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Agreements worth $4.1 billion were signed at an investment forum in Dushanbe.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

Dushanbe, October 16 (Xinhua) — Fifty-two cooperation agreements worth $4.1 billion were signed at the Dushanbe-Invest-2025 International Investment Forum held in the capital of Tajikistan. This was reported on Thursday by the Asia-Plus news agency, citing Sulton Rahimzoda, Chairman of the State Committee on Investment and State Property Management of Tajikistan.

In particular, five agreements worth $2.5 billion were signed in the energy sector, nine agreements worth $386 million in the industrial sector, eight agreements worth $334 million in the communications and digitalization sector, and four agreements in the area of public-private partnership.

Agreements in the communications sector cover areas such as the digital economy, internet infrastructure, 5G technologies, and digital education.

The energy sector agreements cover the construction of solar and wind power plants, as well as the implementation of educational projects. They are aimed at strengthening energy security and developing renewable energy sources.

The International Investment Forum “Dushanbe-Invest-2025” on the theme “Green Investments: Opportunities Today for a Sustainable Future” was held from October 14 to 16. –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.

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China's energy cooperation with Russia is legal and legitimate, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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, October 16 (Xinhua) — China's normal trade and energy cooperation with other countries, including Russia, is legal and legitimate, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Thursday.

The diplomat made this statement at a regular departmental briefing in response to US President Donald Trump's remarks that "it's time to force China" to also stop purchasing oil from Russia, after receiving a corresponding assurance from India.

As Lin Jian pointed out, this behavior by the United States is a typical example of unilateral bullying and economic coercion, seriously violates international economic and trade rules, and threatens the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains.

Noting that China's position on the Ukrainian crisis has always been objective, fair, and open, Lin Jian emphasized that the Chinese side resolutely opposes the United States making China a scapegoat at every opportunity and using illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction against it.

If China's legitimate rights and interests are harmed, China will take countermeasures to resolutely safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests, the official said.

Commenting on the UK's decision to include Chinese energy companies and port operators on its sanctions list for supporting the Russian energy sector, Lin Jian said China was extremely dissatisfied with this move by the British side and had issued a stern warning to the UK.

China opposes unilateral sanctions that are not based on international law and have not received the approval of the UN Security Council, the diplomat said.

According to Lin Jian, China is committed to advancing peaceful negotiations to resolve the Ukrainian crisis, but normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian companies should not be disrupted or affected.

China will do everything necessary to resolutely protect its legitimate rights and interests, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman added. –0–

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On October 14, a meeting of the Working Group on the Preservation and Strengthening of Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values, organized by the Public Council under the Ministry of Natural Resources, was held in the building of the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Save Nature Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The main theme of the meeting was the development of a concept for the activities of public organizations and private initiatives in the field of environmental and patriotic education of youth, as a unified direction for creating a culture of active citizenship.

Working group members and members of the Public Council, together with representatives of environmental and patriotic NGOs, discussed how to align the initiatives of public organizations engaged in environmental and patriotic education with the traditional values outlined in the decree of the President of Russia, as well as identifying successful practices and tools for incorporating traditional values into environmental education activities. An important component of the discussion was the understanding that patriotic education is based on the principle of the inextricable link between ecology, historical memory, and love for the Motherland, where caring for nature is seen as a continuation of the memory of the heroic deeds of our ancestors.

The meeting began with an opening speech by Nikolai Sergeyevich Doronin, Chairman of the Public Council under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation, who emphasized the symbolism of the intersection of the 17 values with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

The floor then passed to Vladimir Evgenievich Pinaev, a member of the Public Council's working group on the preservation and strengthening of traditional Russian spiritual and moral values, who focused on patriotic education and noted that patriotism is based on a love of nature.

Pavel Aleksandrovich Pokrovsky also greeted those present in a video message and noted the contribution of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the working group members to the development of a cultural and active civic position for public organizations.

Presentations of activities and exchange of practices in environmental education, taking into account the promotion of traditional values, began with a speech by Lieutenant Roman Vladimirovich Ledenev, head of the TINAO All-Russian public organization of veterans "COMBAT BROTHERHOOD."

The floor was then given to Maxim Vladimirovich Tokarev, Director of the ANO “Center for the Development of Environmental and Social Projects,” member of the Coordinating Council of the All-Russian Environmental Movement “Ecosystem,” member of the expert council of the State Duma Committee on Ecology, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, member of the Coordinating Council for Environmental Well-Being under the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation.

Natalia Mikhailovna Tornqvist, President and Founder of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation and member of the Public Council under the Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources, spoke about the significant contribution to the development of traditional cultural, spiritual, and moral values in her speech, noting the importance of developing environmental culture and environmental habits within the family.

Yuri Valentinovich Bazhutkin, President of the Association of Ecological Architects for the Administration and Support of Business Processes and Social Projects, emphasized the need to meet young people's needs for relevant content and to communicate with them in a common language.

Arkady Sergeevich Kostyuzhev, Director of the "Ordinary Business" Charitable Foundation for Children and the Environment, will share his experience recycling waste, including turning soft toys into military pillows.

Irina Vasilyevna Golovacheva, Deputy Director for Educational Work at the Patrice Lumumba Institute of Ecology at RUDN University, spoke about the work of the Information and Resource Center "Our Heritage," specifically on educating schoolchildren and developing a sense of responsibility and pride for their native land.

Naila Gainullina, a member of the board of trustees of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation, also took part in the working group meeting.

The discussion then began, with active participation from the Public Council members. Participants discussed green issues, waste recycling, and a special focus on environmental education, awareness, and environmental career guidance.

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.

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On October 14, a meeting of the Working Group on the Preservation and Strengthening of Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values was held at the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia. The meeting was organized by the Public Council under the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Save Nature Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Members of the working group and the Public Council, together with representatives of environmental and patriotic NGOs, discussed how to align the initiatives of public organizations engaged in environmental and patriotic education with the traditional values outlined in the decree of the President of Russia. They also discussed identifying successful practices and tools for incorporating traditional values into environmental education activities. An important component of the discussion was the understanding that patriotic education is based on the principle of the inextricable link between ecology, historical memory, and love for the Motherland, where caring for nature is seen as a continuation of the memory of the heroic deeds of our ancestors.

Natalia Tornqvist, President and Founder of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation and member of the Public Council under the Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources, spoke in the section on presenting activities and sharing practices in environmental education, taking into account the promotion of traditional values. She spoke about the importance of developing environmental culture and environmental habits in the family:

"Most parents would like to see their children develop into people with high moral and ethical standards. A child's upbringing and education begins in the family from birth. It depends on the mother, father, and grandparents whether the child will develop a well-developed consciousness and an environmental awareness."

"Environmental culture includes basic knowledge of ecology and practical skills, an emotional attitude toward nature (empathy, compassion, and sympathy), and the ability to notice and perceive the beauty of the world around us," noted Natalya Mikhailovna.

The speaker dedicated her report to the contribution of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation to the development of traditional cultural and spiritual-moral values:

"The Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation collaborates with and provides financial support to many specially protected natural areas. Our projects help raise an environmentally responsible generation."

Natalya Mikhailovna also shared interesting formats for environmental education:

"For successful environmental education, it's important to engage children in environmental issues through engaging forms of interaction. To this end, the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation has released a fascinating environmental board game, "The Amazing World of Russian Invertebrates."

The Foundation also publishes photo catalogs, books, and atlases popular with libraries and scientists. Of particular value is the international whale catalog, created jointly by staff from the Beringia National Park and marine mammal specialists from Lomonosov Moscow State University.

We hold creative competitions, such as "Tame Reindeer," which attracted over 1,000 entries. Among the initiatives we've supported is an essay contest for schoolchildren. In 2024, the winner of the "Amazing and Unexplored Arctic" competition for high school students took part in aerial monitoring of polar bears. Initiatives like these allow children not only to learn more about nature but also to feel part of an important cause aimed at improving the lives of future generations.

Speaking of traditions and values, we'd like to mention the annual "Reserve Christmas Tree" matinee, which has been held at the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation with the support of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation for four years in a row.

In 2024, we launched a free educational course on ecology, "Living Action for the Revival of Nature," for schoolchildren, teachers, students, young parliamentarians, and anyone interested in protecting nature. We are currently preparing to launch the second season.

“We also prepare and conduct engaging lessons for schoolchildren about nature and ecology,” noted N.M. Tornqvist.

In closing, Natalya Mikhailovna thanked everyone for the invitation and the opportunity to share her experiences, and expressed hope for uniting caring people and promoting environmental thinking:

"We believe that each of us can contribute to preserving the natural heritage of our great country, because loving our homeland means protecting its nature, preserving the memory of the past, and building a future worthy of those who bequeathed to us the care of the land, water, and air passed down to us by our ancestors."

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.

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UN: Cuts in humanitarian funding will lead to hunger for millions of people

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Source: United Nations – United Nations –

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October 16, 2025 Humanitarian aid

Nearly 14 million people could face acute food insecurity by the end of the year, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned. This is due to a sharp reduction in humanitarian funding. Six of WFP's most critical operations are at risk.

This concerns aid programs in Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Haiti, Somalia, South Sudan and Sudan, where the organization's work is already being disrupted and the situation will only worsen.

“Every cut in rations means a child goes to bed hungry, a mother goes without food, and a family loses the support they need to survive,” said WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain.

Record hunger levels

The current crisis is unfolding against the backdrop of record levels of global hunger319 million people worldwide face acute food insecurity, with 44 million of them on the brink of starvation. Sudan and Gaza have already registered full-scale famine.

This year, WFP will receive 40 percent less funding than last year, with a projected budget of $6.4 billion compared to $10 billion in 2024.

"We risk losing decades of progress in the fight against hunger," McCain stressed.

“Even hard-won gains – such as in the Sahel region, where 500,000 people have been lifted off humanitarian aid through integrated food support and sustainable development programmes – could be undone without the necessary funding,” she added.

Critical operations are at risk

Funding cuts could push 13.7 million people currently receiving food assistance into emergency situations, according to a new WFP report.

In Afghanistan, less than 10 percent of those in need receive food, despite rising malnutrition rates.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, famine has reached record levels: a quarter of the country's population—28 million people—are experiencing food insecurity. This month, 2.3 million people were supposed to be fed, but due to resource shortages, only 600,000 will receive aid, and by February, supplies may cease altogether.

Read also:

The UN Secretary-General called for global unity in the fight against hunger.

In Haiti, hot meal programs have already been suspended, and families are receiving only half the standard monthly ration.

In Somalia, 2.2 million people received support last year, but in November only 350,000 people in need will receive it.

In South Sudan, WFP is currently distributing reduced rations, and domestic stocks of some foods are running low.

In Sudan, where civil war is raging, WFP provides assistance to 4 million people every month, but 25 million – half the country's population – suffer from acute food insecurity.

Lack of reserves

The organization notes that the cuts have even impacted preparedness efforts. For the first time in nearly a decade, Haiti lacks reserve stocks for the hurricane season, while in Afghanistan, food supplies could not be stocked in warehouses ahead of the onset of winter.

“The devastating impact of food aid cuts not only threatens lives, but also undermines stability, leads to displacement, and could trigger broader social and economic disruption,” McCain warned.

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.

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The UN Secretary-General called for global unity in the fight against hunger.

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Source: United Nations – United Nations –

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October 16, 2025 Peace and security

In his message on World Food Day, celebrated on 16 October, the UN Secretary-General called for international solidarity in the fight against hunger and strengthening food security.

This year's theme, "Hand in Hand for Better Nutrition and a Better Future," reflects the need for collaborative efforts at all levels, from governments to local communities.

According to the UN chief, despite significant progress achieved over the past eight decades, 673 million people worldwide go to bed hungry. Even more live in insecurity due to food shortages. Progress in the fight against hunger has slowed, and in some regions, progress is being reversed.

Other challenges include rising obesity, climate change, and the use of hunger as a weapon in armed conflict. "It is a shameful and horrifying reality that in times of war, people are starved en masse," the Secretary-General noted.

The UN chief emphasized that humanity has everything it needs—knowledge, technology, and resources—to end hunger. "We only need one thing: unity," he declared.

In closing his address, the Secretary-General called on the global community to take decisive action: “Let us unite once again to build food systems that feed people and protect the planet.”

Read also:

EXPLAIN | Why are more than 670 million people in the world hungry?

In 2025, they also celebrate 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), established in 1945 to combat hunger and ensure food availability throughout the world.

Global challenges require joint solutions

Modern agricultural and food systems are facing unprecedented challenges. Conflicts, the impacts of extreme climate events, economic shocks, and inequality are undermining access to food and the sustainability of supplies.

“The lands we farm, the water we depend on, and the biodiversity we depend on for life are under increasing pressure,” FAO notes.

While the agri-food sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, it can also play a key role in combating climate change by changing the way we produce, store, and distribute food.

FAO emphasizes that achieving food security requires the combined efforts of governments, organizations, the private sector, and civil society. Only by working hand in hand—across borders, sectors, and generations—can humanity transform agricultural and food systems so that everyone has access to healthy food and can live in harmony with nature.

Events in Rome and around the world

Home ceremony to mark World Food Day takes place on October 16 at FAO headquarters in Rome, where a new Museum of Food and AgricultureThe museum's interactive exhibition will explore a world where everyone has the right to food, through the language of cuisine, art, science, and innovation. The museum will be available for both in-person and online visitors.

In the afternoon, an international discussion on "The Future of Food: Conversations for a Fairer World" will bring together FAO leaders, chefs, activists, thought leaders, and representatives from other organizations. Participants will discuss how to connect local initiatives with global action to reform food systems.

Particular attention is paid to youth. On October 17, an interactive event for schoolchildren aged 9-14 will take place, featuring young activists, athletes, musicians, and innovators. The program includes discussions about the future of food, creative performances, art projects, and musical numbers.

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.

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Xi Jinping congratulated FAO on its 80th anniversary

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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, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday congratulated the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) on its 80th founding anniversary.

In his message, Xi Jinping noted that FAO plays an important role in ensuring global food security, promoting rural development and the transformation of food systems, and improving the living standards of people in different countries.

The Chinese President emphasized that the Chinese government pays particular attention to food security, independently addresses the issue of food security for more than 1.4 billion people, and provides all possible assistance to countries in need, making China's contribution to ensuring global food security.

China will continue to support the FAO's important role in the international food and agricultural sector, Xi Jinping assured, noting that China is ready to join efforts with the international community to implement the Global Development Initiative and advance the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, to promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity and to make new and greater contributions to improving the well-being of the people of all countries.

FAO was founded on October 16, 1945, with China as one of its founding members. –0–

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Russia will produce 510 million tons of oil in 2025, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

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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

Moscow, October 16 /Xinhua/ — Russia will produce 510 million tons of oil by the end of 2025, a 1 percent decrease from last year's figures, but this is a voluntary reduction. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced this Thursday, speaking at the plenary session of Russian Energy Week.

"Russia maintains its position as a leading oil producer, despite unfair competition being used against us. We account for approximately 10% of global production and expect to produce 510 million tons of oil by the end of the year. This is approximately one percent lower than last year, but I would like to point out, dear colleagues, that this is happening in accordance with the OPEC agreement—that is, it is a voluntary reduction," Vladimir Putin stated.

According to him, Russia, together with its partners in the expanded format of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), is fulfilling its obligations to balance the global oil market.

"Russia continues to cooperate within OPEC. Based on mutual interests, we and our partners are fulfilling our obligations to balance the global oil market," the Russian president noted. He emphasized that this is being done not only for producers but also for consumers. "Our joint efforts are yielding results. I'm primarily referring to market supply volumes and pricing conditions," the Russian leader added.

Vladimir Putin emphasized that these parameters satisfy both oil producers and consumers, allow the industry to launch investment projects, and, most importantly, provide conditions for more predictable development of the entire global economy.

“Predictability in the oil market is probably the most important thing in this sector of the global economy,” the Russian president concluded.

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October 16, 2025: 85% of Russians are concerned about environmental protection issues – survey by the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

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85% of Russians are concerned about environmental protection issues, according to a survey by the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank.

The Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank conducted a nationwide survey on environmental habits and citizens' awareness of the problem of microplastic pollution. The results demonstrated a high level of environmental responsibility among Russians: the overwhelming majority (85%) consider environmental protection issues personally important, and 65% consciously strive to reduce their use of single-use plastics.

The Ecology Foundation is systematically working to reduce microplastic pollution. Key areas include developing waste-separation infrastructure, projects to clean up natural areas, and educational campaigns, including poster sessions for young people. The study was conducted as part of a project supported by the Presidential Grants Fund, which also created a specialized resource. Microplastic.rf, where you can find expert publications on this topic and submit an application for lectures from Foundation experts.

The most popular eco-habits of Russians in 2025

A survey by the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank revealed that eco-friendly habits have become firmly ingrained in Russians' daily lives. Equal shares of respondents—31% each—regularly use reusable bottles or mugs and conserve electricity and water. Another 18% of respondents indicated that they periodically donate unwanted clothing and electronics for recycling or charity. Eight percent of respondents each expressed a preference for packaging-free goods or locally sourced products. Only 4% of respondents reported no eco-friendly habits in their daily lives.

The majority of respondents (65%) make a conscious effort to avoid purchasing single-use plastic products, which is a key factor in the fight against plastic pollution. Thirty percent of respondents reported that they engage in this habit on an ad hoc basis. Only 5% of respondents said they are not yet ready to reduce their plastic consumption.

Russians have also developed a unique culture of plastic bag use: more than half (58%) reuse them, and almost one in five (21%) strives to completely eliminate them at the checkout. However, 19% of respondents admitted to using bags only once.

Almost every second respondent (48%) already separates plastic waste. However, 50% do not yet do so, indicating significant potential for increased participation in waste separation. Only 2% of respondents in this survey said they do not consider it necessary to sort recyclables.

Almost half of respondents (49%) said they would like to see more recycling bins on the streets. Another 31% cited a lack of space at home. These factors significantly outweighed a lack of information (13%) and a reluctance to spend time (8%).

The Ecology Foundation – a response to public demand

"The survey showed that Russian society has developed a strong demand for an eco-friendly lifestyle and sustainable practices. The Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank will take this data into account in its future work, focusing on educational projects about microplastics and supporting initiatives to develop a waste separation system. For example, the raw materials collected by the foundation—approximately 40.5 tons—are recycled wherever possible. The resulting materials are used to make benches and bins for coastal areas, as well as everyday items such as pens, reusable mugs, and shopping bags," noted Elmira Morozova, Director of the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank.

The study was conducted by the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank in September 2025. More than 3,000 people aged 21 to 55 across Russia participated in the survey.

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The visa-free regime has led to an increase in the number of passengers arriving in China from Russia via Beijing Daxing Airport.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) — Since China introduced a trial visa-free regime for Russian citizens holding regular passports, the number of passengers from Russia arriving in China through Beijing Daxing International Airport has increased significantly, the Beijing Daily newspaper reported.

According to data, from September 15 of this year, when China introduced a trial visa-free regime for Russian citizens, until midnight on October 15, more than 30,000 Russian passengers entered the country through Daxing Airport, representing a more than 20 percent increase month-on-month and approximately 80 percent increase year-on-year.

In particular, during this period, more than 23,000 Russian tourists arrived in China visa-free using regular passports, accounting for more than 70 percent of the total number of Russian passengers arriving in China and becoming the main driver of passenger traffic growth.

Moreover, during the specified period, passengers from Russia who took advantage of the visa waiver and arrived in China for tourism, leisure, and business purposes accounted for more than 80% of the total passenger flow from Russia using visa-free travel.

As a reminder, China has introduced a trial visa-free regime for Russian citizens holding regular passports from September 15, 2025 to September 14, 2026.

Russian citizens holding valid passports may visit China visa-free for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, exchanging visits, and transit purposes. Their stay in China should not exceed 30 days.

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.