THE ROLE OF CHINESE CULTURE AND PHILOSOPHY IN THE MODERN WORLD

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

MIRLAN DYLDAEV, Rector of the Bishkek State University named after K. Karasaev

China is a country with a centuries-old history and a unique, distinctive culture that continues to amaze the world with its inexhaustible wealth of traditions. The role of Chinese culture in the world is vast and multifaceted: it has had a profound influence on the formation of civilizations in Asia and continues to play a significant role in modern global society.

Many of humanity's achievements have their roots in Chinese civilization. Ancient China gave the world paper, gunpowder, the compass, and printing—inventions that radically changed the course of history not only for Asian peoples but also for the European continent. Furthermore, such traditional Chinese materials as silk and porcelain became important commodities in global trade, and the Silk Road became a bridge between East and West.

The philosophical legacy of Confucianism and Taoism has influenced the philosophy, ethics, and social norms of many Eastern countries and remains a subject of study in the social sciences and humanities worldwide as important sources of wisdom in matters of social governance, interpersonal relationships, and achieving harmony. Fundamental principles of ancient Chinese philosophy such as humaneness, harmony, order and hierarchy, the golden mean, the value of family, and respect for elders remain relevant in today's globalizing world. And the ideas of Taoism—following the natural order of things ("Tao") and striving to live in harmony with nature—are more relevant than ever today in the face of climate change and global environmental challenges.

Modern China actively utilizes its rich spiritual culture as a tool of soft power to strengthen its international influence. Chinese culture, while maintaining its unique identity, actively adapts to modern realities and continues to enrich global civilization, offering its solutions and ideas for addressing global problems. A clear example of this is the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity and the Belt and Road Initiative, which reflect the interests and development direction of all humanity.

Confucius Institutes are opening around the world, promoting the Chinese language and culture, fostering mutual understanding and expanding ties. To strengthen educational cooperation between China and Kyrgyzstan, in accordance with the decision reached by the heads of state at the 2007 SCO Bishkek Summit and thanks to the joint efforts of Xinjiang University and Bishkek State University named after K. Karasayev (BSU), a Confucius Institute has been successfully operating at our university since June 15, 2008.

BSU named after K. Karasaev is the first university in Kyrgyzstan to train specialists in the history and culture of China. This began in 1991. In 2004, we opened the Kyrgyz-Chinese Faculty, which plays a key role in strengthening cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and China in higher education. The faculty employs approximately 40 faculty members and enrolls over 800 students.

Over the past few years, from 2022 to 2025, more than 40 of our students completed language internships at universities in China. In July 2024, the best students attended a summer camp in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, under the Belt and Road Scholarship Program. In July 2025, 10 of the best students attended the Urumqi-Xi'an Summer Camp. In November 2025, 10 students participated in a spring camp at Northwest University in Xi'an.

Over the course of the faculty's existence, major projects have been implemented with the support of the Chinese side: on September 25, 2002, with the assistance of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, the Chinese Language Center was established; in 2019, with the support of the Press Office of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, a Chinese pavilion was opened at BSU; in December 2013, based on a cooperation agreement between the headquarters of the Confucius Institute (formerly the Office of the State Leading Group for the Dissemination of the Chinese Language Abroad) and BSU named after K. Karasayev with universities of the People's Republic of China, the "2:2 Educational Program for the Training of Linguists and Sinologists" was developed: students of the faculty were able to study on a grant basis at universities in the People's Republic of China; from 2013 to 2021, 128 students successfully completed this program.

Every year, at the initiative of the Kyrgyz-Chinese Faculty, the International Scientific and Practical Conference "Cooperation between Central Asian Countries and China through the Eyes of Youth" and an inter-university competition for second- to fourth-year students on Chinese phonetics are held. A quiz on Chinese history, culture, geography, politics, and writing, where students demonstrate their knowledge of China, is of great interest to first- to second-year students.

As cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and China deepens, the demand for highly qualified simultaneous interpreters is growing, while the existing training system does not yet fully meet the demands of the modern labor market. Therefore, the creation of a new department of "Theory and Practice of Simultaneous Interpreting" is urgent. The university has already approved the establishment of this department.

Kyrgyzstan had previously lacked comprehensive research in Sinology, so the creation of a Kyrgyz-Chinese research center at the university became urgent. Thanks to this, graduate students and postgraduates have begun conducting research on the Chinese language, culture, and philosophy. The center opens up new research areas for university education. We at BSU see the need for interdisciplinary research in Sinology, the development of new curricula, and the creation of conditions for integrating science into the economic and sociocultural development of Kyrgyz-Chinese relations.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Footage from the South China Sea

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

In recent days, the China Coast Guard's Sandu detachment of ships has been patrolling and maintaining watch in an area of the South China Sea, ensuring the protection of the country's maritime rights and interests. Coast Guard personnel conduct regular patrols and law enforcement activities, organize daily training exercises, and provide traffic control and services to passing vessels.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

"BECOMING CHINESE": UNDERSTANDING AND EXCHANGE BETWEEN CULTURES

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

GAZIZA UZAK, senior journalist at Nazarmedia Kazakhstan

A new cultural phenomenon has exploded on social media: the "going Chinese" trend—and it's not what you might think, but a vivid manifestation of the spirit of the Global Civilization Initiative, which calls for respect for cultural diversity and the promotion of mutual exchange among peoples around the world.

In recent weeks, global social media has been abuzz with a unique phenomenon – the trend known as "going Chinese." At first glance, the name may sound odd, as if someone seriously wants to change their nationality. But in reality, it's a far more multifaceted and vibrant phenomenon, reflecting how young people interpret and perceive culture through digital platforms and embodying the ideas of the Global Civilization Initiative – a desire for mutual understanding and unity through cultural contacts.

Short videos are increasingly appearing on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, featuring users experimenting with Chinese cuisine, trying out rice porridge, drinking tea, and even hot water—which for some has become a symbol of health, and for others, simply a joke. People point out Chinese characters, try on traditional clothing, share their "very Chinese moments," and smile under hashtags like "A very Chinese time in my life"—all of this isn't just entertainment, but a voluntary cultural exchange that underlies the global civilization initiative. These videos are full of humor and a touch of irony: users joke, as if to say, "I'm so deep into this right now, I'm practically Chinese!" However, this play on words conceals a far more interesting phenomenon: curiosity about another culture, faith in its values, and genuine joy in new discoveries—precisely the qualities that facilitate the global civilization initiative and bring the world's peoples closer together.

Why has this trend become so popular? Experts attribute its success to several factors that also reflect the relevance of the global civilization initiative: the global spread of Chinese culture—from cuisine to TV series and technology—which have long been part of everyday life around the world, creating a natural foundation for the cultural exchange envisioned by the global civilization initiative; the convenient short video format, which allows for an entire cultural layer to be showcased in seconds, blending it with humor and individuality, becoming an effective tool for spreading ideas of intercultural understanding; and the openness of young people to new experiences and cultural exchange, where the boundaries between traditions are erased in the digital space—an important social factor supporting the ideas of the global civilization initiative and fostering a culture of mutual respect.

Experts note that "becoming Chinese" is not an attempt to become a member of another nation, but a symbol of respect, interest, and a light, youthful interplay of cultures. This is clear confirmation that the global initiative for civilization is not just empty words, but is becoming a reality in people's everyday actions: the world has become closer, and cultural diversity is not a barrier, but an opportunity to be inspired, learn, and laugh together, as envisioned by the ideas of global understanding and human unity.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Changde, Hunan: Azure River and Lively Banks

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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

The Chuanzihe River, which flows through the central part of Changde in Hunan Province, is an ancient canal with a thousand-year history. In the past, it suffered greatly from pollution. In 2006, local authorities launched a river restoration and cleanup project. Through the implementation of the "sponge city" concept, the Chuanzihe has gradually been transformed and become an important commercial and tourist waterway.

In January 2017, the historic Changde Hejie Street on the riverbank was restored. Today, it has become a unique public space combining tourism, recreation, entertainment, and residential living.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

95 percent of the Chinese population is covered by basic health insurance

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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, March 16 (Xinhua) — By the end of 2025, more than 1.33 billion people in China were covered by basic medical insurance, accounting for approximately 95 percent of the country's total population, according to official statistics released by the National Medical Insurance Administration (NMIA) on Monday.

According to the department, during the reporting period, the total revenue of the fund under China's national basic medical insurance system, including maternity insurance, amounted to nearly 3.59 trillion yuan (about 520 billion US dollars), and the total expenditure of China's basic medical insurance fund was 3 trillion yuan. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Spring flowers are blooming everywhere in China.

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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, March 15 (Xinhua) — As the weather warms, spring flowers are blooming in many parts of China, and people are heading outdoors to enjoy the spring scenery.

BEIJING, March 15 (Xinhua) — As the weather warms, spring flowers are blooming in many parts of China, and people are heading outdoors to enjoy the spring scenery.

BEIJING, March 15 (Xinhua) — As the weather warms, spring flowers are blooming in many parts of China, and people are heading outdoors to enjoy the spring scenery.

BEIJING, March 15 (Xinhua) — As the weather warms, spring flowers are blooming in many parts of China, and people are heading outdoors to enjoy the spring scenery.

BEIJING, March 15 (Xinhua) — As the weather warms, spring flowers are blooming in many parts of China, and people are heading outdoors to enjoy the spring scenery.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Full text of the report on China's central and local budgets

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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, March 14 (Xinhua) — Following is the full text of the Report on the Implementation of the Central and Local Budgets for 2025 and the Draft Central and Local Budgets for 2026, which were approved at the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) on March 12.

Read the full text of the document in the attached file.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Full text of the report on the economic and social development plan in China

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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, March 14 (Xinhua) — Following is the full text of the Report on the Implementation of the 2025 Economic and Social Development Plan and the Draft Plan for 2026, which was approved at the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) on March 12.

Read the full text of the document in the attached file.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Why did Shanghai take second place in the "Best Cities in the World" ranking?

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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

British urban culture magazine Time Out recently published its ranking of the world's 50 best cities for 2026. Shanghai took second place, becoming the highest-ranked city in Asia. Melbourne took first place.

Time Out magazine, founded in 1968, is a renowned travel guide dedicated to urban lifestyle. Its annual ranking of the world's best cities has been conducted since 2016 and is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

Unlike traditional city rankings, this one is based on the real-life experiences of residents and evaluates 44 indicators, including food, culture, nightlife, affordability, happiness, and urban atmosphere. This year, the study covered 150 cities worldwide, with over 24,000 respondents participating, and the final results were based on expert assessments.

Shanghai ranked 17th in 2021, rose to ninth in 2025, and has already reached second place globally this year. This upward trend clearly demonstrates that, in a rating system focused on the resident experience, Shanghai's international appeal is steadily growing.

Time Out magazine attributes Shanghai's inclusion in the ranking to four key factors: city atmosphere, everyday experience, degree of openness, and cultural appeal.

Regarding the city's atmosphere, Time Out describes Shanghai as a place where historical heritage and the spirit of the future combine: here, the "world-class" buildings of the Bund coexist with traditional neighborhoods, while new themed restaurants, popular international brands, signature coffee shops, and creative bars are popping up one after another.

Regarding everyday experiences in the city, the data shows that 88% of residents consider eating out affordable, 90% say they can afford cultural activities such as going to a coffee shop or a movie, and 78% say they find cycling convenient.

From a public policy perspective, Time Out particularly notes that China has been actively expanding its visa-free regime in recent years. Citizens of 50 countries enjoy unilateral visa-free entry, while reciprocal visa-free travel is available with 29 countries, and the list continues to grow. All this significantly simplifies travel for foreign tourists to Shanghai.

At the same time, social media is helping to dispel existing stereotypes about China abroad. On one hand, the "becoming Chinese" internet meme is gaining popularity on foreign platforms, and more and more foreign bloggers are trying to live the "Chinese way of life." On the other hand, foreign tourists are sharing their impressions of China through cameras: from public transportation and digital payments to food service, and more. These real and vivid stories are sparking interest in Chinese culture, the city's appearance, and the country's development and innovation.

Looking at this year's ranking as a whole, Melbourne, a city renowned for its sporting events, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse culinary scene, took first place. Edinburgh ranked third thanks to its walkability, abundance of green spaces, vibrant cultural scene, and high levels of resident satisfaction. London, New York, Cape Town, Mexico City, Bangkok, Seoul, and Tokyo also made the top ten, ranking fourth through tenth, respectively. Each of these cities scored highly in areas such as culture, environmental friendliness, consumer opportunities, nightlife, and urban atmosphere.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

113 drones shot down over Russia in 6 hours, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.

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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

Moscow, March 15 (Xinhua) — Russian air defense forces shot down 113 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) over Russian regions in six hours, including 14 en route to Moscow, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement published Sunday.

“On March 15, between 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM Moscow time, air defense systems on duty intercepted and destroyed 113 Ukrainian aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles,” the military department reported.

According to the Ministry of Defense, 73 UAVs were destroyed over the territory of the Bryansk region, 18 over the territory of the Moscow region, including 14 flying to Moscow, 7 over the territory of the Kaluga region, 6 over the territory of the Smolensk region, 5 over the territory of the Kursk region, and 1 each over the territories of the Belgorod, Tver, Yaroslavl regions and over the waters of the Black Sea. –0–

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.