Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
NEW YORK, May 31 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday that he plans to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum to 50 percent to further protect domestic industries from foreign competition.
D. Trump made the announcement during a visit to the US Steel plant in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, where the US Steel deal with Japan’s Nippon Steel worth $14 billion was also announced.
“We are going to raise tariffs by 25 percent. We will raise tariffs on steel imports to the United States of America from 25 to 50 percent,” local media quotes D. Trump as saying. “/This/ will further protect the US steel industry.”
The US president later confirmed the decision in a post on the Truth Social social network, stating that the new tariffs would go into effect on June 4.
On March 12, the Trump administration imposed 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, drawing sharp criticism from the U.S. auto industry. Canada immediately retaliated, and the European Union announced counter-tariffs but ultimately dropped them.
As local media note, the increase in tariffs could lead to an increase in prices for metal products, including cars, canned goods and industrial equipment. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHANGHAI, May 31 (Xinhua) — Shanghai’s export volume increased 13.8 percent year on year from January to April 2025, and its total foreign trade value hit a record high in April, data released by the Shanghai Municipal Customs showed.
The city’s total foreign trade volume for the four months was 1.4 trillion yuan (about $194.7 billion), up 1 percent from a year earlier. In April alone, imports and exports reached 399.35 billion yuan, up more than 10 percent year-on-year and month-on-month. Exports in April rose 17.2 percent year-on-year, while imports rose 8.1 percent.
Private enterprises were the key growth driver, accounting for more than 70 percent of Shanghai’s total foreign trade companies during the period. Their import and export volumes exceeded 500 billion yuan, up more than 20 percent year-on-year, indicating that domestic growth momentum is strengthening.
During this period, Shanghai traded with more than 200 countries and regions around the world, achieving growth with 166 partners. Trade with countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative reached nearly 600 billion yuan, up 11.9 percent year on year, while trade with countries in the Middle East and Eastern Europe increased by more than 20 percent.
Machinery and electrical equipment exports totaled 398.8 billion yuan, accounting for more than 60 percent of the city’s total exports during the period. Meat and vegetable oil imports rose more than 10 percent year-on-year, while specialty foods such as Afghan nuts, Italian chocolate, Irish dairy products and Ethiopian coffee expanded the gastronomic choices for Chinese consumers. -0-
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SINGAPORE (May 30, 2025) Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, center, participates in physical fitness training with service members aboard the foc’sle of the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) during a scheduled visit to Sembawang Naval Installation, May 30, 2025. Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 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)
An 18-year-old P1 driver from Lutana has had their vehicle clamped and will face a fine and disqualification after they were detected driving at high-speed this morning and tested positive to a roadside drug test. Just before 11:30am, whilst police were conducting a high visibility road safety operation along the Bass Highway, they detected a red Holden Commodore travelling at excessive high speed along the highway at Westbury. The vehicle was detected at 164km/h in a 110km/h zone, and the driver was safely intercepted by police. The driver was an 18-year-old man from Lutana with a P1 driver licence which restricts him to maximum speed of 100km/h. Subsequently the driver was travelling at 64km/h over the speed limit, and they returned a positive roadside drug test. The driver has been fined $1161.50 and six demerit points for the excessive speed, and their vehicle will be clamped for 28 days. Being a provisional driver who normally only hold 4 demerit points, the driver will be subject to a further period of disqualification. “Speeding and drug driving are both part of the ‘Fatal 5’ causes for fatal and serious crashes, but in this example when you combined both, the consequences could have been disastrous,” said Sergeant Benjamin Kromkamp. “Had police not been actively patrolling this area, the high-speed driving could have easily resulted in another serious or fatal crash on our roads.” “Tasmania Police will continue to hold unsafe drivers to account including the seizure of vehicles and disqualification of licenses.” “Remember that police can be anywhere, anytime, so slow down and get to your destination safely. It’s about your safety and the safety of everyone else.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
A file photo dated Aug 17, 2024 shows a Chinese Coast Guard vessel patrols around Huangyan Dao. [Photo/Xinhua]
The China Coast Guard (CCG) conducted law enforcement patrols in the territorial waters off China’s Huangyan Dao and surrounding areas on Saturday.
In a statement, the CCG said it has been continuously intensifying law enforcement patrols in the territorial waters off Huangyan Dao and surrounding areas this month, carrying out tracking, warning, intercepting, and driving away operations in accordance with laws and regulations to strengthen the management and control of the maritime area.
The operation aims to firmly safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, the CCG said.
The exercises are scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. and will be held in Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Chandigarh, focusing on regions closest to the border and most susceptible to cross-border threats.
Initially planned for May 29, the drills were rescheduled due to administrative reasons.
A government press release issued on May 29 confirmed the new date and emphasised the importance of this exercise in bolstering readiness and addressing critical gaps identified during a similar nationwide drill conducted earlier this month, on May 7.
‘Operation Shield’ is designed to simulate hostile situations, including air raid sirens, blackout protocols, and various emergency response actions, to evaluate the preparedness of civil authorities, emergency services, and local populations.
The drills aim to replicate real-time scenarios that may arise from potential external threats, particularly in sensitive districts near the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB).
This initiative underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen civil defence mechanisms amid heightened regional security concerns.
The drills are expected to significantly improve inter-agency coordination, public awareness, and the ability of local systems to respond swiftly and efficiently in the event of any hostile act or natural disaster affecting the border regions.
In a significant move to enhance national security preparedness, civil defence mock drills will be conducted on Saturday under ‘Operation Shield’ across several states and Union Territories sharing borders with Pakistan.
The exercises are scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. and will be held in Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Chandigarh, focusing on regions closest to the border and most susceptible to cross-border threats.
Initially planned for May 29, the drills were rescheduled due to administrative reasons.
A government press release issued on May 29 confirmed the new date and emphasised the importance of this exercise in bolstering readiness and addressing critical gaps identified during a similar nationwide drill conducted earlier this month, on May 7.
‘Operation Shield’ is designed to simulate hostile situations, including air raid sirens, blackout protocols, and various emergency response actions, to evaluate the preparedness of civil authorities, emergency services, and local populations.
The drills aim to replicate real-time scenarios that may arise from potential external threats, particularly in sensitive districts near the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB).
This initiative underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen civil defence mechanisms amid heightened regional security concerns.
The drills are expected to significantly improve inter-agency coordination, public awareness, and the ability of local systems to respond swiftly and efficiently in the event of any hostile act or natural disaster affecting the border regions.
The 55th Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show opened in Sharjah, running through June 1, 2025, with India mounting a significant pavilion showcasing 11 companies as part of the region’s premier luxury accessories exhibition. Organized by Expo Centre Sharjah with support from the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the biannual event features over 500 local and international exhibitors representing major global companies in luxury gold jewellery, timepieces, and precious gemstones.
India’s participation is coordinated by the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), which established a dedicated India Pavilion to highlight the country’s design excellence and craftsmanship. According to GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali, “The Watch and Jewellery Show Middle East in Sharjah is a key platform to highlight India’s design excellence and craftsmanship to a vital trade partner. Our continued presence at the show through the India Pavilion reflects this market’s growing importance.”
The UAE represents a vital trade partner, with gem and jewellery exports surging over 60 percent following the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Exports grew from $4.95 billion in fiscal year 2022 to $8.04 billion in fiscal year 2024, demonstrating the strategic importance of such partnerships.
The exhibition attracts over 1,800 high-profile designers, manufacturers, and industry professionals from countries including Russia, Mexico, Tanzania, Egypt, India, Italy, the United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Lebanon. Visitor turnout is projected to exceed 80,000, with the timing coinciding with the Eid Al Adha holiday, further enhancing its appeal among jewellery enthusiasts.Among the exhibition’s highlights is a record-breaking 108-meter diamond necklace presented by Amaar Jewels, designed to enter the Guinness World Records.
According to the World Gold Council, gold sales in the UAE totaled 23.4 tonnes valued at $1.8 billion in the first half of 2024, representing 17.3 percent of the Middle East’s total sales. These figures underscore the exhibition’s strategic role in advancing the regional gold and jewellery industry.
Spanning 30,000 square meters, the exhibition serves as a platform for deals, partnerships, and insights into design trends. Specialized programs and workshops run alongside the main exhibition, offering participants opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge about recent developments in the global jewelry industry.
The show represents the largest and longest-running jewelry exhibition in the UAE and broader region, having grown from a handful of exhibitors when first launched in 1993 to become an indispensable part of the regional jewellery industry calendar.
Colombia’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio, on Friday said that Bogota was withdrawing an earlier statement expressing condolences for those killed in Pakistan during India’s counter-terror operation, ‘Operation Sindoor’.
The statement came after a meeting with an Indian parliamentary delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, who said Colombia had “fully understood India’s position” on the matter.
“The Vice Minister very graciously mentioned that they have withdrawn the statement we had expressed concern about, and that they fully understand our position on the matter, which is something we really value,” Tharoor told reporters after the meeting.
Earlier, India had expressed disappointment over the Colombian statement, which appeared to equate terrorists killed in the Indian strike with the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, carried out by The Resistance Front — an affiliate of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Standing alongside Tharoor, Villavicencio said: “We are very confident that with the explanations we received today, and the detailed information we now have regarding the real situation in Kashmir, we can continue the dialogue.”
Colombia’s course correction comes as it prepares to join the UN Security Council next year, where it is running unopposed for the Latin American seat.
Speaking to local media on Thursday, Tharoor said India had been “a little disappointed” that Colombia had issued condolences for those killed in Pakistan “rather than sympathising with the victims of terrorism” in Jammu and Kashmir.
Colombia acted promptly on India’s concerns. Former President Cesar Augusto Gaviria Trujillo, leader of the country’s largest political party, said, “Colombia has solidarity with India. We check any kind of terrorism, and under any circumstances, we will be on your side.”
Following the meeting with Villavicencio, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya, in a post on X, said that the Indian delegation had briefed her “on the sequence of events, from the Pahalgam terror attack to India’s calibrated response under Operation Sindoor.”
The MPs also met members of Colombia’s Congress, including Alejandro Toro, president of the Second Commission, which handles international relations, and Jaime Raul.
During their visit, Colombian leaders gifted Tharoor a wool poncho and traditional hat. The delegation also interacted with the Consejo Colombiano de Relaciones Internacionales (CORI), a leading foreign affairs think tank, and paid tribute at the Mahatma Gandhi statue at Tadeo University.
Tharoor is leading a cross-party Indian delegation that includes BJP’s Tejasvi Surya, Bhubaneswar Kalita, and Shashank Mani Tripathi; GM Harish Balayogi of the Telugu Desam Party; Milind Murli Deora of the Shiv Sena; Sarfaraz Ahmad of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha; and Shambhavi of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas).
The delegation has already visited Guyana and Panama — both non-permanent members of the Security Council — and will next travel to Brazil and then Washington, DC.
Powerhouse Mumbai Indians kept alive their hopes of reaching the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with a 20-run victory against Gujarat Titans in the eliminator of the 10-team league on Friday.
Electing to bat, Mumbai racked up a commanding 228-5 after their frontline batters hit a combined 17 sixes.
Gujarat managed 208-6 in reply despite defiant knocks by opener Sai Sudharshan (80) and all-rounder Washington Sundar (48).
Five-time champions Mumbai will play Punjab Kings on Sunday for a place in Tuesday’s final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
After Mumbai skipper Hardik Pandya elected to bat, Jonny Bairstow, replacing Ryan Rickelton, smashed 47 off 22 balls in his first match of the season in a blistering opening stand of 84 with Rohit Sharma.
Rohit, dropped twice early in his knock, struck 81 to punish Gujarat.
Suryakumar Yadav (33), Tilak Varma (25) and Pandya (22 not out) produced whirlwind cameos to take Mumbai past the 200-mark.
The chase was steep and Gujarat stuttered early in their reply losing skipper Shubman Gill trapped lbw by Trent Boult in the opening over of the innings.
Kusal Mendis (20) fell hit wicket but Sudharsan, the tournament’s leading scorer, revived Gujarat’s chase with his sixth fifty of the tournament.
He found an able ally in Sundar who smashed Boult for back-to-back sixes to turn the pressure back on Mumbai.
Pandya brought back Jasprit Bumrah and the pace bowler slipped in a yorker between Sundar’s legs to flatten his leg stump.
South African Richard Gleeson bowled Sudharsan as Mumbai reclaimed control of the contest through their seamers.
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, (both D-VA) condemned the Department of Labor’s decision to shut down contractor-run Job Corps centers across the country, which will abruptly eliminate crucial job training for thousands of young Americans and cut nearly 13,000 jobs across the program’s 99 centers.
Two affected Job Corps centers in Virginia – Old Dominion and Blue Ridge – serve 163 students between them, many homeless or aging out of foster care. Job Corps students aged 16-24 receive education, vocational training, and job placement assistance through the program, and more than 80 percent of program graduates are employed within six months – which in turn leads to as much as a 20 percent reduction in unemployment in areas with a Job Corps center.
“For decades, the Job Corps program has transformed lives in Virginia and across the country by helping to equip young people with the skills and resources they need to succeed,” said Warner. “It’s deeply frustrating, and incredibly short-sighted, to see the Trump administration pause operations. We should be investing more in opportunities that lift up our young people, strengthen our workforce, and have a tremendous economic impact in the Commonwealth.”
“Job Corps is a lifeline for thousands of youths in need – many of whom are homeless, in the foster care system, or facing dire socioeconomic circumstances. For decades, the program has given them direction, taught them hard skills, and set them up for success,” said Kaine. “Of course fiscal and safety concerns with the program need to be addressed. But instead of working to further invest in the program, the Labor Department has made the shameful choice to give up on thousands of vulnerable young Americans, including 163 in Virginia.”
Warner and Kaine have vigorously opposed Donald Trump and his Administration’s efforts to roll back crucial federal programs. In January 2025, the senators excoriated the Trump Administration’s illegal order to stop all federal grants and loans, which the Administration subsequently rescinded amid massive public pressure.
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) issued the following statements slamming an erroneous list released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that includes 20 counties—including Martinsville County, which does not exist—and 13 “cities”—including Duffield, a town with roughly 70 residents and no dedicated police department—as being “sanctuary jurisdictions defying federal immigration law.” There are no sanctuary cities in Virginia and various jurisdictions, including Martinsville and Tazewell County, have released statements to share their confusion regarding being included on the list.
“This list is further proof that the Trump administration’s obsession with government efficiency is nothing but cheap talk. The White House should get its basic facts straight before attempting to come after Virginia’s localities and its hardworking public servants,” said Warner.
“The list is riddled with egregious errors—Martinsville isn’t a county and Duffield isn’t a city,” said Kaine. “Coupled with the Department of Health and Human Services’ report this week that cites nonexistent studies, I’m concerned that the Administration is turning to artificial intelligence to replace the work of dedicated civil servants that are being fired. This is yet another reminder of why it’s important that agencies be staffed by experts, because putting inaccurate information out only sows chaos and confusion, and puts commonsense solutions to real problems further out of reach.”
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
TIANJIN, May 31 (Xinhua) — China has established a relatively comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) industrial system by April 2025, with the market size in the basic sector approaching 600 billion yuan (about 83.45 billion U.S. dollars), according to the China Development and Reform Commission (CDRC).
The data was presented in a review of AI technology development in China by NCDC official Huang Zhu at the China-Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Forum on Artificial Intelligence Cooperation, which was held on May 29 in Tianjin, northern China.
Huang Zhu stressed that the number of China’s patent applications in the field of AI has exceeded 1.5 million, accounting for almost 40 percent of the global total.
China has made comprehensive progress in AI development, forming a thriving industrial ecosystem. The country is home to more than 400 “small giants” – specialized small and medium-sized enterprises that excel in niche segments of the AI market, including the innovative DeepSeek.
The SCO is a comprehensive regional cooperation organization covering the largest territory and population in the world, and has vast data resources and diverse AI application scenarios.
Huang Zhu noted that accelerating cooperation in the field of AI technology and application will help revitalize the socio-economic development of the SCO, promote inclusive global development and act as a bridge to overcome the global digital divide.
China is willing to cooperate with other SCO member states, firmly uphold the “Shanghai Spirit” and step up joint efforts to promote the beneficial, safe and fair development of artificial intelligence, Huang added. -0-
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 31 (Xinhua) — An international conference on “China and Russia: Cooperation in a New Era” was held in Beijing on Friday, with Chinese and Russian experts calling for joint efforts to build a more equitable multipolar world order.
The event was dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the UN. The conference participants held in-depth discussions on issues of jointly upholding genuine multilateralism by China and Russia and cooperation in promoting multipolarity in the world, practical cooperation and joint development between China and Russia, humanitarian exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations between China and Russia.
Gao Xiang, President of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CAS), noted that as the main theaters of war in Asia and Europe respectively during World War II, China and the Soviet Union made decisive contributions to the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. The international system, with the UN at its core, is a concentrated embodiment of the results of World War II and ensures the general trend of peace and development throughout the world after the war.
China and Russia should uphold the authority of the UN, adhere to the principle of mutual benefit and win-win, strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges so as to steadily promote multipolarity with equality and order, economic globalization with accessibility and inclusiveness, and diversity of civilizations through mutual learning, he added.
According to the President of the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC) Igor Ivanov, the highest level of relations in history achieved between Russia and China not only meets the interests of the peoples of the two countries, but is also an important factor in efforts aimed at creating a more just multipolar world.
“Our countries closely and productively cooperate within the UN, the Group of Twenty, APEC, the SCO, BRICS and other international organizations in the interests of promoting initiatives to ensure global strategic stability and mutually beneficial cooperation,” he emphasized.
In his video address to the conference, Chinese Ambassador to the Russian Federation Zhang Hanhui noted that China and Russia have managed to take the right path in building relations between large neighboring countries, which has given a powerful impetus to the multipolarity of the world and demonstrated the responsibility of the two countries as permanent members of the UN Security Council.
In the context of profound changes in the global governance system, BRICS and the SCO, whose founding countries and main drivers are China and Russia, are becoming increasingly important pillars of the multipolar world, the ambassador said.
He expressed confidence that Russia, as before, will support China’s work as the rotating chair of the SCO and make joint efforts with China to promote the expansion of cooperation within the SCO and BRICS in order to provide the world with more public goods.
According to Sun Zhuangzhi, Director of the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, in the face of enormous changes unseen in the last century, regional conflicts and the impact of various global challenges, China has put forward the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, continuously promoted the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road, and strengthened cooperation with Russia and other emerging market countries, providing a practical path for implementing the concept of a new type of global governance.
The international conference was organized jointly by the CASS and the RIAC. Its co-organizers were the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia of the CASS and the Council for Strategic Cooperation between China and Russia of the CASS. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
WUHAN, May 31 (Xinhua) — The first duty-free shop in central China’s Hubei Province and the entire central China began trial operation in Wuhan on Friday, the Hubei Provincial Bureau of Commerce said.
In August last year, five government departments, including the Ministry of Finance, jointly issued a statement that duty-free shops would be opened in the city limits of Wuhan, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Xi’an, Changsha and Fuzhou.
Previously, 6 similar stores have already opened in Beijing, Shanghai, Qingdao, Dalian, Xiamen and Sanya.
According to local authorities, the Wuhan outlet was a natural result of the announcement of new policy measures.
Located in a luxury mall in the heart of Wuhan, it saw more than 32 million customer visits last year and generated annual sales of 10 billion yuan (about $1.39 billion).
The investor and operator of the duty-free shop is Wuhan Wangfujing Wushang Duty-free Goods Management Co., Ltd., a joint venture that has direct purchasing agreements with more than 100 international brands. These partnerships cover a variety of product categories, including perfumes and cosmetics, wines and food, digital electronics, luxury accessories, popular domestic cultural products, and coffee and tea.
It is especially worth mentioning that this duty-free store, as part of the strategy of promoting fashion for domestic brands on the world market, also presents cultural creations from the imperial palace, the so-called “Wuhan gifts”, which are objects of intangible cultural heritage.
“The opening of the duty-free shop in downtown Wuhan marks a new stage in the development of cities on the Chinese mainland,” said an official from the provincial department of commerce, adding that once the project is launched, it is expected to be able to serve the consumption demand of over 2 million foreign travelers visiting Hubei on average per year. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
UNITED NATIONS, May 31 (Xinhua) — China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Geng Shuang warned on Friday that increasing the number of weapons on the battlefield will only prolong the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
At present, when direct negotiations are underway between Russia and Ukraine, more and more lethal weapons with increased lethal force are appearing on the battlefield, which only intensifies the confrontation and prolongs the fighting, the Chinese representative said.
“This is not conducive to achieving a ceasefire and ending the war, and is contrary to the common expectations of the international community,” Geng Shuang told the UN Security Council. “We urge all parties to actively shape an environment conducive to peace talks by creating conditions and providing support. We also call on the parties to the conflict to work collectively to de-escalate and find a political solution, rather than continue military confrontation and attacks.”
He rejected the US representative’s accusations against China regarding the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.
“Just now, the US representative once again spread disinformation and slandered China. This is completely unacceptable,” Geng Shuang said.
The US attacks on China are not based on facts and are not aimed at solving any problems at all. Rather, they are based on their own political agenda, and this is pure political manipulation, the Chinese official added.
According to him, China has never supplied lethal weapons to any of the parties to the conflict, strictly controls dual-use goods and resolutely opposes any unfounded accusations and political manipulation.
The United States bears the primary responsibility for the outbreak and continuation of the conflict, and must make efforts and play its role in ending it as soon as possible. China urges the United States to focus on ongoing diplomatic efforts and stop the boring blame game, Geng Shuang said. –0–
Government has welcomed the life sentences handed down by the Western Cape High Court to Racquel Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn who have been convicted of human trafficking and kidnapping in connection with the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith.
In addition to life imprisonment, the trio each received a further 10-year sentence for kidnapping. The judgment was delivered by Judge Nathan Erasmus in the High Court sitting in Saldanha Bay on Thursday.
The judge also ordered that the names of three accused be entered into the national Child Protection Register since they were convicted of serious crimes involving children and that they cannot have contact with children for the foreseeable future.
Delivering his ruling, Judge Erasmus said: “The accused did not show remorse and up until the eve of sentencing, still lied. With the overwhelming evidence against the accused, I could find no mitigating circumstances for the court to deviate from the minimum prescribed sentence.”
Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said that while this sentencing brings a measure of justice, it is a bittersweet moment.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring that law enforcement continues to pursue every possible lead to find Joshlin. The protection of children is a national priority.
“We will continue to strengthen our laws, partnerships, and community efforts to ensure that every child in South Africa is safe, valued, and shielded from harm,” Mnukwa said.
Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis, and their friend Steveno van Rhyn were found guilty in connection with the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith from the Middelpos informal settlement in Saldanha Bay in February 2024.
The trio werre accused of selling Joshlin for R20,000.
Despite pleading not guilty and maintaining their innocence throughout the trial, Judge Erasmus in delivering his verdict on 2 May, stated that Joshlin, a Grade 1 learner at Diazville Primary School, had been “exchanged.” – SAnews.gov.za
As the world battles escalating environmental challenges, from climate change to biodiversity loss, one crisis continues to be overshadowed – that is land degradation. Every year, over 100 million hectares of productive land are lost or degraded, affecting the lives of more than 1.3 billion people globally.
In regions already grappling with poverty, hunger, and unemployment, this environmental degradation becomes a multiplier of vulnerability.
The recent Global Land Degradation Neutrality – Integrated Land Use Planning (LDN–ILUP) Inception Workshop that took place in Sandton, South Africa marked a critical turning point in the global fight against Desertification, Land Degradation, and Drought (DLDD). For four days, experts, government representatives, and development partners from 18 participating countries gathered to refine targets and develop strategies aimed at restoring our planet’s productive land. This meeting was not just another technical gathering – it was a platform of hope for millions whose lives and livelihoods depend on healthy land.
At the heart of this initiative is the principle of Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN), a concept rooted in sustainability and inclusivity. It recognises that land restoration cannot succeed without the active participation of people at the grassroots level. These are the farmers, herders, and communities whose daily decisions directly influence land and water resources. Empowering them to implement sustainable practices remains vital.
Bringing the issue of land degradation home to our country, it must be noted that South Africa, is currently presiding over the G20 under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.” Our country will use its presidency of the G20 to place the issues of DLDD at the heart of G20 member states and tackle degradation in the country. Our argument is that the G20 – representing the world’s largest economies – must lead by example in addressing land degradation as an integral part of climate and development discourse.
The G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) – which is led by our department – will focus on DLDD, along with other critical areas such as biodiversity, climate change, and ocean health. But while global policy alignment is essential, real progress lies in concrete actions on the ground—large-scale restoration projects, transboundary collaboration, and integration of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) into national development plans.
To this end, existing initiatives such as the Changwon Initiative, African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100), the Great Green Wall, and the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration must be harnessed and scaled up. These programmes provide tested frameworks for land restoration and resilience building.
However, none of these ambitions will materialise without adequate and sustained financial support. Development and financial partners must step up their efforts. While we acknowledge the critical support provided by entities like the Global Mechanism of the UNCCD, Global Environment Facility, and development partners from Canada and Germany, there remains a significant financing gap. Innovation in resource mobilisation is urgently needed, whether through blended finance, public-private partnerships, or carbon markets. South Africa will therefore call on the developed nations under the G20 to provide more financial support to developed countries to tackle land degradation.
It must also be noted that we cannot continue to formulate frameworks and strategies without addressing the daily realities faced by vulnerable communities. If we are serious about achieving the targets of the UNCCD, Convention on Biological Diversity, and the Paris Agreement, financial commitments must match the scale of ambition.
I must commend all dignitaries from all over the world who attended the workshop. I want to reiterate that the workshop should not be seen as a standalone event. It must be viewed as a launchpad for action—an opportunity to demonstrate that LDN is not merely a technical term, but a vehicle for change, resilience, and hope. As global citizens, we owe it to future generations to restore the land they will inherit.
Let this be the moment we stop talking and start restoring.
*Bernice Swarts is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has officially re-opened the Chris Hani to Cape Town leg of the Central Line to commuters, bringing this very important rail artery to near-total recovery.
“The Central Line is Cape Town’s most important rail corridor. It connects the communities of Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain to the Cape Town CBD and the Bellville CBD [central business district]. At full capacity, the central line contributes 350 000 daily passenger trips of Cape Town’s 685 900 daily passenger trips,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said on Thursday.
She was addressing the launch of the Chris Hani- Cape Town line, which is part of the Presidential Rail Project, aimed at revamping and improving rail infrastructure in South Africa.
WATCH | Minister Creecy Launches Chris Hani to Cape Town Passenger Rail Line
The line was opened after extensive repair works on stations, substations, Overhead Traction Electrification (OHTE) systems and more.
“A fully recovered central line has the potential to return a considerable number of commuters to rail, thereby easing the city’s unbearable traffic congestion. The numbers speak for themselves: nearly 700 000 daily passenger trips equate to a substantial number of cars that are taken off Cape Town’s Road network.
“Given the capacity of a full 12-car Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) train to transport some 2400 passengers, the gains in affordable, safe and efficient public transport are considerable.
“The recovery of the Central Line provides residents of Cape Town a safer commuter experience, shorter travel times and a more integrated mobility environment. Due to its affordability, and the greater mobility that it enables, passenger rail has the potential to provide the working class with greater economic opportunities,” Creecy explained.
The Central Line is a significant part of PRASA’s rail service in the Western Cape and following a halt in services as a result of theft, vandalism and the occupation of the perways along various parts of the route, the return of the Chris Hani station and service is a reflection of the synergy and collaboration between various tiers of government, law enforcement agencies as well as communities.
“The recovery of the Central Line has not been easy—illegal occupation, vandalism of infrastructure, and a grim security environment all stood in the way. But what we have experienced today on the train ride from Chris Hani Station to Cape Town Station is a safe, reliable, and modern rail corridor that once again connects our people to opportunities, to work and to education,” she said.
Impact
The Minister shared the impact of recovering parts of the Central Line using numbers.
“Cape Town had 53,000 daily passenger trips in April 2024. With the reopening of Philippi and Nolungile stations, this number rose to 104,000. With the targeted July – December 2025 completion of Kapteinsklip’s second line, the number of daily trips is expected to reach 162,400. By April 2026, the number of trips is expected to climb to 342,951 per day.
“This will signal the move towards an optimal service, characterised by improved frequencies, recovered signalling, higher train speeds and enhanced connectivity. This all bodes well for the commuter community, both for peak and off-peak travel,” Creecy said.
The target for 2026-2027 is the delivery of an optimally operating service — fully recovered signalling, 90km/h speeds, digital environment and compliance with every aspect of the regulator’s safety standards.
“The entire process of recovering the central line corridor – replacing and repairing overhead signalling equipment and substations, refurbishing stations and perway, and relocating those occupying the tracks – has so far cost R 1.3 billion.
“During the recovery of the central line over 2,500 direct jobs have been created and 53 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) empowered, contributing to local economic upliftment,” the Minister said.
PRASA recovery project
PRASA has successfully revived 35 out of 40 service lines as part of restoring passenger rail services nationwide. “At present there are two trains departing Chris Hani Station per hour on the central line, however as we increase our signalling capacity, we hope to run an optimal service where we have six trains per hour.
“In Cape Town the southern line is 98% re-signalled. The focus has now shifted to fully restoring signalling on the central line, with completion scheduled for the end of the 2026/2027 financial year. This will increase service frequency and allow a more regular, punctual passenger service,” the Minister said.
The reopening of these lines has led to a significant increase in passenger trips nationwide, reaching 77 million over the past year. This figure is projected to reach 123 million in the current year, indicating a clear trajectory towards the goal of 600 million passenger trips by 2030/31. –SAnews.gov.za
The main suspect in the murder of Olorato Mongale has been shot and killed by police in KwaZulu-Natal.
Philangenkosi Makhanya was found by the police in Amanzimtoti, south of Durban and when approached, he shot at the police who then returned fire killing him.
At the time of the shooting, Makhanya was hiding out at a flat in Amanzimtoti.
He is believed to be the main suspect in the Mongale case, following her killing. Her body was found dumped on the side of the road in Lombardy West, Johannesburg last week.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Athlenda Mathe, the suspect’s parents were arrested.
“His mother was arrested for tipping him that the police were looking for him while his father was arrested as it was established that he is the owner of the white VW Polo used in the commission of crime,” Mathe said.
A multidisciplinary team led by the SAPS’ anti-kidnapping task team seized the vehicle at a panel beater workshop in Phoenix, Durban.
The mother’s actions allowed their son to evade arrest on Wednesday evening.
The police are still searching for two additional suspects linked to the case.
Mongale was last seen on Sunday when she went on a date with her alleged killer, who picked her up from her residential complex in Athol, Johannesburg, driving a white VW Polo with a cloned number plate that belonged to a Toyota Hilux.
Mongale’s body was later found in Lombardy West on the same day by the police with the assistance of community members.
Two suspects believed to be involved in the murder are in custody. The investigation first led the team to a lodge in Kew, Johannesburg where two suspects had booked a room. – SAnews.gov.za
Eskom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Korea Plant Service & Engineering Co., Ltd. (KEPCO KPS) to establish a strategic partnership focused on non-commercial research, technical consulting and innovation.
In a statement on Thursday, the power utility said this agreement sets out a framework for collaboration aimed at enhancing Eskom’s operational performance and supporting its long-term sustainability objectives.
Under the MoU signed on Thursday, the two organisations will cooperate across six key focus areas, namely:
Exploring strategic cooperation and exchange of information related to critical spares’ replenishment including, but not limited to, remanufacturing, reproducing, repairing or retrofitting of obsolete spares;
The identification, implementation and evaluation of potential research and consulting-related technical projects; projects supporting asset development plans, performance improvements of existing plant, and asset management;
Digitalisation (such as artificial intelligence, internet of things, and data analytics) and related focus areas, working together to leverage expertise on training, skills development and knowledge transfer on digitalisation expertise towards modernising and achieving an intelligent power grid;
Energy transition, green and smart research and development, plant construction focusing on socioeconomics, water generation with interest in the circular economy, and climate change risk mitigation;
Enhancing human resources development, skills transfer and training, employee exchange and training programmes, study tours, workshops and sharing of studies and reports.
Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said that Eskom was a research-driven, people-centred, and technology-focused organisation.
“Our collaboration with KEPCO KPS across key strategic areas reinforces our commitment to continuous business improvement and long-term sustainability.
“As we advance the recovery of our operations and work to strengthen long-term performance for the benefit of South Africans, businesses, and the broader economy, we are proud to partner with global institutions like KEPCO KPS.
“By combining our expertise and embracing international best practices in engineering and maintenance, we aim to accelerate innovation and build a more resilient, sustainable energy future for South Africa,” Marokane said.
KEPCO KPS Chief Executive Officer, Jungnam Lee said: “With this MoU as an opportunity, the two companies plan to expand technological exchanges and contribute to improving the performance of aging power plants in South Africa based on KPS’ world-class technological capabilities.”
About KEPCO KPS
KPS is a public corporation specialising in providing total solutions for power plant facility diagnosis & performance improvement, power generation facility operation and maintenance (O&M), as well as new & renewable energy and industrial facilities.
KPS was established to contribute to the power industry’s stable power supply and development by improving the performance and reliability of power equipment for power generation and transmission.
Eskom Research Business Unit
Eskom is South Africa’s public electricity utility and is the largest producer of electricity in Africa. The company has a dedicated research business unit, the Eskom Research, Testing & Development (RT&D), which is proactively finding technology solutions that can be applied primarily within the company to embrace innovation, enhance efficiency and improve operations, improvements related to emissions management, Greenhouse Gas (GHG) abatement, and beyond.
One of the key areas of focus for RT&D is assisting the business in a differentiated approach with multiple pathways to move from high-carbon to low-carbon energy sources through identifying technology and processes that enable the economy to be competitive and sustainable while enabling Eskom to be as efficient as possible. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Students attend a flag-raising ceremony at a primary school in Kaifeng City, central China’s Henan province, Sept. 1, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
The Chinese Young Pioneers (CYP), a national mass organization for Chinese children, had about 113 million members across the country by the end of 2024, the Communist Youth League of China (CYLC) Central Committee said Saturday.
The CYP boasted some 176,000 work committees based in primary or middle schools, with more than 3 million counselors, according to the CYLC.
The CYP serves as a reserve force to build socialism and communism as well as realize national rejuvenation. Since it was founded in 1949, the organization has played an important role in promoting children’s growth under the Party’s leadership and the CYLC’s guidance.
All Chinese students aged 6 to 14 can join the CYP.
The latest figures were released ahead of the International Children’s Day on Sunday.
South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)grant beneficiaries using the black Postbank cards as well as the gold SASSA cards have been urged to be wary of rising fraud scams targeting their cards and PIN information.
In a statement on Friday, Postbank said a recent scam involves fraudsters impersonating Postbank officials and targeting social beneficiaries in their homes.
“The beneficiaries are then duped into handing over their Postbank grant cards and PIN information under the pretext that there is something that requires fixing on the cards; or fear is instilled in them that they will not receive their future grant payments if they don’t handover their cards PIN information.
“Postbank assures social grant beneficiaries that there is nothing that requires fixing on any of its black cards and SASSA gold cards, and that both cards will continue to work beyond 31 May 2025 for the payments of their grants,” Postbank said.
Beneficiaries must be wary of fraudsters who may pretend that they are from Postbank, even if they are wearing what may appear to be Postbank uniforms or branded cars.
Here is how they can be spotted:
They show up unannounced or without an appointment.
They ask you for your card PIN number.
If fraudsters pretending to be from Postbank visit your home:
Quietly alert your neighbours and the community.
Alert the police.
Report the incident to Postbank on 0800 53 54 55.
Protect you card PIN numbers:
Never give anyone your card PIN number, even to a Postbank official.
Postbank will never ask you for your card PIN as that is against banking rules. Your card PIN is your personal possession.
Memorise your PIN and don’t write it on a piece of paper (If you must write your PIN, ensure that the paper on which you write it is not kept in the same place as your card).
Postbank will not visit beneficiaries’ homes unless invited.
Postbank will never visit your home unless you have requested that through the necessary home visits channels.
Beneficiaries must always remember that their cards and PINs are their personal keys to their money. They should never give them to anyone.
“Beneficiaries are also reminded that they should not listen to anyone that tells them to change their SASSA gold cards or Postbank black cards to other banks payment methods, even if they are advised to do so by government officials.
“Postbank is committed to protecting its social grant customers while offering them safe, secure and convenient ways of accessing their social grant payments,” Postbank said.
For any enquiries customers can contact Postbank on 0800 53 54 55. – SAnews.gov.za
Public Service and Administration Minister Mzamo Buthelezi has emphasised the critical need for a more transparent, ethical, and efficient relationship between the political leadership and public administration.
He believes that the interface between politics and administration should be guided by mutual respect, clearly defined roles, and a shared commitment to the public good.
The Minister was speaking during a roundtable discussion on strengthening the political and administrative interface led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The gathering, which is currently underway, is focusing on improving governance, and the Minister highlighted several crucial points about governance reform.
Friday’s engagement is part of the broader efforts by the Presidency to support the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030.
The NDP emphasises the importance of establishing a capable and developmental state to address the country’s socio-economic challenges effectively.
Buthelezi welcomed the platform to reflect the relationship between the political heads and the accounting officers.
“The interface forms a crucial pillar of their capacity, as it invites us to look deeply at the architecture of our governance,” he told the attendees.
The Minister identified key challenges, including unstable relationships between Ministers and senior officials, political interference in administrative decisions, accountability gaps and undermining service delivery.
He believes that the inefficiency and tensions diminish public confidence.
“This roundtable, therefore, helps us to ask important questions as to how we lead with clarity of efforts, while ensuring that the institutions entrusted to us implement policy are empowered, are ethical and efficient.”
According to the Minister, the role of political facilities, including Ministers, is to provide strategic direction and mandate of government.
Reflections
Meanwhile, he said it is also the responsibility of administrators and accounting officers, including Heads of Departments, to translate that direction into implementable plans within legal, fiscal, and ethical frameworks.
He proposed reforms such as stronger tenure protection for Directors-General, more transparent performance contracts, better coordination across government departments and professionalising the public service.
The Minister stressed that governance is not just a technical exercise, but a fundamental process of building a “people-centred, capable, and corruption-resistant state.”
The roundtable called for honest reflection on internal party structures and their impact on governance, urging participants to move beyond discussions to concrete commitments for improving public service delivery.
The meeting represents a significant step towards addressing systemic challenges in government administration and strengthening democratic governance.
The Commissioner of the Public Service Commission (PSC), Professor Somadoda Fikeni, addressed the challenges facing South Africa’s administrative leadership.
His talk centred on improving the relationship between political leaders and civil servants, highlighting the urgent need for a more professional and capable state.
Fikeni said that the public sector is the largest employer and service provider, directly impacting citizens’ lives.
His discussion drew parallels with successful developmental states like South Korea and Singapore, where strong collaboration between political leadership and civil service has driven national progress.
Fikeni noted the persistent challenges, including high leadership turnover, potential political interference, and complex institutional dynamics.
He also challenged the leaders to move beyond mere discussion to concrete implementation, with participants calling for evidence-based solutions that prioritise national interest over factional politics.
“Whether you are from the private sector, you want to invest, you depend on the ethical capability of the state. You depend on this institution, whether you want to fight crime, GBV [gender-based violence], or you want to improve personal security; whether you want to see service delivery, it all depends on this one institution,” Fikeni said.
The gathering represented a critical effort to rebuild state capacity and address long-standing inefficiencies in South Africa’s public service, with hopes of creating a more responsive and effective government. – SAnews.gov.za
In an ongoing effort to ensure energy security and reduce the cost of electricity, Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has announced the appointment of five preferred bidders under the Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (BESIPPPP) Bid Window 3.
These preferred bidders are expected to make a total investment of R9.5 billion into the South African economy.
The Battery Energy Storage Programme is a critical initiative aimed at enhancing South Africa’s power system by providing essential ancillary services and increasing grid capacity through energy storage.
“What we are announcing today… is another ‘peaker’ that is going to help us during the peak, instead of relying more and more on the open cycle gas turbines and on burning diesel.
“We are going to use that excess generation capacity that we generated during the day when the sun was out … we store it and at the time when we need it, draw it. We are going to draw it from the batteries and [it will] be discharged and give us the kind capacity that we need. We are working on ensuring that we have additional generation capacity drawing from the technology that is out there in the world,” Ramokgopa said at a media briefing on Friday.
WATCH | Bid Window 3 announcement
BESIPPPP Bid Window 3 is a site-specific procurement round designed to facilitate the procurement of up to 616 megawatts (MW) from facilities that will provide capacity, energy and ancillary services to the National Transmission Company of South Africa (NTCSA) as the buyer, at five specified sites in the Free State supply area.
“This is part of our quest to ensure that we achieve energy security, bring down the cost of electricity – because this solution has been shown to be the most cost competitive of the energy solutions that we can have.
“A combination of solar BPV [biological photovoltaics], wind and now storage capacity means that we are flattening the cost curve of electricity. We will make household lives more bearable – disposable income and more significantly for industry.
“Electricity is the backbone of the economy. If the lights are off, there is no economy.”
The department received a total of 33 bid responses on 28 November 2024.
The BESIPPPP BW3 round was again found to be highly competitive, with a marked increase in the number of bids relative to the previous bid windows, resulting in a 40% and 8% decrease in the average evaluation Price, compared to Bid Window 1 and 2 prices respectively.
The five preferred bidders have made the following commitments: • Black Shareholding: will contract at a minimum of 40% in the IPP Project Companies; up to 30% black shareholding by construction contractors; and up to 42% in operations contractors. • Total Job Opportunities: 852 job opportunities for South African citizens (measured in job years), during construction and operations. • Local Content Spend: Over R3.7 billion during construction and during the operation and maintenance phases. • Preferential Procurement: Over R3 billion from Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) companies, R1.3 billion from black-owned enterprises, R1.1 billion from Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs) and Exempted Micro Enterprises (EMEs) as well as R562 million from black women companies. • Supplier development, skills development, bursaries for black students, skills development for Black disabled people, enterprise development and socio-economic development initiatives: R184 million over the lifetime of the projects.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has recognised significant systemic weaknesses that undermine the effectiveness of the South African state, calling for the construction of a capable government and the reform of the political-administrative interface.
The Deputy President cited the synthesis evaluation, conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), which reveals deep-rooted challenges in public service delivery and institutional stability.
Key findings highlight critical issues, including high turnover among Directors-Generals(DGs), persistent political interference in administrative decisions, and weak performance management systems.
The report found that these problems are eroding institutional memory, compromising policy continuity, and undermining public trust.
“The significance of today’s engagement cannot be overstated as we progress in our commitment to establishing a capable and developmental state, which continues to be a key priority of the seventh administration,” he said on Friday.
Deputy President Mashatile was leading a roundtable discussion on strengthening the political and administrative interface at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria.
WATCH | Deputy President leads roundtable on the Political and Administrative Interface
The engagement is part of the broader efforts by the Presidency to support the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030.
The NDP emphasises the importance of establishing a capable and developmental state to address the country’s socio-economic challenges effectively.
To address these challenges, Deputy President Mashatile said government is implementing a comprehensive National Framework for Public Service Professionalisation.
This initiative aims to create a more meritocratic, competent, and accountable public service, with plans to establish clearer lines of accountability and reduce political interference in administrative processes.
It also involves improving leadership stability in government departments and strengthening intergovernmental collaboration. The Deputy President recognised that resolving these institutional weaknesses is crucial for achieving the Government of National Unity’s (GNU) strategic priorities of inclusive economic growth, poverty reduction, and building a developmental state.
“Central to us attaining these three strategic priorities is ensuring sound institutional design that is responsive to the prevailing challenges and the nuances of a modern state that is agile enough to respond to a rapidly changing environment.”
The Deputy President has defined a capable and developmental state as a government that has essential resources and skills to successfully execute policies that foster economic growth and enhance the well-being of its citizens.
In addition, he said a developmental, capable and ethical state requires skilled managers, especially DGs and Heads of Department, with clear lines of authority and accountability to execute their duties in a way that achieves optimal outputs and agreed outcomes.
“This requires a political and administrative environment that is free from undue political interference, with effective systems, and with a consistent and fair application of rules.”
He told the attendees that the urgency to enhance state capacity has never been more pressing.
“Our nation has made strides in the past, overcoming immense challenges to secure our democracy and pursue socio-economic progress. Yet, we acknowledge that there are areas where our state machinery still lags behind, hindering our ability to deliver on the promises of our Constitution.”
He acknowledged that the tensions and instability in relationships at this interface remain a matter of great concern for all respondents, both accounting officers and executive authorities.
“Without doubt, these problems are compounded by a history of apartheid and its lingering effects, corruption, skills gaps, and a lack of accountability.”
The country’s second-in-command has called for a state that will ensure that citizens have access to basic services, a growing economy that creates jobs and a youthful population is inspired to build viable start-ups that can compete on a global level.
“If we are serious about building a capable, developmental and ethical state, we must recognise that reforming the interface is the precondition, not the afterthought.”
He also called for the establishment of war rooms focused on the economy, poverty, and clean governance, aiming to improve payment cycles and procurement processes, especially for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
In his address at the gathering, Public Service and Administration Minister Mzamo Buthelezi emphasised the critical need for a more transparent, ethical, and efficient relationship between the political leadership and public administration.
Buthelezi welcomed the platform to reflect the relationship between the political heads and the accounting officers.
“The interface forms a crucial pillar of their capacity, as it invites us to look deeply at the architecture of our governance,” he told the attendees. – SAnews.gov.za
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has warned members of the public about a scam that continues to circulate in various provinces involving fraudulent letters and phone calls that falsely appear to originate from the SAPS.
“These fake letters, often distributed via WhatsApp, bear the SAPS logo and contain the names, contact details of senior SAPS officers and the addresses of legitimate SAPS offices. In some instances, the scammers also use the names of police stations that do not exist,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.
“The scammers use this information to deceive recipients into sharing personal details under false pretences.
“The content of the letters is often tailored according to the victim’s location, with changes made to names, addresses and contact persons to make the communication appear authentic.
“Also, these WhatsApp messages are preceded by phone calls from individuals posing as police officials, who falsely claim that criminal cases have been opened against the victim. These ‘police officers’ then coerce the victim to pay over a certain amount to make his or her supposed case to ‘disappear’,” the police said.
Community members are urged to remain vigilant at all times:
Do not respond to these fraudulent messages or phone calls.
Do not provide or confirm any personal information such as ID numbers, addresses, or banking details.
Do not pay these “scammers” any money.
Please note, the SAPS do not communicate with the public via WhatsApp or video calls.
Anyone who has received or responded to these fraudulent messages or phone calls is urged to report the matter and open a case at their nearest police station. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
UNITED NATIONS, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Sun Lei on Friday expressed dissatisfaction with the U.S. role in the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution on sanctions against South Sudan.
During consultations on the draft resolution, African members of the UN Security Council proposed allowing the arms embargo to be lifted for the necessary joint force. According to the Chinese representative, this is a reasonable and feasible solution at this stage.
However, the United States, as the author of the draft resolution, insisted on its national position, ignored the urgent demand of the country concerned, refused to discuss the constructive views of the countries of the region and insisted on maintaining the sanctions, the diplomat said, commenting on the vote. “This is disappointing,” he added.
The US delayed the consultation process and shortened the limited time. It never asked for written comments on the text of the draft resolution from other members of the UN Security Council and insisted on holding a vote when there were still obvious differences among members, which is not in line with the established practice of the UN Security Council, Sun Lei said.
“Such practices undermine the unity and cooperation of the Security Council. We urge the author of the draft resolution to adopt an objective and impartial approach, listen to the reasonable demands of the relevant country and countries in the region, work to overcome differences among UN Security Council members, and effectively fulfill its responsibilities,” the Chinese representative said. -0-
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
SPC AC 310100
Day 1 Convective Outlook NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 0800 PM CDT Fri May 30 2025
Valid 310100Z – 311200Z
…THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FOR PARTS OF THE MID ATLANTIC…
…SUMMARY… Scattered severe storms remain possible this evening across the Mid Atlantic, with a threat of wind damage and a couple of tornadoes.
…Mid Atlantic into southern New England… A vigorous mid/upper-level shortwave trough is moving across the Allegheny Plateau region this evening. A strengthening surface cyclone will move eastward toward eastern PA and NJ this evening, and approach southern New England by the end of the forecast period. A cluster of storms with embedded supercell structures will accompany the deepening cyclone this evening. Hodographs remain relatively enlarged, with 0-1 km SRH of 100-150 m2/s2, and occasional low-level rotation may continue through the evening. Some tornado and wind-damage threat will spread east-northeast in conjunction with these storms into parts of southeast PA, DE, and NJ, before diminishing surface-based instability results in an eventual weakening trend later tonight.
A couple strong storms cannot be ruled out overnight into southern New England. However, the severe threat appears increasingly limited with northeastward extent, due to a lack of surface-based instability, and only modest elevated buoyancy.
…Southeast WI into northern IL/northwest IN… Storms moving southward across eastern WI earlier produced marginally severe hail, and some localized threat for hail and strong gusts may spread southward into northeast IL/northwest IN this evening, in conjunction with a southward-moving midlevel shortwave trough. This activity should generally weaken later tonight as it encounters weaker instability.
…Carolinas into the Southeast and Florida… In the wake of earlier storms, weak convection is ongoing this evening across parts of the Carolinas, near a southeast-moving cold front. Substantial redevelopment appears unlikely due to the stabilizing influence of earlier convection, but strong low-level flow could support gusty winds with this weaker convection before it dissipates or moves offshore.
Farther south/west, isolated strong storms remain possible this evening near the immediate Gulf coast near the front. With time, convection will spread into parts of the northern/central FL Peninsula, with sufficient deep-layer shear to support modest storm organization and an isolated severe threat.
..Dean.. 05/31/2025
CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT
NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 0600Z
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated: Sat May 31 04:05:03 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.
Notice: The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice. Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.