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Category: China

  • MIL-OSI China: 34th Arab League Summit held in Iraq with focus on Palestinian issue

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

    Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein (R, front) welcomes Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (L, front) at Baghdad International Airport ahead of the 34th Arab League Summit, in Baghdad, Iraq, May 16, 2025. The summit kicked off here on Saturday, bringing together the bloc’s 22 member states, along with a number of regional and international organizations, to address critical challenges facing the Arab world, particularly the ongoing crisis in Palestine. [Iraqi Foreign Ministry/Handout via Xinhua]

    The 34th Arab League Summit kicked off in the Iraqi capital Baghdad on Saturday, bringing together the bloc’s 22 member states, along with a number of regional and international organizations, to address critical challenges facing the Arab world, particularly the ongoing crisis in Palestine.

    Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, who took over the rotating presidency from Bahrain, highlighted in his speech the grave threats facing the region. He condemned the Israeli “systematic killing” of Palestinians since October 2023, describing it as an attempt to “erase their presence from their land.”

    “We categorically condemn these acts, which violate human rights and international law,” Rashid said, reaffirming Iraq’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s right to live on their land and rejection of any attempts at their forced displacement.

    He also emphasized Iraq’s support for Arab security and stability, rejecting external interference in the internal affairs of Arab nations.

    Displaced Palestinians are seen in Gaza City, as they flee with their belongings from Beit Lahia or Jabalia in northern Gaza Strip, on May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Addressing the summit’s opening session, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani unveiled 18 initiatives to revitalize joint Arab action, foremost among them the initiative to establish an Arab Fund to support post-crisis reconstruction efforts in the region.

    Al-Sudani said that Iraq’s vision for ending the conflicts in the region “begins with the Palestinian people attaining their full right to a free and dignified life on their land and an end to the ongoing aggression (against their territory).”

    “We have rejected and continue to reject forcible displacement of Palestinians, calling for an immediate halt to the attacks on the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and other occupied Palestinian territories, and for the unhindered entry of humanitarian aid,” al-Sudani added, while announcing Iraq’s pledge of 20 million U.S. dollars for the reconstruction of Gaza and another 20 million dollars for Lebanon.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Arab leaders demand ceasefire in Gaza, reject displacement of Palestinians

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

    Arab leaders on Saturday called for an immediate halt to the war in Gaza and voiced their rejection of forced displacement of Palestinians.

    In the final statement of the 34th Arab League Summit, which kicked off in the Iraqi capital Baghdad earlier in the day, the leaders of the bloc’s 22 member states demanded “an immediate halt to the war in Gaza and all hostilities exacerbating civilian suffering.”

    The statement urged the international community, particularly influential states, to fulfill their moral and legal obligations to advocate for a cessation of bloodshed and ensure unhindered humanitarian aid to Gaza.

    They also reiterated their rejection of forced displacement of the Palestinian people, which constitutes a violation of international law, the statement added.

    It called on all countries to provide political, financial, and legal support for the reconstruction and recovery plans for the Gaza Strip, welcoming Iraq’s call to establish a fund for the reconstruction of Gaza.

    The leaders affirmed that the Palestinian issue remains the core cause of the Arab nation and the key to regional stability, said the statement, adding that they fully support the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including freedom, self-determination, and the establishment of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

    The statement stressed that the Arab leaders condemn all illegitimate measures and practices by Israel that target the Palestinian people and deprive them of their right to freedom, life, and human dignity.

    The leaders supported a call of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to convene an international peace conference and take steps to implement the two-state solution.

    The statement also addressed other issues across the Arab world, including Sudan, Lebanon, Syria, Libya, and Yemen, and reiterated the Arab leaders’ condemnation of all forms of terrorism, particularly the terrorist acts by the Islamic State (IS) group.

    The summit witnessed the participation of leaders and top diplomats of 22 Arab League member states, as well as representatives from regional and international organizations.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump to speak with Putin, Zelensky on Monday

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

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

    “I will be speaking, by telephone, to President Vladimir Putin of Russia on Monday, at 10:00 a.m.,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social, adding that the subjects of the call will be stopping the “bloodbath” that is killing, on average, more than 5,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers a week, and trade.

    Trump said he will “then be speaking to President Zelensky of Ukraine and then, with President Zelensky, various members of NATO.”

    “Hopefully it will be a productive day” and “a ceasefire will take place,” he said.

    Concluding their meeting in Türkiye’s Istanbul on Friday, delegations of Russia and Ukraine agreed to hold a new round of negotiations and have a large-scale prisoner exchange. As a key outcome of the two-hour talks, the two sides agreed to a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 people from each side.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 34th Harbin Int’l Economic and Trade Fair opens in NE China

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

    Children in ethnic costumes stage a show at the 34th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, May 17, 2025. The fair opened here on Saturday, attracting exhibitors from over 110 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

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  • MIL-OSI China: China’s commercial rocket sends 6 satellites into space

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

    A commercial rocket coded ZQ-2E Y2 blasts off from the Dongfeng commercial space innovation pilot zone near the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, May 17, 2025. The rocket lifted off on Saturday in northwest China, successfully sending six satellites into space. (Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua)

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 2nd China-Russia Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Congress was held in Harbin

    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 18 (Xinhua) — The 2nd China-Russia Regional Economic and Trade Cooperation Congress was held in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, on Saturday, the Heilongjiang Daily reported.

    The event was attended by officials from the Chinese provinces of Heilongjiang, Hainan, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, the Russian Amur Region, Primorsky Krai, the Jewish Autonomous Region, as well as over 500 representatives of business circles from both sides.

    The congress aims to deepen Chinese-Russian interregional practical cooperation. Participants paid much attention to interaction in the fields of agriculture, logistics, tourism and humanitarian contacts.

    At the congress, Liang Huiling, Chairman of the People’s Government of Heilongjiang Province, called for expanding Chinese-Russian border trade, further strengthening infrastructure connectivity, improving transport efficiency, and intensifying cooperation in areas such as medicine, education, tourism, sports and physical education.

    The “Collection of Information on Chinese-Russian Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation” was published at the congress.

    The organizers of the congress are the Heilongjiang Provincial Commerce Department and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Amur Region. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The press secretary of the President of Belarus called the results of the talks in Istanbul a tactical success for the Russian leadership

    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

    MINSK, May 18 /Xinhua/ — Press secretary of the President of Belarus Natalya Eismont called the results of the talks in Istanbul a tactical success for the Russian leadership. She told TASS on Saturday.

    Commenting on the results of the negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul, she noted that no other results were expected. “The negotiations, their first round, fortunately took place and had at least some result. In general, we agree with the Americans in assessing the results of this round – this is certainly a tactical success for the Russian leadership so far,” N. Eismont said.

    When asked about Belarus’s readiness to host a new round of negotiations if Russia and Ukraine agree on it, N. Eismont responded as follows:

    “As for the possible organization of the next rounds of negotiations. I will emphasize the main thing: Belarus has never asked for the role of mediator – neither before nor now. This is our principled position. But if in the name of peace among our neighbors, in our brotherly Ukraine, this is necessary and all parties agree with this, we will organize the process in a way that no other country organizes. First of all, because this directly concerns the future of Belarus,” N. Eismont summarized. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five killed in helicopter collision in Finland

    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

    TALLINN, May 18 (Xinhua) — Two civilian helicopters taking off from Tallinn on Saturday morning collided near Eura airfield in southwestern Finland, killing all five people on board, the Estonian Foreign Ministry confirmed.

    Shortly after 12:30 (09:30 GMT), the Satakunta Province Rescue Service received a report from the road near Eura Airfield that two helicopters had collided in mid-air and crashed to the ground, the Estonian Broadcasting Corporation /ERR/ and the Finnish television channel Yle reported.

    Police said there were five people on board the two four-seat Robinson R44 Raven light helicopters at the time of the collision: two in one helicopter and three in the other.

    At a press conference on Saturday evening, Margus Sarglepp, head of the Estonian Foreign Ministry’s consular assistance department, said there were no survivors. Finnish police are working to identify the dead.

    Several Estonian media outlets reported that Estonian businessmen Oleg Synajalg and Priit Jaagant were among the dead. The names of the other passengers have not yet been released. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iraqi PM calls for Arab economic integration to boost development

    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

    BAGHDAD, May 18 (Xinhua) — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani called for economic integration of Arab countries as a means to promote their development here on Saturday at the opening of the 5th Arab Summit for Economic and Social Development.

    According to a statement from his press office, the prime minister noted that “the summit serves as a strategic platform to strengthen partnerships among Arab countries, activate development funds and mechanisms, create new opportunities for women and youth, and ensure the well-being of children.”

    M. al-Sudani proposed the creation of a joint Arab mechanism to assess the effectiveness of development based on economic and social development indicators, the statement said.

    “There is no security without development, and there is no development without genuine Arab economic integration,” the Iraqi prime minister said, expressing hope that the summit would be a “turning point” in the trajectory of Arab development. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Seven killed in house fire in northern Mexico

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    MEXICO CITY, May 17 (Xinhua) — Seven people, including five children, were killed early Saturday in a fire at a residential building in the city of Saltillo, northern Mexico’s Coahuila state, local media reported.

    The fire broke out at around 4am /10:00 GMT/ and spread quickly due to flammable materials such as acetone, solvents and paint in the house.

    Authorities identified two women, aged 64 and 28, and five children, aged between five and 15, as victims of the accident. Three others were burned and taken to local hospitals.

    Investigators believe that the possible cause of the fire was contact between a candle and flammable materials. Firefighters, police and ambulance crews arrived at the scene, the flames were successfully extinguished.

    Coahuila state authorities have called on residents to take extra safety precautions when using candles and storing hazardous materials at home. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Syrian authorities announced the unification of armed groups under a single command

    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

    Damascus, May 18 (Xinhua) — Syrian authorities on Saturday evening announced the integration of armed groups into the national defense system.

    In a statement, Murhaf Abu Qasra, the Syrian government’s defence chief, said the move followed months of coordinated efforts to unite Syria’s various armed groups under a centralised command.

    “After the liberation of Syria, we immediately began work to integrate all military units into a single institutional structure,” said M. Abu Kasra. “Today, we are proud to inform our esteemed people that all units are now integrated into the Ministry of Defense.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China sees increase in news conferences and release system

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

    China sees increase in news conferences and release system

    chinadaily.com.cn | May 18, 2025

    China has seen an increase in the number and frequency of news conferences at various levels, supported by a well-structured news release system spanning from central to local governments and enhanced professionalism among spokespersons, scholars and officials said on Saturday.

    More than 100 spokespersons from local and state governments and state-owned enterprises under the central government and scholars gathered in Beijing for the 4th China Spokesperson Forum at Renmin University of China, focusing on improving the spokesperson system and enhancing the effectiveness of news releases.

    Mo Gaoyi, director of the State Council Information Office, said in the era of mobile internet and smart interconnection, the media landscape has met profound changes.

    It is necessary to conduct in-depth research on social concerns and public opinion trends and identify the connecting points with the interests of people to better meet societal expectations, he said.

    Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, stated that in 2024, the ministry held a total of 230 news conferences, with spokespersons answering over 2,500 questions from both Chinese and foreign reporters, which made it the only foreign affairs department in the world to hold a news conference every working day.

    As of Wednesday, major international media coverage of the ministry’s regular press conferences has surged by 69.6 percent this year, reaching over 25,000 articles, Guo added.

    Zhou Qing’an, dean of the School of Journalism and Communication of Tsinghua University, said the news release system in China has gradually matured, and the professionalism of the spokesperson team has continued to improve.

    He highlighted the system’s adaptability to the all-media communication landscape, particularly in embracing proactive initiatives in new areas like social media and artificial intelligence.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi extends congratulations to 34th Arab League Summit

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Xi extends congratulations to 34th Arab League Summit

    Xinhua | May 18, 2025

    Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message on Saturday to Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, the rotating chairperson of the Council of Heads of the League of Arab States, extending his congratulations on the convening of the 34th Arab League Summit in Baghdad.

    Xi noted that over the past 80 years since its establishment, the League of Arab States has always been committed to promoting unity and self-strengthening of the Arab world, voicing actively the shared concerns of Arab states, and promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Middle East.

    At present, Xi said, the world is undergoing accelerating changes unseen in a century, and the situation in the Middle East is evolving in a complex way.

    Arab countries’ adherence to independence and autonomy, promotion of development and rejuvenation, and safeguarding of fairness and justice, have played an active role in advancing the influence of the Global South, he said.

    Xi noted that the vigorous development of the relations between China and Arab states over recent years has set an example of unity and cooperation among developing countries.

    Xi said he and Arab leaders agreed to commit efforts to build a China-Arab community with a shared future for the new era at the initial China-Arab States Summit in December 2022, and he believes that the second summit to be held in China in 2026 will mark another significant milestone in the history of China-Arab ties.

    Noting that China and Arab countries have consistently viewed their relationships from the strategic and long-term perspectives, Xi said that looking ahead, China will remain a trustworthy friend and partner for them, standing firmly on the side of the just cause of Arab states.

    China is willing to work with Arab states to deepen mutual political trust, push mutually beneficial cooperation, increase people-to-people and cultural exchanges, join hands on the path towards their each own modernization and build a higher-level China-Arab community with a share future, said the Chinese president.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Belt and Road Initiative builds connectivity, shared future

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

    HANGZHOU, May 17 — Inside an exhibition hall at the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, the world’s busiest port by cargo throughput, a giant screen pulses with real-time port operations data. A group of visitors could recently be seen watching intently as a digital platform mapped out how smart port technologies were driving efficient management and greener growth.

    “This is precisely the standard a global hub should meet,” said Douglas Jardine Flint, former group chairman of HSBC. What had impressed him, he said, was not just the physical scale of the port but the powerful digital infrastructure behind it. “This reflects an open, forward-looking China,” he added.

    On Thursday, the Advisory Council of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation held its 2025 session in the city of Ningbo, east China’s Zhejiang Province. A day earlier, advisory council members from Kenya, Egypt, the United Kingdom and beyond visited the world-class deep-water port in Zhejiang.

    The Ningbo-Zhoushan Port is the only port in the world that has handled over 1 billion tonnes of cargo annually for 16 consecutive years. It has more than 200 deep-water berths across 20 port areas stretching 220 kilometers of coastline, with each berth capable of accommodating 10,000-tonne ships.

    The port is a golden hub of the Yangtze River Delta and a vital link connecting China with the Middle East, Africa and Europe under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

    “I once worked as a transportation engineer and was involved in many port projects in Egypt,” said Essam Sharaf, former prime minister of Egypt. “But Ningbo-Zhoushan Port is clearly a more advanced and more important one.”

    In Sharaf’s view, the world economy is increasingly dependent on maritime transportation, and efficient ports are the cornerstone of global trade.

    “You can see the dedicated employees, cutting-edge innovation and advanced science here. No wonder it’s one of the biggest ports in the world,” Erastus J.O. Mwencha, former deputy chairperson of the African Union Commission, said as his gaze swept across the bustling port.

    To Mwencha, the port is more than just a logistics hub — it stands as a symbol of multilateralism.

    “One of the goals of the BRI is to advance global cooperation and achieve mutual benefit,” he said. “Whether it’s ports, highways, regional hubs or air routes, all are key programs of the initiative. These infrastructures don’t just connect locations — they connect development opportunities.”

    Since the BRI was proposed over a decade ago, port cooperation has remained a key field of connectivity.

    China and its partners have worked together to transform critical maritime infrastructure, with projects including the Gwadar Port of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and Greece’s Piraeus Port, which is the largest port in the Mediterranean, as well as Lekki Deep Sea Port, which is the first modern deep seaport in Nigeria.

    The goal is to achieve not just broader trade routes, but shared development. For many of the advisory council members who traveled to Ningbo, witnessing the scale and sophistication of the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port reaffirmed the possibilities of deepened Belt and Road cooperation.

    Sharaf, a long-time observer of international development, called the BRI “one of the most important cooperation platforms in the world today.” It carries, he said, “the development hopes of many nations — and historic significance.”

    Through partnerships and joint projects, the BRI has “created a global web of connectivity, shared planning and common purpose,” Sharaf said. “Under this initiative, we don’t impose things but share the benefits.”

    Mwencha expressed a similar view. “To me, the BRI is itself a port of hope, of progress, of the future,” he said with conviction.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 3 dead, 1 missing after south China flash flood

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

    Three people died and one remains missing after intense rain triggered flash floods in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, local authorities said on Saturday.

    On Friday and Saturday, torrential downpours hit the county of Longlin, resulting in a flash flood in Yancha Township. This surge of water left four people missing, after a temporary shelter they were staying in on a hillside was swept away.

    Upon receiving a report of this incident on Saturday, local emergency response, public security, fire and health authorities promptly launched search and rescue operations. Three of the missing individuals were later found in a mountain stream gully, with all three declared dead.

    Efforts to locate the remaining missing person are still underway.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese smart education online platform surpasses 164M registered users

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

    This photo taken on May 14, 2025 shows the opening ceremony of the 2025 World Digital Education Conference in Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province. (Xinhua/Du Zixuan)

    The number of registered users on Smart Education of China, an online platform for public services concerning digital education, had topped 164 million as of April 2025, a white paper on smart education in China showed.

    This platform had recorded over 61.3 billion page views and boasted visitors from more than 220 countries and regions as of last month, according to the white paper issued on Friday at the 2025 World Digital Education Conference, which lasted from Wednesday to Friday in the city of Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province.

    The white paper revealed that the platform has continued to gather high-quality digital educational resources, including over 110,000 primary and secondary school resources, as well as over 11,300 online courses for vocational education, 31,000 for higher education and over 2,000 for lifelong learning.

    The platform integrates 51 services, such as employment services and examination services, in eight major categories, and features deep integration of AI and education, the white paper said.

    China is building a modern digital education system that is fairer, of higher quality, more intelligent and accessible to all for lifelong learning.

    Smart Education of China was launched in March 2022, and focuses on areas like learning, teaching, school governance and educational innovation — and has become one of the world’s largest repositories of education and teaching resources.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US museum returns to China ancient silk manuscripts from Warring States period

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

    This photo taken on May 16, 2025 shows China ancient silk manuscripts from the Warring States period at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., the United States. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art on Friday officially returned the Zidanku Silk Manuscript volumes II and III: Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan from the Warring States period to China’s National Cultural Heritage Administration.

    The handover ceremony took place at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C.

    The silk manuscripts were unearthed in 1942 from the Zidanku site in Changsha, Hunan Province, and were illegally taken to the United States in 1946. The silk manuscripts are currently the only known silk manuscripts from the Warring States period (475-221 BC).

    Zhu Ye (R), deputy director-general of Office for the Recovery and Restitution of Lost Cultural Property, National Cultural Heritage Administration of China, receives a certificate of transfer from Chase F. Robinson, director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, during a handover ceremony of the ancient Zidanku Silk Manuscripts from the Warring States period at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., on May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Zidanku Silk Manuscripts are divided into three volumes. The returning texts, Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan, are the second and third volumes, respectively.

    As the only known silk manuscripts from the Warring States period unearthed in China, the Zidanku Silk Manuscripts — over 2,000 years old — are the earliest silk text discovered to date, representing the earliest known example of a classical Chinese book in the true sense. It is of foundational significance for the study of ancient Chinese script and literature, as well as for the history of Chinese scholarship and thought.

    The repatriation of Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan “ensures that these invaluable artifacts can now be fully and rightfully protected and studied in the soil from which they came,” Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Rao Quan, who is also the head of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, said in a video address.

    The ancient Zidanku Silk Manuscripts from the Warring States period are displayed during a handover ceremony at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., on May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    This will allow for a more accurate and comprehensive understanding and interpretation of their heritage value, transforming them into shared academic and civilizational assets for China and the world, said Rao.

    At the handover ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng said that the return is a “cultural milestone” and a “testament” to China-U.S. cooperation in heritage preservation, bringing new vitality to people-to-people exchanges and friendship.

    China and the United States have made “notable progress” in heritage cooperation, with around 600 artifacts sent back to China — including more than 40 pieces since the start of this year, according to the Chinese ambassador.

    The ancient Zidanku Silk Manuscripts from the Warring States period are displayed during a handover ceremony at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., on May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At the ceremony, Chase F. Robinson, director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, said that the return of the manuscripts “reflects a carefully considered decision,” calling it an example of “mutually beneficial and collegial international collaboration.”

    The return of Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan marks a successful case of proactive recovery of significant lost cultural artifacts. It also serves as a model for the application of the core spirit of dialogue and cooperation outlined in the Qingdao Recommendations, showcasing how research into provenance and transfer history can support the successful repatriation of Chinese cultural artifacts lost overseas.

    These manuscripts will be publicly displayed for the first time in July 2025 at the National Museum of China as part of an exhibition on the repatriation of cultural relics.

    The National Cultural Heritage Administration said it will continue to work toward the early return of Sishi Ling, another volume of the Zidanku silk manuscripts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese language proficiency competition for university students held in Egypt

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

    The 24th “Chinese Bridge” Chinese proficiency competition for Egyptian university students concluded Saturday in the Egyptian capital Cairo.

    The competition, hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Egypt and organized by the Cairo-based Chinese Bridge Club, consisted of three parts: a keynote speech, a knowledge quiz, and a talent show.

    Twelve finalists advanced from a pool of 30 contestants representing 24 Egyptian universities in the preliminary rounds. The participants demonstrated strong proficiency in the Chinese language and extensive understanding of China’s national conditions.

    Two students from Cairo University, Ola Sherief and Youssef Ehab, won the grand prize and the first prize respectively.

    The grand prizer Sherief, a student majoring in Chinese translation, said that she likes to learn Chinese and understand Chinese culture through a variety of Chinese film and television works and social media platforms in her spare time.

    “I hope to use Chinese as a bridge to contribute to the mutual understanding and cultural exchanges between Chinese and Egyptian youth,” Sherief told Xinhua.

    “We welcome more Egyptian youth to visit China and contribute to promoting cultural exchanges and people-to-people exchanges between China and Egypt, promoting mutual learning and mutual benefit among the world’s diverse civilizations, and building a community with a shared future for mankind,” Liu Jianqing, deputy director-general of China’s Center for Language Education and Cooperation, said at the award ceremony.

    Egypt has opened 32 Chinese majors across 30 universities, and 21 public middle schools have introduced Chinese as an elective subject for a second foreign language.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: UK economy beats expectations in Q1, but challenges loom ahead

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

    People prepare to leave after watching the military procession held in London, Britain, on May 5, 2025.  (Xinhua/Li Ying)

    The UK economy in the first quarter of 2025 has exceeded market expectations with GDP rising by 0.7 percent quarter on quarter, showed data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on Thursday.

    Earlier figures indicated stagnation in January and a 0.5-percent increase in February, and anticipated zero growth in March. However, the latest data revealed a 0.2-percent rise in March, lifting the overall quarterly result.

    The service sector, the primary engine of growth, recorded a 0.7-percent increase, rebounding from just 0.1 percent in the final quarter of 2024, with wholesale, retail, transport and communications services making notable contributions.

    Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said that falling shop price indices have been good news for UK households and that declining food prices and fierce competition among retailers helped bring down overall prices, supporting the continued growth of the services sector in the first quarter.

    British manufacturing also surprised markets in the first quarter of 2025, ending three consecutive quarters of decline. According to the ONS, the rebound was largely driven by growth in the automotive and machinery sectors, with machinery manufacturing up 3.8 percent quarter on quarter and transport equipment production rising 2.7 percent. Analysts noted that a surge in output in February was likely due to firms rushing to ship goods ahead of new U.S. tariffs.

    The construction sector, however, remained stagnant, showing no growth compared to the previous quarter and even hinting at a potential contraction.

    The stronger-than-expected economic growth in the first quarter of 2025 has eased pressure on the UK government. Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said the results reflected the strength and potential of the UK economy, yet acknowledged that there is still much work to be done.

    This growth, however, was recorded before new U.S. tariffs on UK goods took effect, the impact of which will become evident in the second quarter. Domestically, higher National Insurance rates, increases in the minimum wage and price hikes in some social services have prompted industry groups and research institutions to caution that the first quarter’s performance may be short-lived. The 0.2-percent GDP growth in March was already a noticeable slowdown from February’s 0.5 percent, suggesting tougher challenges ahead.

    Stuart Morrison, research director at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), noted that the 0.7-percent growth exceeded expectations, driven by strong performances in services and manufacturing. However, he cautioned that the impact of higher National Insurance and global trade tensions has yet to surface in the data, warning that the real challenges are still to come.

    Ben Jones, an economist at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), said the unexpected growth in March was largely a rebound from February, but the strong GDP growth in the first quarter is likely a temporary phenomenon. He warned that with employment costs set to rise significantly following the autumn budget, UK businesses remain cautious about hiring and investment, and additionally, global economic uncertainty continues to threaten the UK’s recovery.

    Several economic research institutions have recently lowered their UK growth forecasts for 2025. Earlier this month, the Bank of England projected that the UK economy would grow by only 1 percent this year.

    Given this backdrop, some UK research institutions have pointed out that maintaining and boosting economic growth will require stronger ties with the EU, positioning it as a key trading partner. The two sides scheduled a summit for May 19 to address several trade management issues, and institutions urged the UK government to take the opportunity to strengthen relations.

    Noting that the ripple effects of U.S. tariffs are still reverberating through the global trade system and prompting responses from various countries, BCC Director General Shevaun Haviland said Britain and the EU must send a clear signal that open and fair trade is in both sides’ best interests. She stressed that the upcoming summit must go beyond empty talk and clearly demonstrate a genuine commitment to improving trade relations.

    Meanwhile, the upcoming industrial policies are also drawing attention. “The UK government is expected to release a series of notable policies in the coming weeks, including an industrial strategy and a ten-year infrastructure plan,” said Anna Leach, chief economist at the Institute of Directors. “These could offer businesses a way out of the current difficulties and provide a clearer view of the UK’s economic direction.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Tencent to boost AI, global expansion investments

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

    People watch a robot demonstration at the booth of Intel during the Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Summit in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province on Sept. 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Liang Xu)

    Chinese internet giant Tencent has vowed to ramp up all-round AI investments and further expand its overseas commitments, a company announcement revealed on Friday at the Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Summit held in the city of Guangzhou, south China’s Guangdong Province.

    In the first quarter of 2025, Tencent’s R&D investment surged by 21 percent year on year to 18.9 billion yuan (about 2.63 billion U.S. dollars), as the company upgraded its comprehensive AI ecosystem, spanning foundational large models, computing power, development tools and applications, said Tong Taosang, senior executive vice president of Tencent.

    In terms of computing power, Tencent has established data centers in Guangzhou, Qingyuan, Shaoguan and other locations across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), providing foundational computing support for industrial upgrading.

    Tencent Vice President Li Qiang said that as a globally expanding cloud computing provider, Tencent Cloud had maintained double-digit growth in terms of its international business over the past three years — serving over 10,000 overseas customers across more than 80 countries and regions.

    This year, Tencent will further expand its overseas investments. It plans to invest 150 million U.S. dollars in the Middle East to establish its first data center in Saudi Arabia, and invest 500 million U.S. dollars in Indonesia to build its third data center in that country.

    Tencent’s revenue for 2024 increased 8 percent year on year to reach 660.3 billion yuan — with its gross profit and operating profit rising 19 percent and 24 percent, respectively.

    AI technology played a crucial role in driving Tencent’s business innovation and fueling its high-quality growth throughout the year, according to the company’s financial results released in March.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Three teams from China claim opening victories in FIBA 3×3 Xi’an Challenger

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

    The FIBA 3×3 Xi’an Challenger 2025, a key event in the FIBA 3×3 competition system, tipped off Saturday in Xi’an, capital of northwestern China’s Shaanxi Province, with three teams from the host nation securing victories.

    A total of 16 teams from around the world took part in the competition, including Partizan of Serbia, Chongming of China, Kandava of Latvia, and other top-tier teams.

    On the outdoor court at Shaanxi Gymnasium, all three Chinese teams — Qinhuangdao, Shanghai and Chongming — opened with wins. Chongming edged Bordeaux 16-15 thanks to Cameron Forte’s long-range shot in the final two seconds.

    Partizan standout Milos Supica praised the passionate local support, despite his team falling 21-15 to Shanghai in its second game of the evening.

    “The spectators’ passion impressed me with their enthusiasm for basketball,” he said.

    After the group stage on the opening day, the tournament will move to the knockout stage on Sunday, where the champion will be decided.

    Alongside the competition, organizers staged a variety of Chinese intangible cultural heritage performances and activities, offering attendees the chance to engage with and experience Chinese culture.

    “The performances and displays are great,” said Mario Alvarez, a basketballer from Spain’s Getafe club, adding that not only he, but many of the players, would gain a better understanding of Chinese culture through the tournament.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Jiangsu pockets sixth straight China’s national gymnastics men’s team title

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

    Jiangsu underlined its dominance in gymnastics as world champions You Hao and Su Wei led the team to its sixth consecutive men’s team title at the National Gymnastics Championships on Saturday.

    Jiangsu, a traditional powerhouse in men’s gymnastics, had stumbled to second place behind Hunan during the qualification stage of the tournament held in Nanning, capital of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

    “It was the first time that Hunan beat us in national championships. We were not in form at that time — everybody was like daydreaming,” joked You after Jiangsu won the final with 323.392 points. “We woke up just in time, though not in our best form.”

    Jiangsu’s Youth Olympic champion Yin Dehang injured his shoulder before the final. He competed on floor and rings but was taken to the hospital after the award ceremony.

    “Our top priority is this year’s National Games, so our coach decided to protect Yin and put me on pommel horse today. I hope we can put ourselves together and present a great show in November,” said You.

    Under the new code of points for 2025 to 2028, several changes have been introduced in the evaluation system. The most notable adjustment is that the difficulty value of a routine is now calculated from the top eight, rather than ten, highest-value elements.

    “I think the change came too late for me. Because it’s very friendly to the veterans like me. We can focus more on the landings and qualities of every movement,” said You.

    Hunan’s men’s team, led by China’s top all-around gymnast Zhang Boheng, made two early mistakes in the opening round. Zhang required medical attention for his neck after completing his rings routine in the third round.

    “I injured my neck in rings training just one day before our departure, so I can hardly bend my head on floor, parallel bars and pommel horse. It’s a huge blow for us,” said Zhang, who helped his team fight back to finish second with 316.492 points.

    Guangdong edged out local favorite Guangxi for the final podium spot by a margin of nearly one point.

    This year’s championships also serve as a qualifier for the National Games, with the top 12 teams earning berths.

    “We still get chances for the national title in November. These championships is a warm-up for us. We will definitely push ourselves to the limit to win the title,” said Zhang.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Wang Chuqin romps into second round at table tennis worlds

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

    China’s world No. 2 Wang Chuqin delivered a commanding performance, defeating American Nandan Naresh at the men’s singles first round of the world table tennis championships on Saturday night.

    Wang controlled the match effortlessly and left the 18-year-old opponent with limited opportunities to challenge him, winning the one-sided affair 11-6, 11-4, 11-2, 11-4.

    A service call was successfully challenged as Wang asked for video review on a serve which was ruled as illegally angled.

    “I have confidence in my serves,” said Wang, who is seeking his first world singles championship in Doha.

    Wang’s world fifth-ranked teammate, Liang Jingkun, also made it to the second round, after beating Ham Yu Song from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea 14-12, 11-6, 10-12, 11-3, 11-8.

    Xue Fei became China’s first casualty, as the only penholding player on the team squandered a two-set lead in a 4-2 loss to Japan’s Hiroto Shinozuka.

    The world’s most renowned penholder, world No. 6 Felix Lebrun of France, eased past Slovakia’s Lubomir Pistej in straight sets.

    Earlier, top-ranked Chinese woman Sun Yingsha cruised past No. 216 Veronika Matiunina of Ukraine in four sets.

    “My performance is normal,” said Sun, the defending world singles champion who has twice finished runner-up at the Olympics. “I didn’t know much about my opponent. But her serve is good, and her style is unique as an 18-year-old teenager.”

    Sun will next take on the winner between 262nd-ranked Costa Rican Lucia Zavaleta and No. 67 Pyong Song Gyong from DPRK, whose players are known for exceeding expectations.

    “My second round rival might be very strong. I will get myself prepared for a tough game,” she said.

    China’s world No. 3 Chen Xingtong also reached the second round, beating South African Rochica Sonday 4-0.

    Japanese Satsuki Odo and Mima Ito, ranked eighth and ninth respectively in the world, both advanced into the second round with straight-set victories.

    Sunday’s action will see China’s world No. 1 Lin Shidong, Brazil’s No. 3 and World Cup holder Hugo Calderano, and China’s No. 2 woman Wang Manyu make their singles appearance in Doha.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientists have found an accelerating decline in forest restoration rates after major wildfires

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 18 (Xinhua) — Chinese and international scientists have found a significant deterioration in the global capacity to restore forests after large-scale wildfires in the 21st century, with less than a third of damaged forests able to recover within seven years after a fire.

    The study, published in the journal Nature Ecology

    A research team led by Chen Ziyue of Beijing Normal University, Wu Zhaoyang of the Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Josep Peñuelas of the Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain, analyzed 3,281 large forest fires worldwide using a hybrid methodological framework.

    The main results show that since 2010, the average intensity of large wildfires has increased by 42.9 percent in drylands and 54.3 percent in boreal zones, with western North America, north-central Siberia, and southeastern Australia being the hardest hit. Post-fire recovery rates have declined sharply since 2010, as the area where recovery has stalled has increased from 22.6 percent to 25.6 percent, with forest structure and productivity posing particular challenges for recovery.

    The study warns that reduced fire resilience could lead to catastrophic losses of biodiversity, biological resources and carbon sinks that far exceed direct fire emissions, seriously disrupting the global carbon cycle. Forest ecosystems damaged by fires are currently facing unprecedented challenges to natural recovery, exacerbated by extreme climate events such as heat waves and drought.

    Natural recovery mechanisms can no longer cope with increasing climate pressure, Chen Ziyue said, calling for systematic international intervention at critical stages of post-fire recovery, including scientifically planned reforestation and ecological restoration projects.

    Australian expert David Bowman from the University of Tasmania described the study as “an influential paper on a very serious topic.” -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A number of events were held at the National Art Museum of Belarus as part of the international event “Night of Museums”

    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

    MINSK, May 18 (Xinhua) — A number of events were held at the National Art Museum of Belarus on Saturday as part of the international event “Night of Museums”.

    The museum presented a festive program called “Cranes over Belarus.” The crane is one of the favorite birds of Belarusians, a symbol of universal happiness and joy, prosperity and prosperity. This year, the organizers also dedicated the “Night of Museums” events to the anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    As part of the event, the museum showcased fascinating exhibits, theatrical sketches, choreographic performances, light and multimedia installations. The Donou Cultural and Educational Exchange Center organized master classes on “Traditional Chinese Art. Paper Cutting” and “Traditional Chinese Calligraphy,” which were particularly popular among visitors.

    The National Art Museum of Belarus noted that the concept of the event is based on admiration and a feeling of endless love for Belarusian culture, as well as the gratitude of the modern generation for the peaceful sky. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: People visit Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in China’s Sichuan

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

    People visit Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in China’s Sichuan

    Updated: May 18, 2025 08:43 Xinhua
    This photo taken on May 8, 2025 shows an antique piano displayed at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum, home to a collection of over 300 instruments from all over the world, is designed to enable an immersive experience for visitors. With technologies such as 3D imaging, holographic theatres, and digital scene restoration, it reflects virtual historical scenarios, tells stories behind music works, and sheds light on technology innovations in those instruments. The museum has received about 50,000 visitors since it opened on April 30, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 11, 2025 shows Chinese Guqins displayed at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 8, 2025 shows a pipe organ produced in 1755 displayed at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 8, 2025 shows a German piano from early 20th century displayed at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 11, 2025 shows part of a French piano from late 18th century displayed at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People watch a scenario based on a historical oil painting, restored through holographic projection, at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, May 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, May 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 11, 2025 shows Ye Hao (L), curator of the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum, playing a German piano for visitors at his museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 8, 2025 shows part of a piano made in the U.S. in 1859, displayed at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 8, 2025 shows an exhibition room at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 8, 2025 shows a German piano displayed at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 11, 2025 shows a German harp piano from mid 19th century displayed at the Chengdu Xin Smart Music Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tunisian President Meets with Head of CPC Central Committee Propaganda Department

    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

    TUNIS, May 17 (Xinhua) — Tunisian President Kais Saied met with Li Shulei, member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, who visited Tunisia from May 14 to 17 as the head of a CPC delegation.

    During the meeting on Thursday, Li Shulei first conveyed cordial greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to K. Saied and recalled that in May 2024, the two heads of state jointly announced the establishment of China-Tunisia strategic partnership, outlining a new plan for the development of interstate ties.

    Li Shulei stressed that China is willing to work with Tunisia to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, promote traditional friendship, strengthen political mutual trust, enhance exchanges of experience in public administration, and advance the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road to achieve more win-win results.

    China hopes to deepen cooperation with Tunisia in such fields as culture, science, tourism and media, expand exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations, strengthen coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs, and promote the sustainable and long-term development of interstate ties, he added.

    K. Saied, for his part, asked Li Shulei to convey his sincere greetings and best wishes to Xi Jinping, assuring that Tunisia attaches great importance to developing relations with China. He also spoke highly of China’s development achievements and its important role in international affairs, thanking the Chinese side for its long-standing and meaningful support for Tunisia’s socio-economic development.

    The President stressed that Tunisia firmly adheres to the one-China principle and supports China’s efforts to achieve national reunification and protect its core interests.

    K. Said noted that Tunisia expects to deepen the alignment of development strategies with China and strengthen cooperation in various areas, such as economics and trade, cultural and humanitarian exchanges, healthcare and infrastructure construction.

    During the visit, Li Shulei also met with Tunisian Prime Minister Sarah Zaafarani Zanzari, Chairman of the Assembly of People’s Representatives (lower house of parliament) Brahim Bouderbala and Chairman of the National Council of Regions and Districts (upper house of parliament) Imed Derbali. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tornadoes hit US states of Missouri and Kentucky, 21 killed

    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

    WASHINGTON, May 17 (Xinhua) — At least 21 people were killed in tornadoes that swept through parts of the U.S. states of Missouri and Kentucky from Friday into Saturday morning, local authorities said.

    Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said Saturday morning that 14 people have been confirmed dead in the region.

    “Kentucky, we start today with the difficult news that we have lost at least 14 people as a result of yesterday’s storms, but unfortunately the death toll will continue to rise as more information becomes available,” Beshear said in a post on X’s social media.

    Earlier, Laurel County Sheriff John Root in southeastern Kentucky called the tornado “a mass casualty event.”

    In addition, five people were killed in St. Louis and two in Scott County in southeastern Missouri, according to NBC News, and local officials said more than 5,000 homes were damaged by the storm Friday afternoon.

    According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, there are about 1,200 tornadoes in the country each year. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Arab leaders demand ceasefire in Gaza, reject displacement of Palestinians

    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

    BAGHDAD, May 17 (Xinhua) — Arab leaders on Saturday called for an immediate end to the war in the Gaza Strip and expressed their opposition to the forced displacement of Palestinians.

    In the final statement of the 34th Arab League summit, which opened earlier in the day in the Iraqi capital Baghdad, the leaders of the league’s 22 member states demanded “an immediate end to the war in the Gaza Strip and all hostilities that aggravate the suffering of the civilian population.”

    The statement calls on the international community, in particular influential countries, to fulfil their moral and legal obligations to stop the bloodshed and ensure unimpeded humanitarian aid to the Palestinian enclave.

    The Arab League leaders also reiterated their opposition to the forced displacement of Palestinians, which violates international law, the statement said.

    They called on all countries to provide political, financial and legal support for the reconstruction and rehabilitation plans for the Gaza Strip, and welcomed Iraq’s call for a fund to be created for the reconstruction of Gaza.

    According to the statement, the heads of state reaffirmed that the Palestinian issue remains the central concern of the Arab nation and the key to regional stability. They fully support the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including freedom, self-determination and the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state within the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, the document added.

    The statement emphasizes that Arab leaders condemn all illegal measures and actions by Israel against the Palestinian people and depriving them of their right to freedom, life and human dignity.

    The leaders supported Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s call to convene an international peace conference and take steps to implement a two-state solution.

    The statement also touched on other issues in the Arab world, including Sudan, Lebanon, Syria, Libya and Yemen, and reiterated Arab leaders’ condemnation of terrorism in any form, especially the terrorist attacks of the Islamic State group.

    The summit was attended by leaders and senior diplomats from 22 LAS member states, as well as representatives of regional and international organizations. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian and US Foreign Ministers Discuss Istanbul Talks by Phone — Russian Foreign Ministry

    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

    Moscow, May 17 /Xinhua/ — Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the results of the talks in Istanbul in a telephone conversation on Saturday, according to a statement on the Russian Foreign Ministry’s website.

    “On May 17, at the initiative of the American side, a telephone conversation took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation S. V. Lavrov and the US Secretary of State M. Rubio,” the diplomatic department reported. “The heads of the foreign policy departments exchanged opinions on the results of the Russian-Ukrainian negotiations held the day before in Istanbul.”

    As indicated on Smolenskaya Square, M. Rubio “welcomed the agreements on the exchange of prisoners of war and on the preparation by each side of its vision of the conditions necessary for reaching a truce, and emphasized Washington’s readiness to continue to facilitate the search for a settlement.”

    S. Lavrov, in turn, “noted the positive role of the United States, which contributed to Kyiv ultimately accepting the proposal of Russian President V.V. Putin to resume the Istanbul negotiations,” and also confirmed Moscow’s readiness to continue working together with American colleagues in this context.

    “During the conversation, some other international and regional issues were also touched upon. The interlocutors exchanged opinions on the continuation of Russian-American contacts,” the Russian Foreign Ministry concluded.

    The talks between representatives of Russia and Ukraine that took place on Friday lasted almost two hours. Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, who heads the Russian delegation, announced a large-scale prisoner exchange — 1,000 for 1,000 — with Ukraine. According to him, the parties agreed to present their vision of a possible future ceasefire. During the talks, the Ukrainian side requested a meeting of the heads of state, and Russia took this into account. V. Medinsky also stated Russia’s readiness to continue negotiations with Ukraine. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –