Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Celebration events to mark 75th National Day Celebration events to mark 75th National Day ********************************************
The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, and senior government officials will attend a flag-raising ceremony and a National Day reception on October 1 (Tuesday) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The flag-raising ceremony will be held at Golden Bauhinia Square outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in Wan Chai at 8am. Community leaders and members of uniformed groups will attend the ceremony. No public viewing area will be set up. The Police Band will perform at the ceremony and a choir from Belilios Public School and Queen’s College will sing the national anthem under the lead of two singers, Chen Yong and Phoebe Tam, followed by a fly-past and a sea parade by the disciplined services. The National Day reception, led by the Chief Executive, will be held at the Grand Hall on Level 3 of the HKCEC after the flag-raising ceremony. Motorists are reminded that the Police will implement special traffic arrangements at Golden Bauhinia Square and the nearby area during the celebration events.
Ends/Sunday, September 29, 2024Issued at HKT 16:00
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Maksim Rudnev, Research Associate, Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo
We all admire wise people, don’t we? Whether it’s a thoughtful teacher, a compassionate doctor, or an elder in the community, we recognise wisdom when we see it. But have you ever thought about how people in different cultures perceive wisdom? Does someone in Morocco view a wise person in the same way as someone in Ecuador? Our recent study explored how people across cultures think of wisdom.
This large-scale project required a joint effort of 34 researchers across fields of philosophy, psychology, anthropology, social science and psychometrics – and from all over the world, connected in a research consortium called The Geography of Philosophy.
What we found was somewhat surprising. Wisdom may appear to be shaped by cultural differences, but the core aspects of what makes someone wise are largely the same across cultures. From urban college students in Japan to villagers in South Africa, participants associated wisdom with two key characteristics: reflective orientation and socio-emotional awareness. We explain what that means below.
Contrary to widespread stereotypes, people recognise wisdom in a similar way across east and west, south and north. Despite the divisions of the world, we see wisdom in the same individuals and associate it with similar traits. Are we indeed more alike than we are different, when it comes to how we perceive wisdom? And what characterises wise people?
These are the characteristics of wise people
There are two key characteristics. Reflective orientation is about people who think before acting, carefully consider different perspectives, and use logic and past experiences to guide their decisions. They’re the type of person who keeps their cool in difficult situations, taking time to weigh all the options before making a move.
The second is socio-emotional awareness. Wise people are good at understanding and caring about the thoughts and feelings of others. They pay attention to emotions and consider different views on the situation. Such an individual might be skilled at mediating conflicts by understanding each party’s point of view, or be adept at providing emotional support during difficult times.
Together, these two dimensions combine to form the global image of wisdom. The study suggests that the wisest people are those who balance both, showing strong abilities in reasoning while also being emotionally and socially aware.
A highly reflective person who is suppressing their own emotions but doesn’t notice the social context of the problem wouldn’t be called wise. Likewise, someone who is entirely driven by emotion and the social environment but fails to make logical connections wouldn’t be called wise either. Real wisdom, according to our study, is about finding a balance between thoughtful reasoning, social understanding, and emotional awareness.
Cultures do differ, but not as much as you might think
To uncover these dimensions, we employed a method sometimes called experimental philosophy. Participants across 16 different cultures in 12 countries on five continents compared a set of targets to each other. For example, one of the questions asked participants to compare whether a doctor or a religious person was more likely to think logically when making a hard life decision with no right or wrong answers. Our participants also rated themselves. Then we asked how wise each of these persons were.
When we started this project, we expected to find big differences between cultures. Previous research suggested that people in “the west” use and value analytical thinking, which tends to dismiss social and emotional parts of the situation. In contrast, individuals in “the east” emphasise holistic thinking, that is, all-encompassing views of complex situations.
But that’s not what we found. While there were some small differences – people in South Africa, for example, placed more importance on nature and divinity when thinking about socio-emotional awareness – the overall picture was strikingly similar. Across the globe, people rated individuals who were both reflective and socially and emotionally aware as the wisest. For instance, they named a doctor and a 75-year-old person as the wisest, and at the same time the highest on both dimensions.
What was particularly fascinating was that people tended to rate themselves differently from how they rated others. Most people saw themselves as less reflective but more socially and emotionally aware than the “wise” figures they were asked to rate. In other words, people were ready to admit a moderate level of their own intellectual capabilities, but they were quite confident in their ability to understand and care for others.
Why this matters
This research defies stereotypes of a cold analytical ideal of “the west” and a social-minded and emotionally driven image of “the east” and “the south”. The idea that wisdom is purely intellectual, or conversely, purely social or divine, is too simplistic. It also highlights that wisdom manifests in a balance of traits traditionally attributed to different cultures.
In a time when global cooperation is more important than ever, recognising our shared appreciation for certain qualities can help bridge cultural divides.
The study opens up new avenues for research. Could these dimensions of wisdom help us understand how to solve global problems? Are people more likely to trust leaders who show both reflective thinking and socio-emotional awareness? And how do these qualities affect the way we handle personal relationships, difficult decisions, or conflicts?
One thing is clear: wisdom is something we all value, no matter where we come from. By understanding it better, we can not only become wiser ourselves but also learn to appreciate wisdom in others, wherever they may be.
South Africa has a massive infrastructure problem. Roads, electricity supply and water management are just three areas in which there is mounting evidence of collapse and decay. This is true for big cities like Johannesburg as well as small towns and rural areas.
This is a problem because infrastructure like this has huge economic benefits. Having water and electricity enables firms to run smoothly. Local roads improve mobility and access to markets.
A study by South Africa’s Financial and Fiscal Commission in 2018 showed that infrastructure spending had a statistically significant positive impact on local employment and economic growth.
Responsibility for maintaining these essential services lies with South Africa’s 257 municipalities. Funding comes from two pots: central government allocation; and revenue raised locally through the delivery of services.
The national government has increased its financial transfers to municipalities for infrastructure investment by more than 3.5 times in local currency over the past 14 years. In that period municipalities have received almost R600 billion (US$45,5 billion) from national government.
Why do local governments have little to show for it?
We have been researching South Africa’s public finances and intergovernmental fiscal relations issues for many years. In a recent paper we evaluated how municipalities have managed the delivery of infrastructure.
We found that:
municipalities have failed to effectively use increased infrastructure allocations
municipalities have not chosen the right infrastructure projects
projects have not been implemented cost effectively
projects have not been completed on time and within budget
infrastructure was not being operated efficiently
existing infrastructure was not being maintained.
The failures
We identified the following failures.
People resources: Most of South Africa’s 257 municipalities lack the required capacity for managing infrastructure. Only a few have fully resourced project management units. In addition, there are cumbersome and costly infrastructure planning processes and legislative requirements. For instance, municipalities must conduct a feasibility study and appoint a steering committee for each project. The resources required for this are overwhelming for many and the process simply shifts the limited resources away from the actual infrastructure work.
These problems have persisted despite many years of reforms and increased technical and financial support.
Poor allocation of funds: Most allocations by national government for infrastructure have been in the form of conditional grants. These stipulate conditions for what type of infrastructure the money can be spent on.
However, this hasn’t stopped the grants being allocated to prolonged or abandoned projects. The result is that many municipalities have been using recurring budget allocations to rectify poor workmanship and abandoned projects.
Political interference: Where infrastructure has been built it is not well maintained. This is partly because politicians tend to prefer new infrastructure which comes with opportunities for ribbon cutting ceremonies. But some of this infrastructure doesn’t match the needs of communities, and becomes a white elephant.
Bureaucracy: Municipalities share responsibility with national and provincial governments for some local infrastructure investments. But joint planning and budgeting is lacking. So water and electricity reticulation networks are often installed without sufficient bulk supply from the relevant providers.
Service delays then lead to community protest and infrastructure vandalism.
The role of national government departments also creates problems. They are the custodians of conditional infrastructure grant funding. In this role they often interfere and dictate priorities for municipalities while attaching stringent conditions to funding.
Lack of ownership: Frustrated by the ongoing inability to spend infrastructure funds, national government is increasingly carrying out projects on behalf of municipalities, often using indirect grants. The result is that municipalities have no sense of ownership of the infrastructure and are not keen to maintain it. Some of the landfill sites and sport facilities constructed by the national departments of environmental affairs and sports have been neglected.
We also found that municipalities are battling to keep up with growing populations, rising input costs and the vandalisation of infrastructure.
Our findings are confirmed by reports of the auditor-general which highlight weak municipal infrastructure delivery management.
The 2021–2022 auditor-general’s report found that the average delay in completing infrastructure projects ranged from 17 to 26 months.
It also found that all 257 municipalities had spent only R18 billion (US$1.2 billion) on infrastructure maintenance. This represents 4% of the total value (R450 billion or US$30.6 billion) of municipal assets. This low spend increases the risk of infrastructure breakdown and reduces service level standards.
It also rapidly increases the pace and cost of infrastructure upgrading and replacement.
The solutions
The failure to deliver infrastructure has itself affected the financial stability of municipalities. This is because they can generate their own revenue from selling water and electricity to residents. A collapse of these services means this income is lost.
But debates on municipal infrastructure in South Africa have largely focused on funding shortfalls. This ignores weaknesses or a lack of municipal capacity to manage infrastructure projects. Giving municipalities money for infrastructure does not guarantee quality and long-lasting infrastructure.
Municipalities need to:
focus on the full life cycle management of infrastructure instead of just rolling out new projects
plan for relevant infrastructure that responds to local circumstances
maintain old and new infrastructure
refurbish infrastructure that is nearing the end of its useful life.
None of this can be achieved without competent and prescient local government leadership.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China holds ceremony awarding highest state honors
Updated: September 29, 2024 15:17Xinhua
Guard of honor escorting the national medals and honorary titles enter the venue of the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. China held a high-profile ceremony on Sunday morning to award the highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. [Photo/Xinhua]Guard of honor enter the venue of the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Guard of honor escort the national medals and honorary titles during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Guard of honor escorting the national medals and honorary titles enter the venue of the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Guard of honor enter the venue of the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Guard of honor escorting the national medals and honorary titles enter the venue of the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Guard of honor escort the national medals and honorary titles during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Guard of honor escorting the national medals and honorary titles enter the venue of the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Guard of honor escorting the national medals and honorary titles enter the venue of the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Members of the Chinese Young Pioneers present flowers to the recipients of national medals and national honorary titles at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Members of the Chinese Young Pioneers salute to the recipients of national medals and national honorary titles at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, speaks during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, salutes during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, salutes during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, speaks during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, speaks during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Dilma Rousseff, a recipient of the Friendship Medal, speaks during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Dilma Rousseff, a recipient of the Friendship Medal, speaks during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Dilma Rousseff, a recipient of the Friendship Medal, speaks during the presentation ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Members of the Chinese Young Pioneers enter the venue of the presentation ceremony to present flowers to the recipients of national medals and honorary titles at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhao Zhongxian, a recipient of the title of People’s Scientist, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Lu Shengmei, a recipient of the title of People’s Health Worker, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhao Zhongxian, a recipient of the title of People’s Scientist, is about to head for the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhang Jinfan, a recipient of the title of People’s Educator, is about to head for the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]The motorcade carrying recipients of national medals and national honorary titles is about to head for the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]The motorcade carrying recipients of national medals and national honorary titles heads for the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Dilma Rousseff, a recipient of the Friendship Medal, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Tian Hua, a recipient of the title of People’s Artist, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, is about to head for the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhang Xielin, a recipient of the title of Outstanding Contributor to Sports, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, is about to head for the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhang Jinfan, a recipient of the title of People’s Educator, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Lu Shengmei, a recipient of the title of People’s Health Worker, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Bayika Kalidibek, a recipient of the title of People’s Guard, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Xu Zhenchao, a recipient of the title of People’s Craftsman, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhang Jinfan, a recipient of the title of People’s Educator, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhang Zhuoyuan, a recipient of the title of Outstanding Contributor to Economic Research, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHANGHAI, Sept. 29 — Global incubators and start-up entrepreneurs have praised the opportunities bred by the vast Chinese market and incubation soil for technology start-ups at the World Top-Performing Incubator Conference 2024.
The conference, held in Shanghai Municipality from Sept. 26 to 28, attracted nearly 300 innovation projects in cutting-edge fields such biomedicine, integrated circuits and artificial intelligence. It saw the attendance of top incubators from more than 10 countries, including China, the United States, Canada and the Netherlands.
Sejun Oh, CEO of Huespine, a digital healthcare rehabilitation platform, brought their AI-based nursing equipment to China. He hopes to establish contact with Chinese hospitals, enterprises and consumers and is optimistic about the Chinese market.
Jorg Kop, managing director of UtrechtInc, a university-linked start-up incubator, said he hopes to further their cooperation network in China and help European start-ups enter the Chinese market.
Kop said China is crucial to the development of the world economy and Shanghai has economic vitality as well as fantastic ideas. He added that the Lin-gang special area of Pudong district in the municipality can be a convenient entrance for its start-ups to enter the Chinese market.
According to Zhai Jinguo, deputy director of the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai will continue to establish an innovative incubation ecosystem, cultivate new quality productivity forces, and provide support and guarantee for scientific and technological innovation projects and teams in Shanghai.
China has more than 700,000 incubated enterprises and teams. The revenues of incubated enterprises have exceeded 1 trillion yuan (about 143 billion U.S. dollars).
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, delivers a speech at the general debate of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Sept. 28, 2024.[Photo/Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, delivered a speech at the general debate of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Saturday.
Wang warned against any expansion of the Ukraine crisis. “The top priority is to commit to no expansion of the crisis, no escalation of the tension and no provocation by any party,” he said, urging efforts to push for the de-escalation of the situation at an early date.
He said China is committed to playing a constructive role, as well as engaging in shuttle mediation and promoting peace talks regarding the crisis.
On the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Wang said there must not be any delay in reaching a comprehensive ceasefire in the Middle East, and the fundamental way out lies in the two-state solution.
China always supports the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights and supports Palestine’s full UN membership, he said.
China’s railway network is expected to handle 175 million passenger trips during the upcoming 10-day National Day holiday travel rush, China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. said Sunday. The peak is expected on Tuesday, with over 21 million trips projected, according to the company. The railway travel rush from Sunday to Oct. 8 is expected to see a mix of tourists, family visits and student travels, the company said. In response to the surge in passenger demand, measures will be taken to boost transportation capacity, enhance services, and ensure safe, orderly and enjoyable trips, it said.
Announcement on Open Market Operations No.195 [2024]
(Open Market Operations Office, September 29, 2024)
In order to keep liquidity adequate at a reasonable level in the banking system at quarter-end, the People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB182 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on September 29, 2024.
A view of the opening ceremony for the “Beautiful Crafts Workshop Blossoming in Paris” exhibition, featuring cultural and creative works by women with disabilities, in Paris, France, Sept. 3, 2024. [Xinhua]
An exhibition featuring cultural and creative works by women with disabilities opened in Paris on Sept. 3, coinciding with the atmosphere surrounding the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
The “Beautiful Crafts Workshop Blossoming in Paris” exhibition, displaying nearly 300 handcrafted items, aims to foster cultural exchange and showcase the talents of people with disabilities. Items on display include silk dolls, cloth tigers, fish skin paintings, wooden combs, wood carvings and ceramics.
Zhang Haidi, president of Rehabilitation International (RI) and former chairperson of China Disabled Persons’ Federation (CDPF), expressed hope that the exhibition would gain global recognition and help improve the lives of women with disabilities.
During the opening ceremony, UNESCO’s assistant director-general for culture, Ernesto Ottone, noted that the exhibition embodies the concept of an inclusive society and sustainable development. He added that the exhibition’s timing, coinciding with the Paralympics, highlights the common features of accessibility, inclusion, and diversity shared by sports and culture.
The exhibited works originate from over 30 “Beautiful Crafts Workshops” across Chinese provinces, including Guangdong, Shandong, and Hebei. Launched in 2022 as a joint effort by the China Disabled Persons’ Federation and the All-China Women’s Federation, the initiative supports handicraft businesses and organizations that enable women with disabilities to work from home or nearby locations. To date, the program has provided employment for more than 10,000 women with disabilities nationwide.
Tang Zhanxin, a representative of the “Beautiful Crafts Workshop,” shared her personal experience with the initiative, highlighting how it has enabled many women with disabilities in China to access stable employment and improve their livelihoods.
China plans to establish 100 additional “Beautiful Crafts Workshops” over the next three years, aiming to provide employment opportunities for 10,000 more women with disabilities.
This photo taken on Sept. 27, 2024 shows a scene at the 2024 World New Energy Vehicle Congress (WNEVC) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
Both Chinese and European electric vehicle (EV) makers and experts are calling for global cooperation and opposing trade protectionism at the ongoing 2024 World New Energy Vehicle Congress (WNEVC).
With the deep development of advanced technologies, collaborative research and global industrial chain cooperation have become more important to the automotive industry, Hildegard Mueller, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), said Saturday on the congress.
“However, in 2024, we observe a rise in protectionist sentiments globally. An example is the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into EVs imported from China,” Mueller said.
“For EU, imposing anti-subsidy tariffs is not yet an answer to the challenges facing the European automotive industry. Rather, it could easily escalate into a new trade conflict, sparking a spiral of protectionism,” Mueller said.
She believed that for any country and region, any market, any industry, what’s needed is simply an active industrial strategy, adding that Europe in particular must ensure that the conditions for business are improved.
She noted that the German automotive industry stands firm on the principles of free and fair trade. “We at the VDA will continue to advocate for open markets, globalization, international trade and investment and, above all, cooperation and continued dialogue,” she added.
Gan Jiayue, CEO of Geely Auto Group, also called on the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry to strengthen its collaboration to achieve mutual benefits.
Some countries and regions are trying to restrict the application of China’s NEVs by imposing additional tariffs and setting technical standards, Gan said on Saturday’s congress, adding that if imposing additional tariffs, the EU will not only hamper China’s economic development but also harm its own interests.
The automobile industry is an industry of global cooperation, and Geely always adheres to free trade and fair competition, Gan said.
Jochen Goller, member of the board of management of BMW AG, also addressed the conference, sharing insights on low-carbon transition and global cooperation, and expressing optimism about China’s NEV market.
“BMW Group strongly believes technology openness is the only sustainable path towards a carbon-neutral future, as we need to cater to the diverse needs of customers worldwide, and to advance individual mobility towards a green future,” Goller said in his speech.
BMW firmly believes that cooperation fosters prosperity and growth, he said, adding that to continue the unique automotive success story, key challenges have to be tackled and resolved jointly.
Themed with “Low Carbon Evolution and Global Cooperation,” the 2024 WNEVC is taking place in Haikou, capital of south China’s Hainan Province, running from Sept. 27 to 29.
Amid rising global turbulence, unilateralism and protectionism, China and South Korea, as close neighbors and key partners, should collaborate to manage risks and strengthen bilateral ties, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in New York on Saturday.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul.
Wang noted that since the beginning of this year, exchanges and cooperation between China and South Korea have become more active in various fields, and the bilateral relationship has shown a positive trend of improvement, demonstrating that the efforts of both sides are in the right direction with promising results.
He stressed that as long as both countries remain committed to the principles of their diplomatic ties, continue their focus on friendship, and pursue mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, China-South Korea relations will continue to develop healthily and sustainably.
Noting that the close economic ties and intertwined interests between China and South Korea are market-driven and align with their common interests, Wang said China is willing to support South Korea in successfully hosting next year’s APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting and advancing regional economic integration.
Emphasizing that the deployment of U.S. intermediate-range missiles in the region undermines regional peace and stability and is not in the interest of regional countries, Wang said that preventing war or chaos on the Korean Peninsula is in the common interest of all parties and that China will continue to contribute constructively to long-term peace and stability in the region.
For his part, Cho expressed congratulations on the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, adding that South Korea-China relations show a good trend of resuming exchanges.
Cho expressed hope that both sides will maintain this positive momentum, strengthen high-level exchanges, and promote the stable development of bilateral relations.
South Korea is willing to enhance economic and trade cooperation with China and jointly promote regional economic integration, said Cho.
Regarding the situation on the Korean Peninsula, South Korea expects to maintain strategic communication with China, Cho said.
There is no “gray zone” or “room for ambiguity” when it comes to the People’s Republic of China representing the whole of China at the UN, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79).
Delivering a speech during the General Debate of UNGA 79, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, told world leaders in the audience that Taiwan being “an inalienable part of China’s territory” is both “the history and the reality.”
Both the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation stated in explicit terms that all the territories Japan had stolen from the Chinese, such as Taiwan and the Penghu Islands, shall be restored to China, and this constitutes an important part of the post-war international order, Wang said.
“Right here in this august hall 53 years ago, the 26th session of the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758 with an overwhelming majority, deciding to restore all the rights of the People’s Republic of China at the UN, to recognize the representatives of the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the only legitimate representatives of China to the UN, and to expel forthwith the representatives of the Taiwan region from the UN and all the organizations related to it,” he said, adding that “once and for all, the resolution resolved the issue of the representation of the whole of China, including Taiwan, in the UN.”
The resolution, Wang continued, made clear that there is no such thing as “two Chinas,” or “one China, one Taiwan.”
“On this matter of principle, there is no gray zone or room for ambiguity,” Wang said.
“The complete reunification of China will be achieved. Taiwan will eventually return to the embrace of the motherland. This is the overwhelming trend of history that no one and no force can stop,” said Wang.
Renowned director Chen Kaige’s war epic sequel “The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death,” the second installment of his ambitious trilogy about the Chinese People’s Volunteers (CPV) army during the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-53), is set for nationwide release on Sept. 30.
Cast and crew of “The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death” pose for a group photo at the film’s premiere in Beijing, Sept. 27, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Film Group]
Chen said during an earlier interview that the trilogy, which contains over 200 key characters and was shot over a period of 13 months, is the biggest film project of his career. Boasting an all-star cast, the latest installment pays more attention to the fate of individuals in the war, providing a multi-faceted view of the war’s brutality and the sacrifices made by the CPV soldiers.
At the film’s premiere in Beijing on Sept. 27, members of the cast and crew, including Zhu Yilong, Xin Baiqing, Zhang Zifeng, Zhu Yawen, Chen Feiyu and Wang Yanhui, shared their insights with the audience about their understandings and unforgettable experiences related to the film.
The film is centered on the battle in Cheorwon, where 25,000 CPV soldiers fought nearly 50,000 UNC forces for 12 days and nights. The battle, one of the fiercest during the Fifth Campaign of the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea, won precious time for the strategic transfer of the CPV army and shattered the enemies’ plot to destroy the CPV army’s rear base and eliminate their main force.
A poster of “The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death” at the film’s premiere in Beijing, Sept. 27, 2024. [Photo by Wang Qian/China.org.cn]
Leading actor Zhu Yilong, who portrays Li Xiang, a commissar in the 63rd Unit of the 188th Division of the CPV army, said at the premiere, “This is the first time I have seen such a large crowd in a scene. One scene involved almost 1,500 people.” He recalled that the film’s high number of explosions demanded meticulous planning and countless rehearsals to achieve the perfect long shot.
Actress Zhang Zifeng, stars as Li Xiao, an English translator and younger sister of Li Xiang. She said that Li Xiao also went to the battlefield later where she experienced several brushes with death, and so began to understand why her father and brother wanted to fight in the battle. “As a translator, Li Xiao represented not only herself but also her motherland, which made her more courageous and stronger than ever,” Zhang said.
Actor Zhu Yawen plays military equipment expert Wu Benzheng, who returns to China to serve his country in its hour of need. At the premiere, Zhu spoke about his frustration and shock upon learning about the arduous close combat faced by the CPV soldiers due to their outdated weapons and equipment. “I felt like I’d been transported back in time when I watched the playback — It was like I was watching a documentary,” he said.
Chinese table tennis legend Ding Ning (front row, second left) and Paris Olympic table tennis champion Fan Zhendong (front row, second right) pose for a group photo with the cast and crew of “The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death” at the film’s premiere in Beijing, Sept. 27, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Film Group]
Paris Olympic table tennis champion Fan Zhendong also appeared at the premiere to show his support for the film. He said, “Although I’m just a layman when it comes to films, I can tell that the entire cast delivers outstanding performances, and each role is very impressive.” He mentioned that, as a former serviceman himself, the military rules significantly contributed to his personal growth. Watching the film also brought back memories of the vows he made during his service.
During the premiere, Zhu Yilong interacted with the audience and reflected on a past interview with director Chen Kaige. When asked why he felt compelled to make this film, Chen explained that he feared the CPV soldiers might be forgotten. “I believe this is also why we, as actors, chose to be part of this film,” Zhu said. “These soldiers will not be forgotten here. They will always be there on the screen, and we will always remember them.”
BEIRUT – The World Food Programme (WFP) has launched an emergency operation to provide food assistance for up to one million people affected by the recent escalation of the conflict in Lebanon. The agency is distributing ready-to-eat food rations, bread, hot meals and food parcels to families in shelters across the country.
A further acceleration of the conflict this weekend underscored the need for an immediate humanitarian response. This comes after thousands of people had already been displaced, compounding the fragility of a population burdened by accumulated crises.
WFP, which has been on the ground providing assistance since the first day of the crisis, has to-date reached more than 66,000 people in shelters across the country. WFP has been working with donors and partners for several months to stockpile food supplies in strategic areas across the country and was able to significantly expand its assistance thanks to comprehensive preparations.
“In just a few days WFP assistance has reached thousands of newly displaced people,” said Matthew Hollingworth, WFP Country Director in Lebanon. “Today, I listened to stories of families forced to flee their homes, leaving everything behind in search of safety. As the crisis deepens, we are preparing to assist up to one million people through a mix of cash and food support. However, we urgently need additional resources to sustain and scale up our response.”
To continue these critical operations, WFP urgently requires USD 105 million until the end of the year and calls on the international community to mobilize resources and support the humanitarian response.
Kitchens and hot meal operations have been set up in north and central Lebanon to prepare light meals for those seeking safety in shelters. These facilities will boost WFP’s ability to provide hot meals in response to the growing number of displaced people.
Partners from the food security sector have also contributed by providing hot meals to nearly 14,000 displaced people in collective shelters, demonstrating a coordinated effort to address urgent humanitarian needs.
“Lebanon is at a breaking point and cannot endure another war,” said Corinne Fleischer, WFP Regional Director for the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe. “A further escalation would be highly detrimental to the people of this region, who have gone through so much already. Additionally, it would massively stretch the humanitarian community’s collective operational and financial capacities. WFP is on the ground, but we urgently need funds. More urgently, the people in the region need peace.”
WFP is monitoring the situation and, with currently available resources, can scale up to reach up to one million people affected by the recent escalation for one month.
# # #
The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.
Robots perform dance at a booth during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
The third Global Digital Trade Expo, currently unfolding in Hangzhou, capital of east China’s Zhejiang Province, is offering a glimpse into avant-garde technologies that are unlocking the country’s burgeoning potential in foreign trade.
Over the span of five days, the exhibition is featuring 446 new products and technologies, ranging from robots performing remarkable tasks like opening bottles and sorting waste to AI-driven digital humans engaging in debate competitions.
“I was impressed most by medical AI displayed at the exhibition, such as robotic surgical arms and screening clinics,” said Kgaladi Melia Thema, a consultant for innovation and technology of Small Enterprise Development Agency, South Africa.
“Nurses can use chronic disease management screening products for patients, which can be applied both at home and in clinics. This reduces costs and enables remote patient monitoring, offering great potential,” she added.
Digital technologies such as big data, cloud computing and blockchain are taking center stage at the expo, underscoring how China is harnessing these innovations to propel its foreign trade.
At the booth of iFLYTEK Co., Ltd., a front-runner in China’s AI and speech technology industry, several African visitors were immersed in real-time conversations with staff through a state-of-the-art multilingual AI-powered translation screen. Despite the bustling environment, the screen, equipped with advanced voice recognition technologies, accurately captured and responded to human voices.
“Overseas business is poised to become a significant growth engine for us in the coming years. Our aspiration is for it to constitute one-third of our business segments in the future,” said Liu Qingfeng, chairman of iFLYTEK.
Chinese cultural exports are also stealing the show at the exhibition. In the digital entertainment zone, innovative exhibits such as an AI-powered representation of Su Dongpo, a celebrated poet from the Song Dynasty (960-1279), a virtual museum of traditional Chinese music, as well as a 3D display of the four bronze animal heads from the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan), are offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the richness of Chinese culture.
“The fusion of digital technology with the splendor of traditional Chinese culture has not only expanded our export opportunities, but also invigorated the growth of China’s culture industry,” said Wu Shuang, a staff member of Zhejiang Kayou Animation Co., Ltd., a domestic card game creator.
Visitors are also being treated to futuristic transportation solutions, including autonomous boat taxis and the electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles, all being showcased for the first time at this year’s expo.
“China is rightly regarded as a global leader in digital technologies and innovations,” said Zhaslan Madiyev, minister of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan, adding that China’s advancement in digital trade is not only creating new avenues for cooperation, but also enhancing global trade infrastructure, fostering sustainable development worldwide.
“Chinese technologies and innovations are enhancing supply chains, making them faster and more efficient, while also improving access to goods and services,” Madiyev noted.
According to the Global Digital Trade Development Report 2024 released during the event, global digital trade soared to around 7.13 trillion U.S. dollars (about 1.02 trillion yuan) in 2023, up from 6.02 trillion U.S. dollars in 2021, marking an average annual growth rate of 8.8 percent.
The report also highlighted that the import and export scale of China’s cross-border e-commerce reached 2.37 trillion yuan last year, up 15.3 percent year on year.
Mercado Libre, a leading Latin American e-commerce platform, witnessed a 70-percent increase in online Chinese sellers and a 75-percent surge in their sales on its platform in 2023.
The company has opened its cross-border e-commerce services to Chinese sellers in Mexico, Brazil, Chile and Colombia, according to its representative at the expo, who also emphasized the escalating significance of the Chinese market.
As China’s sole national-level event focusing on the theme of digital trade, the expo has drawn over 1,500 enterprises, including more than 300 international companies, and over 30,000 purchasers this year.
Today we removed an article titled “Should we ditch big exam halls? Our research shows how high ceilings are associated with a lower score”, because the original research has been found to contain errors and has been retracted by the academic journal that published it.
The Conversation’s article, published on July 3, 2024, was based on a study published online by The Journal of Environmental Psychology on June 26, 2024. It looked at the impact of ceiling heights on the exam performance of Australian students, and found that even after accounting for other factors such as age or past exam experience, higher ceiling heights were statistically correlated with poorer exam results.
After the study was published, a query from a reader of the journal article led the authors to review their calculations.
The authors discovered some honest errors in their work, leading them to conclude that the relationship between ceiling heights and exam score was “more nuanced” than presented in the paper.
The revised research manuscript was reviewed by the same anonymous peer-reviewers who looked at the original research. One reviewer did not feel comfortable assessing the statistical corrections, one advised against publishing the corrected manuscript, and a third recommended revisions.
On this basis, the Journal of Environmental Psychology rejected the amended version. The journal’s response can be found here.
The authors, lead by Isabella Bower, apologise for the error, and are working to resubmit their updated research to another journal.
The Conversation has decided that, in light of the current status of the research, the most appropriate option is to retract our coverage of the study. We are committed to providing accurate and reliable information, and to acknowledging errors in an open and transparent way when they occur.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Sept. 29 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday said great times call for heroes and foster heroes.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony conferring the country’s highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.
A galaxy of heroes emerging generation after generation will ensure the lasting prosperity of the Party and the people’s cause, Xi said.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Sept. 29 — President Xi Jinping said on Sunday the Chinese people will never forget international friends who have made prominent contributions to China’s development and the friendship between Chinese and foreign peoples.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony awarding the country’s highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.
Xi lauded Dilma Rousseff, recipient of the Friendship Medal, as an outstanding representative of China’s old friends and good friends who have shared the same aspirations and stood together with the Chinese people over the past 75 years.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The motorcade carrying recipients of national medals and national honorary titles is accompanied by motorcycle escorts on the way to the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. China will hold a high-profile ceremony on Sunday morning to award the highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. [Photo/Xinhua]
BEIJING, Sept. 29 — China will hold a high-profile ceremony on Sunday morning to award the highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.
Escorted by a motorcade, the recipients of national medals and national honorary titles are en route to the Great Hall of the People, where the ceremony will be held.
The motorcade carrying recipients of national medals and national honorary titles is accompanied by motorcycle escorts on the way to the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]The motorcade carrying recipients of national medals and national honorary titles is accompanied by motorcycle escorts on the way to the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]This photo taken on Sept. 29, 2024 shows the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]This photo taken on Sept. 29, 2024 shows the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]This photo taken on Sept. 29, 2024 shows the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]The motorcade carrying recipients of national medals and national honorary titles is accompanied by motorcycle escorts on the way to the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]The motorcade carrying recipients of national medals and national honorary titles is accompanied by motorcycle escorts on the way to the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Members of the Chinese Young Pioneers prepare to welcome recipients of national medals and national honorary titles at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Members of the Chinese Young Pioneers prepare to welcome recipients of national medals and national honorary titles at the square outside the east gate of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, heads for the Great Hall of the People aboard a motorcade in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, heads for the Great Hall of the People aboard a motorcade in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, heads for the Great Hall of the People aboard a motorcade in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, is prepared to leaves Jingxi Hotel for the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Huang Zongde, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Dilma Rousseff, a recipient of the Friendship Medal, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Xu Zhenchao, a recipient of the title of People’s Craftsman, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhang Zhuoyuan, a recipient of the title of Outstanding Contributor to Economic Research, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhao Zhongxian, a recipient of the title of People’s Scientist, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhang Xielin, a recipient of the title of Outstanding Contributor to Sports, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Zhang Jinfan, a recipient of the title of People’s Educator, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Lu Shengmei, a recipient of the title of People’s Health Worker, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Recipients of national honorary titles aboard a motorcade arrive at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]Recipients of national honorary titles aboard a motorcade are about to arrive at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Sept. 29 — China’s central bank conducted 182 billion yuan (about 25.96 billion U.S. dollars) of seven-day reverse repos at an interest rate of 1.5 percent Sunday.
The move aims to keep liquidity in the banking system reasonable and ample at the end of the quarter, the central bank said.
A reverse repo is a process in which the central bank purchases securities from commercial banks through bidding, with an agreement to sell them back in the future.
A ‘haul-out’ is the term given when seals temporarily leave water to rest or reproduce. Haul-Out, Call-Out allows the community to record the location and time of where they have seen a hauled-out seal, as well as several other factors.
Seal sightings recorded via Haul-Out, Call-Out will be used to complement information collected through ongoing drone surveys along the NSW coastline.
The inaugural drone survey took place at Barrenjoey Headland and will be followed by drone surveys at other known haul-out locations in NSW such as Barunguba Montague Island, Seal Rocks Nature Reserve and Steamers Head.
These activities are part of the S2S program’s broader Seal Survey initiative, which includes tagging and monitoring rehabilitated seals after their release to study their preferred habitats.
Earlier this year, Diaz, a New Zealand fur seal, was the fifth rehabilitated seal to be released under the S2S program. After her release from Sydney Heads, she travelled more than 6,000 km down towards Tasmania.
The Seal Survey will inform various marine conservation initiatives in NSW and reduce gaps in knowledge that will assist in mitigating the risks associated with human and seal interactions.
People must keep at least 40 m from an adult seal and 80 m from a pup, as well as keeping their pets under control. The penalty for approaching seals within prescribed distances is up to $1,320.
The Haul-Out, Call-Out launch coincides with Biodiversity Month, a time to celebrate the value of connecting with and caring for nature in all its diversity.
If you spot a sick or injured seal, you can contact NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service on 13000 072 757, or the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia on 02 9415 3333 for the animal to be checked and monitored.
The S2S program, launched in August 2022 and is a four-year initiative focused on protecting and managing NSW’s marine ecosystems. It unites 3 key efforts:
Project Restore
The Great Big Little Penguin Count
The Seal Survey.
The New South Wales Environmental Trust funds S2S to help lead and deliver each initiative, with support from its project partners, including:
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Sydney Institute of Marine Science
Taronga Conservation Society Australia
New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service
Quotes attributable to Kate Akkerman, Senior Policy Officer, Seabirds to Seascapes:
‘Since its inception in 2022, the S2S program has worked tirelessly to restore important habitat in Sydney Harbour as well as supporting the penguin and seal populations throughout the state.
‘Resting in haul-outs is incredibly important for seals which spend most of their time foraging at sea. We call on the public to please respect these animals and give them space, as it is the safest thing for both them and us.’
Quotes attributable to Dr Ben Pitcher, Behavioural Biologist, Taronga Conservation Society Australia:
‘This research is so important because the marine environment is changing rapidly and is facing threats from climate change and human influences such as pollution.
We really need to know where the seals are and what they’re doing so we can understand the threats they face and work to mitigate these threats in the future.’
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Sept. 29 — Chinese President Xi Jinping said Sunday that over the past 75 years the Communist Party of China (CPC) has led the Chinese people of all ethnic groups in creating the twin miracles of rapid economic growth and long-term social stability.
Xi, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony awarding the country’s highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.
Xi hailed the earthshaking changes that have taken place in China and said national rejuvenation is now on an irreversible historical course.
Released by: Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Industrial Relations
The NSW Government and firefighters’ union have reached an agreement that will see an interim pay rise of 3 per cent, industrial action cease and the independent industrial umpire resolve the remaining issues in dispute.
The pay increase for 6,800 Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) firefighters will be backdated to February and follows a 4.5 per cent pay rise (inclusive of super) delivered to firefighters last year, the highest in more than a decade.
The deal comes ahead of formal arbitration on new awards in the Industrial Relations Commission and will help firefighters manage cost of living pressures while also stipulating a pause on industrial action to ensure public services are not disrupted.
This agreement reaffirms the NSW Government’s commitment to a fair, modern and sustainable wages policy for firefighters and helps undo the damage caused by 12 years of pay neglect by the former Coalition government.
The Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild essential services and the industrial relations system is well underway.
This includes introducing a new bargaining framework and re-establishing the independence of the Industrial Relations Commission to assess and determine union and departmental claims. It also includes scrapping the Liberals and Nationals unfair wages cap.
The Minns Labor Government also committed $189.5 million in the 2024-25 NSW Budget to guarantee the jobs of 286 permanent firefighters that were left unfunded by the former government.
Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said:
“I welcome the agreement for NSW firefighters and I thank the firies for their advocacy, patience and support.”
“This is a good step forward but we still have work to do.”
“We appreciate their commitment and service to the people of NSW.”
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
“This agreement with the union shows a commitment to working together to achieve practical outcomes for frontline responders and the community.”
“We continue to work towards an outcome that is fair and sustainable for Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters and the people of NSW.”
“After more than a decade of stagnant wages under the Coalition Government, the Minns Labor Government is delivering for the essential workers of NSW, including these workers on the frontline of rescue and emergency response.”
Released by: Minister for Lands and Property, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces
Planning reforms to fast-track minor works in cemeteries across the state, come into effect from today, scrapping more planning red tape.
The amendment to the Transport and Infrastructure State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) removes the need for a Development Application (DA) on low impact minor works and maintenance activities in cemeteries.
The streamlined pathway will mean cemetery operators and crematoria will not need to submit a Development Application (DA) for minor works like monuments, demolition activities, internal roads and maintenance sheds.
A DA will still be required for development beyond the boundary of an existing cemetery, or development that cannot comply with the proposed controls. It also does not include changes to the number of burial plots or operational hours.
These changes will reduce development assessment timeframes and will also help free up resources in councils, making sure our planners are doing the work they need to do to help speed up the planning system.
The NSW Government has prioritised cutting unnecessary red tape in the state’s planning system after inheriting a system that was as confused as it was confusing.
Many areas of the planning system still have thresholds and triggers that are based on outdated priorities and are not servicing communities in the most effective way. These reforms are just one of the many changes the Government is introducing to make sure the planning system is fit-for-purpose.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) has worked closely with Crown Lands and Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW to ensure the reforms align across all of government.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:
“Cemeteries play a crucial role in our community and are a place that each of us will interact with throughout our lives to honour our loved ones.
The amendment to the Transport and Infrastructure State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) removes the need for a Development Application (DA) on low impact minor works and maintenance activities in cemeteries.
The streamlined pathway will mean cemetery operators and crematoria will not need to submit a Development Application (DA) for minor works like monuments, demolition activities, internal roads and maintenance sheds.
A DA will still be required for development beyond the boundary of an existing cemetery, or development that cannot comply with the proposed controls. It also does not include changes to the number of burial plots or operational hours.
These changes will reduce development assessment timeframes and will also help free up resources in councils, making sure our planners are doing the work they need to do to help speed up the planning system.
The NSW Government has prioritised cutting unnecessary red tape in the state’s planning system after inheriting a system that was as confused as it was confusing.
Many areas of the planning system still have thresholds and triggers that are based on outdated priorities and are not servicing communities in the most effective way. These reforms are just one of the many changes the Government is introducing to make sure the planning system is fit-for-purpose.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) has worked closely with Crown Lands and Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW to ensure the reforms align across all of government.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:
“Cemeteries play a crucial role in our community and are a place that each of us will interact with throughout our lives to honour our loved ones.
“It is imperative that cemeteries can continue to operate effectively now and into the future. Operators should not be spending their time on simple DAs in existing cemeteries.
“These new tailored pathways recognise the unique role cemeteries play and provide simple operational and functional requirements for them to operate effectively.”
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“The Minns Labor Government has been taking action to address the crisis in our cemeteries since day one.
“Once again, we are taking the necessary action to ensure we can meet the future needs in our cemeteries sector through responsible planning, finding more space for burials, and ensuring they are maintained, accessible, and respectful spaces to serve our communities.
“We want all people of all cultures and faiths to have access to sustainable and affordable burial and cremation services, and we will continue to clean up the mess the Coalition left behind.”
“These new tailored pathways recognise the unique role cemeteries play and provide simple operational and functional requirements for them to operate effectively.”
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“The Minns Labor Government has been taking action to address the crisis in our cemeteries since day one.
“Once again, we are taking the necessary action to ensure we can meet the future needs in our cemeteries sector through responsible planning, finding more space for burials, and ensuring they are maintained, accessible, and respectful spaces to serve our communities.
“We want all people of all cultures and faiths to have access to sustainable and affordable burial and cremation services, and we will continue to clean up the mess the Coalition left behind.”
Police have arrested and charged three Hawke’s Bay men after large vegetation fires in Waipawa earlier this month.
The 23-year-olds were arrested after weeks of enquiries into the fires, which began about 11.30pm on 7 September – shortly after fireworks were seen being shot out of a vehicle’s window as it drove along Hautope Road.
Three significant fires were sparked as a result, and flames were fanned by strong winds.
The fires had the potential to cause injury and widespread damage and Police want to thank the quick-thinking member of the public who raised the alarm and prevented the situation from getting any worse.
Police made the arrests on 27 September. The men face charges of arson and are due to appear in the Hastings District Court on Tuesday 1 October.
It’s the end of an era on the T3 Bankstown line, as the final heavy rail journeys make their way along the tracks and Metro transformation work ramps up, ahead of the closure on Monday 30 September.
Final preparations are underway for stations and tracks to shut between Bankstown and Sydenham, before major construction begins first thing on Monday morning.
Initial work will focus on Bankstown, with the highly complex separation of rail tracks, and installation of platform screen doors, mechanical gap filler and fencing.
The conversion of the line to metro is scheduled for a 12-month delivery program, but involves difficult upgrades to a 130-year-old rail line, meaning it could take longer.
The final T3 Sydney Trains service will roll out of Circular Quay Station at 12:06am on Monday morning, bound for Bankstown. The carriages are expected to be packed with hundreds of train enthusiasts to honour the occasion.
The Bankstown line opened in stages from 1896, while steam trains ruled the rails. 30-class steam locomotives were among those that rolled along the line, with a similar 32-class locomotive returning two weeks ago to make a final heritage run.
The 1920s brought electrification and the start of decades of passenger services on Sydney’s iconic red single deck electric trains.
Famous visitors on the service included Queen Elizabeth II in 1980 for the incorporation of Bankstown as a city. Queen Elizabeth’s journey started at Bankstown and crossed into the newly opened Eastern Suburbs Railway to Martin Place. While these two stations have operated on separate lines for the last four decades, passengers will be able to catch a direct service between them when Metro opens.
With the T3 Bankstown line closing from tomorrow, passengers are reminded to plan their trip and allow extra travel time.
During the conversion period, free pink Southwest Link buses will provide frequent services running from early in the morning until late at night. Travel will take longer, especially in peak hour –doubling journey times in some cases, according to indicative modelling.
Work is underway to bring the new T6 Lidcombe & Bankstown train line into operation in the coming weeks. T6 will connect Bankstown to Lidcombe Station via Yagoona, Birrong, Regents Park and Berala. In the meantime, additional fare-free buses will replace trains between Lidcombe and Bankstown.
Transport is also preparing to make permanent adjustments on the train and bus networks from 20 October 2024. The changes will support the final conversion of the T3 Bankstown line to Metro operations and respond to the introduction of Metro services from Chatswood to Sydenham.
In the past 15 months, 450 services a week have been added to the Inner West light rail between Dulwich Hill and the city to accommodate more passengers, and work is wrapping up on new cycling links.
The Southwest Metro project will include a new 17km walking and cycling path along the alignment, set to be completed within around a year of Metro opening to Bankstown. The section between Marrickville and Sydenham is being fast-tracked to open on Monday to give the community another way to travel.
The 1.4km link will mean there is a safe, separated cycleway so people can safely travel from the Marrickville area to the new bicycle lockers (with 156 parking spaces) at Sydenham Metro Station. A map of this interim link is attached.
When the conversion is complete in approximately late 2025, passengers will have access to a high-tech metro line with a train every 4 minutes during the peak, along with fully accessible stations and services. Currently there are stations on the T3 that only receive four trains an hour in the peak.
This final section of the metro line will eventually be known as the M1 Northwest & Bankstown Line, completing the transformative 30km alignment between Bankstown and Tallawong.
“The Bankstown line has been a stalwart of NSW railways – faithfully serving communities for over a century. Today we want to honour the past, as we look to our city’s bright public transport future.
“We’ve seen this line move from steam trains, to electrification – now it’s time for its latest upgrade to allow for modern metro trains.
“T3 deserves a fitting farewell and we know many Sydneysiders will be taking one last heavy rail ride today.
“The line’s closure marks the end of an era, but the beginning of a new one. This T3 transformation will see the line continue to serve our city throughout the century to come.
“There’s no sugar-coating it – this closure will be an incredibly tough time for these communities, and we’ve been upfront that it could take longer than a year. Please allow plenty of extra travel time, check your trip planner apps, or transportnsw.info.”
Tomorrow marks the official start of the 2024-25 bush fire season, as high fuel loads present challenges for fire agencies across the state.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is prepared for a predicted warm summer, with firefighters having responded to more than 1,600 bush and grass fires across the state since 1 July.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib joined Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers for a helicopter flight to survey some of Sydney’s most at-risk suburbs today.
Taking off from Arcadia Rural Fire Brigade station, the Minister and Commissioner inspected recent hazard reduction work undertaken in the Hornsby area, as fire agencies and land managers continue work to reduce fuel loads for the warm months ahead.
The NSW Government has funded 100 additional hazard reduction crew members to conduct this important work.
RFS firefighters train and prepare year-round to respond to fire and other emergency incidents and with most of NSW now in the Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP), it is important that the community prepares as well.
Residents are encouraged to take simple steps to lower their fire risk, including:
Trim overhanging trees and shrubs.
Mow grass and remove the cuttings and have a cleared area around your home.
Remove material that can burn around your home, such as door mats, wood piles, mulch and flammable liquids.
Clear and remove all debris and leaves from gutters surrounding your home.
Prepare a sturdy hose or hoses that will reach around your home.
While some areas have already entered the Bush Fire Danger Period, the statutory bush fire season runs from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025.
Bush Fire Survival Plans and information on preparing your property and family are available on the RFS website at http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au. Residents can stay up to date on fires in their area using the RFS website, the Hazards Near Me app, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
“We have already seen dangerous fire conditions in NSW, with recent hot, dry and windy weather rapidly drying out bush and grass land areas, increasing the fire risk.
“With high temperatures forecast this summer, we cannot be complacent. Everyone needs to take the time now to make sure they understand their risk, discuss their Bush Fire Survival Plan with their family and download the Hazards Near Me app.”
“I thank all our RFS volunteers and emergency service personnel for their work to protect communities across the state and encourage residents and landowners to do their part to prepare themselves, their families and properties.”
Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers said:
“Consecutive years of wet weather have fuelled growth of vegetation like grass lands, particularly west of the Great Dividing Range. Grass fires can be especially dangerous because they start quickly and spread rapidly, destroying homes and stock.”
“Our firefighters are out on the ground doing everything they can to mitigate the risk of fire, but preparation is a shared responsibility, and we need property owners to do their part, too.
“There can never be a fire truck outside every home, so people need to have a plan in place if threatened by fire. Make sure your whole family knows whether you will stay and defend your home or will leave early – and if so, where you will go.”
Fire and Rescue NSW Acting Commissioner Paul McGuiggan said:
“If you’re planning to travel, especially over the holiday period, be aware of the risk of fast-moving grass fires.
“Before you leave, check the weather forecast and fire danger ratings for that area and have a plan to leave should a grass or bush fire take hold.”
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Executive Director Park Operations Coastal Naomi Stephens said:
“NPWS is working hard to prepare for the upcoming bushfire season. We are slashing and mowing areas of highest risk next to houses and other property and ensuring that our fire trails are cleared and available for firefighters in the event of bushfire.”
“Our trained firefighters are carrying out hazard reduction burning, where and when conditions allow, to reduce the risk and are ready to respond to bushfires to protect the community and the parks.”
In an Australian-first, New South Wales is charging up for a cleaner cruise industry, with a $20 million contract awarded to begin the landmark Shore Power project at White Bay Cruise Terminal.
Shore Power is wharf-side infrastructure that provides cruise ships with electricity by connecting to a landside charger, which results in fewer emissions as the engine does not have to stay running while docked.
This marks a huge step towards reducing cruise ship pollution, ensuring the cruise industry can be more sustainable and continue to thrive in NSW.
It comes as the summer cruise season officially kicks off in NSW, with the arrival of Diamond Princess into our harbour on Thursday morning and the Pacific Adventure at White Bay on Friday morning.
The latest data shows the cruise industry contributed $2.75 billion to the NSW economy in 2022-23 and created approximately 9,000 jobs.
This project means cleaner air and less noise for the residents of Balmain and Rozelle, with the precinct and population expected to grow in the coming decade as the Bays Metro West opens and much-needed housing is delivered.
Shore Power is estimated to reduce emissions associated with the White Bay precinct by over 4,000 tonnes every year.
The contract for the charger at White Bay berth 5 has been awarded to global leader in shore power technology, Powercon, with initial work to prepare the site set to begin by the end of 2024.
The move puts Sydney on par with other global cities adopting this technology, such as in Europe, where shoreside electricity will be mandatory at all main ports from 2030.
With critical equipment in high demand, the White Bay Cruise Terminal Shore Power project is targeted for completion by late 2026.
Once operational in 2026, it will be mandatory for any ship that docks at White Bay Cruise Terminal that is shore power enabled to use available shore power. The vast majority of ships that use White Bay are already shore power enabled.
Port Authority will determine the best mechanism to implement the shore power mandate, likely to be through contract obligations with its cruise industry partners.
Both NSW and Federal Labor announced their support for shore power in 2019. The former NSW Liberal Government promised to deliver it in 2022 and said it would be ready by 2024 but failed to allocate funding to the project.
The Minns Labor Government is leading the rollout of Shore Power at other ports across Australia by supporting the development of Australian Standards that will inform future projects.
Federal Member for Sydney Tanya Plibersek said:
“Five years ago, Labor promised we would deliver shore power for White Bay Cruise Terminal, and cleaner air for the community on the Balmain peninsula. Today that promise is being kept.
“This will be the first project of its kind in Australia, and it will be run on renewables. Awarding the contract for the Shore Power equipment design, fabrication, supply and installation, marks a major milestone in this complex project.
“The community in Balmain has had to wait far too long for shore power to become a reality. They will remember that the former NSW Liberal Government claimed to support this project, but would not commit a single dollar of government funding.”
NSW Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:
“Today the contract to deliver shore power at White Bay Cruise Terminal has been signed, sealed, and delivered, ensuring less cruise ship pollution for generations to come.
“This will be the first major shore power infrastructure in southern hemisphere and the carbon emissions reduction this project at White Bay will achieve is equivalent to taking 1,100 cars off Sydney’s roads or planting 20,000 trees each year.
“The Minns Labor Government has done what the former government could never do. We’ve put pen to paper and begun the process to deliver cleaner air for the Balmain Peninsula and set White Bay Cruise Terminal up for a sustainable future.”
Port Authority NSW CEO Philip Holliday said:
“Port Authority is focused on progressing the Shore Power project to our revised delivery date and creating a world-class, integrated, sustainable port of the future that supports our economy, the community and the NSW Government’s vision for the area.”
Police acknowledge the conviction of John Hope Muchirahondo on 17 charges of sexual violation in the High Court in Christchurch today.
“I would like to acknowledge the significant bravery and strength shown by the many complainants in this case.
Sharing their experiences with police and throughout the judicial process has required grit and courage. They have had their memories attacked and attempts made to discredit their account. They have withstood the challenges and their voices heard. They should be incredibly proud of their actions and I hope these verdicts bring some measure of peace and closure.
I would also like to acknowledge the professionalism and tenacity of the investigation team and Crown prosecutors, and thank them for their tireless work on this case.
And finally, I would like to thank the members of the jury, for their careful attention and deliberations throughout this trial.
The New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey (Ministry of Justice, 2023) findings estimate that more than one in three New Zealand women experience one or more incidents of sexual assault in their lifetime. I encourage any person who would like some advice or would like to report a sexual assault to contact police.”
Police in Papakura have helped reunite a rider with his beloved scooter, 10 years after it was originally stolen.
Counties Manukau South Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Clive Wood, says officers recently located a youth riding a scooter, which had been reported stolen from a property in Whangārei a decade earlier.
“Officers spoke to the person on the scooter who explained they had just recently bought it from Facebook Marketplace.
“They were quite upset after learning the scooter was stolen so Police assisted in tracking down the seller and negotiating regarding the money.
“Thankfully, the money was reimbursed to a very thankful family.”
Senior Sergeant Wood says the scooter’s registered owner had parked the scooter behind his friend’s house in Whangārei at the time and had forgotten about it.
“He didn’t realise it was stolen and by the time he did it was too late.
“Our staff contacted the owner after locating the scooter, which came as a huge surprise to him given the length of time.
“When he picked it up From Papakura Police Station he was extremely grateful, and we were stoked to be able to return it to its rightful owner.”