International Review: Peace, Development, and Progress—What's Behind China's Rising Popularity in the World?

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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, October 3 /Xinhua/ – “The most influential player in global affairs,” “a reliable partner,” “cool” – these words can be found in articles about China around the world. Recently, a number of international surveys and publications in foreign media have noted that China’s international image is steadily improving, and public sentiment toward the country is steadily growing.

Representatives of many countries highly value Beijing's firm stance on defending the international system, with the UN at its core, and upholding justice on the global stage. They also commend China for its ability to chart its own path to modernization, tailored to its national circumstances, while simultaneously developing alongside all countries around the world. They admire the image of a country brimming with energy, constantly renewing itself, open, self-confident, and friendly.

In the eyes of the global community, China today is a major force that, in a context of conflict and change, is taking on the mission of maintaining peace, promoting development, and advancing progress.

"THE SUN RISES IN THE EAST"

A number of international surveys show that, having broken through the Western "information bubble," more and more people in other countries are gaining a more realistic, multifaceted, and holistic view of China. China's image as a peaceful, friendly, and civilized power is increasingly gaining recognition around the world.

China's popularity in the Global South is steadily growing. According to a recent survey by the British magazine The Economist, sympathy for China in Latin American countries continues to grow rapidly and steadily. Residents of Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, and other countries say, "China is a reliable partner that shows more respect for other countries."

More and more Westerners are truly getting to know China and recognizing its achievements. According to a report by the American research company Morning Consult, public opinion in 16 countries, including Germany, Spain, Canada, and the Netherlands, has shifted from "more favorable toward the US" to "more favorable toward China."

More and more young people around the world are falling in love with China. A Pew Research Center survey has shown that the number of young people who have a favorable view of China has increased. A number of international surveys indicate that a growing number of young foreigners are beginning to consider China "really cool," writes The Economist.

"The sun rises in the East!" – figuratively states the report "Global Soft Power Index 2025" by the British company Brand Finance.

"The Power of Stability in a Turbulent World"

“Today, when unilateralism and protectionism are detrimental to the interests of all countries, China’s loyalty and commitment to multilateralism are especially valuable,” said Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.

Representatives of many countries note that in today's world, where change and upheaval are intertwined, unilateral actions and power politics seriously undermine the international order and system of rules. Against this backdrop, China advocates for genuine multilateralism and consistently implements it, acting as a stabilizing force amid global turbulence. Its influence and appeal on the international stage are steadily growing. This is one of the key reasons why global sympathy for China continues to grow.

"The four global initiatives put forward by China, as well as the concept of building a community with a shared future for humanity, provide a strategic, multi-layered response to the challenges of the complex international situation," noted Kubanychbek Taabaldiev, a professor at Ala-Too International University (Kyrgyzstan).

"China is undoubtedly a force for stability in a turbulent world," emphasized French expert Sonia Bressler. According to her, unilateral sanctions and military interventions, as manifestations of hegemony, grossly violate international law and fundamental norms of international relations, while China, through its practical actions, firmly upholds the international system with the UN at its core and defends international justice.

“A RELIABLE AND UNDERSTANDING PARTNER”

"In recent years, China's image as a reliable partner has gained widespread recognition among people around the world," noted Nikita Stepanov, senior research fellow at the Institute of Economics of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

"China is actively promoting the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative and is an important development partner for many countries. Its policy of mutual benefit and mutual success has earned China the trust and respect of both governments and people around the world," he emphasized.

Ahmed Orabi, a research fellow at the Egyptian Al-Farabi Center for Strategic and Political Studies, praised China's policy of cooperative development with countries in the Global South. "China consistently strives to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with other countries, pursue cooperation based on mutual benefit, and benefit people around the world. Residents of the Middle East have witnessed China's outstanding contributions to the development of various countries, and its popularity is steadily growing," he said.

"We view China as a 'reliable and understanding partner,'" noted Mulaku Lemmy Nyongesa, an international affairs expert at Kenya's University of Nairobi. He added that China always takes into account national characteristics and development strategies when collaborating with foreign countries, and the similarities in historical challenges and struggles evoke a strong emotional response in countries of the Global South.

"A MODEL OF STABLE AND EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT"

"Many developing countries are in dire need of a governance model more suited to their realities. China's experience in governance and democratic practices deserves the most serious study and profound understanding," said former Bolivian Foreign Minister Fernando Huanacuña, who has visited China on numerous occasions. He added that China has succeeded in ensuring that the fruits of development truly benefit the people.

In an article, the Brazilian magazine Forum emphasized that China is already seen as a model of stable and effective governance, standing out sharply against the social divide some Western countries are experiencing. More and more people around the world are beginning to "envy" China.

K. Taabaldiev noted that China's governance model brings real benefits to the people. China is successfully pursuing its own democratic path, suited to its national conditions, earning widespread recognition from the international community, especially from developing countries, the scholar stated.

According to S. Bressler, the Chinese model of democracy and governance is a seamless blend of joint consultation, broad participation, and effective implementation. The country's success, the expert stated, demonstrates the diversity of political paths and the creative potential of various civilizations. China's path to modernization serves as an inspiration for other countries and further strengthens China's positive image, she emphasized.

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.

The number of bookings for tours to China from Russia increased significantly in September amid the announcement of a visa-free regime, according to media reports.

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

Moscow, October 3 (Xinhua) — The number of tour bookings to China from Russia in September of this year increased 3.5 times compared to 2024 levels, amid the announcement of a visa-free regime for Russian tourists. This was reported on Friday by RIA Novosti, citing data from online travel retailer Travelata.

The service analyzed tour purchases to China on its platform from September 1 to 30; the average booking duration was 45 days. The results show that, in addition to Hainan, Russian tourists are choosing trips to Beijing and Shanghai.

"Following the official announcement of visa waivers for this destination, tour sales have skyrocketed. Compared to September 2024, this year's booking volume has increased 3.5-fold," Travelata reports.

Hainan Island remained the most popular Chinese destination. Its share of all bookings to China in September was 88%, with the average trip costing 209,000 rubles. Shanghai and Beijing emerged as popular holiday destinations, each accounting for 5%. Other destinations accounted for another 2%.

The most popular accommodation option in China is five-star hotels, which account for 50 percent of bookings, followed by four-star hotels (44 percent). –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.

Uzbekistan's external debt reached $72.2 billion in the first half of the year, according to the Central Bank.

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

Tashkent, October 3 (Xinhua) — Uzbekistan's external debt reached $72.2 billion in the first half of this year, local media reported Thursday, citing a Central Bank report.

At the same time, the state external debt amounted to 36.8 billion dollars, and the corporate debt – 35.4 billion.

According to the September forecast of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Uzbekistan's economy will grow by 6.7 percent in 2025. –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.

Tourism is actively developing in China's only Russian-ethnic municipality.

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

Hulunbuir /Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region/, October 3 /Xinhua/ — Enhe Russian ethnic township of Ergun city /Argun/ of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region /north China/ is separated from Russia by only the Argun River.

In recent years, this township, which is the only township-town level administrative unit in China named after the Russian nationality, has been actively developing tourism and specific production industries, combining elements of Russian national culture with various local customs.

The village of Enhe in the aforementioned county, located deep in the primeval forest in the northern Greater Khingan region, covers an area of nearly 1,500 mu (approximately 100 hectares) and has a permanent population of over 1,000. The village has well-preserved traditional log huts, known locally as "Mukelen" (Russian-style wooden houses).

These houses, built from horizontally stacked logs, are warm in winter and cool in summer. These traditional huts not only boast a distinctive national character but also embody the distinctive features of Chinese construction, testifying to the fusion of different cultures.

Tourists in these parts stay in "Mukelen" cottages, learn to bake traditional Russian bread, and participate in festive events celebrating the bountiful harvest. Meanwhile, local Russian residents play the accordion, perform traditional dances, and share delicacies, spreading the joy of the harvest throughout the village.

It should be noted that local Russian folk dances were included in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region's Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2007, and the traditional Basyke holiday (similar to Easter) was included in the third group of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2011.

As one of the villages that has best preserved the original local Russian ethnic culture, Enhe Village was listed among the second group of traditional villages in China in 2013.

In 2017, construction of an "oil painting village" began in Enhe Russian National Township, providing a professional platform for artistic creation and cultural exchange.

Nowadays, many Chinese and international artists, as well as art academy students, come here to paint from life. An oil painting industry is gradually developing here.

The "Oil Painting Village" also contributes to the development of the local economy. According to data, by the end of 2024, the township welcomed 615,000 rural tourism visitors, with total tourism revenue reaching 92.25 million 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.

Almost 900,000 new passenger cars were sold in Russia in the first three quarters of this year, according to media reports.

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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 3 (Xinhua) — From January to September of this year, 895,900 new passenger cars were sold in Russia, a 22.4 percent decrease year-on-year, TASS reported, citing the analytical agency Avtostat.

According to the results of September of this year, sales of new passenger cars in Russia amounted to 122,659 units, which is 18.7 percent less than the same period last year.

Data show that Lada brand sales in September accounted for more than 21 percent of total sales – 26.4 thousand vehicles. –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.

The UN, despite all its problems, remains the most successful experience in creating international organizations – V. Putin

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

Sochi, October 3 (Xinhua) — The United Nations (UN) emerged from victory in World War II and, despite its serious problems, remains the most successful example of international organization. At the same time, the UN must be brought into line with the increased role of the world's majority countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated this Thursday at a plenary session of the Valdai International Discussion Club.

"The UN, of course, is a legacy of victory in World War II, the most successful experience to date in creating an international organization within which it is possible to solve pressing global problems," said Vladimir Putin.

"Yes, of course, there are many, many problems with the UN's work. But there's nothing better than the UN yet. This must also be acknowledged," he continued.

The Russian President noted that the world has become multipolar, with the weight of global majority countries increasing sharply. The UN's structure and bodies must be adapted to the needs of global majority countries, Putin believes.

"Now, the countries of the global majority naturally form a convincing majority in the UN. This means it's time to bring its structure and governing bodies into line with this fact. This, incidentally, will be much more in line with the fundamental principles of democracy," the Russian leader emphasized.

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.

Xi Jinping and the President of Singapore exchanged congratulations on the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

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

BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping and Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam exchanged congratulations on Friday on the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Noting that China and Singapore are friendly neighbors and important partners, Xi Jinping said that over the 35 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have adhered to the principles of mutual respect, trust and mutually beneficial cooperation.

China-Singapore relations are constantly improving and developing, and cooperation in various fields is yielding rich results, he said. The two sides are also jointly advancing their modernization processes, bringing tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries, the Chinese president added.

Beijing stands ready to seize the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations as an opportunity to further deepen political mutual trust, promote high-level cooperation, strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and jointly safeguard the multilateral trading system and the basic norms of international relations, so as to promote a comprehensive, high-quality, future-oriented partnership between China and Singapore and make greater contributions to peace and prosperity in the region and the world, Xi Jinping stressed.

In turn, T. Shanmugaratnam noted that in 2023, Singapore-China relations reached the level of a comprehensive, high-quality, future-oriented partnership, and cooperation between the two governments continued to develop, constantly integrating new elements and demonstrating forward-looking thinking.

Responding to the demands of the times, the two sides are actively expanding cooperation in new areas, and the peoples of the two countries are steadily strengthening cultural ties, the President stated. He expressed firm confidence that the two countries will continue to work closely together, taking their relations to a new level.

On the same day, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Li Qiang and Prime Minister of Singapore Lawrence Wong exchanged congratulatory messages.

Li Qiang stated that China is willing to further strengthen the alignment of development strategies with Singapore, deepen high-level cooperation in various fields, and work together to safeguard the multilateral trading system, so as to contribute to the development of both countries as well as the prosperity and stability of the region.

L. Wong, in turn, noted that relations between Singapore and China have continued to deepen over the years, strengthening mutual trust. Singapore is ready to continue expanding cooperation with China in various areas and jointly uphold free trade and the multilateral trading system, he added.

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.

The Chinese-Russian Gastronomic Festival promotes the tasting of dishes from China's Northeast region.

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

HARBIN, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) — A China-Russia food festival was held Wednesday in Suifenhe, a city on the border between China and Russia and administratively subordinate to Mudanjiang City in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, with the aim of mutually enriching the cultures of the two countries.

The event took place on the first day of the eight-day holiday to celebrate National Day and the Zhongqiujie Festival. A festive atmosphere permeated the city.

"It's so lively here! The festive atmosphere is simply unforgettable," said a Russian woman named Valeria, holding her mobile phone.

Since China introduced a trial visa-free regime for Russian citizens holding regular passports on September 15, 2025, the intersections and alleys of this border town have become filled with an exotic atmosphere.

On the streets, the words "Privet" and "Nihao" intertwined. In restaurants, Russian guests sampled authentic Northeastern Chinese cuisine.

The festival also launched a culinary map of Mudanjiang, which became a practical guide to “traveling with your taste buds.”

According to a local resident named Sun, the food map is very useful, clearly marking all the dining options, from local eateries to specialty banquet halls. "It's a 'navigational map' that helps us find delicious dishes throughout the city," he added.

In addition to the food festival, Suifenhe also experiences a cross-border shopping boom during the holidays, and the city hosts literary and artistic performances, bringing a graceful “international flair” to the border town. -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.

Mexico demands the release of activists detained by Israel

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

MEXICO CITY, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Thursday demanded the "immediate repatriation" of six Mexicans detained by Israeli authorities after intercepting a flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The president confirmed the number of detainees during her regular press conference, saying they were at the port of Ashdod.

The detained activists aboard the Sumud flotilla vessels have still not received consular assistance. According to K. Sheinbaum, Israeli authorities have stated that they "intend to place them in a temporary detention center," and the Mexican consulate is ready to "provide any support."

The Mexican president demanded that humanitarian aid reach the Palestinians and that “this aggression against Gaza be stopped.”

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to promptly monitor this unfortunate event, ensuring the rights of our detained compatriots and seeking their speedy return to our country through all possible legal and diplomatic means," the ministry added.

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.

The International Book Fair opened in the capital of Saudi Arabia.

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

RIYADH, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) — The Riyadh International Book Fair 2025 opened on Thursday, bringing together more than 2,000 local and international publishers from over 25 countries, as well as a number of cultural institutions.

The fair, held under the motto "Riyadh Reads," will last 10 days. Organized by the Saudi Arabian Commission for Literature, Publishing, and Translation, it will feature over 200 cultural events, including seminars, lectures, poetry readings, and master classes featuring renowned writers and intellectuals.

According to Abdullatif Al-Wasel, head of the commission, the fair is in line with the kingdom's strategy to strengthen its cultural leadership both regionally and globally. He emphasized the importance of using culture to raise public awareness and stimulate economic growth, in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

This year, Uzbekistan is the book fair's guest of honor. It presents its literary heritage in a special pavilion featuring manuscripts and a diverse cultural program dedicated to Uzbek artists.

This year, more than 10 Chinese publishing houses are participating in the fair, organizing a special pavilion called "Reading China." It will feature over a thousand book titles and will also feature various cultural events.

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.