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Belt and Road Stories: Photographic Chronicle of the China-Africa Joint Environmental Management of Lake Poyang and Lake Victoria

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

Lake Poyang and Lake Victoria are the largest freshwater lakes in China and Africa, respectively. Lake Victoria is one of the sources of the Nile, and Lake Poyang is an important lake connected to the Yangtze River by a channel. These two lakes not only support tens of millions of people but also serve as habitats for numerous species of wildlife.

In recent years, with the support of the Global South-South Development Centre and the UN Office for South-South Cooperation's Perez-Guerrero Trust Fund, these two lakes, members of the International Network of Living Lakes, have initiated a collaboration that has been recognized by the UN as a model example of South-South cooperation. Jiangxi Province, home to Lake Poyang, collaborates with regions in countries surrounding Lake Victoria, such as Kenya and Tanzania. This collaboration includes training courses for specialists from these countries, promoting the construction of biogas plants that convert waste into clean energy, and disseminating Lake Poyang management practices. This provides new impetus for the joint promotion of environmentally friendly modernization in China and Africa.

Photo by a Xinhua News Agency correspondent.

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 calls for global review of credit rating system

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

March 30, 2026 Economic development

"Credit ratings and assessments paint a bleaker picture of developing countries than their economic reality warrants," said Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, speaking on behalf of the Secretary-General at a special meeting of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) on Monday.

A credit rating is an assessment of a country's solvency, determining the interest rate at which it can borrow money on global markets. A low rating makes loans expensive or completely unavailable, hindering economic development.

Today's meeting at ECOSOC is being held within the framework of the commitments set out in the Seville Agreement: countries, rating agencies and other participants in the financial system must hold such discussions regularly.

According to Mohammed, debt servicing is becoming an increasingly unbearable burden for many developing countries today. It amounts to nearly $1.4 trillion per year.

She noted the critical situation for the population: “More than 3.4 billion people live in countries that spend more on debt interest than on health care or education.”

The conflict in the Middle East, which has triggered a rise in fuel and raw material prices, is further undermining the financial stability of developing countries and their access to credit.

The situation is exacerbated by the fact that current assessments often fail to take into account the long-term potential of states. "These ratings and assessments systematically overstate risk, often failing to reflect the fundamentals, progress, and long-term potential of these countries," the First Deputy Secretary-General emphasized.

“Too often, these ratings are static, short-term focused, and often based on incomplete information, limiting a country’s ability to access financing at affordable rates,” she added.

The UN proposes three approaches to system change, starting with a transformation of thinking. "We must transform our thinking, moving from long-term speculation to long-term investment," urged Mohammed, adding that risk analysis should include scenarios and probabilities, capturing not only vulnerabilities but also opportunities.

The second approach involves rethinking success metrics beyond GDP. "GDP tells us the cost of everything and the value of very little. Financial decisions—including credit ratings—shouldn't be based solely on profit and loss figures," she noted.

Mohammed also proposed reviewing the "sovereign ceiling," which limits private sector ratings within the country. According to Mohammed, "it's time to review the sovereign ceiling, which could unfairly limit the credit rating of private sector debt, distorting risks and deterring investment."

The third pillar of reform must be accountability of all parties, including agencies and investors.

In conclusion, Mohammed emphasized that credit ratings must become a tool for progress: “The time has come to transform credit ratings from barriers into a tool for long-term financing and sustainable development.”

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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A new direct flight connects Shanghai and Tashkent.

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

Tashkent, March 30 (Xinhua) — On Monday, China Eastern Airlines successfully launched the first direct scheduled flight between Shanghai, China, and Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Flights will operate four times a week—on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—on Airbus A330 aircraft. Flight number MU6037/8, with a travel time of approximately eight hours.

As noted by Uzbekistan Airports, the launch of the new route opens up additional opportunities for strengthening aviation and tourism ties, expanding business cooperation, and deepening cultural and humanitarian exchanges between Uzbekistan and China.

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 American University of Armenia has switched to remote learning for safety reasons.

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

Yerevan, March 30 /Xinhua/ — The American University of Armenia has switched to remote instruction for safety reasons, the university announced in a statement on Monday.

"Please note that for safety reasons, all classes on Monday, March 30, will be held online. This is simply a precautionary measure. The university is closely monitoring the situation and will communicate any changes to the schedule or format. We would like to emphasize that no direct threats have been identified against our university, and there is no reason to believe the university is in danger, so there is no reason to panic," the statement reads.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned on Sunday that it views all Israeli and US universities in West Asian countries as "legitimate targets" following the strikes on Iranian universities. –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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Georgia's GDP will grow by 6 percent in 2026, according to Moody's forecast.

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

Tbilisi, March 30 /Xinhua/ — International rating agency Moody's forecasts economic growth in Georgia in 2026 at 6 percent. Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Vakhtang Tsintsadze announced this on Monday, citing the agency's data.

"Moody's has completed its periodic review of Georgia's sovereign rating. The agency's statement notes that the country's macroeconomic and fiscal indicators remain strong despite external shocks," noted V. Tsintsadze, adding that the agency's review focuses on the significant reduction in Georgia's current account deficit, which Moody's estimates will narrow to 2.9 percent of GDP in 2025.

The rating agency also praised the Georgian government's macroeconomic policies, which resulted in the country's economy growing by 7.5 percent in 2025, one of the highest rates in the world.

“We expect that the trends observed in the Georgian economy over the past five years will continue in 2026,” said V. Tsintsadze. –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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The Prime Minister of Georgia and the Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation.

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

Tbilisi, March 30 (Xinhua) — Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Nokerguly Atagulyev discussed the current state of Georgian-Turkmen relations and prospects for further cooperation in Tbilisi, the Georgian government press service reported on Monday.

As noted, the meeting emphasized that bilateral relations have reached a qualitatively new level, and high-level visits contribute to their further strengthening.

The parties discussed issues of trade and economic cooperation, as well as collaboration in the fields of agriculture and tourism.

In addition, the meeting participants discussed the current situation in the region. Turkmenistan's role in strengthening peace and stability in Central Asia was noted, and the importance of pursuing policies aimed at ensuring the region's sustainable development was 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.

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Two UN peacekeepers were killed and two were wounded in an explosion in southern Lebanon.

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

Beirut, March 30 (Xinhua) — Two UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeepers were killed and two others were injured, one seriously, in an explosion that destroyed their vehicle near Bani Hayyan in southern Lebanon on Monday, UNIFIL said in a statement.

This is the second UNIFIL personnel fatality in the past 24 hours. Previously, one peacekeeper from the mission's Indonesian contingent was killed after a shell hit the unit's headquarters.

UNIFIL reported that it is conducting an investigation into the incident involving the bombing of a peacekeeping force vehicle.

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 CPPCC National Committee vice chairman emphasized the role of political consultants' proposals in advancing China's modernization.

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

BEIJING, March 30 (Xinhua) — Shi Taifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), called for more effective implementation of the significance of proposals from CPPCC members in the comprehensive building of a modern socialist country.

He made the call on Monday while attending a meeting to submit proposals put forward at the Fourth Session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee, which was held earlier this month.

Highly appreciating the proposals put forward at the annual session, Shi Taifeng noted that their proper processing and practical implementation will contribute to a confident start to the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).

As the Vice Chairman of the CPPCC National Committee pointed out, this will also demonstrate the unique advantages of socialist consultative democracy and demonstrate a clear commitment to the formation and practical implementation of a correct view on success in political work.

Shi Taifeng pointed out the need to carry out coordinated processing of proposals by category, adhere to consultation throughout the process, and provide accurate and standardized responses. –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 Vice Premier called for improved global data governance

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

BEIJING, March 30 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang attended the founding conference of the World Data Organization (WDO) in Beijing on Monday, where he read a congratulatory message from Chinese President Xi Jinping and delivered a keynote speech.

As Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, noted, the establishment of the WOD is an important event that meets the development trends of the intellectual age and deepens international cooperation in the field of data.

The Chinese President sent a special congratulatory letter on the occasion of the establishment of the WOD, which fully demonstrates his sincere expectations for this organization, Ding Xuexiang emphasized.

He said China supports the development and strengthening of the digital economy and the exploration of its role in bridging the digital divide, unlocking the value of data, and promoting the prosperity of the digital economy, which will contribute to jointly creating a beautiful digital future.

China, the Vice Premier continued, is paying increased attention to data management and the development of the digital economy, accelerating the formation of basic systems such as the data rights system, promoting the use of data for industrial modernization, improving public welfare, and enhancing governance efficiency.

The Chinese side intends to further advance the construction of a digital China, deepen the development and utilization of digital resources, accelerate the implementation of innovations in digital and intelligent technologies, actively expand application scenarios, and give a powerful impetus to the prosperity and development of the global digital economy, Ding Xuexiang stated.

He emphasized the need to take advantage of the establishment of the WOD to promote improved global data governance and ensure the healthy development of the digital economy, putting forward three proposals in this regard:

First, given the high mobility of data, it is necessary to facilitate its efficient circulation and use through openness and collaboration. Second, given the great potential of data to empower, it is necessary to promote universal development through shared, beneficial use. Third, given the high sensitivity of data, it is necessary to ensure minimum security standards through coordinated governance.

The conference was attended by about 500 people, including representatives of WOD members, scientific and technical specialists and officials from China and foreign countries, and heads of international organizations. –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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Denis Manturov and Tatyana Golikova took part in a meeting of the organizing committee for the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Kaliningrad region.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova attended a meeting of the organizing committee for the Kaliningrad Region's 80th anniversary celebrations, which was held at the National Center "Russia." Also present at the event were co-chair of the organizing committee, First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko; Minister of Sport Mikhail Degtyarev; Presidential Aide and Chairman of the Russian Military Historical Society Vladimir Medinsky; Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov; Minister of Agriculture Oksana Lut; Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko; and Minister of Education and Science Valery Falkov.

Kaliningrad Region Governor Alexey Besprozvannykh presented a program for preparing and holding the region's 80th anniversary celebrations, including a five-year infrastructure program.

"Last May, we discussed the basic concept and key milestones for celebrating the Kaliningrad Region's 80th anniversary. Since then, the region has completed a significant amount of work to flesh out and detail a very broad anniversary program. It is rich in cultural, educational, and social events, and also includes the implementation of a number of significant infrastructure projects. Thanks to the efforts of the Governor and my colleagues in the Government, many capital-intensive projects have been included in federal programs. Certain areas still require funding through sponsorship. Work in this area has also been organized, and today the results will be reflected in the signing of a number of agreements with major companies and corporations. This is an important step toward ensuring that the anniversary program's legacy is extensive and tangible," said Denis Manturov, adding that, in addition to financial support, it is important to utilize all administrative resources.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the Kaliningrad Region government signed cooperation agreements with the state-owned corporation Rosatom, Sberbank, Renova Group, and AFK Sistema. Key areas of joint work will include assistance in creating necessary infrastructure in the region, restoring capital construction and renovation projects, and improving the city's urban landscape.

"For us, celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Kaliningrad Region is not only a federal event but also another opportunity to give new impetus to the region's development: to unlock its tourism potential, draw attention to key historical events, and, above all, remind people of the inviolability of the results of the Great Patriotic War and the inadmissibility of attempts to rewrite history. Today, more than a million of our citizens live in the Kaliningrad Region. Over the past five years, the region's population has grown by 1.4%. The President and the Government are doing everything necessary to ensure the region's dynamic development, and to ensure that people here have a comfortable and enjoyable place to live, study, work, and, of course, raise children," noted Tatyana Golikova.

"In preparation for the 80th anniversary, in accordance with the President's instructions, we initially agreed on the following approach: on the one hand, celebrating the 80th anniversary is a tribute to and pride in the history of the Kaliningrad Region's liberation and the region's revival after the Great Patriotic War, and on the other, it is an opportunity to showcase how the region is doing today. Today's achievements are very important, but it's also crucial not to forget the veterans, including those of the Great Patriotic War, the Special Military Operation, and the labor veterans who revived the Kaliningrad Region. But the anniversary is also addressed to the younger generation: it's about both the development and the future of the Kaliningrad Region," emphasized Sergei Kiriyenko.

The regional renewal program includes more than 500 projects, and the events program includes more than 450 events.

"The changes will affect all 22 municipalities in the region and are reflected in the '80–85' infrastructure transformation program, developed jointly with residents of the region. Its key objective is to ensure balanced development throughout the Kaliningrad Region. The program includes infrastructure development and improvement projects. Most of them have been funded, and some are already underway," said Alexey Besprozvannykh.

The program included the construction of social facilities, the reconstruction of public utilities, major road repairs, the construction of beach retention and coastal protection structures, and the modernization of public transportation. The projects are integrated into existing federal and regional programs, most have received funding, and many are already being implemented.

The total funding volume is at least 30 billion rubles annually, including approximately 7 billion rubles for landscaping in municipalities.

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.