and maintains current quotas for EU vessels. The British government will invest 360 million pounds to modernize its fleet and upgrade technology.

    “Under the old arrangement, we moved to year-by-year negotiations, which brought instability,” Starmer said. “This new deal offers predictability. Over 70 percent of our seafood is sold to the EU, so reducing red tape makes a material difference.”

    The agreement also lays the groundwork for defense and security cooperation, including a framework for UK participation in the EU’s SAFE defense program, which supports joint military procurement. Further negotiations will address financial contributions and supply chain arrangements.

    British holidaymakers also stand to benefit. The deal will expand access to Europol data and enhance cooperation on biometric and vehicle information. British travelers will once again be able to use eGates at EU border controls, streamlining passport checks.

    Surrender or step forward

    Despite broad support, the agreement has also faced criticism. Opposition Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch pledged to reverse it if her party returns to power, while Reform UK’s Nigel Farage called the move a “surrender” to Brussels.

    Fisheries groups also voiced discontent. The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations said the deal “gives away the best card we still had,” benefiting large exporters and supermarkets more than independent fishers.

    Still, analysts viewed the agreement as a pragmatic step forward.

    “Fishing is a tiny part of the British economy, but critics will latch onto it as symbolic,” said Iain Begg, a European politics expert at the London School of Economics and Political Science. “However, reducing barriers to UK exports carries much greater economic weight — especially for defense contractors who could benefit from EU military procurement.”

    On the mobility deal, Begg noted that relaxed passport controls will be welcomed by many Brits, especially as the holiday season approaches.

    While some critics view the deal as a British retreat, others argue it signals a more mature phase in UK-EU relations.

    “If you frame this as winners and losers, you miss the bigger picture,” said Steve Nolan, senior economics lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University, who sees the move as a mutual recognition that “we are close neighbors and strategic partners.” In a fragmented world, this is a sign that “grown-up negotiation is back on the table,” he added.

    No timeline has been set for the agreement’s full implementation, but Starmer said remaining negotiations would continue “with the same pace and intensity.” (1 British pound = 1.34 U.S. dollar) 

    MIL OSI China News –