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 Disneyland has introduced a series of new anti-smoking measures to mark World No Tobacco Day on Saturday.
These measures include reducing the number of designated smoking areas, increasing the number of “No Smoking” signs, and increasing the training of staff members on anti-smoking protocols, the resort said.
Overall, 24 designated smoking areas were removed from the resort, cutting the total number by about half. The number of designated smoking areas at Shanghai Disneyland was reduced to 11.
Additionally, changes have been made to the location of smoking areas away from high-traffic areas and major thoroughfares, including near character meet-and-greet areas and parade routes. The relocation of locations is intended to minimize guests’ exposure to second-hand smoke.
More than 2,800 “No Smoking” signs have been placed in key locations such as main entrances and exits, dining areas and other high-traffic areas. The signs also include e-cigarette symbols to clearly indicate the categories of tobacco products that are prohibited.
Posters featuring Chief Bogo from Zootopia have been placed in various locations. Guests can scan a QR code to find the nearest designated smoking area. -0-
Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Gaganyatri will carry out a series of shortlisted microgravity research experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS) during the upcoming Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, according to an official statement from ISRO.
The Axiom-4 mission, scheduled for launch on June 8, will be piloted by Gaganyatri Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is set to travel to the ISS. ISRO has selected seven microgravity experiments proposed by Indian Principal Investigators (PIs) from various national research and development laboratories and academic institutions for execution aboard the ISS as part of the Ax-4 mission.
Microgravity research presents valuable opportunities for advancements in fields such as human health, physical and life sciences, material science, pharmaceutical development, and biotechnology. The selected studies include investigations into the impact of microgravity and ISS radiation on edible microalgae, the sprouting of salad seeds in space and its relevance to crew nutrition, the survival, revival, reproduction, and transcriptomic analysis of the eutardigrade Paramacrobiotus sp. BLR strain in space, and the effect of metabolic supplements on muscle regeneration under microgravity. Other experiments will examine human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity and the influence of microgravity on the growth and yield of food crop seeds.
These experiments are designed to utilize existing research facilities on board the ISS. Given the safety-focused operational philosophy and other mission-related constraints of human spaceflight, the shortlisted experiments are currently undergoing rigorous evaluations and reviews on the ground prior to launch.
According to ISRO, the experience gained from executing these experiments will help nurture a microgravity research ecosystem in India, enabling the inclusion of more advanced microgravity studies in future missions of the Indian Space Programme.
The Ax-4 mission marks a historic milestone as it includes the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will become the first ISRO astronaut to travel to the ISS and the second Indian to go to space after Rakesh Sharma, who flew aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in 1984. IAF Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair has been designated as the backup pilot for the Ax-4 mission in the event Shukla is unable to fly.
Alongside Shukla, the Ax-4 crew will include two mission specialists: European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. The mission will be commanded by Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut and the current Director of Human Spaceflight at Axiom Space.
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Matthew Powell, Teaching Fellow in Strategic and Air Power Studies, University of Portsmouth
The frontlines in the Russo-Ukrainian conflict have largely been bogged down, with little significant movement on either side. It was reported recently that Russian troops had only advanced about 25 miles in the eastern sector near Donetsk in one year, at a huge cost in terms of casualties. As a result, both sides have sought different ways of trying to gain a strategic advantage over their opponent.
Air power has long been a recognised way of restoring a degree of mobility to the battlefield. But in Ukraine, neither side has been able to achieve control of the air, thanks to the quality of their air defences. So instead, both sides are using drones for “tactical” (small-scale) effect.
At this point, it’s worth focusing on the three levels of warfare: tactical, operational and strategic. The chart below, taken from the US Military Review, illustrates how these levels work – operating as a “distinct hierarchy with marginally overlapping areas between the strategic and the operational, and between the tactical and the operational”.
The three levels of war: tactical, operational and strategic. Army University Press
The tactical level is where small actions are planned and executed. At the operational level, major operations and campaigns are planned with a view to achieving strategic objectives. The strategic level involves longer-term ways to achieve the overarching political objectives of a conflict.
Russia’s ability to deploy long-range missiles and longer-range drones (such as the Shahed 136) that can strike targets – both military and civilian – deep inside Ukraine, has given it a strategic advantage.
The prohibition on Ukraine using weapons supplied by its allies to strike targets in Russia has put it at a considerable disadvantage – meaning that Ukraine’s military has been unable to exploit these weapons’ full potential. So, Russia has been able to build a considerable military/industrial base without threat of attack.
But now, the decision to lift these restrictions by the UK, US and, most recently, Germany will allow Ukraine to attack a wider range of targets and create more strategic difficulties for Russian political and military leadership.
In particular, it’s worth highlighting the recent statement by the German chancellor, Friedrich Merz, who announced on May 28 that Berlin would help Kyiv develop new long-range weapons that can hit targets in Russian territory.
To what extent Ukraine will be able to exploit this greater latitude to attack targets inside Russia remains to be seen. But the prospect of long-range missiles being used against its cities – the German Taurus missiles have a range of more than 500km – could give Ukraine a degree of leverage in any fresh peace talks.
The lifting of these restrictions is unlikely to make much difference on the ground for some time, though. While theoretically, Ukraine will be able to strike at some of Russia’s military production sites, Russia has dramatically overhauled its arms production capacity. Nato’s top US commander is reported to have recently told a Senate Armed Services Committee that Russia is “on track to build a stockpile three times greater than the United States and Europe combined”.
No restrictions – for now
It’s also worth noting that both the US and UK signalled their willingness to allow their long-range missiles to strike at missile launchers inside Russia late last year as a defensive measure – but on a limited scale and only using domestically produced weapons, in contrast to the attacks conducted by Russia.
What is different in the most recent announcement is the lifting of restrictions on what can be targeted with weapons provided by western allies, rather than those domestically produced by the Ukrainian defence industry. This is an extension of an initial lifting of restrictions in late 2024 by the US and UK, further broadening the targets that can be attacked.
But the relaxation of these restrictions could be reversed very quickly if Ukraine launches large-scale strikes against civilian populations – which could generate highly adverse publicity for Ukraine and the countries that supplied the weapons.
Russia’s targeting of Kyiv in recent weeks has been bitterly criticised by the US president, Donald Trump, who posted on his TruthSocial website recently: “[Vladimir Putin] has gone absolutely crazy. Needlessly killing a lot of people.”
But Kyiv’s allies will also be wary of how Russia may react. Russia has always threatened dire consequences if Ukraine uses western-supplied weapons to launch attacks within Russia.
Indeed, the political ramifications of the lifting of restrictions are likely to be more consequential than the military outcomes – for now, at least.
Matthew Powell does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHIJIAZHUANG, May 31 (Xinhua) — Five people were killed and two were injured in an explosion at a chemical plant in Wuyi County, north China’s Hebei Province on Friday, local authorities confirmed Saturday.
According to the Wuyi County Emergency Management Department, the explosion occurred at around 6:30 p.m. on Friday in a workshop where a cleaning container exploded.
Firefighters, police officers, medics, and emergency response teams quickly arrived at the scene to carry out rescue operations.
The rescue operation at the site has now been completed. The two injured are reported to be in stable condition. The cause of the explosion is under investigation. -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) — Business activity in China’s manufacturing sector continued to show signs of improvement in May, amid faster production and stronger market expectations, official data showed Saturday.
In May 2025, China’s manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) was 49.5, up 0.5 percentage points from the previous month, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Saturday. A PMI above 50 indicates expansion in the manufacturing sector, while one below 50 indicates contraction.
NBS statistician Zhao Qinghe said the improvement reflects faster production and more positive business expectations.
The production sub-index rose to 50.7, up 0.9 from the previous month, indicating a stronger pace of industrial production, the data showed. The new orders index also rose 0.6 to 49.8.
It is noteworthy that the business activity index at large enterprises returned to the growth range and amounted to 50.7, which is 1.5 higher than the April figure and indicates an improvement in the business environment at large enterprises.
High-tech manufacturing continued to expand for the fourth month in a row, reaching 50.9, while the equipment manufacturing and consumer goods sub-indices rose to 51.2 and 50.2, respectively.
Market expectations also improved during the reporting period. The index of expectations for production and business activity rose to 52.5, up 0.4 from the previous month, indicating that industry enterprises generally remain confident about the market development in the near term, Zhao Qinghe said.
The continued recovery in the manufacturing PMI suggests that the combined effect of more positive macroeconomic policy measures is beginning to emerge, as well as improved business expectations and signs of recovery in manufacturing activity, analysts said.
Data released on Saturday also showed that China’s non-manufacturing PMI stood at 50.3 in May, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month but still broadly on track for growth.
The service sector maintained a steady momentum, helped by tourism and catering during the May Day holidays, Zhao Qinghe said.
According to Wen Tao, an analyst with the China Logistics Information Center, efforts will need to be made in the future to stimulate domestic demand and promote high-level external opening-up to expand new growth in external demand, thereby strengthening the country’s economic resilience and enhancing its ability to withstand risks. -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
XI’AN, May 31 (Xinhua) — Police in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, said Saturday that a man was detained for damaging two artifacts protected by the state as second-class cultural relics.
On Friday at around 5:30 p.m., a 30-year-old man surnamed Sun broke through the protective barriers and jumped into the No. 3 archaeological excavation pit at the Qinshihuang Terracotta Warriors Museum, according to a statement released by the Xi’an Public Security Bureau’s Lintong District branch, where the museum is located.
The report said Sun damaged two statues of armoured warriors when he pushed and pulled them, adding that he had been found to be suffering from mental illness. -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 article by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, on accelerating China’s development into a powerhouse with great educational potential will be published on Sunday.
The article by Xi Jinping, who is also the president of China and chairman of the Central Military Commission, will be published in the 11th issue of this year’s leading journal of the CPC Central Committee, Qiushi. -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) — The Chinese military on Saturday conducted combat-ready patrols in the territorial waters and airspace around China’s Huangyan Island and surrounding areas, an official statement said.
The People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) Southern Zone Combat Command this month organized naval and air forces to continuously strengthen patrols in the sea and airspace around the territorial waters near China’s Huangyan Island, to further strengthen command and control over relevant waters and airspace.
The move is aimed at resolutely safeguarding China’s national sovereignty and security, as well as maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea region, the PLA Southern Command said. -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
With the growing convenience and appeal of “China tours,” more and more foreign tourists are choosing to travel and shop in China, which is becoming a global hub for tourism and shopping. With easy entry policies and tax incentives, industrial strength and cultural charm, China has become a hot destination for foreigners to discover an open, inclusive and dynamic modern China.
The phenomenon of the “China boom” is driven by policy. China has been warmly welcoming tourists from all over the world, consistently expanding the list of countries for which visa-free travel is available, optimizing payment terms for foreign tourists, increasing the convenience of exit tax refunds, and implementing other specific measures. These measures demonstrate China’s determined approach to continuously expanding its opening to the outside world, which has contributed to the growing interest in China.
Interest in China reflects the quality of “Made in China” products. In recent years, the shopping list of foreign tourists in China has been expanding, from clothing and food to mobile phones and translation devices, from small appliances to smart home devices. The increasing high-tech content of “Made in China” products enhances their competitiveness in the global market, which attracts foreign tourists to China in search of good things. Mobile phones, computers, smart wearables, drones and other hot products among foreign tourists in China not only reflect the innovative strength and technological strength of China’s manufacturing industry, but also indicate China’s strengthening position in the global value chain. From clothing and footwear to electronics, from affordable daily needs to luxury products, the richness and variety of choices in China’s consumer market attract crowds of foreign shoppers. Foreign tourists’ suitcases filled with Chinese goods are a sign of trust in “Made in China” products and recognition of China’s development achievements.
The “fascination with China” is also driven by the integration of culture and tourism. In addition to silk, tea, porcelain and other traditional products, modern products in national style, cultural and creative products and technological innovations have become the new favorites of foreign tourists. The modernization of China’s cultural and tourism industry, the promotion of cross-industry integration of tourism with culture and technology not only brings “Made in China” products to the international arena, but also allows foreigners to fully experience the charm of Chinese culture and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s modern development achievements.
At a time when globalization is in reverse and protectionism is on the rise, China is stubbornly sticking to its course of widening openness and deepening cooperation to expand opportunities, thereby proving to the world that true economic security comes from deep connectivity, not isolation.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
WASHINGTON, May 31 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump bid farewell to Elon Musk in the Oval Office on Friday after the billionaire announced his decision to step down from his position at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
“I just want to say that Elon has worked tirelessly to help lead the largest and most significant government reform program in generations,” he said.
Mr. Musk has “made a huge change to the old ways of doing things in Washington,” the president said, adding that some of his staffers will retain positions in the administration.
“I look forward to remaining a friend and adviser to the president,” Musk told reporters after Trump presented him with a golden key.
Musk, who has spent about $300 million supporting the election campaigns of Donald Trump and other Republicans, recently said he plans to significantly cut his political spending. “I think I’ve done enough,” he said. –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) — The China Coast Guard (CCG) conducted law enforcement patrols in territorial waters off China’s Huangyan Island and surrounding areas on Saturday.
The BOC statement said that this month, the BOC has continuously strengthened law enforcement patrols in the territorial waters near China’s Huangyan Island and adjacent areas, and carried out tracking, interception and expulsion operations in accordance with laws and regulations to strengthen the management and control of relevant waters, vowing to firmly safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. -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) — Technology-oriented small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in China received increased credit support in the first quarter of this year, data from the People’s Bank of China (PBOC, the central bank) showed Friday.
By the end of the first quarter, 49.6 percent of technology SMEs received loans, which is 3.6 percentage points more than in the same period last year, according to the NBC report.
The balance of outstanding loans to technology-oriented SMEs in local and foreign currencies amounted to 3.33 trillion yuan (US$463 billion), up 24 percent year on year. This figure outpaced the overall growth of lending by 17.1 percentage points.
The report also shows an increase in credit support for high-tech companies: the balance of outstanding loans to these companies in local and foreign currencies increased by 8.5 percent year-on-year, which is 1.6 percentage points higher than the overall rate of credit growth.
By the end of the first quarter, the volume of green loans issued in local and foreign currencies reached 40.61 trillion yuan, up 9.6 percent from the beginning of this year, the report said.
Real estate lending has stabilized, with outstanding real estate loans in yuan reaching 53.54 trillion yuan by the end of the first quarter, up 0.04 percent year-on-year, while real estate development loans reached 13.87 trillion yuan, up 0.8 percent year-on-year. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Moscow, May 31 /Xinhua/ — China celebrated the 9th National Day of Scientists and Technologists on May 30. On this occasion, a gala reception and the 6th ceremony of presenting the Chinese Ambassador’s Award were held at the country’s embassy in Russia on Friday.
At the event, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui expressed gratitude to Chinese and Russian scientific and technical workers. He noted that China is currently implementing a strategy to stimulate development through innovation. The country has made a number of historic achievements in fundamental research, breakthroughs in high technology, and commercialization of scientific and technical achievements, the diplomat added.
According to Zhang Hanhui, China and Russia complement each other well in the field of scientific and technological innovation, have a good foundation and broad prospects for cooperation in this area. China is ready to continue to strengthen cooperation with the Russian Federation in this area, promote high-quality development of the two countries and contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind, the ambassador said.
At the ceremony, Russian Presidential Aide for Science and Education Andrei Fursenko congratulated Chinese and Russian scientific and technical workers on the holiday and gave a positive assessment of the fruitful results achieved by the two countries in scientific and technical cooperation in recent years.
He emphasized that China and Russia share a common concept of scientific and technological development. Russia is ready to work with China to deepen pragmatic cooperation in the areas of fundamental and applied research, as well as the application of scientific and technological achievements, A. Fursenko said.
At the ceremony, Zhang Hanhui presented awards to 24 laureates of the Chinese Ambassador’s Award and eight laureates of the Cooperation Award. The Chinese Ambassador’s Award was established in 2020 by the Chinese Embassy in Russia jointly with the Russian Union of Scientific and Engineering Public Associations (RosSNIO) to promote exchanges and cooperation between young scientists of the two countries.
On the same day, the Chinese Embassy in Russia also opened a photo exhibition dedicated to Chinese-Russian cooperation in the field of scientific and technological innovation. –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
ULAN BATOR, May 31 (Xinhua) — More than 6,400 heads of livestock have died in steppe fires in Mongolia between January and May 2025, the country’s General Administration of Emergency Situations said on Saturday.
During the specified period, a total of 54 families were left homeless in 12 Mongolian aimags.
In view of this, the General Administration of Emergency Situations has once again warned residents of Ulaanbaatar and 21 Mongolian aimags not to light fires or throw cigarette butts on the ground in the current drought conditions.
As of Saturday, firefighters are working to contain one steppe fire in Mandal soum of Mongolia’s Selenge aimag, an official statement said. –0–
Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –
A student of the State University of Management, Aidar Minaev, together with his team, won 1 million rubles in the show “Catch Me If You Can” on the Russia 1 channel.
The teams “Stars” and “Participants” faced off in the fight for the main prize.
18 guys from different cities of our country performed on stage, singing popular songs first to a soundtrack, and then live.
The team of stars had to guess which of the participants couldn’t sing over the course of three rounds. The more correct answers, the more points. The opposing team received points for incorrect guesses. As a result, the team that scored more points would be able to compete in the final round for one million rubles.
Aidar Minaev performed a song by Dima Bilan as part of a trio, dressed as the singer himself. The star team of Igor Nikolaev, Katya Lel, Yan Tsapnik, and Klara Novikova couldn’t figure out which of the guys could really sing until they heard their voices live.
As a result, the “Participants” team reached the final, was able to guess the vocal abilities of the “dark horse” and won one million rubles.
“Back in the first season, I participated in the creation of this show and voiced the voices of pop stars for the non-singing participants. And this season, I managed to transform into Dima Bilan. Thanks to the Russia 1 TV channel for the invitation and the opportunity to win. Our team won, and we plan to spend the winnings on developing creativity,” shared Aidar Minaev.
Let us recall that last year the singer from GUU took part in the show “Brighter than the Stars” on the TNT TV channel, where he performed as Leonid Agutin.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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) — Ji Jiantao, a technician with Nongxin Technology (Tianjin) Co., Ltd., trains local farmers on how to use autonomous driving systems for agricultural machinery during the peak soybean planting season in Ussuriysk, Russia.
“We are continuously increasing innovative developments in the field of smart agriculture and have already supplied dozens of sets of auto-navigation equipment to Russia,” said the company’s senior engineer Yan Bingxin at the China-SCO AI cooperation forum held on May 29 in Tianjin.
The synergy of “AI plus agriculture” not only transforms the industry, but also reflects China’s contribution to the creation of global AI-based public goods. Xinhua learned that the forum, titled “Chinese Intelligence for the Benefit of the SCO,” has become an important platform for promoting the “Shanghai Spirit” and strengthening cooperation in new areas, aiming to deepen practical cooperation in AI development and governance.
Artificial intelligence is a strategic technology that defines the new scientific and technological revolution. In recent years, China has made comprehensive and systematic progress in the innovative development of AI, forming a relatively complete industrial system in the field of AI.
Cleaning robots with “computer vision,” heavy-duty robots for transporting wind turbine blades, digital systems for high-precision medical examinations – as a key participant in the SCO’s digital cooperation, China is promoting the implementation of AI solutions in the organization’s countries. Dozens of technology companies are demonstrating notable results.
In one of the swimming pools in Kazakhstan, a cleaning robot with hybrid infrared-ultrasonic sensors, using AI algorithms, thoroughly cleans every corner of it. The robot is controlled via a mobile application.
“Users monitor the cleaning process remotely,” explained Yu Guoxing, international sales manager at Deepinfar Ocean Technology Co., Ltd. According to him, the Kazakhstani distributor purchased 40 devices at one time, and the attractiveness of the products is actively expanding the customer base in Russia, Tajikistan and other countries.
The “Plan for the Establishment of the China-SCO AI Applied Cooperation Center” was presented at the forum. The center will open its doors to all SCO member countries to ensure inclusive access to artificial intelligence technologies.
The forum participants expressed their readiness to jointly expand cooperation in the field of applied solutions, develop the digital economy and deepen innovative interaction, directing “intellectual dividends” to ensure high-quality development.
“Cooperation in the field of AI is one of the most dynamic areas of interaction in the SCO,” said Deputy Secretary General of the organization Oleg Kopylov. According to him, within the framework of the SCO, the interconnectedness of AI infrastructure will be strengthened, the technology ecosystem will be improved, industrial development will be synchronized, and academic exchanges will be deepened. -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) — The Young Pioneers of China (YPC) had about 113 million members by the end of 2024, according to the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League of China (CYL).
In the country, within the framework of the OYUK, 176 thousand grassroots committees for the work of pioneer organizations with more than 3 million leaders operate in primary and secondary schools, the KSMK reported.
Since its founding in 1949, OYPC, under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, has played an important role in promoting the healthy growth of children.
All Chinese children aged 6 to 14 years old can join the YUCK.
The latest data was published ahead of International Children’s Day, which is celebrated on Sunday. -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
JERUSALEM, May 31 (Xinhua) — Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Friday called on Hamas to accept the ceasefire offer in Gaza made by U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East Steven Witkoff “or be destroyed.”
According to media reports, Witkoff’s proposal includes the release of 10 surviving Israeli hostages and the handover of the bodies of 18 dead in two stages in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. In return, the Israeli side will release 1,236 Palestinian detainees and hand over the bodies of 180 Palestinians.
In a statement released by his office, I. Katz said the Israeli military was continuing operations in Gaza at full force, carrying out attacks from the air, land and sea on an unprecedented scale “to provide maximum protection to our soldiers in preparation for the deployment of maneuver forces to each area.”
In a statement released on Friday, the Israeli military said the Israeli Air Force and ground forces had struck dozens of targets in the Gaza Strip since Thursday, “killing terrorists, destroying weapons, terrorist infrastructure and underground infrastructure.”
It is added that during the military operations, two rocket-propelled grenades were fired at Israeli troops, resulting in three soldiers receiving minor injuries.
Of the 251 hostages taken during the Hamas attack in October 2023, 57 remain in Gaza, 34 of whom are presumed dead, according to the Israeli army. –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
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-
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.
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–
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: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BISHKEK, May 31 (Xinhua) — A themed event to mark the Duanwu (Dragon Boat Festival) was held at Bishkek State University (BSU) in Kyrgyzstan on Friday.
The event, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Kyrgyzstan and the Confucius Institute at BSU, was attended by more than 200 people, including representatives of the Chinese diaspora and enterprises with Chinese capital in Kyrgyzstan, Confucius Institutes, Chinese students studying in Kyrgyzstan, as well as people from other circles of society.
During her speech, Chinese Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Liu Jiangping spoke in detail about the long history and rich content of the Duanwu Festival. The diplomat also highly appreciated the fruitful results of Chinese-Kyrgyz relations, fully recognizing the contribution of the Chinese diaspora to strengthening the friendship between the two peoples, and stressed that the embassy will continue to make every effort to provide the necessary services.
Chairman of the Kyrgyzstan-China Friendship Society Medetbek Bukuev congratulated the friendly Chinese people on the holiday. According to him, Duanwu is not only a traditional holiday of the Chinese people, but also a common holiday for all of humanity. He expressed hope that the friendship between Kyrgyzstan and China will constantly grow stronger in the process of mutual study of civilizations.
The event included a concert featuring Chinese and Kyrgyz dances, music on the Kyrgyz folk musical instrument komuz, Xinjiang songs, etc. At the same time, the Confucius Institute at BSU organized various cultural events, such as making “zongzi” /a traditional dish made from glutinous rice with various fillings, wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves/, tasting Chinese tea, calligraphy, felt embroidery, and dressing up in traditional Chinese costumes. Numerous local residents happily took part in the organized events and gained new impressions.
Bermet Myktybekova, a second-year student at BSU majoring in International Relations, is very interested in the Chinese language and Chinese culture. “Our Chinese teacher invited us to this event,” she said, adding that she learned about Duanwu for the first time, but found the event very interesting and exciting. “I hope to deepen my knowledge of this holiday in the future,” she noted.
Duanwu Festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. This year, it is celebrated on May 31. Three days from May 31 to June 2 are declared holidays in China. –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
SEOUL, May 31 (Xinhua) — A fire broke out on a train on subway line 5 in the South Korean capital Seoul at around 8:47 a.m. local time on Saturday, local media reported.
A man in his 60s and 70s brought a torch and canister onto the subway and allegedly started a fire between Yeunaru and Mapo stations, according to police and witnesses. The suspect has been arrested by police, Renhap News Agency reported.
The train passengers were evacuated, there are no reports of casualties yet. Firefighting operations at the site have been completed.
According to the Seoul Subway Authority, train service was suspended between Yeunaru and Eogae stations due to the incident. –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
JERUSALEM, May 31 (Xinhua) — Israel has decided to block the visit of foreign ministers from several Arab countries to the West Bank on Sunday to meet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, local state-run Kan TV reported on Friday evening.
The planned visit by the foreign ministers of Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is a “provocative act” aimed at advancing discussions on the creation of a Palestinian state, Israeli Foreign Ministry officials said.
The country’s Foreign Ministry representatives also noted that the Palestinian Authority continues to refuse to condemn the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
“Israel will not cooperate with activities directed against it and its security,” the statement said. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday that he discussed the meetings of Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Türkiye in a phone conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The prisoners-of-war exchange was “an important but unfortunately, the only one” achievement of the first meeting in Istanbul, which took place on May 16, Zelensky said in a post on Telegram.
He emphasized that a ceasefire is necessary in order to make further progress toward peace.
The two leaders also discussed the possibility of a next meeting, including the conditions under which Ukraine would be ready to participate.
“We share the view that this meeting cannot and should not be empty,” Zelensky noted.
He added that the conversation also touched on the potential organisation of a four-party meeting involving the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, Türkiye, and the United States.
