Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
The guided-missile frigate Dali (Hull 553) attached to a flotilla under the Chinese PLA Navy steams ahead towards the designated waters in full maneuvering speed during a maritime training exercise in late March, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Fang Zhikun)
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Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, capital of China, April 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)
BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) — There is no winner in a tariff war, and going against the world will only result in self-isolation, Chinese President Xi Jinping said when meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in Beijing on Friday.
Xi said over the past 70 years and more, China has achieved development through self-reliance and arduous struggle, never relying on others’ mercies, still less fearing any unreasonable suppression.
He added that no matter how the external world changes, China will remain confident and focused on running its own affairs well.
Noting that both China and the European Union (EU) are major economies in the world and firm supporters of economic globalization and free trade, Xi said the two sides have formed a close relationship of economic symbiosis with their combined economic output exceeding one-third of the world’s total.
He called on China and the EU to fulfill their international responsibilities, work together to safeguard economic globalization and the international trading environment, and jointly resist unilateral bullying.
This not only safeguards the legitimate rights and interests of China and the EU, but also serves to maintain fairness and justice within the international community while upholding international rules and order, Xi said.
Sanchez said China is an important partner of the EU, and Spain has always supported the stable development of EU-China relations.
Noting the EU is committed to open and free trade, upholds multilateralism and opposes unilateral tariff hikes, Sanchez said there is no winner in a trade war.
Facing the complex and challenging international situation, Spain and the EU are willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China to maintain the international trade order, cope with challenges including climate change and poverty, and safeguard the common interests of the international community, he said.
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, capital of China, April 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, capital of China, April 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, capital of China, April 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, April 11 — The National Forestry and Grassland Administration announced on Friday that two geoparks in China, one in northwest China’s Qinghai Province and another in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, have been granted the title of UNESCO Global Geopark.
With these new additions, China now boasts 49 UNESCO Global Geoparks, more than any other country in the world.
Located in northwest China’s Qinghai, the Kanbula National Geopark spans roughly 3,149 square kilometers. Its striking Danxia landforms, towering peaks, hidden caves, and emerald lakes make it a prime location for geoscientific research and public science education.
In southwest China’s Chongqing, the Yunyang Geopark covers approximately 1,124 square kilometers and is renowned for its rich dinosaur fossils and dramatic karst landforms. The fossils found here are of global scientific importance, as they help fill a significant knowledge gap in the evolution of dinosaurs during the Middle Jurassic period, especially the early part of the period.
China has been actively working to protect its geological heritage and natural landscapes and develop protection and utilization models that integrate local characteristics. These efforts have garnered international recognition for the country.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
Y-9 medium-lift transport aircraft and Y-8 anti-submarine patrol aircraft attached to a regiment with the Chinese PLA Navy take off in succession during a multi-subject flight training exercise on March 24, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Qin Qianjiang)
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Source: China State Council Information Office 2
An IQ Talk seminar titled “Future Medical Care: Cell and Gene Therapy” was held Thursday in Beijing, bringing together experts to discuss advances and challenges in cell and gene therapy (CGT).
Zhou Qi, academician and vice president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and president of the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, delivered a keynote report entitled “Frontiers, Challenges and Talent Development in Biotechnology.”
Zhou highlighted global trends in science and technology, shifts in research paradigms, and opportunities for China in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, synthetic biology and brain-computer interfaces. He also provided updates on CGT progress and talent cultivation, emphasizing the need for integrated development across education, science and industry.
Experts noted that CGT drugs represent a new frontier in biopharmaceutical innovation, following small molecule and antibody-based therapies. As major economies worldwide prioritize CGT as a strategic focus, Beijing’s advantages in original innovation and clinical resources position the city as a leader in CGT development.
During the exchange session, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on key aspects of the CGT sector, including cutting-edge technologies and applications, industrial development strategies, and talent cultivation and recruitment.
Representatives from leading CGT companies also showcased their latest research and development achievements on-site, providing valuable insights into the current state and future potential of the sector.
IQ Talk is an international collaboration initiative established by the National Torch Academy of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ZGC) to support Beijing’s development of future industries.
Source: China State Council Information Office
The European Union said it will press the pause button on its retaliatory tariffs against the United States just a day after the bloc’s member states agreed on the first countermeasures against the US trade war and hours after US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day suspension of “reciprocal tariffs” on most for its trading partners.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday that the commission took note of Trump’s announcement.
“We want to give negotiations a chance. While finalizing the adoption of the EU countermeasures that saw strong support from our member states, we will put them on hold for 90 days,” she said on X. “If negotiations are not satisfactory, our countermeasures will kick in.”
She expressed that preparatory work on further countermeasures continues, reiterating “all options remain on the table”.
EU member states approved tariffs between 10-25 percent on a range of US imports such as almonds, orange juice, poultry, soybeans, steel and aluminum, tobacco and yachts — the bloc’s countermeasures against the 25 percent tariffs placed by the US on steel and aluminum imports from the EU.The tariffs were initially set to be rolled out in phases starting April 15, hitting a total of 21 billion euros ($23 billion) of US products, but are now paused.
Hungary was the only one among 27 member states to vote against the retaliation. France, Italy and the Republic of Ireland have successfully lobbied to remove Kentucky bourbon whiskey from the hit list after Trump threatened that the US would impose a 200 percent tariff on wines and spirits from the EU if it is on the list.
Observers noted that the list targets many Republican states in the US to inflict pain on Trump’s political base.
“The EU considers US tariffs unjustified and damaging, causing economic harm to both sides, as well as the global economy,” the European Commission said in a statement on Wednesday.
“Clear, predictable conditions are essential for trade and supply chains to function. Tariffs are taxes that only hurt businesses and consumers,” von der Leyen said in another post on X on Thursday.
‘Wrong signal’
At the Thursday daily news briefing, European Commission spokesmen refused to answer when asked why the EU is pausing the countermeasures when the US has not paused its steel and aluminum tariffs, and whether the EU has been sending a wrong signal to Trump, who has been destroying the global trading system.
Ding Chun, director of the Center for European Studies at Fudan University, said although the EU wants a negotiated settlement, it has also realized that retaliation measures are necessary to force the US to come to the negotiation table.
“Europeans realize that if they show weakness to Trump, he will tighten up more,” Ding said.
Ding said the EU has many tools, including the Anti-Coercion Instrument, or ACI, known as the trade “bazooka” or nuclear option, to hit back against US tech giants since the US has a trade surplus with the EU in services.
Barry Andrews, a member of the European Parliament from Ireland, said it is difficult to figure out what the intentions are and who is making decisions in the US right now.
“We don’t know if this is an overall attempt to overturn the international rules-based order, or something more short-term, more transactional,” he posted on X on Wednesday.
Andrews noted that the EU has built many trade defense measures including the ACI to deal with the current situation. He added that the bloc should also look to diversify its trade.
“What has happened in the last two months is a huge challenge to (the) Irish economy,” he said.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
A unique documentary film produced by the family of Charlie Chaplin opened the film screening segment of the second Macao International Comedy Festival, currently taking place in China’s special administrative region.
Dolores Chaplin (third from left) alongside organizers and guests at the opening of the film screening segment of the second Macao International Comedy Festival, Macao, April 10, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Mahua Fun Age]
“Chaplin: Spirit of the Tramp ,” directed by Carmen Chaplin, a granddaughter of the legendary comedian, actor, director and producer, is not a conventional biopic and features deep involvement from the Chaplins. Several members of the family either appear on camera to share their insights and memories or contribute behind the scenes as producers.
In the film, Chaplin’s family embarks on a revealing journey into the Romani heritage that inspired the creation of Charlie Chaplin’s iconic and beloved character of the Tramp. Featuring intimate interviews and unprecedented access to the Chaplin estate, the documentary offers a profound exploration of Chaplin’s roots, woven together through film excerpts, home movies, archival footage and contributions from renowned contemporary Romani artists.
Dolores Chaplin, another granddaughter of Charlie Chaplin, served as a producer on the film and attended the comedy festival to present it to Chinese viewers on Thursday, also participating in a post-screening discussion.
“I think that this documentary is a great way to introduce my grandfather’s works to the younger generation who maybe don’t know his movies that well,” Dolores said. “Every time we’ve shown it to children or the younger generation or young adults or people who don’t know my grandfather, they wanted to see his movies. It’s like rediscovering his movies through the documentary, through the man, through his passion and through the family side, but also with the clips.”
As a comedy icon, Charlie Chaplin’s films have influenced generations. His movies are able to transcend language and travel across cultures like music. “For an actor, it’s difficult to be known worldwide, but for a musician, it’s easier because music travels. Yet as an actor in silent films, he was known everywhere — from Iceland to China to Spain. It’s nice to keep that alive.”
While opening a film segment meant to be filled with laughter, “Chaplin: Spirit of the Tramp” instead offers an emotional retrospective. Yet Dolores stressed that its messages remain vital.
“I feel that humor is a great way to convey any kind of message — it could be political, it could be emotional and it could be anything really. If you pass it through humor, people will relate to it easier or sometimes we’ll maybe look at it and understand it better. Humor must never be one thing, it has many coats,” she added.
“Chaplin: Spirit of the Tramp” will also be shown at the upcoming 15th Beijing International Film Festival, set to open on April 18.
The comedy festival’s film program, which is running from April 10-13, will feature classic comedies such as “Crazy Rich Asians,” the “Detective Chinatown” series, “Johnny Keep Walking!” and “Lost in Thailand,” alongside the premiere of Takeshi Kitano’s new film “Broken Rage.” The film event will also feature post-screening panels and masterclasses, offering both movie enthusiasts and industry professionals the opportunity to discuss comedy creation.
The second Macao International Comedy Festival kicked off in Hengqin, a district of Zhuhai city in Guangdong province neighboring Macao, on Wednesday. Running through Sunday across the two regions, it will gather top comedians like Shen Teng and Ma Li, international filmmakers including Takeshi Kitano and Aamir Khan, and include film screenings, stage performances, industry forums, pitch sessions and a gala night at venues in both locations.
Source: China State Council Information Office
A large-scale durian cultivation project will be launched in southern Laos’ Attapeu province, covering hundreds of hectares of land to support the government’s push for commercial fruit farming.
The move supports Laos’ ambition to become a durian supplier to neighboring China, the Lao national TV reported on Thursday.
More than 273 hectares of land have been allocated for durian cultivation as part of a national policy to promote private investment in agriculture and forest conservation amid a rising demand from China.
The Lao government is encouraging farmers and producers to supply more goods to the domestic market and produce more for export to bring in much-needed foreign currency.
The government is targeting a 4.3 percent growth in agriculture for 2025, aiming to increase the sector’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product to 22.4 percent.
Source: China State Council Information Office
China’s railway construction progressed steadily in the first quarter of 2025, with fixed-asset investment expanding 5.2 percent year on year, according to the country’s railway operator.
During the January-March period, fixed-asset investment in the country’s railway sector reached 131.2 billion yuan (about 18.2 billion U.S. dollars), according to data from China State Railway Group Co., Ltd.
Railway investment has served as a strong driver of overall economic growth, boosting domestic demand and supporting coordinated regional development, the group said.
The group said it will capitalize on the peak construction season and accelerate the implementation of key railway projects, contributing to the country’s sustained economic recovery and growth momentum.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney
Australia’s relationship with its regional neighbours could be in doubt under a Coalition government after two Pacific leaders challenged Opposition Leader Peter Dutton over his weak climate stance.
This week, Palau’s president Surangel Whipps Jr suggested a 2015 gaffe by Dutton, in which he joked about rising seas lapping at the door of Pacific islanders, had not been forgotten. Speaking at a clean energy conference in Sydney, Whipps said the Pacific’s plight was “not a metaphor or a punchline. It’s our fear and reality.”
And Tuvalu’s Climate Change Minister, Maina Talia, this month criticised Dutton for suggesting a joint Australia–Pacific bid to host global climate talks next year was “madness”. Talia said Dutton’s comments caused Pacific leaders to “question the nature of our friendship” with Australia.
Both Labor and Coalition governments have worked hard this decade to cement Australia as a security partner of choice for Pacific nations, as China seeks to expand its influence. Australia’s next government must continue this work by signalling an unwavering commitment to strong climate action.
Worsening climate change – with associated sea-level rise and other harms – is the greatest threat to Pacific island nations.
Pacific leaders have long criticised Australia for its climate policy shortcomings, including its continued reliance on fossil fuels. As Palau’s president Whipps told the ABC this week:
We are urging Australia – and whoever forms the next government – to take the next steps and stop approving new fossil fuel projects and accelerate the phase-out of coal and gas.
The Labor government has not agreed to the phase-out. But it has sought to improve Pacific ties through more ambitious climate action.
In 2022, it introduced a stronger emissions-reduction target – a 43% cut this decade, based on 2005 levels. The same year, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined Pacific leaders to declare a climate emergency.
In 2023, Australia signed a climate migration deal with Tuvalu. It also prevents Tuvalu from pursuing a security deal with China.
A Coalition government would review Australia’s 43% cut to emissions. It would also expand gas production, and slow the shift to renewables while building seven nuclear reactors. Dutton is also considering weakening Australia’s signature climate policy, the safeguard mechanism, which aims to reduce industry emissions.
And last month, Dutton suggested the Coalition would ditch the Australia–Pacific bid to host the next United Nations climate summit, known as COP31.
Australia has dramatically stepped up engagement with Pacific island countries in recent years. This has been guided by the foreign policy goal of integrating Pacific countries into Australia’s economy and security institutions.
But Pacific island leaders also expect Australia – the largest member of the Pacific Islands Forum – to seriously tackle the climate crisis. Should Australia fail on this measure, securing our place in the region during a time of growing strategic competition will become increasingly difficult.
Pacific leaders welcomed Australia’s plans to host the COP31 climate talks and agreed to work with this nation on the joint bid. If Dutton wins power and abandons the COP31 push, he could face a frosty reception when he meets with Pacific island leaders.
Palau, in particular, could embarrass Dutton on the global stage. It will host the Pacific Islands Forum meeting next year, weeks before the COP31 talks. This year, Palau also takes over as chair of the Alliance of Small Island States, an important negotiating bloc in global climate talks.
Australia’s leadership in the Pacific is considered key to our national defence and security. But China’s growing power in the Pacific has weakened Australia’s standing.
In 2022, for example, Solomon Islands signed a security deal with China to allow naval vessels to be based there – effectively allowing a Chinese military base on Australia’s doorstep. As recently as February this year, the Cook Islands signed a series of agreements with China to enhance cooperation.
At the same time, the Trump administration has all but abandoned the United States’ overseas aid program. This leaves Australia with even more work to counter China’s creep into the region.
In last month’s federal budget, Labor redirected aid money to the Pacific to counteract Trump’s cuts. However, Liberal backbenchers reportedly fear Dutton would cut the foreign aid budget and warn a reduction in Pacific aid would strengthen Beijing’s hand.
Australia’s past failures on climate policy have hurt our standing in the Pacific – a point conceded by senior Coalition figure Simon Birmingham.
A Coalition government is likely to continue some diplomatic measures initiated by the Albanese government, such as security agreements with Tuvalu and Nauru, and negotiating a new defence treaty with Papua New Guinea.
But the depth of feeling among Pacific leaders on climate action cannot be overstated. As global geopolitical tensions sharpen, Australia’s next moves on climate policy will be vital to the future of our Pacific relationship.
Wesley Morgan is a fellow with the Climate Council of Australia
– ref. Peter Dutton’s climate policy backslide threatens Australia’s clout in the Pacific – right when we need it most – https://theconversation.com/peter-duttons-climate-policy-backslide-threatens-australias-clout-in-the-pacific-right-when-we-need-it-most-254385
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
By Commander, Task Force 73 Public Affairs
CHINHAE NAVAL BASE, Republic of Korea – U.S. Navy divers from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1 and divers from the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) kicked off Salvage Exercise (SALVEX) Korea, April 07, 2025, in Chinhae, South Korea.
This year’s SALVEX Korea marks the 41st year of this bilateral training exchange, focusing on enhancing interoperability in combined diving and salvage operations through a series of practical and classroom-based events. Sailors and divers from both navies will participate in gear familiarization, tactical procedure exchange and full-mission profile salvage operations.
“SALVEX Korea exemplifies the bedrock of our alliance,” said Rear Adm. Todd F. Cimicata, Commander, Logistics Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF-73). “Through shared training and unwavering partnership with the Republic of Korea Navy, we forge a combined force ready to face any challenge and ensure a secure and stable Indo-Pacific.”
The exercise will enhance the combined ability of both navies to respond effectively to underwater search and recovery, ship salvage and repair, humanitarian assistance and disaster response scenarios.
“Through this exercise, we are able to further strengthen the combined rescue operation capabilities of the ROK-US navies.” said ROK Navy Commander Park Youngnam, commander of the Rescue Operations Battalion. “We will continue to establish combined operations posture based on continuous exchanges and practical trainings between the rescue units of both countries.”
SALVEX Korea underscores the commitment of both the United States and the Republic of Korea to regional stability and maritime cooperation. The exercise is a demonstration of the enduring strength of the US-ROK alliance and its vital role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
“SALVEX Korea is a testament to the enduring partnership between the U.S. Navy and ROKN, built over four decades of collaboration in the underwater domain,” said Lt. Cmdr. Nicolas Twisselman, Operations Officer for MDSU 1 and lead SALVEX Korea planner. “This exercise is crucial for advancing our interoperability and ensuring a swift, coordinated response to maritime contingencies in the region.”
COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and response to natural disasters.
| Date Taken: | 04.07.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.10.2025 02:52 |
| Story ID: | 494982 |
| Location: | JINHAE, KR |
| Web Views: | 105 |
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Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SINGAPORE (Apr. 10, 2025) Rear Adm. Todd F. Cimicata, left, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF 73), presents a Flag Letter of Commendation to Yeoman 2nd Class Shirmari Henry, assigned to COMLOG WESTPAC, during an awards ceremony on Sembawang Naval Installation, Apr. 10, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional Allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)
| Date Taken: | 04.09.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.11.2025 01:34 |
| Photo ID: | 8966765 |
| VIRIN: | 250410-N-ED646-1069 |
| Resolution: | 8640×5760 |
| Size: | 13 MB |
| Location: | SG |
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Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SINGAPORE (Apr. 10, 2025) Rear Adm. Todd F. Cimicata, left, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF 73), presents Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Christopher Rafanan as COMLOG WESTPAC’s Sailor of the Quarter, during an awards ceremony on Sembawang Naval Installation, Apr. 10, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional Allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)
| Date Taken: | 04.09.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.11.2025 01:34 |
| Photo ID: | 8966776 |
| VIRIN: | 250410-N-ED646-1260 |
| Resolution: | 8640×5760 |
| Size: | 12.99 MB |
| Location: | SG |
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Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SINGAPORE (Apr. 10, 2025) Rear Adm. Todd F. Cimicata, left, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF 73), presents the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal to Lt. Cmdr. Benjamin Diehl, assigned to COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF 73, during an awards ceremony on Sembawang Naval Installation, Apr. 10, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional Allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)
| Date Taken: | 04.09.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.11.2025 01:34 |
| Photo ID: | 8966778 |
| VIRIN: | 250410-N-ED646-1029 |
| Resolution: | 8640×5760 |
| Size: | 12.22 MB |
| Location: | SG |
| Web Views: | 0 |
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Source: China State Council Information Office
Displaced Palestinians fetch water in Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip, on April 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Israeli attacks in Gaza are taking a horrifying toll on civilians already suffering dwindling food supplies and looting due to the aid blockade, UN humanitarians said on Thursday.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that there have been daily reports of Israeli strikes killing and injuring many Palestinian civilians.
“Just yesterday (Wednesday) in Gaza City, there were reports of dozens of people killed, including at least eight children, after an Israeli strike hit a residential building,” OCHA said. “Many are still missing under the rubble.”
The Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that more than 1,500 people reportedly were killed, many of them women and children, since the intensification of hostilities less than a month ago.
The office said the hostilities and continued blocking of cargo entry into Gaza for almost six weeks are hampering people’s access to life-saving aid.
“As supplies inside the Strip near exhaustion and the situation becomes increasingly dire, there has been an increase in looting over the past few days,” OCHA said. Earlier this week, several such incidents were reported in Rafah, Deir al Balah and Al Zawaida.
OCHA reiterated the urgency of reopening the crossings to allow critical supplies to enter.
More than 60,000 children are reportedly suffering from malnutrition at a time when community kitchens are rapidly running out of fuel and supplies.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said it has been able to support some medical evacuations from Gaza. On Wednesday, 18 patients and nearly 30 companions were allowed to leave for specialized treatment abroad.
However, with some 12,500 patients in Gaza still in need of medical evacuation outside the strip, WHO called for evacuations through all available border crossings and corridors.
Across Gaza, OCHA said its partners are warning of acute water shortages in shelters hosting displaced people. The loss of water, the lack of cleaning supplies and cohabitation with livestock are having a dire public health impact. In March, more than one-third of households in Gaza experienced lice infestations.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
The 2025 Crabapple Gala and Crabapple Poetry Party, sponsored by the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation (SCLF) and supported by the Xicheng District People’s Government of Beijing Municipality, were held at the Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling in Beijing on April 7.
Ambassadors and representatives of international organizations from over 40 countries, alongside more than 200 attendees, including officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), participated in the event to celebrate cultural exchanges and global friendship.
Guests attend the 2025 Crabapple Gala and Crabapple Poetry Party at the Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling, Beijing, April 7, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Soong Ching Ling Foundation]
Li Bin, chairperson of the SCLF, emphasized the role of the annual event in promoting cultural exchange. She noted that the event brought together international and domestic guests to enjoy the flowers, while appreciating the charm of Chinese culture and the vibrant cultures of different countries.
“The China Soong Ching Ling Foundation is committed to strengthening communication, expanding cooperation and advancing cultural exchanges,” she said. “We aim to facilitate people-to-people connections and contribute to the development of national relations, ultimately working toward building a community with a shared future for mankind.”
Jürg Burri, ambassador of Switzerland to China, stated in his speech that the event embodies openness, inclusiveness, mutual respect and friendship between countries and peoples.
He highlighted that this year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland, and noted that his country is always willing to be China’s preferred partner and its gateway to the European market.
Artist Ding Jie, SCLF chairperson Li Bin and Swiss ambassador Jürg Burri, pose for a photo on stage at the opening of the event, Beijing, April 7, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Soong Ching Ling Foundation]
Other foreign guests in attendance also praised the event as well as the contributions made by Soong Ching Ling and the foundation.
“The planning, setting and presentation are all fantastic,” said Pakistani Ambassador to China Khalil Ur Rahman Hashmi, when speaking about the event. He further elaborated on the importance of the poetry aspect, explaining that it showcased the diversity of language, expressions and emotions, and highlighted its role in bringing people together and enhancing understanding.
Beate Trankmann, resident representative of UNDP China, commended Soong Ching Ling’s advocacy for women’s participation in social and political life.
“I think her mission in life remains very important, especially in this time and age, in a tech-dominated world,” Trankmann noted.
This year’s Crabapple Gala also featured interactive activities showcasing China’s traditional culture and intangible cultural heritage, including calligraphy, painting, tea art and dough figure-making. With flowers as a symbol, foreign guests gathered to celebrate the legacy of traditional Chinese culture, strengthen cultural exchange and build lasting friendships across borders.
Foreign guests watch dough figure-making at the 2025 Crabapple Gala, Beijing, April 7, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Soong Ching Ling Foundation]
A foreign guest posts customized postcards at the 2025 Crabapple Gala, Beijing, April 7, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Soong Ching Ling Foundation]
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
April 10, 2025
[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with members of the Quad City Chamber and the Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development (KCAP) to discuss the harmful impacts Trump’s chaotic trade and other actions are having on the local economy and workers—including the whiplash surrounding his sweeping tariffs, illegal pauses in federal funding and needless trade wars. Duckworth also spoke about how Trump’s blanket tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China negatively impact Illinois consumers, workers and the local manufacturing industry. Photos from today’s meeting with the Quad City Chamber can be found on the Senator’s website.
“Whether imposing sweeping tariffs then pausing them with no warning, starting trade wars or freezing federal funding, Trump’s chaotic and uncertain decision-making is harming Illinois’s workforce and manufacturers, while pushing away our nation’s allies around the world,” Duckworth said. “The consequences of Trump’s needless trade wars will hurt key Illinois manufacturers and small businesses, which employ many hardworking, middle-class workers across our state’s communities. I’m proud to work alongside our local leaders at the Quad City Chamber and KCAP as we continue to push back against Trump and his one-sided political interests.”
The Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development (KCAP) launched in 2015 to provide economic development services to the Galesburg and Knox County region. The Quad Cities Chamber is made up of the most diverse network of influential business leaders in the Quad Cities region. Their members are committed to advancing the Quad Cities economy and to helping each other succeed.
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US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
Published: 04.10.2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released a statement following President Trump signing his Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution regarding Decentralized Finance (DeFi). This resolution overturns an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rule on cryptocurrency that would have defined certain developers as “brokers” for reporting and taxation.
Upon the CRA being signed into law, Sen. Cruz said, “This rule would have undermined American leadership on cryptocurrency and I am grateful to President Trump for signing my resolution into law. The resolution is a victory for innovation, privacy, and economic freedom. We are protecting the developers who are building the future of cryptocurrency, making clear that the United States will not cede digital leadership to China, and preserving the ability of Americans to conduct transactions without government interference.”
Sen. Cruz is the leader in the U.S. Senate on advancing cryptocurrency.
Sen. Cruz introduced the Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions (FLARE) Act, incentivizing entrepreneurs and crypto miners to use natural gas that would otherwise be stranded.
Sen. Cruz introduced the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act, legislation that prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC). This bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support.
Sen. Cruz previously introduced legislation in 2022 and 2023 to prohibit the Federal Reserve from developing a direct-to-consumer central bank digital currency, which could be used as a financial surveillance tool by the federal government.
Sen. Cruz authored the Adopting Cryptocurrency in Congress as an Exchange of Payment for Transactions Resolution, also known as the ACCEPT Resolution.
Sen. Cruz introduced an amendment to repeal a provision from the 2021 infrastructure package that created new reporting requirements for many cryptocurrency and blockchain companies in both the 117th and 118th Congresses.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Two American Airlines passenger planes bumped wings on a taxiway at the Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said.
No injuries were reported.
The wingtip of American Airlines Flight 5490 struck American Airlines Flight 4522 on a taxiway at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport around 12:45 p.m. local time on Thursday, the FAA said in a statement.
Flight 5490, a Bombardier CRJ900, was headed to Charleston International Airport in South Carolina, and Flight 4522, an Embraer E175, was headed to JFK International Airport in New York.
“While waiting to take off on the runway at DCA just now, another plane struck our wing. Thankfully, everyone is safe,” House Representative Josh Gottheimer from New Jersey posted on social media.
“Serving in Congress has come with some once in a lifetime experiences … like just now while stationary on the runway at DCA, another plane just bumped into our wing. Heading back to the gate, but thankfully everyone is ok,” said Congressman Nick LaLota from New York.
The FAA said it will investigate the incident.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Panama has requested the U.S. Embassy to correct and reissue a joint communique in which the U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth omitted a phrase acknowledging Panamanian sovereignty over the Panama Canal.
The English version of a communique published on Tuesday evening during Hegseth’s visit to Panama left out the following point: “Secretary Hegseth recognized Panama’s leadership and inalienable sovereignty over the Panama Canal and its adjacent areas,” according to an official note from Panama’s Foreign Affairs Ministry dated Wednesday.
“The aforementioned phrase, which does not appear in the English version, is essential to accurately convey the intent and content of the communique and ensure consistency between both versions,” said the ministry.
The ministry demanded “the English version be updated to include an equivalent translation of this phrase, in order to maintain transparency and fidelity in communicating the message to both audiences.”
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
The Russian consulate in Istanbul said Thursday that progress has been made on ensuring banking and financial services for Russian and U.S. diplomatic missions during the second round of bilateral talks in Istanbul.
Delegations from the two countries “exchanged diplomatic notes to formalise agreed commitments. These commitments are designed to facilitate unimpeded banking and financial services for Russian and American diplomatic missions, in addition to ensuring the fulfillment of the Russian Federation’s contributions to the budgets of the UN and other international organisations,” the consulate said in a press release.
The two sides “agreed to develop a roadmap” regarding the return of six diplomatic real estate properties confiscated by U.S. authorities and lawfully owned by Russia, the consulate said.
They also discussed “easing visa processing and travel regulations for diplomatic staff within the host countries,” it said, adding that the Russian side urged promoting the resumption of direct air flights between the two countries.
The timing of the next round of talks is “currently under coordination,” it said.
Earlier in the day, the two sides finished their second round of talks on restoring diplomatic missions. The U.S. delegation left the Russian consulate in Istanbul in the afternoon, following approximately five hours of meetings with the Russian side.
The primary focus of the discussions is to address issues affecting the functioning of the two countries’ embassies and consulates. The U.S. State Department has emphasized that the talks are limited strictly to diplomatic operations.
“Ukraine is not, absolutely not on the agenda,” U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said Tuesday. “These talks are solely focused on our embassy operations, not on normalizing a bilateral relationship overall, which can only happen, as we’ve noted, once there is peace between Russia and Ukraine.”
The first round of talks was held in Istanbul on Feb. 27.
In recent years, Washington and Moscow have expelled numerous diplomats from each other’s countries, significantly hindering the ability of their diplomatic missions to function effectively.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
Displaced Palestinians fetch water in Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip, on April 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Israeli attacks in Gaza are taking a horrifying toll on civilians already suffering dwindling food supplies and looting due to the aid blockade, UN humanitarians said on Thursday.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that there have been daily reports of Israeli strikes killing and injuring many Palestinian civilians.
“Just yesterday (Wednesday) in Gaza City, there were reports of dozens of people killed, including at least eight children, after an Israeli strike hit a residential building,” OCHA said. “Many are still missing under the rubble.”
The Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that more than 1,500 people reportedly were killed, many of them women and children, since the intensification of hostilities less than a month ago.
The office said the hostilities and continued blocking of cargo entry into Gaza for almost six weeks are hampering people’s access to life-saving aid.
“As supplies inside the Strip near exhaustion and the situation becomes increasingly dire, there has been an increase in looting over the past few days,” OCHA said. Earlier this week, several such incidents were reported in Rafah, Deir al Balah and Al Zawaida.
OCHA reiterated the urgency of reopening the crossings to allow critical supplies to enter.
More than 60,000 children are reportedly suffering from malnutrition at a time when community kitchens are rapidly running out of fuel and supplies.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said it has been able to support some medical evacuations from Gaza. On Wednesday, 18 patients and nearly 30 companions were allowed to leave for specialized treatment abroad.
However, with some 12,500 patients in Gaza still in need of medical evacuation outside the strip, WHO called for evacuations through all available border crossings and corridors.
Across Gaza, OCHA said its partners are warning of acute water shortages in shelters hosting displaced people. The loss of water, the lack of cleaning supplies and cohabitation with livestock are having a dire public health impact. In March, more than one-third of households in Gaza experienced lice infestations.
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
This photo taken on Jan. 29, 2025 shows the Berlaymont Building, the European Commission headquarters, in Brussels, Belgium. [Photo/Xinhua]
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday that the European Union (EU) will pause its countermeasures against the U.S. for 90 days.
Her remarks came a day after the EU member states overwhelmingly endorsed the bloc’s initial package of retaliatory measures targeting tariffs imposed by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump on steel and aluminum.
She emphasized, however, that the EU will not hesitate to implement the measures if ongoing negotiations fail to yield satisfactory results.
“As I have said before, all options remain on the table,” von der Leyen added.
Source: China State Council Information Office
China does not want to fight trade and tariff wars, but will not flinch when a trade and tariff war comes, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told a press briefing on Thursday after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose more tariffs on imported Chinese products.
In response to a related query at a daily press briefing, Lin said that taking necessary countermeasures against U.S. bullying is not only about protecting China’s sovereignty, security and development interests, but also about upholding international fairness and justice, defending the multilateral trading system, and safeguarding the common interests of the international community.
“A just cause enjoys the support of many,” Lin said, noting that the U.S. actions are unpopular and will end in failure.
“We will never sit idly by and watch while the legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese people are infringed, nor will we sit idly by as international economic and trade rules and the multilateral trading system are undermined,” the spokesperson said.
He stressed that if the U.S. side insists on a tariff war or a trade war, China will fight to the end.
The United States puts its own interests above the interests of the international community and serves its hegemonic interests at the expense of the legitimate interests of countries around the world, which will inevitably meet with stronger opposition from the international community, Lin said.
Source: China State Council Information Office
Staff members transport supplies at Yangon International Airport in Myanmar on April 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
China will send another batch of emergency humanitarian supplies to Myanmar, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.
Spokesperson Lin Jian shared details on China’s earthquake rescue and relief assistance to Myanmar at a daily news briefing in response to a related query.
According to Lin, China was the first country that announced emergency assistance to Myanmar, sent rescue forces to the country, and set up settlement centers in the affected areas. “The Chinese rescue team found the first trapped survivor,” he said.
“More than 30 rescue teams of over 600 members rushed to Myanmar for rescue work and we offered several batches of supplies, which demonstrated China’s speed, contribution and kindness,” he said. “This is warmly welcomed and appreciated by the people in Myanmar,” he added.
“As a friendly neighbor and ‘pauk-phaw’ brother, China has decided to send another batch of emergency humanitarian supplies, which include the most needed refined oil, prefabricated houses, operating rooms, medicines, and vaccines,” he said.
“China will also dispatch medical and epidemic prevention experts for treatment and disinfection, as well as experts to examine, assess, reinforce, and repair affected buildings and cultural relics,” Lin added.
The spokesperson noted that China will continue to promote the China-Myanmar “pauk-phaw” friendship and, upholding the spirit of the China-Myanmar community with a shared future, help the people in Myanmar overcome difficulties and rebuild their homes.
Source: China State Council Information Office
General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to Vietnam from April 14 to 15, at the invitation of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee To Lam and President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Luong Cuong, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson announced on Friday.
President Xi will also pay state visits to Malaysia and Cambodia from April 15 to 18, at the invitation of King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim and King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia, the spokesperson said.
Source: China State Council Information Office
This photo shows a view of Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center, the main venue for the 21st China-ASEAN Expo, in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Chinese ambassadors say they are upbeat about building on historic achievements to open new prospects for China’s relations with neighboring countries, after a key meeting outlined goals and tasks for the next phase of the country’s neighborhood work.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, called for building a community with a shared future with neighboring countries and striving to open new ground for the country’s neighborhood work, at a central conference on work related to neighboring countries held in Beijing from Tuesday to Wednesday.
China’s relations with neighboring countries are at the best level seen in modern times, and they are entering a critical phase in which regional dynamics and global transformations are deeply intertwined, the conference noted.
“China always places its neighborhood diplomacy at the top of its diplomatic agenda, and ASEAN is the priority in this neighborhood diplomacy,” Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing said.
Chinese and Malaysian leaders have reached a consensus on building a community with a shared future, and China-Malaysia trade accounts for one-fifth of China-ASEAN trade. In addition to the East Coast Rail Link project and other joint infrastructure projects, both countries are cooperating in such fields as 5G, artificial intelligence, big data, electric vehicles and photovoltaic products.
“Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, China-Malaysia relations will further grow, and cooperation between China and ASEAN will also expand,” the ambassador said.
Representatives of China and five Central Asian countries attend a launching ceremony of the secretariat of the China-Central Asian cooperation mechanism in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, March 30, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
China-Central Asia relations have seen leapfrog progress with the establishment of comprehensive strategic partnerships between China and the five Central Asian countries, the launch of the China-Central Asia mechanism, and joint efforts to promote the growth of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), according to Chinese Ambassador to Kazakhstan Han Chunlin.
President Xi’s vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity and his three global initiatives offer important guidance for the China-Central Asia mechanism and SCO development, Han noted.
A drone photo taken on June 23, 2024 shows a view of Rashakai Special Economic Zone under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in Nowshera, Pakistan’s northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province. [Photo/Xinhua]
As a pilot project under the Belt and Road Initiative, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has seen more than 25 billion U.S. dollars in direct investment and created more than 230,000 jobs. It has raised the level of China-Pakistan cooperation and promoted Pakistan’s economic and social development, according to Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong.
“We will continue to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, make greater contributions to the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, and safeguard China’s overseas interests,” Jiang said.
China continues to bring development opportunities and certainty to its neighboring countries through its own development, said Shen Minjuan, Chinese ambassador to Mongolia. “In Mongolia, people remember President Xi’s offer of welcoming them to ride China’s fast train of development.”
The 21st century will undoubtedly be the Asian Century, and China’s diplomacy with its neighboring countries holds immense potential, Shen said, adding that Asia should remain stable and thriving, thereby supporting China’s modernization drive.
China and ASEAN have been each other’s largest trading partners for five consecutive years. ASEAN regards China as an indispensable partner for regional countries to achieve modernization, and China firmly supports ASEAN’s centrality in regional cooperation, said Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN Hou Yanqi.
China encourages ASEAN to forge close ties with the SCO and BRICS, together practice genuine multilateralism and open regionalism, and safeguard international fairness and justice as well as the interests of developing countries, Hou said.
An aerial drone photo taken on July 18, 2024 shows the Qingdao SCODA Pearl International Expo Center in the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Area (SCODA) in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, noted that the world today is undergoing both transformation and upheaval, and that changes unseen in a century are unfolding at a faster pace.
“The CPC Central Committee exercises overall leadership, maintains strong strategic resolve, and responds to challenges with steadfastness and prudence. This is our greatest source of confidence in advancing our diplomatic endeavors, and the root cause of the respect and growing influence China gains on the global stage,” Fu said.
“We must unwaveringly uphold the vision of a global community with a shared future, continuously advance the reform and improvement of global governance, and safeguard the interests of developing countries,” Fu said.
The ambassadors expressed opposition to the United States’ indiscriminate tariffs on all of its trading partners, saying that China and neighboring countries should oppose the fallacy of “might makes right” and work together to safeguard international fairness and justice, as well as the legitimate rights and interests of all countries.
Source: China State Council Information Office 2
A simulated picture of the two dinosaurs walking, Sinosauropteryx lingyuanensis (R) and Huadanosaurus sinensis (L), found in Lingyuan, Liaoning province. [Photo/China Daily]
Chinese scientists have identified two new dinosaur species in Northeast China, shedding light on the evolution of small, feathered theropods and the remarkable diversity of the 125-million-year-old Jehol Biota.
The research, published in the National Science Review, details the discovery of Sinosauropteryx lingyuanensis, a new species, and Huadanosaurus sinensis, a new genus and species, both found in Lingyuan, Liaoning province.
A key finding of the study reveals the first direct evidence of dinosaur-mammal predation in this ancient ecosystem. The fossil of Huadanosaurus sinensis contained the remains of two mammals: a complete skeleton of a eutriconodont and fragments of a eutherian.
“Huadanosaurus had robust jaws and powerful neck muscles, suggesting it could swiftly kill prey through its strong biting force, enabling it to hunt mammals efficiently,” said Qiu Rui, a lead author and associate researcher at the Natural History Museum of China.
This predatory behavior contrasts with other related dinosaurs. Sinosauropteryx prima, which was about 1 meter long, preyed on lizards, while the larger Sinocalliopteryx gigas, at 2.4 meters in length, consumed dromaeosaurs. This division of hunting strategies within a single dinosaur lineage is considered highly unusual.
The study also revises the classification of these feathered dinosaurs, reinstating Sinosauropterygidae as a distinct group. Previously, they were grouped under Compsognathidae, a classification now deemed inaccurate.
“Our analysis of 504 theropod species shows that Jehol’s sinosauropterygids form a unique branch at the base of Coelurosauria,” said Wang Xiaolin, a researcher at the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and a corresponding author of the study.
The researchers connect the diversification of these dinosaurs to tectonic shifts that occurred 125 million years ago. The destruction of the North China Craton created isolated rift basins, intensifying competition among species.
“In most Mesozoic ecosystems, a single dinosaur lineage occupied one niche. But here in Liaoning, sinosauropterygids evolved three hunting strategies, while distantly related groups like dromaeosaurs and tyrannosaurs overlapped in similar roles,” said Zhou Zhonghe, a researcher at IVPP and a co-author of the study.
This “diversification within lineages, competition between lineages” model explains the extraordinary diversity of the Jehol Biota, surpassing other known dinosaur ecosystems, researchers said.
The findings highlight the crucial role of China’s fossil-rich regions in understanding evolutionary history. The research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Source: China State Council Information Office
The New Development Bank (NDB) has issued a three-year Panda bond worth 7 billion yuan (about 971 million U.S. dollars) in China’s Interbank Bond Market, the bank announced on Thursday.
Panda bonds are yuan-denominated debts sold by overseas issuers to meet financing demand. The latest issuance reinforces NDB’s position as the largest Panda bond issuer in the China Interbank Bond Market, with a cumulative issuance scale of 68.5 billion yuan.
The latest issuance has attracted strong interest from a diversified local and foreign investor base, including central banks, insurance companies and bank treasuries, the bank noted, adding that the net proceeds from the sale of the bond will be used to finance infrastructure and sustainable development projects in NDB member countries.
“The New Development Bank is committed to maintaining a consistent and robust presence in capital markets while diversifying its funding across various instruments, currencies and tenors. In line with the general strategy, NDB is actively expanding its funding sources through local currency-denominated bond issuances, enhancing the Bank’s capability to finance sustainable development projects,” said Monale Ratsoma, NDB vice president and chief financial officer.
Headquartered in Shanghai, the NDB was established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa in 2014 to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS member nations, and in other emerging market economies and developing countries.
Source: China State Council Information Office
At least 118 foreign students’ legal statuses have been revoked across the universities in the U.S. state of Texas as of Thursday, The Texas Tribune reported.
These students were informed recently that their visas were revoked or their immigration status was marked as terminated in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, known as the SEVIS federal database, said the report.
At least 27 students in the University of North Texas and another 27 in the University of Texas (UT) at Arlington were removed from SEVIS, said the report, citing university officials.
As many as 10 UT-El Paso students had their visas revoked, said a report from local media outlet KFOX14.
Affected universities also include UT-Dallas, Texas A&M, UT-Rio Grande, Texas Women’s University and Texas Tech, according to the report.
Phillip Rodriguez, an immigration lawyer, told The Texas Tribune that students who are removed from SEVIS can choose to leave or apply to reinstate their status.
However, choosing to remove students from SEVIS rather than revoking visas creates a more difficult appeal process, he said.
“I think they’re proactively making it so that they basically can’t continue studies, or making it extremely difficult to continue their studies here in the United States without some sort of intervention,” said another immigration lawyer Robert Hoffman.
SEVIS removal also can affect employment eligibility and the status of dependents like spouses and children, whose ability to stay in the United States depends on the primary status holder, he added.
Since U.S. President Donald Trump took office in January, hundreds of international students at dozens of U.S. universities have been removed from SEVIS, with many of them reportedly involved in the pro-Palestinian campus protests last year, and some reportedly for minor infractions like traffic violations, according to U.S. media reports.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said in a statement Wednesday that it would begin screening international students’ social media for “antisemitic” content.