The Culture and Art Fair has become an important brand for cultural exchanges between China and Russia

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — The 15th China-Russia Culture and Art Fair, which kicked off on July 26 in Heihe City, Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, will end on August 20 in the Russian city of Blagoveshchensk.

The event, first held in 2010, has become an important link between Chinese and Russian culture and art, as well as an important brand promoting cultural cooperation and exchanges between China and Russia, the Chinese newspaper Zhongguo Wenhuabao /Chinese Culture/ emphasizes.

On Wednesday, the newspaper published an article titled “Let the citizens of China and Russia sing, dance and have fun,” which described the events that have already taken place within the framework of the 15th China-Russia Culture and Art Fair, as well as the significance of its holding.

The article says that the current fair is being organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China, the People's Government of Heilongjiang Province, the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, and the government of the Amur Region. Its program includes 47 events in four areas, including high-level mutual visits, cultural exchanges, presentation events, and the construction of a border cultural and tourism corridor, designed to intensify cultural and tourism ties between border cities in the two countries.

He Jing, Director of the Heilongjiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, said that through vibrant and diverse exchange activities, the organizers of the fair intend to promote Chinese-Russian cultural exchanges and innovative development of the cultures of the two countries, strengthen spiritual communication and friendship between the peoples of the two countries, and promote bilateral exchanges and cooperation in various fields to a higher level.

The above-mentioned newspaper drew attention to one of the main events of the fair – the cultural and tourist show “Evening Banquet on the Banks of the Heilongjiang River”, which takes place on weekends in the “Shanghui” Square in the city of Heihe. At it, citizens of China and Russia sing in chorus, dance, play solo saxophone and perform other numbers, thus providing cultural and audiovisual pleasure to city residents and visiting tourists.

On August 1, the Heihe city opened an exhibition of calligraphy and painting works as part of the fair, which featured 200 works by calligraphers and artists from all over China. The fair program also included a Chinese-Russian exhibition of paintings on the theme of winter and a thematic photo exhibition on the theme of ice patterns on the glass of frozen windows.

The above-mentioned newspaper article said that the fair in Heihe City included an intangible cultural heritage display, a China-Russia food festival, a China-Russia fishing competition, a China-Russia chess competition, a Heihe Fitness Day and a mass aerobics competition.

Heihe Mayor Qin Bo said that the aforementioned fair has built a bridge for deepening mutual understanding and strengthening friendship through cultural and artistic activities, people-to-people interaction and tourism programs, brought out the cultural vitality and tourism potential, and injected new impetus into the prosperity and development of the border areas of the two countries.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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Summer is the time of real tourism boom in China

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Summer vacation in China is a time when people with children go on trips and vacations, helping to generate a tourism boom.

BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Summer vacation in China is a time when people with children go on trips and vacations, helping to generate a tourism boom.

BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Summer vacation in China is a time when people with children go on trips and vacations, helping to generate a tourism boom.

BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Summer vacation in China is a time when people with children go on trips and vacations, helping to generate a tourism boom.

BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Summer vacation in China is a time when people with children go on trips and vacations, helping to generate a tourism boom.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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China increases aid to UNRWA, calls for global support

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

AMMAN, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — China signed a contribution agreement on Wednesday for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and called for further international support for the organization, which says it faces an "existential crisis" due to the war in Gaza and a severe funding shortage.

The agreement, part of Beijing's annual donation, was signed in the Jordanian capital by China's head of mission to Palestine Zeng Jixin and UNRWA's director of partnerships Karim Amer.

Zeng Jixin praised UNRWA's "indispensable" role in providing humanitarian aid to millions of Palestinian refugees. China has increased its annual donations and provided medicine and other aid since the conflict in Gaza began, the diplomat added.

"China calls on the international community to continue to support UNRWA," Zeng Jixin said, adding that Beijing is willing to work to end the fighting and achieve a just and lasting solution based on the principle of "two states for two peoples."

UNRWA faced a major financial crisis when several key donor countries suspended contributions following Israeli allegations that several agency staff members were involved in Hamas-led attacks on 7 October 2023. Although many donors have since resumed giving, the organisation says it still faces “very significant” financial challenges.

UNRWA communications director Juliette Touma said the agency was also facing an "existential crisis" amid the devastating conflict in Gaza, where at least 340 of its staff have been killed since the war began.

"China has been a close friend of the Palestinian refugees, a close friend of UNRWA. We always welcome their contribution," said J. Tuma, expressing gratitude to Beijing for its support.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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Afghanistan prepares to celebrate victory over US-led foreign troops

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

KABUL, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Afghanistan's interim government is preparing to celebrate Victory Day, marking the defeat of US-led foreign troops on Aug. 15, 2021. Four years ago, the day paved the way for the withdrawal of foreign troops from the country.

All major roads, including the one connecting Kabul's international airport to the deserted US embassy, were draped with white administration flags on Thursday.

In addition, slogans reading “Afghans defeated the invaders” are posted on the walls of some government buildings and at transport interchanges.

The interim government of Afghanistan came to power on August 15, 2021, and the last American soldier left the country on August 31 of that year.

Following the defeat and withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan, the country's interim government declared August 15 "Victory Day." –0–

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Thailand's central bank cuts interest rate to 1.5 percent

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

BANGKOK, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Thailand's central bank on Wednesday cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points, the fourth cut in 10 months, to support a sluggish economy amid weak private consumption and global trade tensions.

The Bank of Thailand's Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to cut the overnight repurchase rate to 1.5 percent from 1.75 percent, taking borrowing costs to their lowest since February 2023.

The central bank said in a statement that Thailand's economy is projected to grow this year and next in line with its previous estimate, but that U.S. trade policies will exacerbate structural problems and weaken competitiveness, especially for vulnerable small businesses.

Looking ahead, economic growth is expected to slow in the second half of the year due to the imposition of U.S. tariffs and a decline in short-term tourist arrivals due to increased regional competition, the statement said.

The central bank's monetary policy committee secretary, Sakkapop Panyanukul, said the monetary policy framework aims to maintain price stability, promote sustainable growth and preserve financial stability.

“The committee believes that monetary policy needs to be somewhat more accommodative to provide a favourable financial environment for business adjustment and help ease the burden on vulnerable groups,” S. Panyanukul said at a news conference.

The central bank also noted the importance of ensuring macro-financial stability given the limited room for policy maneuver. –0–

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During the summer holidays this year, the average daily number of tourists entering and leaving Suifenhe checkpoint broke the historical record for the past three years.

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — The popularity of cross-border tourism at Suifenhe Port in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province continues to grow during the summer holiday, with the average daily number of incoming and outgoing tourists at the port exceeding 1,500, breaking the historical record for the same period in the past three years, according to the website of the Suifenhe Municipal People's Government.

With rich cultural heritage and unique color, Suifenhe City is an ideal place for recreation, health improvement and tourism.

In recent years, relying on excellent ecological resources, the city has continuously upgraded tourism products and consumption patterns. The summer economy in Suifenhe has been developing dynamically, attracting more and more tourists to enjoy the city's refreshing coolness.

Yan Siying, a representative of Suifenhe Customs, noted that during the summer holidays of this year, many cultural and sports events are held in Suifenhe under the joint initiative of China and Russia, which leads to frequent human exchanges. In addition, various types of cross-border tourism are also very popular.

Yan Siying further noted that Suifenhe Customs and Border Control have opened a "green channel" to ensure efficient customs clearance and passport control for seriously ill tourists.

It is worth recalling that, thanks to its unique geographical location and constantly improving health service system, Suifenhe City has seen a boom in cross-border medical and health services this summer, focusing on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), giving new impetus to the city's development.

The city has been consistently optimizing the structure of its medical and healthcare industry in recent years. For example, Suifenhe People's Hospital has integrated local resources of key specialties with unique areas such as TCM physical therapy and rehabilitation treatment, developing personalized health programs for Russian tourists. Professional interpreters accompany guests from appointment to rehabilitation observation, ensuring a seamless cross-border health and wellness experience. -0-

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Hungary issues highest heat alert

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

BUDAPEST, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Hungarian health authorities have issued a level 3 heat alert, the highest in the country, for the entire territory from Thursday to Sunday, based on the latest forecasts from national weather service HungaroMet.

Forecasters say average daily temperatures in many areas will exceed 27 degrees Celsius, with peak temperatures likely to exceed 35 degrees.

Authorities warn that such extreme heat poses a serious risk to everyone's health, including those in good physical condition. The highest heat alert was last issued on June 24.

A nationwide ban on campfires in forests and within 200 metres of them is in effect from Sunday. Authorities warn that the vegetation is so dry that it could be ignited by a spark or heat source. While open fire cooking or grilling is permitted in private gardens, fires must not be left unattended.

There have been 8,106 registered open-air fires in Hungary this year, injuring 55 people and burning a total of 93 million square meters of land.

Officials are urging people to drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, caffeine and drinks high in sugar, and limit outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day. They are also stressing that children, the elderly, the sick or pets should never be left in parked cars.

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Chinese brands dominated Indonesia's EV market in first seven months of this year

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

JAKARTA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brands dominated Indonesia's EV market from January to July, data released by the Indonesian Automobile Industry Association (KGAIINDO) showed Wednesday.

Chinese automaker BYD led the market in the first seven months, selling 16,427 units of electric vehicles. Its strong performance was supported by popular models such as the M6, Sealion 7, Atto 3, Seal, and Dolphin. In late July, BYD unveiled its latest city EV, the Atto 1, at the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show, attracting attention with a starting price of Rp 195 million (about US$12,080).

In second place was BYD Group's premium sub-brand Denza with 6,256 electric cars sold, followed by Chinese manufacturer Wuling with 6,210 units. Chery took fourth place /5,196 units/, while Aion was fifth /3,126 units/.

Overall, EV sales in Indonesia reached 42,178 units from January to July, almost matching the total annual sales target of 43,188 units in 2024.

Indonesia's government has pledged to cut carbon emissions by switching from fossil fuels to clean energy. –0–

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South Africa hosts Africa Water Investment Summit with call for safe water for all

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — The first Africa Water Investment Summit kicked off Wednesday in Cape Town, the legislative capital of South Africa, with a call to ensure safe water for all people on the continent.

The conference, convened by South Africa as part of its G20 Presidency and co-organised with the African Union (AU), the AU Development Agency and the African Union High-Level Panel on Water Investment and the African Water Investment Programme (AU-AIP), aims to mobilise at least US$30 billion per year to close the water investment gap in Africa.

The event, which runs from Wednesday to Friday at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, brings together African heads of state, G20 representatives, investors, ministers and development institutions as part of South Africa's G20 Presidency under the theme "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability".

“This summit is a landmark moment not only for Africa, but for the global movement for access to safe water for all,” South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said in his opening remarks.

During the summit, delegates will engage in high-level dialogues, project linkage meetings and work towards a Water Investment Declaration to be adopted at the end of the event. –0–

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The wife of former South Korean President Yoon Seok-yel has arrived at the special prosecutor's office for questioning.

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

SEOUL, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Kim Kong-hee, the wife of ousted former South Korean President Yun Seok-yol, arrived at the special prosecutor's office on Thursday for questioning over corruption charges related to the presidential couple.

As seen in livestream footage, a prison van carrying Kim Kun-hee arrived at an office in the center of the South Korean capital at around 09:53 local time /00:53 GMT/ from the Seoul Southern Detention Center in the southwest of the city.

Kim Kong-hee was detained after a Seoul court issued an arrest warrant for her on Tuesday evening at the request of independent prosecutor Min Joon-ki, who is leading the investigation into corruption charges.

For the first time in the country's constitutional history, the presidential couple were taken into custody at the same time.

Yun Seok-yeol has been held in a separate detention center since July 10 on charges of rebellion over the brief imposition of martial law last December.

Kim Kong-hee was suspected of involvement in securities fraud from 2009 to 2012, meddling in the nomination of candidates for the 2022 parliamentary by-elections and the 2024 general election, and accepting lavish gifts in exchange for business favors. –0–

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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