Podcasts about State Council

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the reports that the PRC is threatening to scuttle Trump's visit to Beijing over a second arms package from the U.S. to Taiwan, including thoughts on next moves from the U.S., how this arms shipment happened, and the PLA's dangerous aerial maneuvers around Taiwan. From there: Reactions to the news that Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in Hong Kong prison, a State Council white paper on “One Country, Two Systems,” and Sanae Takaichi's party secures a supermajority in Japan three months after the PRC's pressure campaign over her Taiwan comments. At the end: The propaganda value of AI models, and a word about hockey and the Winter Olympics.

China is expected to put boosting domestic demand — especially spurring consumption — at the core of its economic agenda this year, with policymakers likely to roll out stronger fiscal support and structural reforms to further unlock the potential of household spending, a senior expert said.资深专家表示，今年我国将把扩大内需尤其是激发消费潜力置于经济工作核心位置，预计决策层将推出更有力的财政支持政策和结构性改革举措，进一步释放家庭消费潜能。Wang Wei, senior researcher and former director of the Institute of Market Economy at the Development Research Center of the State Council, said that to ensure stable economic growth during the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period, China needs to achieve a notable increase in final consumption as a share of GDP.国务院发展研究中心市场经济研究所原所长、二级研究员王微表示，为确保"十五五"时期（2026-2030年）经济稳定增长，我国需要显著提升最终消费占GDP比重。"That means China's future economic growth will need to rely more on domestic demand — particularly on the sustained, steady growth and innovation of consumption — to provide effective support for overall growth," Wang said during a recentexclusive interview with China Daily.王微日前接受《中国日报》独家专访时表示，这意味着未来中国经济增长需更多依靠内需，特别是消费持续平稳增长与创新，为整体增长提供有效支撑。She said China has finished the "from nothing to something" stage of household consumption over the past four decades, but the next phase — especially under high-quality development- must focus on improving consumption quality and expanding the space for development-driven consumer demand.她指出，过去四十年我国已走过家庭消费"从无到有"的阶段，下一阶段特别是高质量发展背景下，必须着力提升消费品质、拓展发展型消费需求空间。"Services consumption such as education, healthcare, culture, sports, entertainment and eldercare will have very large room for growth as people's living standards rise. With the impact of technological innovation, many new forms of innovative consumption are also entering daily life, forming new drivers of growth."随着人民生活水平提高，教育、医疗、文化、体育、娱乐、养老等服务消费将拥有巨大增长空间。在科技创新影响下，许多创新消费新形态也正进入日常生活，形成新的增长动能。Wang expects that during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, China's final consumption expenditure may exceed 90 trillion yuan ($12.99 trillion), accounting for around 60 percent of the country's GDP.王微预计，"十五五"期间我国最终消费支出有望突破90万亿元，占GDP比重将提升至60%左右。"The contribution of final consumption to economic growth will remain above 60 percent, and the share of household services consumption in total consumer spending will rise to 50 percent," she said.最终消费对经济增长的贡献率将保持在60%以上，居民服务性消费占消费总支出比重将升至50%。According to the Recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development, over the next five years, China should achieve a notable increase in household consumption as a share of GDP.根据《中共中央关于制定国民经济和社会发展第十五个五年规划的建议》，未来五年我国要实现居民消费占GDP比重显著提升。It also emphasized that special initiatives should be advanced to boost consumption, and the supply of high-quality consumer goods and services should be expanded. China should focus on easing market access and integrating various forms of business to boost consumption of services and strive to build market-leading brands, raise standards, and apply new technologies to expand and upgrade goods consumption.规划同时强调，应实施促进消费专项行动，扩大优质消费品和服务供给。要聚焦放宽准入与业态融合促进服务消费，着力打造领军品牌、提升标准规范、运用新技术拓展升级商品消费。"To that end, in 2026, consumption should remain the priority of economic development. Special initiatives to boost consumption should be further implemented, with strengthened inclusive policies directly benefiting consumers. Supply-side structural reform and policy innovations should be continuously advanced to steadily enhance consumers' spending power and willingness, promoting a stable increase and shifting the incremental economic growth to innovation-driven forms," Wang added."为此，2026年应继续将消费摆在优先位置，深入推进促消费专项行动，强化普惠性政策直达消费者，持续推进供给侧结构性改革和政策创新，稳步提升居民消费能力与意愿，推动消费稳定增长并向创新驱动型增量转变。"王微补充道。Wang said policymakers should continue to strengthen countercyclical macroeconomic policies in 2026, provide more support for services consumption, and accelerate the establishment of an institutionalized empowerment mechanism that integrates policy support, digital empowerment and industrial funds to better support the development of micro and small enterprises.她建议决策层在2026年继续加强逆周期宏观政策调控，加大对服务消费支持力度，加快建立政策支持、数字赋能与产业基金相结合的常态化赋能机制，更好支持小微企业发展。More efforts should also be made to maintain subsidies for the goods trade-in policy, support housing rentals such as providing rental subsidies for university graduates, new urban residents and migrant workers, and capitalize on the debut economy to strengthen backing for consumption innovation.同时应延续消费品以旧换新补贴政策，支持大学毕业生、新市民、农民工等群体住房租赁补贴，借力首发经济强化对消费创新的支持。final consumption /ˈfaɪnəl kənˈsʌmpʃən/最终消费domestic demand /dəˈmestɪk dɪˈmɑːnd/国内需求exclusive interview /ɪkˈskluːsɪv ˈɪntəvjuː/独家专访eldercare /ˈeldəkeə/养老服务market-leading brand /ˈmɑːkɪt ˈliːdɪŋ brænd/领军品牌supply-side structural reform /ˈsʌplaɪ saɪd ˈstrʌktʃərəl rɪˈfɔːm/供给侧结构性改革incremental /ˌɪŋkrəˈmentl/增量的countercyclical /ˌkaʊntəˈsɪklɪkəl/逆周期的debut economy /ˈdeɪbjuː ɪˈkɒnəmi/首发经济

Journalists invited to cover the 2026 two sessionsChina is inviting journalists from home and abroad to cover the annual sessions of its national legislature and national political advisory body, as the media center for the two sessions is scheduled to open in Beijing on Feb 27, according to an official statement on Tuesday.中国政府周二发表声明称，将邀请国内外记者报道全国人大和全国政协年度会议。两会新闻中心定于2月27日在北京开放。The fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress is set to begin on March 5, while the fourth session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee is scheduled to kick off on March 4.第十四届全国人民代表大会第四次会议定于3月5日开幕，而第十四届中国人民政治协商会议全国委员会第四次会议则定于3月4日召开。News coverage of the two sessions can be conducted through various methods, with a strong emphasis on on-site reporting, the statement noted, which was jointly issued by the general offices of the National People's Congress Committee and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee.全国人大常委会办公厅和全国政协办公厅联合发布的声明指出，两会的新闻报道可通过多种方式进行，重点突出现场报道。Foreign journalists based in China who want to cover the sessions should submit their applications to the press center, while those overseas can apply through Chinese embassies or consulates in their respective countries, or via visa organizations authorized by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, according to the statement.根据声明，常驻中国的外国记者如需报道会议，应向新闻中心提交申请；海外记者可通过所在国的中国使领馆或经中国外交部授权的签证机构申请。Journalists from Hong Kong and Macao must submit their applications to the central government's liaison offices in these special administrative regions, while reporters from Taiwan should apply to the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, the statement added.声明补充道，香港和澳门记者须向中央政府驻这两个特别行政区的联络办公室提交申请，而台湾记者则应向国务院台湾事务办公室申请。The application deadline is Feb 3, and additional information about the two sessions can be found at www.npc.gov.cn .申请截止日期为2026年2月3日，有关两个会议的更多信息可访问：www.npc.gov.cn和www.cppcc.gov.cn两个网站。The two sessions, as China's biggest annual political event, usually begins in early March in Beijing. National lawmakers and political advisers gather to review the work reports of governmental and judicial authorities, deliberate on crucial economic and social issues, and participate in formulating or amending laws related to people's interests and the nation's development.全国两会作为中国每年最重要的政治活动，通常于三月初在北京开幕。全国人大代表和政协委员齐聚一堂，审议政府和司法机关的工作报告，商讨关乎国民经济和社会发展的重大议题，并参与制定或修订涉及民生福祉和国家发展的法律法规。

As China heads into the Year of the Horse, consumer demand is being released earlier than usual, propelled by the country's longest Spring Festival holiday on record and a coordinated policy push aimed at turning seasonal spending into sustained economic momentum.随着中国迎来马年，消费需求释放时间较往年提前。这得益于创纪录的长春节假期，以及旨在将季节性消费转化为持续经济动能的协同政策推动。The 2026 Spring Festival holiday will run from Feb 15 to 23, spanning nine consecutive days. The extended break—longer than in previous years—is not only reshaping travel and spending plans, but also amplifying the effects of policies designed to unlock consumption potential, particularly in services, travel and experience-driven spending.2026年春节假期将从2月15日持续至23日，共计九天连休。较往年更长的假期不仅重塑了出行与消费计划，更放大了解锁消费潜力的政策效应，尤其在服务、旅游及体验型消费领域。From bustling shopping streets in Beijing to small factories in Zhejiang's Yiwu operating extra production lines, and from reunion dinners booked weeks ahead of Chinese New Year's Eve to a sharp rise in two-way travel, signs of renewed consumption activity are emerging well before the holiday officially begins.从北京熙熙攘攘的商业街，到浙江义乌加开生产线的中小工厂；从数周前就预订好的除夕团圆饭，到双向出行量的显著增长——在春节正式到来之前，消费活动复苏的迹象已然显现。On Beijing's Wangfujing pedestrian street, winter temperatures have done little to slow foot traffic. Flagship stores are drawing a steady stream of overseas visitors, many taking advantage of expanded visa-free access and increasingly seamless digital payment options.北京王府井步行街上，寒冬的低温并未减缓人流脚步。旗舰店吸引着络绎不绝的海外游客，许多人正享受着扩大免签政策带来的便利，以及日益便捷的数字支付方式。Daniel Chan, a tourist from Los Angeles, stepped out of an electronics store with a newly purchased DJI Osmo Nano camera.来自洛杉矶的游客陈丹尼尔（音译）从一家电子产品商店走出，手里拿着刚买到的DJI Osmo Nano相机。"I've wanted this model for months. It's almost impossible to find stock back home, yet here it was available, and the price was very friendly,"Chan said. "It's not just a souvenir—it's cutting-edge technology."陈丹尼尔（音译）说道：“我渴望拥有这款相机已有数月之久。在美国几乎找不到现货，而这里不仅有货，价格还非常实惠。这不仅是件纪念品，更是尖端科技的结晶。”He said he had already started using the camera on the day of purchase. "I haven't explored all its functions yet, but the magnetic design and image quality are quite good," he added.他表示购买当天就已开始使用这台相机。他补充道：“虽然还没完全摸清所有功能，但磁吸设计和成像质量都相当不错。”What impressed him most during his China trip, Chan said, was the speed and convenience of food delivery services. "It's incredibly fast and efficient—almost unbelievable," he said. Dining in restaurants was equally striking, with some offering dish countdown timers and guaranteed serving speeds. "I've hardly ever experienced service like this in the United States."陈丹尼尔（音译）表示，此次中国之行最令他印象深刻的是外卖服务的快捷便利。他说：“速度快得惊人，效率极高——简直难以置信。”餐厅用餐体验同样令人震撼，部分餐厅设有菜品倒计时器并承诺上菜速度。“在美国几乎从未体验过如此服务。”Such experiences are precisely what policymakers hope to encourage.此类经历正是政策制定者希望鼓励的。The "Shopping in China" campaign, first launched in April 2025, aims to create a more internationally friendly consumption ecosystem while stimulating domestic demand through higher-quality supply.“中国购物”活动于2025年4月首次启动，旨在打造更具国际友善度的消费生态系统，同时通过更高品质的供给来刺激国内需求。At the launch of the 2026 "Shopping in China" and New Year Consumption Season in Shanghai on Jan 3, Commerce Minister Wang Wentao said the initiative would focus on goods consumption, services consumption and the development of new consumption scenarios. A series of nationwide events, including apremium consumption month and an international consumption season, will be rolled out, alongside locally tailored programs in 15 pilot cities.1月3日，2026“中国购物季”暨新年消费季在上海启动。商务部部长王文涛表示，本次活动将聚焦商品消费、服务消费及新型消费场景发展。全国将推出高端消费月、国际消费季等系列活动，同时15个试点城市将推出本土化特色项目。With the nine-day Spring Festival approaching, Wang said the Ministry of Commerce, together with other central departments and local governments, will host a "happy shopping for the Spring Festival" campaign as a flagship component of the "Shopping in China" series. The campaign will span food, accommodation, transport, travel, shopping and entertainment, aiming to create an inclusive, festive consumption experience for families at home and travelers on the move.随着为期九天的春节临近，王文涛表示商务部将联合中央各部门和地方政府，推出“欢乐春节·购物中国”系列活动的旗舰项目“欢乐春节·购物中国”。活动将覆盖餐饮、住宿、交通、旅游、购物、娱乐等领域，旨在为居家过节的家庭和外出游玩的旅客创造包容、喜庆的消费体验。More than 1,200 kilometers south of Beijing, Yiwu—the world's largest small-commodities hub—offers a ground-level view of how festive demand is being converted into real orders.距离北京以南1200多公里处，全球最大的小商品集散中心义乌正展现着节日需求如何转化为实际订单的生动图景。In the plush toy section of Yiwu International Trade Market, one horse-themed product has become an unexpected viral hit. Originally launched in mid-October under the name "Mashang Youqian", meaning "immediate prosperity", the toy initially sold about 400 units a day—steady but far from a bestseller.在义乌国际商贸城毛绒玩具区，一款以马为主题的产品意外走红。这款名为“马上有钱”的玩具于十月中旬上市，最初日销量约400件——虽保持稳定但远非畅销品。Its breakout moment came in January, after a minor production-line error resulted in the toy's mouth being stitched incorrectly, giving it a seemingly "tearful" expression. Buyers who received the flawed version posted photos and chat records online while requesting exchanges. The images struck a chord with netizens, who found humor and resonance in the toy's "wronged" look, quickly propelling it to the top of social media trending lists.这款玩具的爆红时刻出现在今年1月，当时因生产线的小失误导致玩具嘴巴缝制错误，呈现出仿佛“泪眼汪汪”的表情。收到瑕疵品的买家纷纷在网上晒出照片和聊天记录要求换货。这些照片意外引发网友共鸣，大家在玩具“委屈”的表情中发现了幽默感，迅速将其推上了社交媒体热搜榜首。Dubbed the "crying horse", the toy was soon labeled the first cultural "dark horse" of the New Year. As demand surged, the factory expanded production lines from two to more than a dozen, lifting daily output to around 15,000 units. The merchant has since applied for a design patent.这款被称为“哭哭马”的玩具，很快被冠以新年首个文化“黑马”的称号。随着需求激增，工厂将生产线从两条扩充至十余条，日产量提升至约1.5万只。该商家已就此申请了外观设计专利。Behind the viral moment, the success mirrors quality and Yiwu merchants' deeply ingrained ability to respond quickly to market signals, from identifying trends to making swift decisions and scaling production with minimal delay.这场病毒式传播的背后，其成功既彰显了商品品质，更折射出义乌商人深植于骨髓的敏锐市场触觉。从洞察趋势到果断决策，再到以最小延迟实现规模化生产，他们总能迅速响应市场信号。Across the toy sector, creative interpretations of the Year of the Horse are proliferating. Products range from zodiac photo frames to blind boxes and decorative figurines.玩具行业正涌现出大量以马年为主题的创意设计，产品涵盖生肖相框、盲盒以及装饰摆件等。Some bestselling items now sell between 40,000 and 60,000 units a day. For popular designs, factories are producing between 50,000 and 100,000 units daily. To maintain speed and creativity, some merchants require their design teams to develop as many as five new styles each day.部分畅销商品目前日销量在4万至6万件之间。对于热门款式，工厂日产量可达5万至10万件。为保持生产速度和设计创新力，部分商家要求设计团队每日开发多达五款新产品。Merchants say interest from foreign buyers has risen, particularly after Spring Festival was added to UNESCO's Representative List of theIntangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2024.商户表示，外国买家的兴趣有所提升，尤其是在2024年12月春节被列入联合国教科文组织人类非物质文化遗产代表作名录之后。Consumption momentum is also visible in the catering sector, where Chinese New Year's Eve reunion dinners—a core element of Spring Festival culture—are being booked out well in advance.餐饮业的消费势头同样明显，作为春节文化核心元素的除夕团圆饭，早已被提前预订一空。In Beijing, several restaurant chains report that all private rooms across multiple branches are already fully booked, with only limited lunchtime slots remaining. Prices largely match regular menus, though advance reservations and deposits are typically required.在北京，多家连锁餐厅表示其旗下各分店的包间已全部订满，仅剩少量午间时段可预约。价格基本与常规菜单持平，但通常需要提前预约并支付定金。To cope with demand, many restaurants have introducedstaggered dining slots on Chinese New Year's Eve, offering discounts for later sittings. Others have expanded takeaway services, allowing families to enjoy freshly prepared reunion meals at home.为应对需求，许多餐厅在除夕夜推出了错峰用餐时段，晚间时段还提供折扣优惠。另有餐厅扩大了外卖服务范围，让家庭能在家中享用现做的团圆饭。One restaurant in Beijing's Guomao area has launched two takeaway packages priced at 1,988 yuan ($286) for eight to 10 people and 999 yuan for four to six people, with free delivery within the city's Fifth Ring Road. Customers can also order a la carte, providing greater flexibility.北京国贸区某餐厅推出两款外卖套餐：8-10人份售价1988元（约合286美元），4-6人份售价999元，市内五环路内免费配送。顾客也可单点菜品，提供更灵活的选择。An emerging trend is the shift toward county towns and rural venues. In Yinjiang town of Ningbo, Zhejiang province, a countryside resort that opened reservations three months ago, has already sold out large private rooms for the first two days of the holiday, attracting families traveling from neighboring Shanghai, and Jiangsu province.新兴趋势向县城和乡村场所转移。在浙江省宁波市鄞江镇，一家三个月前开放预订的乡村度假村，其大型包间在假期前两天的预订已全部售罄，吸引了来自邻近上海和江苏的家庭游客。Traditional restaurant brands are also moving into rural markets. Managers say demand for reunion dinners and banquets in these areas remains strong, while the supply of mid—to high-end dining options is relatively limited—creating new opportunities for expansion.传统餐饮品牌也正进军农村市场。经营者表示，这些地区对团圆饭和宴会的需求依然旺盛，而中高端餐饮选择的供应相对有限，这为扩张创造了新机遇。The nine-day break is also reshaping travel patterns, triggering a surge in both outbound and inbound tourism.为期九天的假期也在重塑旅游模式，引发出境游和入境游的双双激增。Major travel platforms report that Spring Festival bookings for 2026 have surpassed last year's levels across the board. According to data from Flight Master, as of Jan 16, bookings for domestic flights during the holiday exceeded 4.13 million, up about 21 percent year-on-year. Outbound and inbound flight bookings both climbed to around 700,000.主要旅游平台数据显示，2026年春节期间的预订量全面超越去年同期水平。据飞航大师平台统计，截至1月16日，春节期间国内航班预订量已突破413万次，同比增长约21%。出境及入境航班预订量均攀升至约70万次。Airbnb data show searches by Chinese travelers for overseas accommodation around the Spring Festival period have roughly doubled year-on-year. Many travelers are choosing to stagger trips before or after the official holiday to secure better prices and less crowded itineraries.爱彼迎（Airbnb）数据显示，春节期间中国游客搜索海外住宿的数量同比翻了一番。许多游客选择在法定假期前后错峰出行，以获得更优惠的价格和更宽松的行程安排。Travel agencies are embedding New Year elements into overseas tour products, allowing travelers to retain a sense of festivity even while abroad.旅行社正将新年元素融入海外旅游产品，让游客即使身处异国也能保持节日氛围。Li Mengran, marketing manager of Beijing-based travel agency Utour, said the company has continued its long-standing practices in European tour products. These include customized reunion dinners and dumpling-making activities, alongside wine tastings and interactive prize draws.北京众信旅游集团媒介公关经理李梦然表示，公司在欧洲旅游产品中延续了多年来的传统项目，包括定制团圆晚宴和包饺子活动，同时安排品酒会和互动抽奖环节。"For family travelers, we also prepare red-envelope gifts for children under 16 to enhance the sense of ritual and warmth during the journey,"Li said.李梦然表示：“针对家庭游客，我们还为16岁以下儿童准备了红包礼物，以增强旅途中的仪式感与温馨氛围。”Domestically, culturally rich "intangible heritage towns" are emerging as popular destinations. Data from Qunar show that cities such as Huangshan in Anhui, Jingdezhen in Jiangxi, Quanzhou in Fujian, Foshan in Guangdong and Zigong in Sichuan—all offering immersive intangible cultural heritage experiences—have seen particularly strong hotel booking growth during the winter holiday and Spring Festival period.在国内，文化底蕴深厚的“非物质文化遗产小镇”正成为热门旅游目的地。去哪儿网数据显示，安徽黄山、江西景德镇、福建泉州、广东佛山、四川自贡等提供沉浸式非物质文化遗产体验的城市，在寒假和春节期间酒店预订量增长尤为显著。Inbound tourism is also gaining momentum.入境旅游业也正蓬勃发展。Qunar data show that bookings for domestic flights made using non-Chinese passports during the Spring Festival holiday are up more than 20 percent year-on-year, underscoring the holiday's growing role as a window for international visitors to experience Chinese culture.去哪儿网数据显示，春节期间持非中国护照预订的国内航班量同比增长逾20%，凸显出春节作为国际游客体验中华文化的窗口正发挥着日益重要的作用。This rebound reflects sustained policy support. By the first three quarters of 2025, visa-free inbound visits reached 20.89 million, up more than 50 percent year-on-year. Since the introduction of the 240-hour transit visa-free policy, inbound arrivals across ports have risen 27.2 percent.这一回升态势反映出政策支持的持续性。截至2025年前三季度，免签入境人次达2089万，同比增长逾50%。自实施240小时过境免签政策以来，各口岸入境人次增长27.2%。The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts that China's tourism sector will grow at an average annual rate of 7 percent over the next decade, with the country on track to become the world's largest tourism market by 2031, surpassing the United States.世界旅游业理事会预测，未来十年中国旅游业将保持年均7%的增长率，预计到2031年将超越美国，成为全球最大的旅游市场。Economists say the early consumption surge reflects the combined effects of policy support, longer holidays and evolving consumer preferences.经济学家表示，消费的早期激增反映了政策支持、假期延长以及消费者偏好变化的综合影响。The Central Economic Work Conference held in December placed expanding domestic demand as the top priority of China's economic policy in 2026, with multiple consumption-supporting policies already rolled out or in the pipeline.去年12月召开的中央经济工作会议将扩大内需确立为2026年中国经济政策的重中之重，多项支持消费的政策已陆续出台或正在酝酿中。Su Jian, a professor at Peking University's School of Economics, said consumption growth has been most visible in services and fast-evolving consumer electronics, including tourism, cultural products, sports and entertainment. Rapid upgrade cycles, he added, continue to support demand for electronics.北京大学经济学院教授苏剑表示，消费增长在服务业和快速发展的消费电子产品领域最为显著，包括旅游、文化产品、体育和娱乐等。他补充道，快速的升级周期持续支撑着电子产品需求。Since last year, targeted consumption-boosting campaigns have delivered tangible results. In 2025, trade-in-related sales exceeded 2.6 trillion yuan, benefiting more than 360 million consumer transactions. Optimized trade-in programs introduced in 2026 are now translating into concrete market activity across regions.自去年以来，定向消费提振举措成效显著。2025年，以旧换新相关销售额突破2.6万亿元，惠及逾3.6亿笔消费交易。2026年推出的优化换购方案，正逐步转化为各地市场的实际行动。International observers have also noted structural changes underway. In its latest flagship annual report, global consultancy Roland Berger said China has entered the "consumption 4.0" era, characterized by resilience.国际观察人士也注意到正在发生的结构性变化。全球咨询公司罗兰贝格企业管理有限公司在其最新旗舰年度报告中指出，中国已进入以韧性为特征的“消费4.0”时代。China's consumption structure is shifting rapidly from survival-oriented spending toward development—and experience-oriented demand, the report noted. By elevating domestic demand expansion to a strategic priority, and encouraging a move from quantitative satisfaction to qualitative enrichment, policymakers are using consumption upgrading to drive supply-side innovation and support high-quality growth.报告指出，中国消费结构正从生存型消费向发展型消费、从物质型需求向体验型需求快速转变。通过将扩大内需提升为战略重点，引导消费从数量满足转向质量提升，决策者正以消费升级为引擎，推动供给侧创新，助力高质量发展。Boosting consumption, policymakers emphasize, is not a short-term fix, but a long-term strategy.政策制定者强调，提振消费并非短期对策，而是长远之策。A State Council executive meeting held on Jan 16 reviewed progress in the consumption-boosting campaign and outlined further steps to cultivate new growth points in service consumption.2026年1月16日召开的国务院常务会议审议了提振消费行动的进展情况，并规划了培育服务消费新增长点的后续措施。The meeting called for improving long-term mechanisms for promoting consumption, raising urban and rural household incomes, implementing the paid leave system and removing unreasonable restrictive measures for consumption.会议要求完善促进消费的长效机制，提高城乡居民收入水平，落实带薪休假制度，取消限制消费的不合理措施。premium consumption/ˈpriː.mi.əm/高端消费staggered dining slots错峰用餐时段intangible/ɪnˈtæn.dʒə.bəl/adj.非物质的

Chinese mainland authorities named two senior officials from Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party as die-hard "Taiwan independence" separatists on Wednesday and labeled a Taiwan prosecutor as an accomplice, saying that they will face lifelong legal accountability.Chen Binhua, a spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said at a news conference that Liu Shih-fang, head of Taiwan's so-called "interior affairs department", and Cheng Ying-yao, head of the island's "education department", were added to a mainland list of people accused of pushing "Taiwan independence".Chen accused Liu and Cheng of promoting separatist ideas that go against mainstream public opinion. He said that authorities had received reports from compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait calling for the two officials to be punished.The spokesman said that Liu has blatantly propagated "Taiwan independence" rhetoric and has restricted people in Taiwan who support or take part in exchanges with the mainland, including mainland-born spouses living on the island.Chen said that Cheng, who oversees the island's education policy, has brazenly peddled provocative rhetoric advocating "Taiwan independence" and has organized the compilation of "Taiwan independence" teaching materials, which he said have had a negative impact on young people in Taiwan.The spokesman criticized both officials for persistent and extreme actions aimed at dividing the country, stirring confrontation, disrupting cross-Strait exchanges and harming the interests of people on both sides.Under mainland laws, sanctions have been imposed on Liu and Cheng. They and their family members are barred from entering the mainland, as well as the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions. Organizations affiliated with them are also banned from doing business on the mainland or cooperating with mainland entities.The spokesman also announced that Chen Shu-yi, a prosecutor at Taiwan's so-called "high prosecutors office", had been listed as an accomplice to "Taiwan independence" activities, and she would be held legally responsible for life.He accused the prosecutor of fabricating cases, making false accusations and targeting people in Taiwan who support cross-Strait exchanges. He said such actions were intended to intimidate the public and create a "climate of fear".The spokesman also encouraged people from both the mainland and Taiwan to provide information and evidence related to the alleged illegal activities of those named.So far, the mainland has identified 14 individuals as die-hard "Taiwan independence" separatists, including Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan's deputy leader, and Koo Li-hsiung, head of the island's "defense department". It has also listed 12 people as accomplices of "Taiwan independence" secessionists."Any 'Taiwan independence' separatist who breaks the law, no matter where they are, will face all necessary measures and will be held accountable for life," the spokesman said.He also responded to a recent proposal by DPP lawmakers to amend Taiwan's law governing relations with the mainland. He said the "red line" must not be crossed, and he accused the DPP authorities of escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait.The proposal, which reportedly has been withdrawn, sought to redefine cross-Strait relations as relations between "Taiwan and the People's Republic of China" and to remove the words "before national reunification" from the Taiwan law.Citing China's Anti-Secession Law, the spokesman said the mainland would not tolerate what it calls "de jure independence", warning that those who challenge the law will face serious consequences.

China's ice and snow resources have turned into a robust economic driver, with experts noting the transformation of winter tourism and related leisure activities from a "niche experience" into a "popular trend" and predicting that the industry will continue to boom.中国的冰雪资源已成为强劲的经济驱动力，专家指出，冬季旅游及相关休闲活动正从 “小众体验” 转变为 “大众潮流”，并预计该产业将持续蓬勃发展。According to a report released on Monday by the China Tourism Academy, the season from December 2025 to February 2026 is expected to see 360 million winter tourism trips, generating around 450 billion yuan ($64 billion) in revenue.中国旅游研究院周一发布的一份报告显示，2025 年 12 月至 2026 年 2 月的冰雪季期间，预计全国冬季旅游人次将达 3.6 亿，旅游收入约 4500 亿元人民币（折合 640 亿美元）。Yang Lezhi, 27, a resident of Beijing, said she decided to hone her skiing skills in recent years, thanks to the mushrooming winter resort options across the country.27 岁的北京市民杨乐芝（音译）表示，近年来全国范围内的滑雪场如雨后春笋般涌现，于是她下定决心精进自己的滑雪技术。"I feel like Elsa from the film Frozen when I ski. The sport is almost addictive once you learn to navigate the slopes," she said.她说：“滑雪的时候，我感觉自己就像电影《冰雪奇缘》里的艾莎。一旦学会了驾驭雪道，这项运动就会让人欲罢不能。”Yang recalled that she visited several spectacular winter destinations in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, and Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces during her days in college.杨乐芝回忆道，大学期间她曾到访过新疆维吾尔自治区以及吉林、黑龙江两省的多个绝美冬季旅游胜地。"However, skiing was a niche sport back then. Many of my friends and I discovered the thrill of skiing only after 2023, and now we are always eager to hit the slopes to enjoy the winter scenery better," she added.她补充道：“不过那时候滑雪还是一项小众运动。我和很多朋友都是在 2023 年之后才感受到滑雪的乐趣，现在我们总是迫不及待地奔赴雪场，更好地欣赏冬日美景。”According to the academy's report, about 75 percent of the respondents said they wish to take winter trips this season; more than 40 percent said they would like to increase the frequency of their participation in ice and snow leisure activities; and over 40 percent said they would increase their consumption of such activities this winter.该研究院的报告显示，约 75% 的受访者表示本雪季有冬季出游的意愿；超 40% 的受访者称愿意提高参与冰雪休闲活动的频率；另有超 40% 的受访者表示今冬会增加在冰雪休闲活动上的消费。Yang Jinsong, a researcher at the China Tourism Academy, said the nation's increasing efforts in developing winter tourism and the success of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics accelerated the industry's development.中国旅游研究院研究员杨劲松表示，国家对冬季旅游发展的持续发力，以及 2022 年北京冬奥会的成功举办，推动了冰雪产业的加速发展。In November 2024, the State Council, China's Cabinet, issued guidelines to strengthen the nation's ice and snow economy, which set a target of 1.2 trillion yuan for 2027 and 1.5 trillion yuan for 2030.2024 年 11 月，中国国务院印发关于做强冰雪经济的指导意见，明确提出 2027 年冰雪经济规模达到 1.2 万亿元、2030 年达到 1.5 万亿元的目标。Yang Jinsong said he is optimistic about the industry's prospects, because a large population base creates a relatively larger market for winter tourism and sports.杨劲松表示，他对冰雪产业的前景持乐观态度，庞大的人口基数为冬季旅游和冰雪运动造就了体量可观的市场。"After the Beijing Olympics, people have had a stronger awareness of and growing interest in winter tourism and sports. Also, supportive government policies have encouraged more companies and suppliers to join the industry," he said.他说：“北京冬奥会之后，民众对冬季旅游和冰雪运动的认知度显著提升、兴趣日益浓厚。同时，政府出台的扶持政策也吸引了更多企业和供应商投身这一产业。”While some provinces have geographical advantages in developing their winter tourism industry, others have channeled resources and investment to facilitate ice and snow activities at human-made facilities, he added.他补充道，部分省份发展冬季旅游具有得天独厚的地理优势，而其他省份则通过投入资源与资金，依托人工设施开展冰雪活动。Data from the report shows that southern China, including provinces such as Guangdong, topped the nation's winter tourism heavy assets investment with an annual total exceeding 30 billion yuan.报告数据显示，以广东省为代表的中国南方地区，在冬季旅游重资产投资领域位居全国首位，年度投资总额超 300 亿元人民币。China has established a whole industrial chain for winter tourism, ice and snow culture, winter sports, and winter gear, the report said. In 2025, there were 1,423 new companies involved in the winter tourism industry. The total number of such companies reached more than 14,000, up 11 percent compared with 2024, according to the report.报告指出，中国已构建起涵盖冬季旅游、冰雪文化、冰雪运动、冰雪装备的完整产业链。2025 年，全国新增冰雪旅游相关企业 1423 家，相关企业总数突破 1.4 万家，较 2024 年增长 11%。A previous report unveiled by Asiadg.com and Beijing Sport University showed that China's winter-related consumption from late 2024 to early 2025 totaled 187.5 billion yuan.此前由亚洲数据集团与北京体育大学联合发布的一份报告显示，2024 年末至 2025 年初，中国冰雪相关消费总额达 1875 亿元人民币。The value of the nation's winter-related industry grew from 270 billion yuan in 2015 to 980 billion yuan in 2024, it said, estimating that the industry will exceed 1 trillion yuan in 2025 for the first time and reach 1.5 trillion yuan in 2030.该报告称，中国冰雪产业规模从 2015 年的 2700 亿元增长至 2024 年的 9800 亿元，并预计该产业规模将于 2025 年首次突破万亿元大关，到 2030 年达到 1.5 万亿元。niche /niːʃ/adj. 小众的；特定领域的thrill /θrɪl/n. 兴奋感；激动；v. 使兴奋；使激动accelerate /əkˈseləreɪt/v. 加速；促进；使加快prospect /ˈprɒspekt/n. 前景；展望；（复数）成功的机会将这段中文再翻译回英文请再提供一些关于中国冰雪产业发展的英文报道。用英文介绍一下中国冰雪产业的优势。

China will bar online platforms from using big data to engage in discriminatory pricing against consumers, as market regulators move to regulate the platform economy under new regulations released on Wednesday.中国市场监管部门于周三发布新规，着手规范平台经济发展，明确禁止网络平台利用大数据对消费者实施价格歧视。The State Administration for Market Regulation and the Cyberspace Administration of China released new measures on the supervision of online trading platforms. The latest rules aim to standardize the formulation, amendment and implementation of platform rules, safeguard online trading market order, and better protect the legitimate rights of merchants and consumers.国家市场监督管理总局与国家互联网信息办公室联合出台网络交易平台监督管理新规，旨在规范平台规则的制定、修订与执行流程，维护网络交易市场秩序，更好地保护平台内商家与消费者的合法权益。The measures target what regulators describe as a "critical minority" — online platform operators — and seek to further clarify and strengthen their responsibilities.此次出台的办法聚焦监管部门所称的 “关键少数”，即网络平台运营者，进一步厘清并压实了其主体责任。Under such measures, platforms are forbidden from utilizing so-called "big data kill-the-familiar" practices. It is a form of algorithm-driven price discrimination in which frequent or repeat users are charged higher prices than new customers.办法明确禁止平台采用所谓的 “大数据杀熟” 行为。这种行为是算法驱动的价格歧视，具体表现为平台向高频、复购用户收取高于新用户的费用。Liu Jian, deputy head of the SAMR's first antitrust enforcement department, said at an earlier news conference that China's platform economy has distinct business models and involves complex, multisided interests, making it difficult to draw clear behavioral boundaries.国家市场监督管理总局反垄断执法一司副司长刘健在早前的新闻发布会上表示，中国平台经济商业模式特色鲜明，涉及多方复杂利益关系，相关行为边界的界定存在一定难度。"Promoting algorithms for the public good is an important compliance objective," Liu said.刘健指出：“推动算法向善，是平台合规经营的重要目标。”The measures also spell out more detailed requirements on data, information and network security, as well as on the protection of the lawful rights of merchants operating on platforms and of consumers.办法还针对数据安全、信息安全、网络安全，以及平台内商家和消费者合法权益的保护，作出了更为细化的要求。In addition, platforms should follow stricter procedures when formulating or revising rules, including public disclosure, open consultations, reasonable transition periods and clearly defined appeal channels.此外，平台在制定或修订规则时，需遵循更严格的程序，包括规则公示、公开征求意见、设置合理过渡期以及明确异议申诉渠道等。They are also required to establish consultation mechanisms for major rule changes and systems to resolve disputes arising from transactions conducted on their platforms.同时，平台还需建立重大规则调整的协商机制，以及平台内交易纠纷的解决机制。The latest measures further set out detailed obligations on data, information and network security, as well as on the protection of the lawful rights of merchants and consumers.新规进一步细化了平台在数据安全、信息安全、网络安全方面的具体义务，同时强化了对平台内商家和消费者合法权益的保护要求。Platforms must include clear data and information security provisions in their rules, define standards on how merchants handle personal data, and specify obligations related to online protections.平台必须在其规则中纳入明确的数据和信息安全条款，明确平台内商家处理个人信息的标准，并细化网络安全保护相关义务。Crucially, the rules prohibit platforms from using internal regulations to impose unreasonable restrictions on merchants' independent operations, levy unjustified fees, or demand excessive penalties or compensation.尤为关键的是，新规禁止平台通过内部规则，对平台内商家的自主经营设置不合理限制、收取不合理费用，或是要求商家支付高额违约金、赔偿金。They also bar platforms from weakening or excluding consumer rights, shifting or waiving their own responsibilities, or unfairly increasing consumers' obligations.新规同时明令禁止平台弱化或排除消费者权利、转移或免除自身责任，以及不合理加重消费者义务的行为。Wang Xianlin, a member of the expert advisory group on the Anti-Monopoly Commission of the State Council — the nation's Cabinet — said, "Such efforts are expected to bring greater transparency and structure to the way online platforms operate, and will rebalance interests and rebuild a healthy platform ecosystem."国务院反垄断委员会专家咨询组成员王先林表示：“这些举措有望提升网络平台运营的透明度和规范性，进一步平衡各方利益，助力构建健康有序的平台生态体系。”discriminatory /dɪˈskrɪmɪnətəri/adj. 歧视性的；区别对待的formulation /ˌfɔːmjʊˈleɪʃn/n. 制定；构想；配方antitrust /ˌæntiˈtrʌst/adj. 反垄断的；反托拉斯的transparency /trænsˈpærənsi/n. 透明度；透明性

China is accelerating its push toward a consumption-led economic model, with policymakers identifying the expansion of domestic demand as the key driver of GDP growth during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30), economists and officials said.经济学家和相关官员表示，中国正加快向消费主导型经济模式转型，政策制定者已明确将扩大内需列为 “十五五” 规划时期（2026-2030 年）国内生产总值增长的核心驱动力。Following the tone-setting Central Economic Work Conference, which prioritized domestic demand for 2026, experts noted a strategic transition: China is moving beyond simple volume growth toward "structural optimization". This involves leveraging fiscal tools to boost household incomes and specifically targets the high-growth services sector to buffer against external uncertainties.在为 2026 年经济工作定调、并将扩大内需列为重点任务的中央经济工作会议召开后，专家指出中国正迎来战略转型：经济发展正从单纯的规模增长转向 “结构优化”。这一转型包括运用财政工具提振居民收入，并重点瞄准高增长的服务业，以抵御外部环境的不确定性。An official from the Office of the Central Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs confirmed that Beijing will roll out concrete plans to boost household incomes and raise basic pensions while increasing the supply of high-quality products and services and also removing unreasonable restrictions to fully unlock consumption potential.中央财经委员会办公室的一位官员证实，国家将出台具体方案，在提高居民收入、上调基本养老金的同时，增加优质产品和服务供给，消除不合理限制，以充分释放消费潜力。Experts see this policy stance as a signal for significant growth in specific areas, and express optimism about the long-term potential of China's consumer market.专家认为，这一政策立场预示着部分特定领域将迎来大幅增长，并对中国消费市场的长期潜力持乐观态度。Wang Wei, a senior researcher at the Development Research Center of the State Council, said at a recent forum hosted by China News Service: "China's consumption growth maintains strong momentum and ample potential. Emerging areas such as digital services, green technology and health-related demand are expected to become the primary engines of the consumer market."国务院发展研究中心资深研究员王伟在近期由中国新闻社主办的一场论坛上表示：“中国消费增长势头强劲、潜力充足。数字服务、绿色科技以及健康相关需求等新兴领域，有望成为消费市场的核心增长引擎。”Official data support this structural divergence. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, retail sales of services climbed 5.4 percent year-on-year in the first 11 months of 2025, outpacing the overall retail growth of 4 percent.官方数据印证了这一结构性分化趋势。国家统计局数据显示，2025 年前 11 个月，服务业零售额同比增长 5.4%，增速高于整体零售 4% 的同比增幅。Chen Lifen, a researcher at the DRC, described the current phase as a critical evolution from a goods-dominated model to one that balances goods and services, with a long-term trajectory toward a services-led structure.国务院发展研究中心研究员陈丽芬表示，当前阶段正处于关键转型期，经济模式正从商品主导型转向商品和服务均衡型，长期来看将朝着服务主导型结构迈进。"As income levels rise, demand for services, which typically have high income elasticity, naturally increases its share of total wallet spending," Chen said, adding that with basic needs largely met, the "quality upgrade" is driving capital toward personal development, leisure and smart home ecosystems.陈丽芬指出：“随着居民收入水平提升，收入弹性较高的服务类需求在居民总消费中的占比自然会上升。” 她补充道，在基本需求得到充分满足的背景下，“品质升级” 正推动资本流向个人发展、休闲娱乐以及智能家居生态等领域。The shift is already reshaping corporate investment strategies as companies move to capture these high-quality demand pockets.这一转型已经在重塑企业的投资策略，企业纷纷布局以抢占这些高品质需求市场。Fang Xing, a vice-general manager at Ping An Property & Casualty Insurance, highlighted the surging "pet economy" — now valued at approximately 300 billion yuan ($42.81 billion). With veterinary costs often exceeding 10,000 yuan for major procedures, financial institutions are developing specialized insurance products to hedge these rising household costs.平安产险副总经理方兴特别提到了蓬勃发展的 “宠物经济”，其市场规模目前已达约 3000 亿元人民币（合 428.1 亿美元）。由于宠物重大诊疗项目的费用往往超过 1 万元，金融机构正研发专项保险产品，帮助家庭对冲这类不断上涨的支出。Similarly, in the manufacturing sector, the focus has shifted from scale to efficiency. Guo Yanhu, a director with Gree Electric Appliances, said consumer demand for green energy is driving research and development. He cited Gree's investment in AI-driven energy systems — which has boosted efficiency by over 25 percent — as a direct response to both domestic eco-targets and demand from overseas markets.无独有偶，制造业的发展重心也从规模转向了效率。格力电器董事郭彦虎表示，消费者对绿色能源的需求正驱动企业加大研发投入。他举例称，格力对人工智能驱动能源系统的投资，使能效提升超 25%，这一举措既是对国内生态目标的响应，也是对海外市场需求的直接对接。Economists emphasize that sustaining this momentum requires institutional reforms. Su Jian, a professor at the School of Economics at Peking University, said expanding "high-quality demand" requires a virtuous cycle where new products help cultivate new demand, while cost-reducing innovations allow new demand to scale.经济学家强调，要维持这一增长势头，必须推进制度改革。北京大学经济学院教授苏剑表示，扩大 “高品质需求” 需要形成良性循环：新产品助力培育新需求，而降本创新则为新需求的规模化发展提供支撑。While fiscal and monetary policies are essential to expand demand, Su said expanding high-quality demand depends on developing new quality productive forces through product innovation and process innovation.苏剑指出，尽管财政和货币政策对扩大需求至关重要，但扩大高品质需求的核心在于通过产品创新和工艺创新，培育新质生产力。Luo Zhiheng, chief economist at Yuekai Securities, added that boosting consumption during the 15th Five-Year Plan period is a strategic choice rather than a short-term policy response.粤开证券首席经济学家罗志恒补充道，“十五五” 期间提振消费是一项战略抉择，而非短期的政策应对措施。"Key to raising the household consumption rate will be improving income distribution, strengthening social security and widening market access. These are the fundamental levers to converting potential demand into actual economic activity," Luo said.罗志恒表示：“提高居民消费率的关键在于完善收入分配、强化社会保障以及拓宽市场准入。这三项举措是将潜在需求转化为实际经济活动的根本抓手。”consumption /kənˈsʌmpʃn/ 消费domestic /dəˈmestɪk/ 国内的；家庭的innovation /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ 创新elasticity /ˌiːlæstɪˈsɪəti/ 弹性

Changes to student loan programs and the so-called demographic cliff are set to impact Virginia college's enrollment numbers, according to members of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. Brad Kutner explains.

fWotD Episode 3135: Flag of Hong Kong Welcome to featured Wiki of the Day, your daily dose of knowledge from Wikipedia's finest articles.The featured article for Thursday, 4 December 2025, is Flag of Hong Kong.The Regional Flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China depicts a white stylised five-petal Hong Kong orchid tree (Bauhinia × blakeana) flower in the centre of a Chinese red field. Its design is enshrined in Hong Kong's Basic Law, the territory's constitutional document, and regulations regarding its use, prohibition of use, desecration, and manufacture are stated in the Regional Flag and Regional Emblem Ordinance.The original design of the flag of Hong Kong was unveiled on 4 April 1990 at the Third Session of the Seventh National People's Congress. The current design was approved on 10 August 1996 at the Fourth Plenum of the Preparatory Committee of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. The use of the flag is regulated by laws passed by the 58th executive meeting of the State Council held in Beijing. The flag was officially adopted and hoisted on 1 July 1997, during the handover ceremony marking the handover from the United Kingdom back to China.A variant of the flag known as the Black Bauhinia has been used by anti-Chinese government protesters in Hong Kong, particularly during the 2019–2020 Hong Kong protests. In contrast of the protests, pro-government supporters often display the Chinese and Hong Kong flags.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 00:46 UTC on Thursday, 4 December 2025.For the full current version of the article, see Flag of Hong Kong on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Bluesky at @wikioftheday.com.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm standard Amy.

In this powerful new episode of Manager Minute, host Carol Pankow sits down with renowned researcher and educator Dr. Jim Herbert to unpack one of the most urgent challenges in vocational rehabilitation today: counselor turnover and retention. Drawing from his brand-new national study on RSA-funded personnel, Jim breaks down the real factors that influence whether VR counselors intend to stay — or walk away. From organizational support and supervisor relationships to workload, generational values, and work–life balance, Jim reveals why retention is a "whole system issue," not a single-variable problem. He also shares bold, practical solutions for VR agencies, including flexible scheduling, paid internships, rehiring retirees, strengthening supervision practices, and his attention-grabbing recommendation of a 32-hour workweek at full pay. As a new partner with the VRTAC, Jim also previews upcoming national recruitment and retention initiatives — including a new toolkit for VR HR teams and direct clinical supervision work with a selected state VR agency. This is an episode every VR director, supervisor, and counselor needs to hear. Listen now and join the conversation about the future of the VR workforce.   Listen Here   Full Transcript:   {Music} Jim: Supervisors play an understated but really critical role in the relationship with their counselors and how that contributes to them staying or leaving. What I suggested was moving to a four day, 32 hour workweek at the same pay. What are you doing to try to address this? What's working for you, and then be able to kind of put that in a toolkit or a resource? We want to share that nationwide. So I'm looking for a state VR agency of supervisors and say, yep, let's tangle with that academic from Penn State. Let's do it.   {Music} Intro Voice: Manager Minute, brought to you by the Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center. Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time, one minute at a time. Here is your host, Carol Pankow.   Carol: Well, welcome to the manager minute. Joining me in the studio today is Doctor Jim Herbert. Jim's a long time researcher, educator and advocate for the field of rehabilitation counseling, and I'm thrilled to share that he will also be working with us on the VRTAC grant in some exciting new recruitment and retention efforts. And today, we get to talk not only about Jim's earlier research on counselor turnover, but also his brand new national study on the long term effectiveness of RSA training and what predicts whether VR personnel intend to stay or leave. So, Jim, this makes me laugh to ask you this. How are things going in your retirement?   Jim: That's right. Yes. As you know, I recently retired, quote unquote, effective July 1st. I'll just tell you that I'm in what they refer to as the honeymoon phase. So basically it's like, oh, I love it. So while I continue to do academic work, such as the project that we're working with you guys on, I'm really super busy with nonacademic projects like gardening and landscaping. And as you saw, we just got a new puppy who consumes quite a lot of my time, so it's going wonderful.   Carol: I love it, I just have to chuckle because you are the busiest retired guy I know, so we were glad we could snag you.   Jim: I'm glad to be snagged.   Carol: That's awesome. So today we're going to dive into a topic that hits close to home for every VR professional. Why rehabilitation counselors leave the field, and what keeps others committed for the long haul. So let's start by imagining a counselor with a full caseload, endless paperwork, competing demands someone who came into this work to make a difference, but they're now struggling to stay motivated. What makes some counselors walk away while others find ways to stay the course? So let's dig into your work. So, Jim, what first drew you to studying counselor retention and turnover in VR?   Jim: Well, as we'll discuss a little bit further, everything else in terms of VR and my work in VR, I have a long history and frankly, a long affection for state counsellors. 40 some years ago when I got into this field, I got to work with a lot of VR counselors and I have so much respect for them in the work that they do. And over the last couple of decades in particular, things are becoming increasingly more and more difficult. And so as we'll  talk a little bit, maybe we can get into like your first questions about, well, which I think is a critical one, like, well, why is it that some counselors stay and why do others leave? And so, you know, when you look at that a little bit and feel free to interrupt me because, you know, many academicians, we tend to be a little bit long-winded.   Carol: You're a talker, Jim.   Jim: There you go. So, you know, when you look at it, it's really a combination of individual and situational factors. You know, when you ask counselors, well what attracted you to this? And I think people get drawn into the profession because they want to make a difference. They see people that need help and they feel like, hey, I'm in a position maybe I can offer support or direction and services can make a difference in their lives. So I think that's a big part of it. And then also as a result of that, why they get into that field, I think what happens is over the years, things start to change. They start thinking like, geez, you know what? I thought I got into this field, the job was going to be this way. And really now what I'm finding is it's not that way, or what happens is the thing that drew me in terms of the interaction with people and making the impact. I find myself spending more time with the documentation process and all the rules and regulations, and not as much time to really that I would like to having that one on one contact with people. So I think what happens is their job, their satisfaction changes as a function of kind of, you know, over that period. The other thing I'll just say to expand on why some people stay and why they walk away. I think one of the things in the beginning, especially with new counselors, their knowledge about the world of work and the job as a state VR counselor.   They have a different understanding of what that's all involve. Okay. And one of the things that I think is important to, particularly those individuals, maybe in your audience who are thinking about being a rehab counselor, either switching in or pursuing training. One of the things that I try to stress with my students is make sure you get lots of experience. So while you're going to school and getting your education, do that volunteer work. Do a practicum. Do an internship with a state VR agency. I've said this a thousand, but certainly lots of times I'll say you'll learn more in the field from any lecture that I'm going to give or any rehab professor. So I think what happens with particularly newer counselors, they have a limited understanding about what is this job about and what do you need to do to be a successful rehab. So we only know what we know. So their expectations, I think they get a little disillusioned. A second thing though, as I said, the work of a VR counselor counselor's tough stuff. You know, you look at the research over the decades about things that impact rehab counselors decision and what is the things that they don't like. So lower salaries, comparison to other kind of counseling positions, high caseloads, the paperwork, lack of supervisory support, particularly in the area of clinical supervision.   And we get a chance. I can talk about that a little bit further. There's also, I think, an incongruity between what a counselor has interest in their needs and what they're motivated by and what exists in the work environment. Those factors definitely contribute to work satisfaction. And the other thing we can talk about this in terms of our study, lack of autonomy, the inflexibility, you know, with work schedule and then obviously, you know, kind of personal reasons. So you've got all these factors that counselors have to have some resiliency to try to navigate all these kinds of challenges. And I think that's the key difference. What is it that counselor a can because they all have all these same challenges. Why is a say I can negotiate this whereas counselor B and I can't do that. And I think that probably over simplistic explanation is there is a resiliency for that. Counselors like I can take all of these and then I can look at yep, these are problems. But these other things still are important to me. And I can still kind of navigate that. And then the final thing, and I've become more and more aware of it over the last couple years, multi-generational workforce. So people are living longer. I mean, I, you know, I'm a baby boomer. I think technically I think I'm a late baby boomer, but so basically I'm ancient.   But we have people, you have the Gen Z, and I think that's the group from 97 to 2012. You got the millennials born, you know, 81, 86. You got the Gen Xers and those when you talk with people from different generations. When I talk with my students who mostly the Gen Z millennial type. They have a different view about the world of work. And basically if I had and again, this I don't mean to stereotype, but I think there's some validity in this. And I have a son who's 28 years old and he'll say, dad, you work too damn hard. And so the thing is, is like what he's saying is, and I think others of his generation, there's more to life than work. And so when I look at work, while that's important, I don't have the same kind of importance necessary that you might attach to it. And in fact, what I'm really looking for is a better balance, work life balance. And this is where state VR agencies, I think, kind of fall down because we need to kind of how do we kind of create that better balance so that we have, particularly the younger ones who we invest a lot of money, effort, we want to retain them. We don't want to lose them. So that's probably more than what you wanted.   Carol: It's all good. I have a 28 year old son, too, and we just had this conversation yesterday about work life balance, and I just said how lucky he was to work for a company coming right out of college where he was getting five weeks of vacation a year.   Jim: Yes.   Carol: And I talked to him like when I first started my first five years with the state. You got two weeks? Yeah. And it wasn't until five years you got a little more. And now you can get, like, two and a half or something. It was something horrible like that. But that view that this generation has, it is I think it's healthier, actually, than what we all did. We just put up with some pretty miserable. Yes. Working situations?   Jim: Yes. Absolutely. You're correct.   Carol: Can you walk us through the big picture, what your study set out to understand and why it's so important right now?   Jim: Yeah, yeah, yeah. I like your phrase of the big picture. So let me see if I can cut to the chase. Maybe. And so I mentioned a little bit earlier that my work began here a couple of years ago as a result of kind of a pilot study. But basically I was interested because RSA provides a lot of funding for people trying to work as rehab counselors. But my pilot study about 4 or 5 years ago. So the big picture, to put it simply, is we got to do a better job of screening people who are interested in doing this work. And once we do that, we have to do everything we can to make sure that they continue in that. So my research basically is trying to well, let's dive into that and figure out why is it who stays and who leaves.   Carol: So what did your research reveal about the biggest factors that predict whether the counselor stays or leaves?   Jim: Yeah, yeah. All right. Now this one's going to be a little bit more detail a little bit more, uh, hopefully not convoluted.   Carol: For lay people Jim Lay people.   Jim: Yes. That's right. Exactly. Yeah, yeah. So without diving too much in statistical models and all that kind of stuff, basically what we were trying to figure out is this if we ask a rehab counselor, are you planning to stay for the next 12 months. Are you planning to leave? So we use that as kind of. Our big question is who's likely to say yes, I'm planning to stay or no, I'm planning to leave in 12 months. So we developed based on the literature that we saw, a hypothetical model that we said essentially this the amount that an organization supports their employees. So what is it that in this case, what is it that the state VR agency does that is designed not only to benefit the organization but also benefit the worker. So providing them with a decent salary, benefits, training, the opportunity for telework, telecommuting, flexible work hours, greater contact with clients. So we said, okay, well, that we know from the literature that seems to be kind of an important component. We also know from and this is work that I've done over the last couple of decades, supervisors play, in my opinion, an understated but really critical role in the relationship with their counselors and how that contributes to them staying or leaving.   And so the degree and type of supervisor support we felt, well, that will impact the employees perception of their jobs, whether they like their jobs, the career opportunities that exist within the agencies, and help them develop the skills that they'll need to grow to move on. So you've got supervisor support, you've got organizational career support. But we said, well, are there any other things? How does that kind of impact. And what we found was, well, we know that if you have a I'll just say for lack of a better simplified way to look at it, a supportive work culture that includes, you know, the supervisor that we know that that can impact the counselors hopefulness about their jobs and the level of engagement that they have. So the degree of vigor, if you will, the dedication that the worker performs, which also impacts job satisfaction. So our conceptual model basically says, well, if we could understand the complex relationship between all of the kinds of organizational supports of which there are many and we haven't identified, but just using that general term, the perceptions of how our individual council feels that they're doing in that job, the degree of satisfaction they get from it, and the amount of supervision, the level type of supervision supervisor provides.   If all those factors are positive, if you will, they're more likely to stay as opposed to if they find the organization not supportive. They don't have a supervisor who's supportive, they don't feel engaged in the work that they do. So that's basically kind of what our model and what we found was that that combination of Organization support being hopeful about the job that I do. Having a supportive supervisor that promotes work engagement. Let me just use this analogy. If I had a pizza pie that said, this pizza pie represents all of people's intention to leave. Okay, well, what I just said that was if you have good support, organization supervisor, you're engaged. Half of that pizza pie is attributed to those factors. So that's a lot of pizza. All right. That's a big part of it. So what that means is if we think about for state VR agencies, what is it that we do as an organization that tries to promote that kind of support? What do we do in terms of our supervisors that are engaging with their councils and provide that kind of support? If we can take a look at those factors, then we're more likely for those counselors say, you know what, I'm going to stick around.   Carol: So did you have any findings that surprised you?   Jim: Yeah, there were a couple of things. One of the things I know we're talking about state voc rehab. Our study of 1000 rehab counselors did not only address state VR, but also those in private for practice proprietary public nonprofit agencies and facilities. We also looked at counselors and administrators. So we're kind of interested in, well, is the intent to leave the same regardless of what your job title? In other words, does a counselor sort of have a different kind of intent than a supervisor, than an administrator? And we're also interested in well, does a counselor's intent vary as a function of the work settings? So in other words, our state VR counsel is more likely to express an intent to leave than those in private for practice rehab or nonprofit rehab. And basically what we found was when you look at all those outcome variables that we talked about work engagement, career support, job satisfaction, supervisor support, reasons for leaving, reasons for staying. When we look at that, what we found, and this was somewhat surprising to me, we found that there's really no difference whether across setting or job type. So in other words, the factors that motivate someone to stay or to leave are pretty much the same, regardless of your work setting or your job title. So that to me was a little bit surprising, because in my conversations and talking with counselors at various settings, somehow I always, I guess going into this truthfully, I was expecting that there would be a difference and particularly be more dissatisfaction with state VR than the other settings. And what we found was that's not the case. So the reasons for staying or leaving are essentially the same across settings and work title. So I just raised this finding because I think state VR unfairly receives criticism that their work environments particularly challenging and trying to retain workers. So I'll just say that every work setting has its own unique aspects to it.   Carol: Yeah, the grass is not always greener. You always think that. And I have found over time, like working with people where you have that grass is greener mentality. No matter where they go, they always run into the same issues, no matter where they've changed the job. There's some people I've known for several decades who have always been kind of unhappy in the current setting, and they go to the new one and they're happy for a hot minute, but then they're unhappy there, too. So it's kind of more about them and whatever they're bringing to that or how they relate to those new jobs. It's so interesting. That strikes me as an interesting finding.   Jim: Yeah, a lot of this was gleaned from interactions and stories and things that I heard from counselors, like, why do you stay? Why do you leave? And again, to me it's just amazing Easing that the similarity that exists. So clearly, while there's some nuances that, you know, a counselor will complain about large caseloads or noncompetitive salaries, limited schedule and flexibility, those kinds of things. One of the things that while there are some differences in terms as you move up the career ladder, if you will, as an administrator, maybe a little bit different, but the role of the supervisor, I think this was another thing that was a little bit I kind of knew, but it really reinforced it was how important their role is in contributing to the work climate of the counselor. And like I've said to the supervisors, and I've trained a lot of folks across the country, counselor job is tough. Supervisor's job is way tough because they have a lot of times. And what's happening now with the vacancies, the supervisors are now asked to pick up caseloads of counselors. So not only do they have to do the job of managing 5 to 10 counselors, now they have components, so it makes it really difficult. And I think when I listen to the stories, those are the things that kind of like really strike me as unfortunately, I think just getting tougher and tougher each year.   Carol: 100%, kind of in reading some of your information and you go, okay, yeah. You think the counselor, all right, now they're going to be the supervisor. And it's going to be better and easier somehow easier. And it's not like they just realize how exponentially the job gets so much tougher. It doesn't necessarily get better. You might get paid a little more as you move up the food chain, but the work gets more complex, and then you're dealing with all the people part of the job.   Jim: Absolutely. And you really hit it on. An important part is that unfortunately, most super like I do training in clinical supervision. So basically I train supervisors how to help their counselors become better counselors and the relationship they have with their clients. But what you find is, I'd say 99% of the supervisors that I've worked with, what do they know about clinical supervision? And, well, really not too much. And well, why is that? Because they didn't get that in their training. So they'll get all about the administrative components, the policies and procedures. And that's important. But how do you help your counselor with the relationship that they have with their individual customers? That relationship is so critical because if that relationship isn't positive, you're going to have a poor voc rehab outcome.   Carol: Well, and those supervisors may have also not been you know, they didn't get any sort of clinical supervision when they were a counselor, so they moved to supervisor. It's not like they magically had that appear somewhere, right? So they don't have no frame of reference on how to even do that.   Jim: Yeah, you're absolutely correct.   Carol: So I know you stated, so some VR counselors, the state VR counselors, you know, they report more stress and paperwork, but yet they still find satisfaction in stay. So what distinguishes that? Like what distinguishes those who stay from those who leave.   Jim: Yeah, yeah. Well, this gets to the earlier thing. We were kind of talking a little bit about the issue about resiliency, the issue about when the stresses of the job, when things are happening, sometimes will happen. Counselors will kind of take that on and they pay kind of a high emotional price, the investment with that. And so it's the counselor who can kind of keep that in check, cannot sort of internalize that. I can still do good work. Yes. It would be nice if I had lower case loads. Yes, it'd be nice if I got more money. Yes, it would be nice if this and that changed. So I think we talked a little bit about this earlier, but I think what really kind of differentiates those two counselors is just that ability to not kind of internalize that and as a result, still able to kind of negotiate the things that are necessary to move the client forward. Because if you kind of take all this in, you know, you go home at the end of the day, you're just kind of wiped. And so that's really to me, kind of a key component.   Carol: Do you think that's something that can be taught like, or is that kind of how people are? That's the thing I wonder, like, Can you really teach someone how to, like, not get so emotionally involved into the situation? I mean, I suppose there's some techniques or something, but yeah, it might very well be just kind of the person you are and how you respond to things around you just in your life overall.   Jim: Right. Yeah, that's a good point. And some would certainly say, and there's something to be said, sort of the nature nurture environment kind of issue. Yeah. There's clearly people that in terms of just kind of their makeup, this is how they, you know, they just they see the world half full, the glass is half full. I had a clerical person years and was the most upbeat. In fact, I used to call her Susie Sunshine. It's like no matter what, she just didn't get down. And I thought, is this for real? Are you on some sort of happy? What's this all about? So that's there's a part of that. But yes, it can be taught. And so a lot of it is, you know, in terms of our behaviors as well, how's that influence its influence in our thinking. So you can get very catastrophic. Like, you know, I got a caseload of 150. I'm stressed. You know, I can't get to all my clients. And, you know, I should be able to, you know, answer them within a 24 hour period. And if somebody asks to see me, I should be. Yeah. Well, there's a lot of things that you should. And yes, it would be nice, but you have to kind of ask yourself, given the resources that I have, I have to be realistic about this. And so it sounds maybe a little trite, but in some ways it's kind of like, you know, you got to cut yourself some slack. You have to kind of say, yes, if I had 25 clients, yes, life would be different, but I don't. Sometimes you can explain this to your consumers and sometimes, yeah, they get it. In other cases it's not. But you can't let that define who you are because if you do, you're setting yourself up for unrealistic expectations which aren't going to be fulfilled. So you're going to be kind of frustrated and yeah, probably leave the organization. You know, I was like, hey, this isn't for me.   Carol: So it's really a practice thing. I mean, it's probably a time thing and a practice to kind.   Jim: Of has to be. Yeah, it has to be intentional. And this is where in terms of a good supervisor working with the council, it's like, you know, boy, you seem kind of, you know, really stressed. What's that about? What's going on. What's the belief system that you're operating from. What are your expectations you're placing on yourself? And sometimes it seems so obvious to the outsider. And I can just say in my own personal life, I mean, how many times is like, you know, hey, this is really obvious to somebody else. she's new news to me.   Carol: Yeah.   Jim: sometimes. Yeah. You gotta have that outside perspective to kind of like, let's take a look about what? What are those messages you're telling yourself? And are they realistic?   Carol: Right. What do you think are the most actionable steps that VR agencies can take right now?   Jim: Well, I wanted to give a shout out to a couple scholars. Yes, I've done some work in this. Doctor Landon from Utah State has done some work in this. Doctor Wu from northeastern Illinois, doctor McFarland from San Diego State. Yes, I know Fred's retired, but you know his legacy. So besides my own work, those folks, if you look at some of their work and my work and the team that I've worked with, there's a couple things. And this is like a long, long list because I started kind of writing a few things out here. The obvious thing is offer competitive salaries, but given the historical and current climate, it doesn't bode well for states are going to say, oh, we're going to increase your budget by 15% or 20%, which would allow you to hire more counselors at a competitive rate. So with that being said, I proposed at a CSAVR conference a couple years ago what seemed to be kind of a radical recommendation. Let me start with the most radical thing first, and then we'll get into some other. So the radical thing that I proposed was I recommended that we move from a five day to a four day workweek. Now, I'm not talking about 40 hours, ten hours a day, four days of work. Because remember, we're talking about the culture and the climate. So working those extra two hours every day is like, well, yeah, I'd have a day off, but is that really going to be meaningful? So given that states a lot of times don't have as much influence in their budget, what I suggested was moving to a four day, 32 hour workweek at the same pay. Now, I can imagine some of you...   Carol: Heads blew up, They did, yeah.   Jim: Yeah. That's right. Yeah, exactly. Like, who is this academic? What the heck does he know? So before you discount that, let me just kind of invite those that might push back on that and say, well, just for a moment, just indulge me. Just say like, well, let's just say if we did that. Okay. Well, first off, I would offer that the average work week, I think, for most state VR counselors is 37.5, so it's not really technically 40 hours of work. You'll remember my earlier comments about the younger generational workers. They want to see that kind of work life balance. So having greater time to devote to myself, my family, recreation, other pursuits, those become increasingly important. And again, I'll just offer this. We didn't talk about this as a result in the study, but if you need any further evidence of the support for this recommendation, one of the research questions that we asked an ancillary one, but we basically asked them about what are your thoughts or feelings about a 32 hour workweek? And we looked at intent to leave and surprise, surprise, yeah, that was a significant predictor in terms of yeah, that would cause me to stay.   All right. Let's unpack this a little bit further. I would offer to the State Council because again, we know what we know. We've always been 40 hours a week. And as I talked at the conference and I wrote in a Journal of Rehab article, you know, before the work week used to be 50, 60 hours a week, that was normal. You work Saturdays. All right. And it wasn't until Henry Ford said, you know what? Maybe we gotta rethink this thing. And, you know, he was proposing. Let's move to a 40 hour. Well, that was just heresy, because we just knew what we knew. So when we asked counselors and supervisors how much of an impact a 32 hour work week with no salary reduction, 75% of counselors and supervisors say that has a significant or very significant influence in me remaining on their jobs. My thought is, given we're not going to get more tip, most likely not a whole influx in terms of additional revenue for states. What can we control? Is this something that we can control? So that's like my radical. Okay.   Carol: Yeah. You're Henry Ford now Jim.   Jim: Yeah, I'm Henry Ford.   Carol: I love it, I love it.   Jim: I wish I was, at least I wish I was. I wish I was a descendant of Henry. so a less controversial recommendation. And frankly, it's funny because I see us kind of going back now and not in a good way. State VR agencies, while they offer telework, there are more and more state VR agencies are kind of like, well, let's get back to the good old days. Well, first off, I'm not sure that was kind of the good old days. I mean, clearly the pandemic contributed to a major societal change about rethinking about our work schedule. Before that, if council said, hey, I'd like to stay at home for about three days a week and do my work. They'd say, that ain't happening. And so actually, what we find is, yes, you can do this job from home. And, you know, we have the markers, the accountability in terms of our statuses and, you know, the progress that you're making. So I mean, that's the bottom line. Are you getting closed successful rehabilitations with your clients. But now kind of what's happening is that we seems, at least what I've heard through talking with counselors and supervisors throughout the United States is there seems to be kind of a return of offering on site rehabilitation services. You know, that's something that I would ask us to really kind of take a look at that, and not only in terms of the telework, but let's think about the work flexibility. How often do we offer our counselors part time work or even evening hours? A lot of people retiring. That's a tremendous amount of experience that's going out the door. And you just wonder sometimes like, okay, so you want to retire. Great. Wonderful. But well, it's kind of like that's kind of what happened.   Carol: That's what happened to you, Jim.   Jim: That's right. So then the thing is kind of say, well, what if you work part time? What if you work X amount of hours a day or a week or whatever? So rehiring maybe recently retired workers. And again, let's focus on those that had proven track records. So, hey, they're a great rehab counselors and, yeah, we'd like to have them back. That's something could be done. Another thing that I think that could be done, and we used to do this in Pennsylvania, and unfortunately, it's at least as far as I know, we're not currently doing it. And if we are. My apologies to Povor, but provide paid internships and if possible, offer employee benefits to graduate students who complete their clinical internships with the state VR agency. And the great thing about this from a state VR, you get to see, you know, when you interview and screen, a candidate, maybe you spend an hour or two with them. That's a lot different from seeing somebody five days a week over a, you know, five, six month period. You got a lot of information about this person. And also you have then kind of a buy in from them like, yeah, this gives me some idea about what this job is all about. So you know, doing that and I know in Pennsylvania historically, they would hold back some of their training dollars to help kind of support that.   Maybe that's something could we look at? If we do? Just a little ancillary comment I'd make. Students graduate in May, August and December. So if you can somehow when you know, like, okay, we're going to have a vacancy, it'd be wonderful if you can kind of coordinate that with the times they graduate. So if, you know, for example, someone's going to retire and maybe they're going to retire in May rather than waiting May to start that job search, maybe start that job search March or April. And then because of the two months, oftentimes it takes to go through the screening and all the documentation and all that, then you can kind of coincide that, you know, and target it with those dates. Because I've had a number of students say, yeah, I'd like to work for the state VR, but I'm not waiting around 2 or 3 months. I need to get a job. I need to start making some money. So related to that, another recommendation I have is and some states are doing this trying to reexamine their screening procedure. So let's take a look and say look, what can we do to reduce the time between when we know a vacancy exists and the time of hire. So, as I said, most people, whether you're a student or not, unless you're currently working, you can't wait for 2 or 3 months.   Other things that they could do is, you know, we talked earlier about the importance of the work climate. You know, we've got to monitor that. So we said that one's intention to leave that's mitigated based on whether the counselor feels they're engaged in that process. So that's an important predictor. And as it relates to that specific variable it's about 40%. Well that's a big deal. So the message is if I feel engaged in this process I'm more likely, more likely to stay. So we talked also about the role of the supervisor and how a lot of supervisors, unfortunately, while they do really great on the administrative components, the clinical components, the sit down with the counselor and let's take a look at your relationships with your clients and what I can do to try to help you to have a good, effective working relationship because I know if the counselor has that relationship with you, they're going to be more likely to get successful rehab. So constant assessment about what's going on now, how can we do that better? And, you know, through maybe stay interviews or, or even exit interviews to find out what did we do wrong. Is there anything we could do better? It's difficult because we have to be able to hear kind of things that maybe we don't like to hear.   Carol: We don't like to hear.   Jim: Yeah. And as you know, that's kind of a big part of where we're going in terms of my work with you guys.   Carol: Yes. So on that note, you are going to be working with the new VRTAC and some recruitment retention pieces. So you want to talk a little bit about that. What that works going to look like.   Jim: Yeah yeah yeah. And you know sometimes somebody said yes I'm very excited. And no you're not. No I actually I am very excited about this work and I really feel very fortunate. You guys offer me the opportunity to partner with you. So building on some of the stuff, we talked a little bit about, one of the things that we plan to do is develop this toolkit. And basically what that means is we're hoping to provide a resource for human resource managers, in particular, who work in the state VR program to try to help them and also state VR leadership teams, but also to help them address kind of the recruitment and retention problems that have been so well documented over the years. So I've begun looking at some of the existing literature as a way to kind of framework. Okay, so we've talked about a lot of this already. What is it that predicts who's going to stay? Who's going to leave? We haven't talked too much about the recruitment aspect, but that's another thing that we're going to address to say, okay, what do we know already in terms of the literature? But that's only a part of it. And the other thing that I'm really kind of excited about is the opportunity to work with the HR Resource Professional Group, professional teams. John Walsh I know has been involved with that as well. And basically what I'm hoping to do is because I know when you talk with states leadership team, sometimes a state will be doing something. I'm getting excited. Just kind of talk about I can't even get my words out.   They'll be doing something you think, man, you know, that is really cool. That's a great idea. Yeah. I wonder how nobody else, you know, knows about that. So it's amazing to me kind of the creativity that people have, but they just don't know about it. And so what I'm hoping to do is engage in a series of kind of focus groups, questions that gets to that, like not just what are the problems. I think we have a pretty good handle on that. But then what solutions? What are you doing to try to address this, what's working for you, and then be able to kind of put that in a toolkit or a resource that all states can use. So from the collective experiences from the various state VR agencies, we want to share that nationwide. And if everything goes according to plan, we're hoping to have that available in about a year, I think.   Carol: Yeah, a little less than a year.   Jim: Oh, a little.   Carol: Okay, a little less Jim. Let's see.   Jim: Okay.   Carol: Reining it in.   Jim: Yes, yes.   Carol: And then the other fun thing, you'll get to work with a state.   Jim: That's right. Thank you. The other component I've done clinical supervision training for about 12 different states. And I've met with each over the last probably 15 years. Each time I do it, I refine it a little better, a little better. And so I think I've got things down pretty good now. So I'm really interested now to work with the state to try to help their supervisors to work more effectively with their counselors, and in particular, how can I help supervisors to help their counselors become more effective as a counselor? And I have four kind of group supervision approaches that I know from. My research has proven pretty effective. So I'm looking for a state VR agency of supervisor and say, yep, let's tangle with that academic from Penn State. Let's do it. So that's the other component to it as well. Yes.   Carol: Yeah, we're really excited about that work. So Jim, thanks again for joining us on the manager minute. I really appreciate you being here. And for our listeners, if Jim has said something that is sparking your interest, especially with some work he's going to do with the VRTAC, please do reach out to us if you are interested in that for your agency. And until next time, everyone keep doing the great work that changes lives. Appreciate you. Have a great day!   {Music} Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time. One minute at a time. Brought to you by the VRTAC. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening.

China has launched a nationwide inspection of fire hazards in high-rise residential and public buildings after a major blaze in Hong Kong killed at least 128 people, with about 200 others still unaccounted for, authorities said.中国政府宣布，香港发生重大火灾造成至少128人死亡、约200人下落不明后，中国已启动全国范围的高层住宅和公共建筑消防隐患排查工作。In a notice issued on Saturday, the Work Safety Committee of the State Council instructed local governments to immediately carry out checks and fix problems in occupied residential towers, office buildings, hospitals and shopping complexes. The campaign aims to prevent accidents linked to renovation work, aging facilities and blocked evacuation routes, the committee said.国务院安全生产委员会周六发布通知，要求各地政府立即对已投入使用的住宅楼、写字楼、医院和商场进行安全排查整改。该委员会表示，此次行动旨在防范因装修施工、设施老化及疏散通道堵塞引发的事故。The directive comes in the aftermath of Wednesday's fire at Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate in Hong Kong's Tai Po district. The blaze was first reported at 2:51 pm and quickly escalated to the city's highest alarm level, sending thick smoke billowing into the sky and spreading to seven of the development's eight apartment blocks. All visible flames were brought under control by Saturday.该指令是在周三香港大埔区旺福苑住宅区发生火灾后发布的。火灾于下午2时51分首次报告，迅速升级至全市最高警报级别，浓烟滚滚升腾至天空，并蔓延至该发展区八栋公寓楼中的七栋。截至周六，所有可见火势均已得到控制。Initial findings indicate the fire started on lower-floor scaffolding and spread rapidly due to flammable insulation materials and bamboo structures used for exterior wall repairs. The buildings were undergoing maintenance at the time, and the outer surfaces were covered with construction netting and othercombustible materials, investigators said.初步调查结果显示，火灾始于低层脚手架，因外墙维修使用的易燃隔热材料和竹制结构而迅速蔓延。调查人员称，事发时建筑正处于维护阶段，外表面覆盖着施工防护网及其他可燃材料。Under the new nationwide measures, checks will target risky renovation practices, such as unapproved construction, use offlammable insulation and hot work like welding in crowded indoor spaces.根据新出台的全国性措施，检查将重点针对高风险装修行为，例如未经批准的施工、使用易燃隔热材料，以及在拥挤的室内空间进行焊接等热作业。Inspectors will also focus on malfunctioning fire-fighting facilities, includingfire hydrants, sprinklers, smoke-control systems and emergency exits. Problems such as piles of combustible debris, blocked escape passages and electric bikes parked or charged in hallways are also listed as common hazards requiring immediate attention.检查人员还将重点排查消防设施故障问题，包括消防栓、喷淋系统、排烟系统及紧急出口。堆积的易燃杂物、被堵塞的逃生通道、以及停放在走廊或在走廊充电的电动自行车等隐患，也被列为需要立即处理的常见安全隐患。Local authorities have been told to combine self-inspections by building managers with random official checks. Hazards must be fixed without delay, and major issues will be subject to tighter supervision, the notice said. Severe violations will be punished.地方当局已接到通知，要求将建筑管理人员的自查与官方抽查相结合。通知称，隐患必须立即消除，重大问题将受到更严格的监督，严重违规行为将受到惩处。Officials said the campaign is intended to close safety loopholes and reduce the risk of large-scale tragedies, particularly in densely populated high-rise communities.政府人员表示，此次行动旨在堵塞安全漏洞，降低大规模悲剧发生的风险，尤其是在人口密集的高层住宅区。combustibleadj. /kəmˈbʌs.tə.bəl/可燃的，易燃的fire hydrants消防拴

pWotD Episode 3130: 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre Welcome to popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 182,695 views on Wednesday, 26 November 2025 our article of the day is 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre.The Tiananmen Square protests, known within China as the June Fourth Incident, were student-led demonstrations held in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China, lasting from 15 April to 4 June 1989. After weeks of unsuccessful attempts between the demonstrators and the Chinese government to find a peaceful resolution, the Chinese government deployed troops to occupy the square on the night of 3 June in what is referred to as the Tiananmen Square massacre. The events are sometimes called the '89 Democracy Movement, the Tiananmen Square Incident, or the Tiananmen uprising.The protests were precipitated by the death of pro-reform Chinese Communist Party (CCP) general secretary Hu Yaobang in April 1989 amid the backdrop of rapid economic development and social change in post-Mao China, reflecting anxieties among the people and political elite about the country's future. Common grievances at the time included inflation, corruption, limited preparedness of graduates for the new economy, and restrictions on political participation. Although they were highly disorganised and their goals varied, the students called for things like rollback of the removal of iron rice bowl jobs, greater accountability, constitutional due process, democracy, freedom of the press, and freedom of speech. Workers' protests were generally focused on inflation and the erosion of welfare. These groups united around anti-corruption demands, adjusting economic policies, and protecting social security. At the height of the protests, about one million people assembled in the square.As the protests developed, the authorities responded with both conciliatory and hardline tactics, exposing deep divisions within the party leadership. By May, a student-led hunger strike galvanised support around the country for the demonstrators, and the protests spread to some 400 cities. On 20 May, the State Council declared martial law, and as many as 300,000 troops were mobilised to Beijing. After several weeks of standoffs and violent confrontations between the army and demonstrators left many on both sides severely injured, a meeting held among the CCP's top leadership on 1 June concluded with a decision to clear the square. The troops advanced into central parts of Beijing on the city's major thoroughfares in the early morning hours of 4 June and engaged in bloody clashes with demonstrators attempting to block them, in which many people – demonstrators, bystanders, and soldiers – were killed. Estimates of the death toll vary from several hundred to several thousand, with thousands more wounded.The event had both short and long term consequences. Western countries imposed arms embargoes on China, and various Western media outlets labeled the crackdown a "massacre". In the aftermath of the protests, the Chinese government suppressed other protests around China, carried out mass arrests of protesters which catalysed Operation Yellowbird, strictly controlled coverage of the events in the domestic and foreign affiliated press, and demoted or purged officials it deemed sympathetic to the protests. The government also invested heavily into creating more effective police riot control units. More broadly, the suppression ended the political reforms which began in 1986 as well as the New Enlightenment movement, and halted the policies of liberalisation of the 1980s, which were only partly resumed after Deng Xiaoping's Southern Tour in 1992. Considered a watershed event, reaction to the protests set limits on political expression in China that have lasted up to the present day. The events remain one of the most sensitive and most widely censored topics in China.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 02:38 UTC on Thursday, 27 November 2025.For the full current version of the article, see 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm neural Kendra.

China is likely to extend the consumer goods trade-in program into 2026, as analysts said there is still substantial, unmet demand among Chinese households to upgrade home appliances and digital devices, as well as ample fiscal headroom to underpin the consumption campaign.分析人士表示，由于中国家庭对家电和数码设备升级的需求仍有较大缺口，且有充足的财政空间支持这项消费刺激举措，中国可能会将消费品以旧换新政策延续至2026年。The initiative, proven effective in driving big-ticket item spending and delivering tangible benefits to households, is expected to enable China to begin the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period on a sound footing, they added.他们补充称，该举措已被证实能有效拉动大额商品消费，并为家庭带来切实利益，有望助力中国在“十五”规划（2026-2030年）开局之年奠定良好基础。China's trade-in program is a government-backed initiative to boost domestic consumption by providing subsidies for consumers who trade in outdated items like white goods, automobiles and electronics for new, more efficient models.中国的以旧换新政策是一项政府支持的举措，通过为消费者提供补贴，鼓励其将家电、汽车和电子产品等老旧物品置换为新型、高效的产品，从而提振国内消费。Although an official announcement has not yet been made, multiple policy signals and clear market trends — particularly the shift toward smart and green products — suggest an extension is possible.尽管官方尚未发布正式通知，但多项政策信号和明确的市场趋势——尤其是向智能、绿色产品的转型——表明该政策有望延续。This likelihood was reinforced by the State Council, the country's Cabinet, which set explicit targets for aging vehicles and outdated appliance recycling volume through 2027 in a March 2024 document that launched the current trade-in round.2024年3月，国务院（中国内阁）发布文件启动本轮以旧换新工作，并明确设定了截至2027年的老旧车辆和废旧家电回收量目标，这进一步强化了政策延续的可能性。In addition, the 2024 Government Work Report pledged to issue ultra-long special treasury bonds "over each of the next several years". These bonds have served as the funding mechanism of the trade-in initiative.此外，2024年《政府工作报告》承诺“在今后几年每年”发行超长期特别国债。这些债券已成为以旧换新举措的资金保障机制。These policy statements, coupled with Beijing's emphasis on boosting household consumption in its recommendations for the next five-year blueprint released last month, indicate that policymakers are likely to extend the trade-in program into 2026, according to market watchers.市场观察人士指出，这些政策表述，加之北京上月发布的下一个五年规划建议中对扩大居民消费的重视，表明政策制定者可能会将以旧换新政策延续至2026年。Wang Wei, former director of the Institute of Market Economy at the Development Research Center of the State Council, told China Daily in an exclusive interview that while stimulating consumption has been top economic priority this year, it will also remain crucial in 2026 — the inaugural year of the 15th Five-Year Plan.国务院发展研究中心市场经济研究所前所长王微在接受《中国日报》独家采访时表示，尽管刺激消费是今年的首要经济任务，但在2026年——“十五”规划的开局之年，这一任务仍将至关重要。Maintaining a pro-consumption macroeconomic orientation is essential, which requires a further scaling-up of targeted fiscal spending in this regard, Wang said, adding that the mechanism of ultra-long special treasury bonds, deployed for the trade-in program in 2024 and 2025, should be extended into next year.王微称，保持有利于消费的宏观经济导向至关重要，这需要进一步加大相关定向财政支出力度。2024年和2025年用于以旧换新政策的超长期特别国债机制，应延续至明年。Yu Xiangrong, chief China economist at Citi, said that the funding pool for the trade-in program in 2026 is expected to remain at around 300 billion yuan ($41.3 billion), unchanged from the levels seen in 2025.花旗集团首席中国经济学家余向荣表示，2026年以旧换新政策的资金规模预计将维持在3000亿元人民币（约合413亿美元）左右，与2025年持平。Yu said the policy emphasis will shift from sheer scale to smarter allocation by expanding the range of eligible products and extending the program's reach into rural communities.余向荣指出，政策重心将从单纯追求规模转向更合理的资源配置，具体包括扩大补贴覆盖产品范围，并将政策推广至农村地区。A faster-than-expected issuance of national subsidies for consumer goods trade-ins in the first half of the year has tightened availability in recent months, leaving a pool of unmet demand that analysts say will help make the case for extending the program into 2026.今年上半年，消费品以旧换新国家补贴的发放速度超出预期，导致近几个月补贴额度紧张，市场上仍存在一批未得到满足的需求。分析人士认为，这将为政策延续至2026年提供有力支撑。Looking into next year, Xu Dongsheng, vice-chairman of the China Household Electrical Appliances Association, said that policymakers could consider setting differentiated incentive rates based on a product's price bracket and technological profile.展望明年，中国家用电器协会副理事长徐东升表示，政策制定者可考虑根据产品的价格区间和技术特性，设定差异化的补贴比例。Premium products, particularly those with AI integration, higher-efficiency and environmentally friendly features, could receive a higher subsidy proportion. These categories, seen as drivers of future industry trends, align with national priorities for technological advancement and carbon neutrality. Meanwhile subsidies for basic, functionally straightforward products would be scaled back appropriately, Xu said.徐东升称，高端产品，尤其是集成人工智能、能效更高且具备环保特性的产品，可能会获得更高比例的补贴。这些品类被视为未来产业发展趋势的驱动力，与国家技术进步和碳中和的核心目标相契合。同时，针对基础款、功能简单产品的补贴将适当缩减。According to an executive meeting of the State Council on Friday, industrial upgrading must be guided and propelled by consumption upgrading, where high-quality supply better satisfies diverse demand.国务院周五召开的常务会议指出，必须以消费升级引领和推动产业升级，通过高质量供给更好满足多样化需求。It is essential to deploy new technologies and business models, deeply integrate AI to enhance their capabilities, and concentrate efforts on key sectors to introduce novel products and value-added services, thereby expanding new consumption frontiers, as noted during the meeting.会议强调，要运用新技术、新模式，深度融合人工智能提升产品和服务能力，聚焦重点领域推出新产品和增值服务，拓展新消费空间。trade-in program以旧换新政策ultra-long special treasury bonds超长期特别国债fiscal spending财政支出big-ticket item spending大额商品消费white goods白色家电（特指冰箱、洗衣机等大型家电，政策补贴品类）

China and the United States should work together to create a favorable environment for practical cooperation in agriculture and other sectors, a statement released by the Ministry of Commerce on Wednesday said.中国商务部周三发布的一份声明称，中美应共同努力，为农业及其他领域的务实合作创造有利环境。Li Cheng gang, China international trade representative with the Ministry of Commerce and vice-minister of commerce, said during a meeting with a US agricultural trade delegation in Beijing on Tuesday thatsound China-US economic and trade relations benefit not only both countries but also the world.商务部国际贸易谈判代表兼副部长李成钢周二在北京会见美国农业贸易代表团时表示，健康稳定的中美经贸关系不仅有利于两国，也有利于世界。Since May, the two sides' economic and trade teams have held five rounds of talks under the strategic guidance of the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, helping stabilize bilateral trade ties, Li said.李成钢表示，自5月以来，在两国元首重要共识的战略指引下，双方经贸团队已举行五轮会谈，有助于稳定双边贸易关系。This fully demonstrates that guided by the principles of equality, mutual respect andreciprocity, China and the US can find solutions through dialogue and cooperation, he added.他补充道，这充分表明，在平等、相互尊重和互利原则的指引下，中美能够通过对话与合作找到解决问题的办法。Recognizing that the two countries are major trading partners in agricultural products, Li said recent fluctuations in China-US agricultural product trade stem from Washington's unilateral tariff measures, adding that the two sides havecomplementary strengths in natural endowments, markets, capital and technology, and enjoy broad space for cooperation.李成钢承认两国是主要的农产品贸易伙伴，他表示近期中美农产品贸易的波动源于美方的单边关税措施，并补充说，双方在自然资源、市场、资本和技术方面优势互补，拥有广阔的合作空间。He expressed the hope that the US would work with China to take a long-term view and foster a favorable atmosphere for substantive cooperation in agriculture and other fields.他表示希望美方能与中方一道，着眼长远，为农业及其他领域的实质性合作营造良好氛围。Members of the US delegation said that China is an important export market for US agricultural products, and the agricultural community in the country values its partnership with China.美国代表团成员表示，中国是美国农产品的重要出口市场，美国农业界珍视与中国的伙伴关系。Stable China-US economic and trade relations are essential for agricultural trade, they said, expressing hope that bilateral ties would maintain a sound growth momentum.他们表示，稳定的中美经贸关系对农产品贸易至关重要，并希望双边关系能保持良好发展势头。Jim Sutter, CEO of US Soybean Export Council, said, "We believe that enduring partnerships, built on trust and mutual benefit, are essential to navigating uncertainty."美国大豆出口协会首席执行官苏健（Jim Sutter）表示：“我们相信，建立在信任和互利基础上的持久伙伴关系对于应对不确定性至关重要。”To this end, the council is actively engaging with stakeholders, customers and suppliers across both China and the US to ensure soybean trade remains stable and predictable, said Sutter.苏健表示，为此，该协会正积极与中美两国的利益相关者、客户和供应商接触，以确保大豆贸易保持稳定和可预测。"By combining open communication, flexible logistics and a problem-solving mindset, we strive to provide Chinese customers with stable and predictable deliveries of US soybeans, no matter what external challenges arise. We hope we can soon reengage our soybean exports to China," he added.他补充说：“通过结合开放的沟通、灵活的物流和解决问题的思维，我们努力向中国客户提供稳定、可预测的美国大豆供应，无论出现何种外部挑战。我们希望我们能很快恢复对华大豆出口。”Also upbeat about the Chinese market, US agribusiness giant ADM announced on Wednesday that it would sign new cooperation agreements with major Chinese partners—including COFCO Group and China Grain Reserves Group—worth more than 20 billion yuan ($2.8 billion) during the ongoing 8th China International Import Expo in Shanghai.同样看好中国市场的美国农业综合企业巨头美国阿彻丹尼尔斯米德兰公司（ADM）周三宣布，将在上海正在举行的第八届中国国际进口博览会期间，与中粮集团、中国储备粮管理集团等主要中国合作伙伴签署价值超过200亿元人民币（28亿美元）的新合作协议。The US company will put its second animal nutrition facility into operation in Tianjin next year, further enhancing both production capacity and responsiveness to market needs.这家美国公司明年将在天津投产其第二家动物营养工厂，进一步提升产能和对市场需求的响应能力。Fabiana Bianchi, president of ADM Asia-Pacific, said the CIIE has built an important bridge between China and the world, reflecting the power of openness, innovation and shared growth.ADM亚太区总裁Fabiana Bianchi表示，进博会搭建了中国与世界沟通的重要桥梁，体现了开放、创新和共同增长的力量。"For ADM, it is not only a platform to showcase innovation, but also an opportunity to deepen collaboration and drive shared progress," said Bianchi.Fabiana Bianchi说：“对ADM而言，这不仅是一个展示创新的平台，也是深化合作、推动共同进步的机遇。”Lifting export control放宽进出口管制In another development, the Ministry of Commerce announced on Wednesday that China will lift export control measures on 15 US entities and extend the suspension of such measures for another 16 entities for a year, effective Monday.另据发展，商务部周三宣布，中方将解除对15家美国实体的出口管制措施，并将对另外16家美国实体的措施暂停期限延长一年，自周一起生效。Exporters that wish to shipdual-use items to these entities must submit an application to China's Ministry of Commerce. The ministry will review the applications in accordance with relevant laws and regulations, and will grant approval to those that meet the required conditions.中国商务部希望向这些实体出口两用物项的出口商必须向其提交申请。商务部将根据相关法律法规对申请进行审查，并对符合条件者予以批准。A separate ministry statement also released on Wednesday said that China will remove or continue to suspend for a year certain measures imposed in March and April against several US entities that were previously added to China'sunreliable entity list, also effective Monday.商务部周三发布的另一份声明也表示，中方将移除或继续暂停执行于三四月份对此前被列入中国不可靠实体清单的若干美国实体采取的部分措施，期限一年，同样自周一起生效。In addition, China will continue to suspend the 24-percentadditional tariff on imports from the US for one year while retaining the 10-percent rate, according to an announcement released on Wednesday by the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council.此外，根据国务院关税税则委员会周三发布的公告，中方将继续对原产于美国的进口商品暂停征收24%的附加关税，期限一年，保留10%的税率不变。China will make the adjustment from 1:01 pm on Monday, the commission said, noting that the move aims to implement the outcomes and consensus reached in the China-US economic and trade talks.税委会表示，中方将于周一下午1点01分起实施上述调整，并指出此举旨在落实中美经贸会谈的成果和共识。sound/saʊnd/adj.健康稳定的，良好的reciprocity/ˌres.ɪˈprɑː.sə.t̬i/n.互利，互助。互惠complementary strengths优势互补dual-use items两用物项unreliable entity list不可靠实体清单additional tariff附加关税

People from both sides of the Taiwan Strait said that no separatist forces can erase the shared history and national identity that bind people across the Strait, as the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration to China was commemorated in Beijing.在北京纪念台湾光复80周年之际，海峡两岸同胞表示，任何分裂势力都无法抹去联结两岸同胞的共同历史与民族认同。A grand gathering celebrating the anniversary was held in Beijing on Saturday. It marked the first Commemoration Day of Taiwan's Restoration, following an official designation on Friday by the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, China's top legislature.周六，北京举行纪念台湾光复80周年盛大集会。此前一日（周五），中国最高立法机关——第十四届全国人民代表大会常务委员会正式设立“台湾光复纪念日”，本次集会是该纪念日设立后的首次纪念活动。Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, addressed the event, calling on compatriots on both sides of the Strait to work together to advance national reunification and to firmly oppose all forms of "Taiwan independence" separatist activities.全国政协主席王沪宁在集会上发表讲话，呼吁海峡两岸同胞共同努力推进祖国统一大业，坚决反对任何形式的“台独”分裂活动。Wang stressed that the establishment of the commemoration day demonstrated the unwavering commitment of all Chinese people to uphold the one-China principle and safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.王沪宁强调，设立“台湾光复纪念日”，彰显了全体中国人民坚定维护一个中国原则、捍卫国家主权和领土完整的不变决心。After the event, several guests from Taiwan said the commemoration had strengthened their confidence in the nation's eventual reunification.集会结束后，多位台湾嘉宾表示，此次纪念活动增强了他们对祖国最终实现统一的信心。Justin Lin Yifu, a Taiwan-born economist and professor at Peking University, said that Taiwan's restoration to China and the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) should be remembered by all Chinese people.出生于台湾的经济学家、北京大学教授林毅夫指出，台湾光复回归中国与中国人民抗日战争（1931-1945年）的胜利，是全体中国人民应当铭记的历史。"The course of history will not be altered by the obstruction of a small handful of people," he said, adding that the commemoration day strengthens pride in being Chinese.“历史进程不会因少数人的阻挠而改变，”林毅夫表示，“设立这一纪念日，进一步增强了我们的民族自豪感。”WuRong-yuan, chairperson of Taiwan's Labor Party, said the establishment of the commemoration day demonstrated to the world that commemorating Taiwan's restoration is the heartfelt, shared wish of compatriots on both sides of the Strait.台湾劳动党主席吴荣元表示，“台湾光复纪念日”的设立向世界表明，纪念台湾光复是海峡两岸同胞共同的深切心愿。"Our shared bonds and memories cannot be severed by any external forces or separatists," he emphasized.“我们之间的血脉联结与共同记忆，任何外部势力和分裂分子都无法割裂。”他强调道。Wu added that the decision provided strong legal and political support for all patriotic forces committed to advancing the cause of national reunification.吴荣元补充称，这一决定为所有致力于推进祖国统一事业的爱国力量提供了坚实的法律与政治支撑。On Oct 25, 1945, the ceremony to accept Japan's surrender in the Taiwan province of the China war theater of the Allied powers was held in Taipei. From that moment, Taiwan and the Penghu Islands were restored to China's sovereign jurisdiction.1945年10月25日，同盟国中国战区台湾省受降仪式在台北举行。自那一刻起，台湾及澎湖列岛重新回归中国主权管辖之下。Shaw Kai-ping, honorary president of the association for relatives of patriots in Taiwan who fought against Japanese aggression, said it was a great honor for Oct 25 to be established as a national commemoration day. Shaw's father and grandfather both took part in the resistance against Japanese occupation.台湾抗日爱国志士亲属联谊会荣誉会长萧开平表示，将10月25日设立为国家级纪念日，是一件意义重大的事。萧开平的父亲与祖父均曾参与反抗日本殖民统治的斗争。"This decision shows that the motherland has not forgotten the people of Taiwan, and that reunification is destined to be achieved," Shaw said.“这一决定表明，祖国没有忘记台湾同胞，统一大业注定实现。”萧开平说。Chi Hsing, honorary chairman of the Reunification Alliance Party in Taiwan, said he had long awaited the establishment of the commemoration day. "As the historical truth comes to light, more and more people are gaining a clearer understanding of what really happened," Chi said.台湾统一联盟党荣誉主席纪欣表示，她一直期盼“台湾光复纪念日”的设立。“随着历史真相的不断揭示，越来越多的人开始清晰了解当年的真实情况。”纪欣说。The Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council hosted a reception in Beijing on Saturday, attended by guests from both Taiwan and the mainland who had participated in the earlier gathering.中共中央台湾工作办公室、国务院台湾事务办公室于周六在北京举办招待会，出席此前纪念集会的两岸嘉宾受邀参加。Song Tao, head of both offices, said at the reception that establishing the commemoration day on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration fully reflects the will of the people and the resolve of the nation.两办主任宋涛在招待会上表示，在台湾光复80周年之际设立这一纪念日，充分体现了人民的意愿与国家的决心。"We are confident in advancing the great cause of national reunification and enhancing the well-being of our Taiwan compatriots," Song said.“我们有信心推进祖国统一伟大事业，增进台湾同胞福祉。”宋涛说。Chi Hsing, publisher of The Observer magazine in Taiwan, said the decision reflects the shared aspirations of the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots.台湾《观察》杂志发行人纪欣表示，设立“台湾光复纪念日”的决定，反映了绝大多数台湾同胞的共同心声。"It will carry forward the patriotic tradition, reaffirm that both sides of the Strait belong to one China, and inspire pride in being Chinese," she said.“这将传承爱国传统，重申海峡两岸同属一个中国，激发民族自豪感。”她说。Ji Bin, vice-chairman of the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, said the restoration of Taiwan is solid evidence of the Chinese government's resumption of sovereignty over Taiwan and a crucial link in the historical and legal chain of Taiwan being part of China.中华全国台湾同胞联谊会副会长纪斌指出，台湾光复是中国政府恢复对台湾行使主权的铁证，也是台湾作为中国一部分的历史与法律链条中的关键一环。"No matter how the Democratic Progressive Party and its politicians distort the truth of the war of resistance against Japanese aggression, deny the achievements of the war victory, downplay or deny the historical significance of Taiwan's restoration, and collude with external forces to promote the fallacy of 'Taiwan's undetermined status', they cannot distort or undermine the historical and legal fact that Taiwan belongs to China," Ji said.“无论民进党及其政客如何歪曲抗日战争史实、否认抗战胜利成果、淡化甚至否定台湾光复的历史意义，勾结外部势力宣扬‘台湾地位未定论'谬论，都无法歪曲和改变台湾属于中国的历史与法律事实。”纪斌说。In Taipei, the memorial association of the Chinese war of resistance against Japanese aggression in Taiwan and the Chinese Kuomintang party jointly held a celebration on Saturday marking the anniversary of Taiwan's restoration.在台北，台湾抗日民族统一战线纪念会与中国国民党于周六联合举办台湾光复80周年纪念活动。Overseas Chinese from both sides of the Strait also celebrated the commemoration day in various forms. Chinese embassies in countries including the United States, Japan, Brazil and Indonesia held symposiums marking the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration on the day of commemoration.海外两岸侨胞也以多种形式庆祝这一纪念日。中国驻美国、日本、巴西、印度尼西亚等国的大使馆，均在纪念日当天举办台湾光复80周年座谈会。In New York City, hundreds of Chinese compatriots from both sides of the Strait gathered in the Flushing neighborhood of Queens borough on Friday to celebrate the anniversary.在纽约，数百名两岸同胞于周五齐聚皇后区法拉盛社区，共同庆祝台湾光复80周年。separatist/ˈseprətɪst/adj.分裂主义的，分离主义的sovereignty /ˈsɒvrənti/n.主权；最高统治权jurisdiction/ˌdʒʊərɪsˈdɪkʃn/n.管辖权，司法权

A practitioner in China, retired from her government position had her pension revoked after being imprisoned for her faith. Despite facing numerous obstacles and rejections from various government agencies, she remained steadfast in her cultivation, eliminating attachments and seeking Master's guidance. Ultimately, she filed a complaint with the State Council, demonstrating her commitment to upholding […]

In 1954, one year after China initiated the inaugural Five-Year Plan (1953-57), a specialized factory for manufacturing bearings, core components of mechanical equipment, was set up in Luoyang, Henan province.1954年，即中国启动第一个五年计划（1953-1957年）后的一年，河南省洛阳市建成了一家专门生产轴承（机械设备核心零部件）的工厂。It was one of the 156 key projects launched nationwide during the period when the country was striving to build up the basic industries essential for national industrialization. These projects, spanning sectors such as steel, machinery, energy and chemical engineering, laid the foundation for China's industrialization in its early days, marking a determined stride from an agricultural society toward industrial prowess.该工厂是全国156个重点项目之一，这些项目在国家着力建设国民工业化必需的基础产业时期在全国范围内推进。这些项目涵盖钢铁、机械、能源、化工等多个领域，为中国早期工业化奠定了基础，标志着中国从农业社会向工业强国迈出了坚定步伐。Over 70 years later, Luoyang Bearing Group stands as a testament to this enduring vision, as it has evolved into an innovation-driven enterprise manufacturing over 30,000 types of high-precision bearings, vital to industries ranging from aerospace and wind power to rail transit and marine engineering.70多年后，洛阳轴承集团成为这一长远愿景的见证者——如今它已发展为一家创新驱动型企业，可生产超过3万种高精度轴承，对航空航天、风电、轨道交通、海洋工程等多个行业至关重要。During a visit to the company in May, President Xi Jinping, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, reflected on this remarkable progress, saying: "China has always adhered to the path of developing the real economy. From the past reliance on imported matches, soap and iron, to now becoming the world's largest manufacturing country with the most complete industrial categories, we have taken the right path."5月，中国共产党中央委员会总书记、中国共产党中央军事委员会主席、中华人民共和国主席、中华人民共和国中央军事委员会主席习近平在考察该企业时，回顾了这一显著发展历程，他指出：“中国始终坚持发展实体经济。从过去依赖进口火柴、肥皂、铁钉，到如今成为工业门类最齐全的世界第一制造大国，我们走对了路。”Sticking to this path, China has remained the world's largest manufacturing country for 15 consecutive years. Observers noted that this transformative journey underscores the profound efficacy of the five-year plan system as a fundamental instrument of China's governance.坚持这一道路，中国已连续15年保持世界第一制造大国地位。观察人士指出，这一变革性历程凸显了五年规划体系作为中国治理基本工具的深远效能。Five-year plans are crucial strategic documents that outline national goals, major tasks and policy directions in various sectors for each five-year period.五年规划是重要的战略文件，为每一个五年期内各领域的国家目标、重大任务和政策方向作出规划。It is an approach that experts say maintains policy continuity and stability toward established goals, and ensures the efficient and well-calibrated allocation of resources.专家表示，这一模式能够保障针对既定目标的政策连续性与稳定性，并确保资源得到高效、精准的配置。Formulating and implementing five-year plans has been a hallmark of the Communist Party of China's governance, enabling China to promote coordinated economic and social development over the medium and long terms. For China, the consistent theme from the first Five-Year Plan to the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), as President Xi pointed out, has been to build China into a modern socialist country.制定和实施五年规划是中国共产党治国理政的显著特征，助力中国推动中长期经济社会协调发展。习近平主席指出，从第一个五年计划到第十四个五年计划（2021-2025年），中国始终围绕建设社会主义现代化国家这一主题推进各项工作。For more than seven decades, a key to the enduring vitality of the five-year plan system lies in "a synergistic relationship in which the top-level design and long-term perspective of national planning effectively complement the microlevel efficiency and innovative drive of the market economy", said Yan Yilong, deputy dean of the Institute for Contemporary China Studies at Tsinghua University.清华大学当代中国研究中心副主任阎学通表示，70多年来，五年规划体系保持持久活力的关键在于“国家规划的顶层设计和长远视野，与市场经济的微观效率和创新动力形成了协同互补的关系”。"This system operates on three pillars: building consensus on national goals through political guidance and scientific planning, breaking down goals into actionable tasks with evaluation and supervision, and ensuring resource allocation to support these objectives," Yan said.他指出：“这一体系依托三大支柱运行：通过政治引领和科学规划凝聚国家目标共识、将目标分解为可执行任务并辅以评估监督、保障资源配置以支撑这些目标的实现。”The five-year plans are not merely economic plans but comprehensive national development blueprints, and the robust implementation of these blueprints is the highlight of China's governance, he added.他补充道，五年规划不仅是经济规划，更是全面的国家发展蓝图，而这些蓝图的有力实施是中国治理的突出亮点。Acknowledging the nature and significance of China's five-year plan system, The Diplomat, a Washington, DC-based foreign affairs magazine, noted that "the plans are neither rigid blueprints nor mere guidelines. Instead, they act as authoritative signals that shape the behavior of ministries, provincial governments, State-owned enterprises, private firms, and increasingly foreign investors".美国华盛顿特区的外交杂志《外交家》认可中国五年规划体系的性质与意义，指出“这些规划既非僵化的蓝图，也非单纯的指导方针，而是具有权威性的信号，能够影响各部委、省级政府、国有企业、民营企业，乃至越来越多的外国投资者的行为”。Over the decades, China's five-year plans have guided continuous progress in national development and living standards, from ensuring adequate food and clothing after completing the sixth and seventh five-year plans in the 1980s to propelling China's total economic output to become the world's second-largest in the 11th Five-Year Plan (2006-10) period.数十年来，中国的五年规划引领国家发展和人民生活水平不断提升：20世纪80年代完成第六、七个五年计划后，中国解决了温饱问题；在第十一个五年计划（2006-2010年）期间，中国经济总量跃居世界第二。"Five-year plans illustrate the nation's shift from a planned economy to a socialist market economy," said Zhang Zhanbin, director of the Chinese Modernization Research Center at the Party School of the CPC Central Committee.中共中央党校（国家行政学院）中国式现代化研究中心主任张占斌表示：“五年规划见证了中国从计划经济向社会主义市场经济的转变。”He highlighted the transformative power of these plans by citing the example of the revitalization of Northeast China, comprising Heilongjiang, Jilin and Liaoning provinces.他以中国东北地区（包括黑龙江、吉林、辽宁三省）的振兴为例，凸显了五年规划的变革力量。The region became the nation's heavy-industry heartland during the first Five-Year Plan period and was reinvigorated decades later by the 10th Five-Year Plan (2001-05), which proposed to support the adjustment and transformation of the old industrial base. Each subsequent five-year plan has included dedicated sections outlining tasks for Northeast China's revitalization.“一五”时期，东北地区成为国家重工业基地；数十年后，第十个五年计划（2001-2005年）提出支持老工业基地调整改造，为该地区注入了新活力。此后的每一个五年规划中，都设有专门章节明确东北地区振兴的任务。The 14th Five-Year Plan has initiated a more comprehensive revitalization phase for Northeast China, with a State Council-approved implementation plan outlining a clear road map for the region's future.第十四个五年计划开启了东北地区全面振兴的新阶段，国务院批复的实施方案为该地区未来发展绘制了清晰路线图。"The elevating of the strategic positioning of Northeast China in the recent five-year plans reflects the Party and the country's earnest expectations for its comprehensive revitalization in the new era," Zhang said.张占斌指出：“近年来的五年规划不断提升东北地区的战略定位，这体现了党和国家对新时代东北全面振兴的殷切期望。”关键阶段The year 2025 signifies the conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan and is pivotal in shaping the subsequent five-year agenda.2025年是第十四个五年规划的收官之年，对制定后续五年规划议程具有关键意义。The 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), the draft proposals of which are being discussed at the ongoing fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, is tasked with achieving "decisive progress" in basically realizing socialist modernization by 2035, said Yan.阎学通表示，正在召开的党的二十届四中全会正在讨论第十五个五年计划（2026-2030年）草案建议，该规划的任务是到2035年基本实现社会主义现代化并取得“决定性进展”。Speaking at a symposium with provincial leaders in Shanghai in April, Xi pointed out that the scientific formulation and consistent implementation of five-year plans represent an important experience of the Party in governing the country and a major political strength of socialism with Chinese characteristics.4月，习近平在上海与省级领导干部座谈时指出，科学制定和坚决实施五年规划，是党治国理政的重要经验，也是中国特色社会主义的重要政治优势。Xi, who previously led the drafting groups for both the 13th and 14th five-year plans, has consistently emphasized strategic foresight in guiding each phase of national development.习近平曾牵头第十三、十四个五年规划的编制工作，他始终强调以战略远见引领国家各阶段发展。During the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20) period, he underscored that this stage was decisive for building a moderately prosperous society in all respects and highlighted the importance of leveraging strategic opportunities. For the 14th Five-Year Plan, he outlined the historic mission of advancing toward the second centenary goal and called for a profound understanding of the new stage of development, including its characteristics and requirements.在第十三个五年计划（2016-2020年）时期，他强调该阶段是全面建成小康社会的决胜阶段，并着重指出把握战略机遇的重要性；针对第十四个五年规划，他明确了向第二个百年奋斗目标迈进的历史使命，要求深刻认识新发展阶段的内涵与要求。广泛共识Looking ahead to the 15th Five-Year Plan, Xi has highlighted that the formulation and implementation of this plan has immense significance for fully realizing the strategic initiatives outlined at the 20th CPC National Congress and advancing Chinese modernization.展望第十五个五年规划，习近平强调，制定和实施这一规划，对全面落实党的二十大部署的战略任务、推进中国式现代化具有重大意义。In an instruction in May, he emphasized the importance of integrating top-level design with seeking advice from the public, enhancing research and discussions, and building broad consensus, and stressed sound, democratic and law-based decision-making to ensure that the next five-year plan is formulated with high quality.5月，习近平在一份指示中强调，要坚持顶层设计和问计于民相结合，深入开展调研论证，凝聚广泛共识，坚持科学决策、民主决策、依法决策，确保高质量编制好下一个五年规划。A key feature of the planning process has been the emphasis on public participation. From May 20 to June 20, an online campaign soliciting opinions for the 15th Five-Year Plan received over 3.11 million suggestions from the public. Xi described this as a vivid example of whole-process people's democracy and urged relevant departments to carefully study and absorb these valuable insights.公众参与是五年规划编制过程的重要特点。5月20日至6月20日，面向第十五个五年规划的网上意见征集活动收到了超过311万条公众建议。习近平称这是全过程人民民主的生动实践，并要求相关部门认真研究吸收这些宝贵意见。By integrating visionary guidance with inclusive governance, China's "target governance mechanism", exemplified by the five-year plan system, continues to be a vital tool for aligning national ambitions with the aspirations of its people, said Yan, the Tsinghua expert.阎学通表示，通过将远见引领与包容性治理相结合，以五年规划体系为代表的中国“目标治理机制”，仍是统筹国家愿景与人民期盼的重要工具。As China navigates a complex landscape of technological acceleration, economic transformation and strategic competition, the next five-year plan represents a critical step toward securing sustainable and high-quality development, he added.他补充道，在当前技术加速迭代、经济转型升级、国际竞争加剧的复杂形势下，下一个五年规划将是中国实现可持续高质量发展的关键一步。20th CPC Central Committee membersn.中共二十届中央委员会委员/ˈtwentiəθ ˌsiː piː ˈsiː ˈsentrəl kəˈmɪti ˈmembəz/15th Five-Year Plan researchers/expertsn.“十五五”规划研究者/专家/ˌfɪfˈtiːnθ ˈfaɪv jɪə plæn rɪˈsɜːtʃəz/ /ˈekspɜːts/

Two years ago, Taiwan bartender Danny Hsu brought his 12 years of mixology experience from Taichung, a city in China's Taiwan region, and opened Stirred Bar in the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, a historical architectural complex in downtown Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian province.两年前，中国台湾地区台中市的调酒师许丹尼（Danny Hsu）带着12年的调酒经验，在福建省会福州市中心的历史建筑群三坊七巷开设了“Stirred Bar”酒吧。Hsu enjoys experimentally incorporating fresh fruits, tea, coffee and even unexpected ingredients like vinegar and chili into his cocktails, conveying unique tastes and his understanding of life.许丹尼喜欢在调酒中尝试加入新鲜水果、茶、咖啡，甚至醋、辣椒等非常规原料，以此传递独特的口感和他对生活的理解。His latest creation is a cocktail symbolizing the fusion of cultures across the Taiwan Strait, blending full-bodied Kaoliang liquor, a specialty from Taiwan, with the gentle aroma of Fuzhou's jasmine tea.他最新创作的一款鸡尾酒象征着两岸文化融合，将台湾特产的醇厚高粱酒与福州茉莉花茶的淡雅香气相融合。"The fiery spirit meets the sweet jasmine flowers, just like the ongoing cross-Strait integration," he said.他表示：“浓烈的酒香邂逅清甜的茉莉，就像正在推进的两岸融合发展一样。”Oct 25 marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's retrocession. Since its return to the motherland in 1945, cross-Strait relations have experienced twists and turns, but integrated development has always been the main historical trend.10月25日是台湾光复80周年纪念日。自1945年回归祖国以来，两岸关系虽历经波折，但融合发展始终是历史主流。Fujian and Taiwan are connected by a single body of water, and share the same ancestry, culture and customs, with about 80 percent of Taiwan's population tracing its ancestry back to Fujian. Such closeness gives the coastal province an irreplaceable role in promoting peaceful cross-Strait development and reunification.福建与台湾隔海相望、同根同源、文化相通、习俗相近，约80%的台湾民众祖籍在福建。这种特殊的亲缘联系，让福建在推动两岸和平发展、促进祖国统一进程中具有不可替代的作用。Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, President Xi Jinping, who is also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, has made three field trips to Fujian, consistently emphasizing cross-Strait integrated development.自2012年中国共产党第十八次全国代表大会以来，中共中央总书记、国家主席、中央军委主席习近平已三次赴福建考察，始终强调推动两岸融合发展。In his latest tour to the province last year, Xi reiterated the call for Fujian to make greater progress in exploring the new path for cross-Strait integrated development.在去年最新一次福建考察中，习近平总书记再次强调，要推动福建在探索两岸融合发展新路上迈出更大步伐。Statistics showed that Fujian has become a top choice for a growing number of Taiwan businesspeople and young entrepreneurs, thanks to innovative integration policies.数据显示，得益于创新性的融合发展政策，福建已成为越来越多台商和台湾青年创业者的首选地之一。From January to August, Fujian saw 1,653 new enterprises funded by Taiwan investment, with $660 million in utilized capital from Taiwan, the highest among all mainland provinces, according to data from the provincial Taiwan affairs authority.福建省台办数据显示，今年1月至8月，福建新增台资企业1653家，实际使用台资6.6亿美元，两项数据均居大陆各省份首位。In the first eight months of this year, passenger traffic between Fujian and Taiwan surged 36.4 percent to 1.73 million trips, compared with the same period last year, while cross-Strait events saw 28,000 Taiwan participants, a 40 percent increase, data showed.数据还显示，今年前8个月，闽台旅客往来量达173万人次，同比增长36.4%；两岸各类交流活动中，台湾参与人数达2.8万人次，同比增长40%。Chen Lishuang, a deputy researcher at the Fujian Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of Modern Taiwan Studies, said the province has achieved notable results in economic cooperation and social integration with Taiwan through pilot policies.福建省社会科学院现代台湾研究所副研究员陈丽霜（音译）表示，福建通过一系列试点政策，在两岸经济合作与社会融合方面取得了显著成效。While working in Fujian for about 17 years, from 1985 to 2002, Xi attached great importance to Taiwan-related work, tirelessly promoting cooperation and cultivating affection between people on both sides of the Strait, Chen said.陈丽霜指出，1985年至2002年，习近平总书记在福建工作的17年间，高度重视对台工作，不懈推动两岸合作，增进两岸同胞情谊。In 1997, a 102-day tour of Taiwan by a statue of the sea goddess Mazu saw millions pay their respects to the deity across the island, becoming the longest and most influential cross-Strait exchange at the time.1997年，海神妈祖雕像赴台巡游102天，全台数百万民众前往瞻仰，成为当时持续时间最长、影响最广的两岸交流活动。In 2001, limited direct transportation, trade and postal services began between Fujian's coast and the islands of Jinmen and Matsu, administered by Taiwan, and this was warmly received. An exchange agreement signed later that year, by representatives from the two sides, included the one-China principle for the first time, causing a stir.2001年，福建沿海与台湾地区管辖的金门、马祖地区开启局部直接通航、通贸、通邮，受到两岸民众热烈欢迎。同年晚些时候，两岸代表签署的一项交流协议首次纳入一个中国原则，引发广泛关注。"Xi made many statements regarding work related to Taiwan from the historical perspective of achieving the peaceful reunification of the motherland, along with a series of forward-looking and strategic explorations and practices while working in Fujian," Chen said.陈丽霜表示：“在福建工作期间，习近平总书记从实现祖国和平统一的历史高度，就对台工作作出许多重要论述，并开展了一系列具有前瞻性、战略性的探索与实践。”The innovative concepts and practical advancements in Taiwan-related work proposed by Xi during his tenure in Fujian constitute an important source of his later significant discourse on Taiwan affairs, she said.她指出，习近平总书记在福建工作期间提出的对台工作创新理念和实践成果，是其后来关于台湾问题重要论述的重要思想源头。In his speech on the 40th anniversary of the issuance of the Message to Compatriots in Taiwan by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, in January 2019, Xi emphasized the need to deepen integrated development between the two sides to lay a foundation for peaceful reunification.2019年1月，在全国人大常委会《告台湾同胞书》发表40周年纪念会上，习近平总书记强调，要深化两岸融合发展，为实现和平统一奠定坚实基础。"Just as loved ones wish each other well, we Chinese should help each other. We treat our compatriots in Taiwan as equals, and will continue paving the way for them to share first the mainland's development opportunities," Xi said.习近平总书记表示：“亲人之间，没有解不开的心结。两岸同胞是一家人，有困难就要互相帮助。我们始终把台湾同胞当作一家人，愿意继续率先同台湾同胞分享大陆发展机遇。”He called for enhanced connectivity in trade, infrastructure, energy and industry standards, suggesting initial projects such as supplying water, electricity and gas, and constructing sea-crossing bridges from Fujian to Jinmen and Matsu.总书记呼吁，要加强两岸贸易、基础设施、能源、产业标准等领域互联互通，提出从福建向金门、马祖供水供电供气，建设跨海大桥等先期项目。In 2023, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, China's Cabinet, announced plans to make Fujian a "demonstration zone" for the integrated development across the Strait, offering policies like infrastructure connectivity and incentives for Taiwan residents to create their careers.2023年，中共中央、国务院印发方案，决定支持福建建设海峡两岸融合发展示范区，推出基础设施互联互通、鼓励台湾同胞来闽就业创业等一系列政策举措。"Fujian's supportive policies for Taiwan compatriots have given me a real sense of belonging," said Lin Chun-ying, who operates a tea mountain company in suburban Fuzhou and exports high-mountain oolong tea to countries including the United Kingdom, Germany and Japan.在福州郊区经营茶山企业、向英国、德国、日本等国出口高山乌龙茶的林春英（音译）表示：“福建对台湾同胞的扶持政策，让我真正有了归属感。”"My father often told me when I was a child that we are Chinese, because he was born on the mainland before my grandfather took him to Taiwan," Lin said. "My father said his mission was to bring us back to our motherland."林春英说：“小时候父亲常跟我说，我们是中国人。因为父亲出生在大陆，后来爷爷才带他去了台湾。父亲说，他的心愿就是带我们回到祖国母亲的怀抱。”Back in the 1990s, Lin and her father arrived in the provincial capital to clear a barren mountain to plant tea.上世纪90年代，林春英便和父亲来到福州，开垦荒山种植茶树。"Growing up, making and learning about tea in Fuzhou, I fell in love with Fuzhou's mountains," Lin said. She has now taken over management of the company from her father.“在福州长大，学着种茶、制茶，我早已爱上了这里的山山水水，”林春英说。如今，她已从父亲手中接过公司管理的重任。Wu Yongping, director at the Institute for Taiwan Studies at Tsinghua University, said that Taiwan lacks the economic hinterland for further development, given its limited population and small local market, but the mainland could offer it a much broader space for growth.清华大学台湾研究院院长巫永平表示，台湾人口有限、本地市场规模较小，缺乏进一步发展的经济腹地，而大陆能为其提供更广阔的发展空间。After the launch of reform and opening-up, Taiwan businesses that entered the mainland have contributed to the economy and have been beneficiaries as well, Wu said, adding that economic ties are a fundamental link of cross-Strait relations, so it's important to keep the link strong.巫永平指出，改革开放以来，进入大陆的台商不仅为大陆经济发展作出了贡献，自身也成为受益者。他强调，经济联系是两岸关系的重要基础，必须牢牢巩固这一纽带。Fujian's "demonstration zone" aims to ease the settlement of Taiwan compatriots on the mainland by leading efforts to overcome constraints on specific matters like obtaining phone cards, bank cards and residence permits, he said.他表示，福建建设“海峡两岸融合发展示范区”，旨在率先破解台湾同胞在大陆申领电话卡、银行卡、居住证等具体生活便利化问题，让台湾同胞在大陆生活更便捷。As a veteran Taiwan businesswoman developing on the mainland for decades, Lin has also become a facilitator for cross-Strait youth exchanges, sharing her experiences on employment and entrepreneurship in Fuzhou with young people from Taiwan.作为在大陆发展数十年的资深台商，林春英还成为两岸青年交流的桥梁，经常向台湾青年分享自己在福州就业创业的经验。She met her husband, who is from Harbin, Heilongjiang province, in Shanghai in 2018. They now have two children and live in Fuzhou.2018年，林春英在上海结识了来自黑龙江哈尔滨的丈夫，如今两人已育有两个孩子，在福州定居生活。Taiwan compatriots in Fujiann.在福建的台湾同胞 /ˌtaɪˈwɑːn kəmˈpeɪtriəts ɪn ˈfuːdʒiːn/Taiwan businesspeople (investing in Fujian)n.（在福建投资的）台商/ˌtaɪˈwɑːn ˈbɪznɪsˌpiːpl (ɪnˈvestɪŋ ɪn ˈfuːdʒiːn)/

Chinese women are gaining greater rights to development in the economic sector, especially in the digital economy, and their talent has shone through thanks to their perseverance, improved educational background and working abilities.中国女性在经济领域（尤其是数字经济领域）正获得更充分的发展权利。凭借坚韧的毅力、不断提升的教育水平和工作能力，她们的才华得以充分展现。Xie Mingli, 27, who switched her job from an education consultant to a cross-border e-commerce live-streaming anchor in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, in 2024, said it was an interesting choice to make, as she believes that women have the power to tackle challenges in both life and work.27岁的谢明丽（音译）于2024年在广东省深圳市从教育顾问转行成为跨境电商直播主播。她表示，这是一个有趣的选择，因为她认为女性有能力应对生活和工作中的各种挑战。"As a girl, I was told to stick to established practices like getting a bachelor's degree, finding a stable job and then getting married. But my mother, who is self-employed, has always encouraged me to try new things and never lose my curiosity or courage," she said. "I worked as an education consultant for two years after finishing my postgraduate education, and I think it's time to move on to another interesting career."“从小到大，总有人告诉我要遵循既定路径：拿到学士学位、找份稳定工作，然后结婚。但我母亲是个体户，她一直鼓励我尝试新事物，不要丢掉好奇心和勇气，”她说，“研究生毕业后，我做了两年教育顾问，现在我觉得是时候开启另一份有趣的职业了。”Xie is among the growing number of women starting their career or getting higher engagement in the digital economy in recent years, thanks to the government's greater support for enhancing women's rights to development and for improving their digital literacy.近年来，在政府加大对女性发展权利保障力度、提升女性数字素养的支持下，越来越多女性进入数字经济领域就业或加深参与度，谢明丽便是其中之一。According to a white paper recently released by the State Council Information Office, which explains China's philosophy, principles and practices in promoting gender equality and women's well-rounded development in the new era, female employees comprise about 43 percent of the nation's total workforce, with the proportion maintained at that level since 2012.国务院新闻办公室近日发布一份白皮书，阐述了新时代中国促进性别平等和妇女全面发展的理念、原则与实践。该白皮书显示，女性从业人员占全国从业人员总数的比例约为43%，自2012年以来这一比例始终保持在该水平。The latest figures from the National Bureau of Statistics showed that as of the end of 2024, female employees totaled around 320 million, accounting for 43.4 percent of the nation's total workforce, indicating women's fuller engagement in economic development.国家统计局最新数据显示，截至2024年底，女性从业人员总数约3.2亿人，占全国从业人员总数的43.4%，这表明女性正更充分地参与经济发展。In addition, women account for over half of the entrepreneurs in the internet sector, and roughly one-third of the nation's workers in new forms of employment, including digital trade, e-commerce and livestreaming, the white paper said.白皮书还指出，在互联网行业创业者中，女性占比超过一半；在数字贸易、电子商务、直播等新就业形态从业人员中，女性占比约三分之一。Early in 2022, AliResearch, the research arm of the Alibaba Group, released a report that said China's digital economy has created 57 million job opportunities for women, which has increased their value in the job market and expanded their employment space.2022年初，阿里巴巴集团旗下研究机构阿里研究院发布报告称，中国数字经济已为女性创造5700万个就业机会，提升了女性在就业市场中的价值，拓宽了她们的就业空间。The report said that as of 2022, there were about 23.58 million female shop owners on the Chinese online shopping platform Taobao, and 12.44 million female livestreaming anchors on Taobao and Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok.报告显示，截至2022年，中国在线购物平台淘宝上的女性店主约有2358万人；在淘宝和抖音（TikTok中国版）平台上，女性直播主播达1244万人。Xie, the anchor, said that women have gained more respect, in addition to more equal returns and pay, and she believes the gender gap will continue to narrow in the future.主播谢明丽表示，如今女性不仅获得了更平等的回报与薪酬，还得到了更多尊重。她相信未来性别差距将进一步缩小。"When I was at school, seniors often said that employers preferred men as they would not be bothered by 'problems like giving birth'. I'm grateful that I didn't meet such discrimination, and I have been paid on a par with male workers, both at my previous job and the current one," she said.“上学时，学长学姐常说，雇主更倾向于招聘男性，因为男性不会受‘生育等问题'影响。我很庆幸自己没有遇到这种歧视，无论是上一份工作还是现在的工作，我的薪资都与男性同事持平，”她说。"Women do have an equal, or even bigger, right to speak in the job market, as we possess excellent working abilities, especially in some e-commerce-related areas, where women can show higher affability and approachability," Xie said, adding that she is happy to see more women from different walks of life get involved in the digital economy, in which they can not only make a living but also create some social values.“女性在就业市场中拥有平等甚至更充分的话语权，因为我们具备出色的工作能力，尤其是在电商相关领域，女性更能展现出亲和力与易沟通的特质，”谢明丽补充道。她表示，很高兴看到各行各业有更多女性参与到数字经济中，在这里她们不仅能谋生，还能创造社会价值。Feng Ling, vice-president of the All-China Women's Federation, said at a recent news conference in Beijing that women are riding the digital economy wave, thanks to the government's continuous efforts to improve their digital literacy and give them skills training and financial support.全国妇联副主席冯玲（音译）在近期北京举行的新闻发布会上表示，得益于政府持续提升女性数字素养、提供技能培训与资金支持，女性正积极拥抱数字经济浪潮。The Outline for Women's Development in China (2021-30), released in 2021 by the State Council, the country's Cabinet, has set a target of enhancing women's ability to use information technology to get engaged in socioeconomic high-quality development, she said, noting that several other State-level programs have also set targets and offered solutions to improve women's ability to get access to online entrepreneurship and forge their digital skills.她说，2021年国务院（中国政府内阁）发布的《中国妇女发展纲要（2021-2030年）》明确提出，要提升女性运用信息技术参与经济社会高质量发展的能力。她还指出，其他多项国家级规划也设定了目标并提出举措，旨在提升女性开展网络创业的能力、培养女性数字技能。"The women's federation, together with the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, has organized training programs for women in the countryside since 2015 to teach them to make short videos and sell agricultural produce online," Feng said.冯玲表示：“自2015年起，全国妇联联合商务部、农业农村部，为农村女性开展培训，教授她们制作短视频和线上销售农产品。”"Also, women starting or running their own businesses can get support through the nation's inclusive financial services. More women have realized their personal value in the digital economy sector, and turned into a strong force to push forward the development of the digital economy," she added.“此外，创业或经营企业的女性可通过国家普惠金融服务获得支持。越来越多女性在数字经济领域实现了个人价值，成为推动数字经济发展的重要力量，”她补充道。female employees in the digital economyn.数字经济领域女性从业人员 /ˈfiːmeɪl ɪmˈplɔɪiːz ɪn ðə ˈdɪdʒɪtl ɪˈkɒnəmi/female livestreaming anchorsn.女性直播主播/ˈfiːmeɪl ˈlɪvstriːmɪŋ ˈæŋkəz/

During peak lunch hour at a busy restaurant in Chengdu, Sichuan province, four chefs work in perfect unison, deftly churning out multiple dishes as flames leap from the woks. However, their expertise and execution are not only of interest to the customers waiting for the food, but also to over 50,000 viewers watching them live at work on Douyin, China's short-video platform.在四川省成都市一家人气餐厅的午间用餐高峰时段，四位厨师配合默契，炒锅火光跃动间，娴熟地烹制出一道道菜品。他们的精湛技艺不仅吸引着等候取餐的顾客，还受到中国短视频平台抖音上5万余名实时观看直播网友的关注。Luoxiaoyang Home-Style Cuisine, which opened its doors in June, has attracted more than 1.7 million followers on Douyin by livestreaming what goes on in its kitchen.这家名为“罗小羊家常菜”的餐厅于今年6月开业，通过直播厨房日常运作，已在抖音平台积累超170万粉丝。Responding to increasing public concern about food safety, a number of restaurants nationwide have begun livestreaming their kitchen operations - a strategy aimed at both winning diners' trust and boosting visibility through online engagement.随着公众对食品安全的关注度持续提升，全国多地餐厅纷纷开启厨房直播模式。这一举措既是为赢取消费者信任，也旨在通过线上互动提高店铺曝光度。The growing interest in "transparent kitchen" livestreams follows a heated online debate sparked by celebrity entrepreneur Luo Yonghao. Last week, Luo criticized domestic restaurant chain Xibei on China's popular social media platform Sina Weibo, alleging that many dishes were premade. His post went viral, prompting public discussion about food safety and kitchen transparency.“透明厨房”直播受热捧，源于知名企业家罗永浩引发的一场网络热议。上周，罗永浩在国内知名社交平台新浪微博上，对连锁餐饮品牌西贝提出质疑，称其多款菜品为预制菜。该言论迅速走红网络，引发公众对食品安全与厨房透明度的广泛讨论。Kitchen livestreams are not exactly new. In March, the State Council, China's Cabinet, issued a guideline strengthening food safety supervision, urging platforms and merchants to implement"internet plus transparent kitchen"initiatives and enhance oversight on delivery-only restaurants through public monitoring.厨房直播并非新鲜事物。今年3月，中国国务院印发关于加强食品安全监管的指导意见，明确要求平台与商户落实“互联网+透明厨房”举措，并通过公众监督强化对纯外卖餐厅的监管。Sun Juanjuan, an associate professor at Hebei Agricultural University and researcher at the Center for Coordination and Innovation of Food Safety Governance, said, "As customers have begun focusing on how the food is being prepared, restaurants have shifted focus from price wars to hygiene standards."河北农业大学副教授、食品安全治理协同创新中心研究员孙娟娟表示：“如今消费者更关注菜品制作过程，餐饮企业的竞争焦点已从价格战转向卫生标准。”However, some industry insiders worry that the livestreams could become mere "performances".不过，部分业内人士担忧，厨房直播可能沦为“表演秀”。Zhong Kai, a food safety expert from the China Food Information Center, said the actual impact of livestreaming on food safety supervision might be more about deterrence than regulation."Issues such as pesticide residues or cross-contamination are hard to catch via livestreams. Most food safety incidents that have been exposed have been due to snapshots of chefs not wearing masks or hats, or catching glimpses of rats in kitchens," he said.中国食品信息中心食品安全专家钟凯指出，直播对食品安全监管的实际作用更多体现在震慑层面，而非直接监管。“农药残留、交叉污染等问题难以通过直播发现。目前曝光的食品安全问题，多是因镜头捕捉到厨师未戴口罩、帽子，或厨房内出现老鼠等明显违规场景。”Yet, Sun said: "Implementing 'transparent kitchen' measures in the mass catering sector has always been a regulatory challenge. Now, with public enthusiasm and demand, it can help accelerate implementation across various regions."孙娟娟则认为：“在大众餐饮领域推行‘透明厨房'，一直是监管工作的难点。如今借助公众的热情与需求，有望推动这一举措在各地加速落地。”premadeadj.预制的；预先制作的/ˌpriːˈmeɪd/deterrencen.震慑；威慑/dɪˈterəns/cross-contaminationn.交叉污染/ˌkrɒs kənˌtæmɪˈneɪʃn/

China will firmly defend its interests and support the multilateral trading system, while urging the United States to engage more in equal dialogue to ease friction and seek common ground in pursuit of a more open global economy, said analysts and business leaders on Sunday.分析人士及商界人士于周日表示，中国将坚定维护自身利益，支持多边贸易体制，同时敦促美方更多地开展平等对话，以缓解摩擦、寻求共识，推动构建更加开放的全球经济。As He Lifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and vice-premier of the State Council, China's Cabinet, leads a delegation in Madrid, Spain, for talks with US counterparts from Sunday to Wednesday, market watchers said the meetings are aimed at addressing long-standing friction and exploring constructive solutions.中共中央政治局委员、国务院副总理何立峰率团于周日至周三在西班牙马德里同美方代表举行会谈。市场观察人士指出，此次会谈旨在解决长期存在的经贸摩擦，并探讨建设性解决方案。The two sides will discuss economic and trade issues, such as unilateral tariff measures adopted by the US, the abuse of export controls and the TikTok issue, according to the Ministry of Commerce.据商务部介绍，双方将围绕美方单边关税措施、滥用出口管制、TikTok等经贸议题展开讨论。Wang Wen, dean of Renmin University of China's Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies, said the previous three rounds of trade talks between China and the US signaled willingness on both sides to find common ground, bringing much-needed optimism to international markets.中国人民大学重阳金融研究院院长王文表示，此前中美三轮经贸会谈已释放出双方寻求共识的积极意愿，为国际市场注入了亟需的信心。"With global economic momentum faltering, the international community is watching closely the talks in Spain, hoping both sides can translate dialogue into more substantive progress that would benefit not just the two nations, but all," he said.他指出：“当前全球经济增长动能不足，国际社会正密切关注此次西班牙会谈，期待双方能将对话转化为更具实质性的进展，这不仅惠及中美两国，更将造福世界各国。”Li Yong, a senior research fellow at the Beijing-based China Association of International Trade, said that under such circumstances, effectively addressing topics such as unilateral US tariff measures and the abuse of export controls is essential to fostering smoother China-US economic and trade relations, particularly in rebuilding trust and stabilizing cooperation.中国国际贸易学会高级研究员李永表示，在此背景下，有效解决美方单边关税措施、滥用出口管制等问题，对于推动中美经贸关系顺畅发展至关重要，尤其是在重建互信、稳定合作方面具有重要意义。Chen Wenling, former chief economist at the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, said the path to productive dialogue requires mutual respect and effort. She warned that Washington's recent unilateral moves — including a fresh wave of sanctions against Chinese companies — risk undermining the very foundation of engagement.中国国际经济交流中心前首席经济学家陈文玲认为，开展富有成效的对话需要双方相互尊重、共同努力。她警示，美方近期采取的单边行动——包括新一轮对华企业制裁——可能会破坏双方交往的基础。These are not good-faith gestures, but pressure tactics that Beijing will firmly oppose rather than concede to, Chen said.陈文玲强调：“这些并非善意之举，而是施压手段，中方将坚决反对，绝不妥协。”"China always remains open to dialogues with the US, but only based on mutual respect and equal standing. The onus is now on Washington to decide whether it will approach the negotiating table as an equal partner seeking mutually acceptable solutions," she added.她进一步指出：“中方始终愿与美方开展对话，但对话必须建立在相互尊重、平等相待的基础之上。当前，美方需作出抉择：是否以平等伙伴的身份坐到谈判桌前，寻求双方都能接受的解决方案。”On Saturday, the Ministry of Commerce responded to a US move to add multiple Chinese entities to its export control list. A spokesperson said that China firmly opposes the move, which targets Chinese entities in the semiconductor, biotechnology, aerospace, and commercial and trade logistics sectors.周六，商务部就美方将多家中国实体列入出口管制清单一事作出回应。发言人表示，中方坚决反对这一做法，此次美方制裁针对的是中国半导体、生物技术、航空航天、商贸物流等领域的实体。Noting that the two countries are scheduled to hold economic and trade talks in Spain starting on Sunday, the spokesperson said the US decision to sanction Chinese businesses raises questions about its true intentions.发言人指出，中美双方定于周日在西班牙举行经贸会谈，美方此时制裁中国企业，其真实意图令人质疑。The Ministry of Commerce also announced on the same day that it has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into imports of certain analog integrated circuit chips originating in the US, and it launched an anti-discrimination investigation into relevant US measures targeting China's integrated circuit sector.同日，商务部还宣布，已对原产于美国的部分模拟集成电路芯片发起反倾销调查，并就美方针对中国集成电路产业的相关措施发起反歧视调查。Following these moves, the Beijing-based China Semiconductor Industry Association issued a statement stressing that the healthy development of the semiconductor industry requires a fair competitive environment.此后，位于北京的中国半导体行业协会发表声明强调，半导体产业的健康发展需要公平的竞争环境。The China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products called for domestic companies to boost innovation, strengthen industrial coordination and deepen global cooperation, while warning that unilateral measures risk disrupting international industrial and supply chains.中国机电产品进出口商会呼吁国内企业加大创新力度、加强产业协同、深化国际合作，同时警示，单边措施可能扰乱国际产业链供应链。John Quelch, a professor at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business, said: "The recent trend toward decoupling, particularly in technology and supply chains, reflects a deeper anxiety about dependence and vulnerability. But we must not lose sight of the broader truth: China and the US remain deeply intertwined."杜克大学福库商学院教授约翰・奎尔奇表示：“近期在技术和供应链等领域出现的‘脱钩'趋势，反映出各方对依赖风险和脆弱性的深层担忧。但我们不能忽视一个更重要的事实：中美经济仍深度交融。”He said the two sides must search for new equilibrium, one that balances competition with cooperation, and national interest with global responsibility.他认为，双方需寻求新的平衡，在竞争与合作之间、国家利益与全球责任之间找到平衡点。Olaf Schmidt, vice-president of Messe Frankfurt Exhibition, a German trade fair and event organizer, said his company has always championed global free trade, believing that it is vital to connect people, products and markets.德国展会运营商法兰克福展览集团副总裁奥拉夫・施密特表示，集团始终倡导全球自由贸易，坚信自由贸易对于连接人与人、产品与市场至关重要。multilateraladj.多边的；涉及多方的/ˌmʌltiˈlætərəl/frictionn.摩擦；矛盾；不和/ˈfrɪkʃn/unilateraladj.单边的；单方面的/ˌjuːnɪˈlætrəl/onusn.责任；义务；负担/ˈəʊnəs/decouplingn.脱钩；分离/ˌdiːˈkʌplɪŋ/

China has rejected the Philippines' groundless accusation and so-called protests over the establishment of the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve, and has urged Manila to cease its infringements and provocations.中国驳斥了菲律宾针对设立黄岩岛国家级自然保护区提出的无端指责及所谓“抗议”，并敦促菲律宾停止一切侵权挑衅行为。Addressing a daily news conference on Thursday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said that China demands that the Philippines stop wantonly hyping up the issue, and refrain from complicating the maritime situation.在上周四举行的例行记者会上，外交部发言人林剑表示，中国要求菲律宾停止肆意炒作相关议题，不得将海上局势复杂化。The scope of the Philippines' territory has long been defined by multiple international treaties, and it has never included Huangyan Island, Lin said.Noting that Huangyan Island is an inherent territory of China, he said that establishing the nature reserve is well within China's sovereign rights, and it is aimed at protecting the ecological environment of the island and ensuring a diverse, stable and sustainable ecosystem there.林剑指出，菲律宾领土范围早已由多项国际条约明确界定，其中从未包含黄岩岛。他强调，黄岩岛是中国固有领土，中国设立黄岩岛国家级自然保护区完全是在行使主权范围内的正当权利，此举旨在保护该岛生态环境，维护区域生物多样性、生态系统稳定及可持续发展。This move is in line with China's domestic laws and international law, and shows that as a responsible major country, China is resolved to actively protect the ecological environment and promote sustainable development, he added.林剑补充道，这一举措符合中国国内法与国际法规定，充分体现了中国作为负责任大国，积极保护生态环境、推动可持续发展的坚定决心。The establishment of the reserve has been approved by the State Council, China's Cabinet, the official website of China's central government posted on Wednesday. It represents a move to protect marine ecosystems, fulfill international legal obligations and safeguard national sovereignty, officials and analysts said.中国中央政府官网周三发布消息称，设立黄岩岛国家级自然保护区已获国务院（中国最高行政机关）批准。有关官员及分析人士表示，此举既是保护海洋生态系统、履行国际法律义务的具体行动，也是维护国家主权的重要举措。"China has indisputable sovereignty over Huangyan Island and its adjacent waters, as well as sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the relevant waters," said Xu Heyun, deputy head of the Ministry of Natural Resources' China Institute for Marine Affairs.自然资源部中国海洋发展研究中心副主任徐贺云指出：“中国对黄岩岛及其附近海域拥有无可争辩的主权，对相关海域享有主权权利和管辖权。”Xu said the nature reserve reflects China's fulfillment of rights and obligations under international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, while complying with domestic laws such as the Marine Environment Protection Law and the regulations on nature reserves.徐贺云表示，设立黄岩岛国家级自然保护区，既符合《联合国海洋法公约》等国际法规定，是中国履行国际法项下权利与义务的体现，也遵循了《中华人民共和国海洋环境保护法》《自然保护区条例》等国内法律法规要求。The arrangement upholds "win-win cooperation, joint consultation and shared benefits" in how coastal states manage the South China Sea, she said.It also aligns with common practices worldwide, she said, noting that major maritime nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Australia and New Zealand, along with Japan, South Korea, the Philippines and Indonesia, have established nature reserves or marine protected areas.She cited the US' Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument and the Marianas Trench Marine National Monument, Japan's Ogasawara National Park and the Philippines' Apo Island Marine Protected Area.她强调，这一安排践行了沿海国家在南海治理中“合作共赢、协商共建、利益共享”的原则，同时也与国际通行做法一致。徐贺云举例称，美国、英国、法国、澳大利亚、新西兰等主要海洋国家，以及日本、韩国、菲律宾、印度尼西亚等国，均已设立自然保护区或海洋保护区，如美国的太平洋偏远岛屿海洋国家保护区、马里亚纳海沟海洋国家保护区，日本的小笠原国立公园，以及菲律宾的阿波岛海洋保护区等。Located in the Zhongsha Islands of the South China Sea, Huangyan Island and its surrounding waters feature a typical coral reef ecosystem, abundant fishery resources and rare marine life. All reef-building corals in the area are under second-level State protection.黄岩岛位于中国南海中沙群岛，其周边海域拥有典型的珊瑚礁生态系统，渔业资源丰富，还栖息着多种珍稀海洋生物，区域内所有造礁珊瑚均为国家二级保护动物。Forty-one species found in the area are listed as near threatened and 14 as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species, Xu said.徐贺云介绍，经国际自然保护联盟（IUCN）红色名录评估，黄岩岛海域有41种物种被列为“近危”级别，14种物种被列为“易危”级别。The area, an important fishing ground and storm shelter, faces pressure from sewage and waste linked to fishing activities. Combined with global climate change and intensified human use, the ecosystem has become increasingly vulnerable, Xu added.徐贺云介绍，该海域是重要渔场及避风良港，但当前面临着渔业活动产生的污水、废弃物污染压力，叠加全球气候变化及人类开发活动加剧的影响，当地生态系统已日益脆弱。Chen Xiangmiao, director at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies' South China Sea historical and cultural research department, said the biggest threat besides global warming comes from the Philippines' "fishery activities".中国南海研究院南海历史与文化研究所所长陈相秒表示，除全球变暖外，黄岩岛生态面临的最大威胁来自菲律宾的“渔业活动”。He said that for years China allowed Filipino fishermen to operate near Huangyan Island out of humanitarian considerations. However, ever since Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos assumed office, Manila has been using fishermen as political tools to carry out unilateral actions in the South China Sea, breach China's law enforcement and assert illegal claims.他指出，多年来，中国出于人道主义考虑，允许菲律宾渔民在黄岩岛附近海域开展作业。然而，自小费迪南德・马科斯就任菲律宾总统以来，菲方不断将渔民作为政治工具，在南海实施单边行动，干扰中国执法，妄图主张非法权益。China's establishment of a national nature reserve declares the legal and policy boundaries to the Philippines and defines the limits of conduct for both sides in the waters around Huangyan Island, Chen said.Chen also cited an on-site study of Huangyan Island's ecology conducted in 2024, which showed increasing coral coverage, greater species diversity and an overall strong marine environment.陈相秒认为，中国设立黄岩岛国家级自然保护区，向菲律宾清晰划定了法律与政策边界，同时明确了双方在黄岩岛周边海域的行为底线。他还提及2024年开展的黄岩岛生态现场调研结果，该调研显示当地珊瑚覆盖率提升、物种多样性增加，整体海洋生态状况良好。"This not only debunks the rumors deliberately fabricated by the Philippines, such as 'cyanide fishing', but also provides a scientific basis for environmental protection in the waters around Huangyan Island," he said.“这一结果不仅戳穿了菲律宾蓄意编造的‘氰化物捕鱼'等谣言，更为黄岩岛周边海域的环境保护工作提供了科学依据。”陈相秒说。accusationn.指控、控告/ˌækjuˈzeɪʃn/sovereigntyn.主权/ˈsɒvrənti/

Send us a textDr. Jonathan W. White is a professor of American Studies at Christopher Newport University. He is the author or editor of 17 books covering various topics, including civil liberties during the Civil War, the USS Monitor and the Battle of Hampton Roads, the presidential election of 1864, and what Abraham Lincoln and soldiers dreamt about. Among his awards are the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia's Outstanding Faculty Award (2019), CNU's Alumni Society Award for Teaching and Mentoring (2016), the Abraham Lincoln Institute Book Prize (2015), and the University of Maryland Alumni Excellence Award in Research (2024). His recent books include A House Built By Slaves: African American Visitors to the Lincoln White House (2022), which was co-winner of the Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize (with Jon Meacham); Shipwrecked: A True Civil War Story of Mutinies, Jailbreaks, Blockade-Running, and the Slave Trade (2023); Final Resting Places: Reflections on the Meaning of Civil War Graves (2023); and an exciting new children's book, My Day with Abe Lincoln (2024).A Quote From This Episode"Viewed from the abolition ground, Lincoln seemed tardy, cold, dull; but measured by his country, he was swift, zealous, radical, and determined.”Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeBook: Measuring the Man: The Writings of Frederick Douglass on Abraham LincolnArticle: Flag burning has a long history in the U.S. — and legal protections from the Supreme CourtAbout The International Leadership Association (ILA)The ILA was created in 1999 to bring together professionals interested in studying, practicing, and teaching leadership. Plan for Prague - October 15-18, 2025!About  Scott J. AllenWebsiteWeekly Newsletter: Practical Wisdom for LeadersBlogMy Approach to HostingThe views of my guests do not constitute "truth." Nor do they reflect my personal views in some instances. However, they are views to consider, and I hope they help you clarify your perspective. Nothing can replace your reflection, research, and exploration of the topic. ♻️ Please share with others and follow/subscribe to the podcast!⭐️ Please leave a review on Apple, Spotify, or your platform of choice.➡️ Follow me on LinkedIn for more on leadership, communication, and tech.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin by looking back at last week's Victory Day parade. Topics include: The domestic messaging from the PRC, cold war imagery from a regime that denounces cold war thinking, questions about the EU perspective, the implications of the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, North Korea's relationship to the PRC, a hot mic moment between Xi and Putin, and President Trump's Truth Social post responding to the parade. From there: A flurry of US-China stories, including Nvidia in the New York Times, a Politico report on Pentagon priorities, and PRC hackers allegedly impersonating Rep. John Moolenaar. At the end: The State Council continues a push for increased sports consumption and investment, thoughts on LeBron James in the People's Daily and the NBA's return to China, and South Park tackles the Labubu craze.

The Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, China's top legislature, will hold its 17th session in Beijing from September 8th to 12th, with lawmakers set to review draft laws, a package of amendments to existing laws and reports by the State Council.

Nighttime dining, shopping and travel are thriving across China this summer, injecting fresh momentum to economic growth at a time when the country has prioritized consumption as its top priority this year.今年夏季，我国夜间餐饮、购物、旅游等消费业态蓬勃发展。在国家将消费列为今年工作重点的背景下，夜间经济为经济增长注入了新动能。The market size of China's nighttime economy has so far surpassed 50 trillion yuan ($7 trillion), said marketing consultancy Zhiyanzhan.More restaurants have extended business hours and launched delivery services to attract late-night diners and increase revenue.市场咨询机构智研瞻产业研究院数据显示，目前我国夜间经济市场规模已突破50 万亿元（约合 7 万亿美元）。为吸引夜宵客、提升营收，越来越多餐饮企业延长营业时间，并推出外卖服务。Huda Restaurant, a popular crayfish eatery in Beijing's bustling Guijie Street, is operating four outlets in the same area, cumulatively serving more than 6,500 customers daily on average. During peak hours on some nights, customers sometimes have to wait in line for three hours, according to the restaurant.位于北京繁华簋街的热门小龙虾餐厅“胡大饭店”，在该区域布局了 4 家门店，日均总客流量超 6500 人次。据餐厅介绍，部分夜晚的高峰时段，顾客有时需排队 3 小时才能就餐。"Tourists are often unable to wait that long to dine in. Some choose the takeaway option, or order deliveries to their hotels. Some 70 percent of our takeout orders come from nearby hotels, as many tourists tend to order deliveries at night after their daytime sightseeing in the city," said Zhang Shengtao, deputy general manager of Huda.“很多游客等不了那么久，有的会选择打包带走，有的则直接点外卖送到酒店。我们约 70% 的外卖订单来自周边酒店 —— 不少游客白天在市区观光后，晚上习惯点外卖。” 胡大饭店副总经理张胜涛说。"We take food delivery platforms as an important supplement to our operations, as the platforms allow customers to search for our restaurant from different channels. With no increase in the number of staff members and no change in restaurant areas, delivery services can help raise order volumes and lead to profit growth," Zhang said.他表示：“我们把外卖平台当作经营的重要补充，这些平台能让顾客通过多种渠道找到我们。在不增加员工、不扩大门店面积的情况下，外卖业务能帮助提升订单量，进而带动利润增长。”The restaurant chain said diners aged between 25 and 39 account for a large share of its total customers, while consumers opting for deliveries are mainly aged between 18 and 35.该餐饮连锁品牌透露，25 至 39 岁的顾客占堂食总客流的较大比例，而选择外卖的消费者以 18 至 35 岁人群为主。Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said the availability of nighttime dining meets the demand for late night snacking among urban white-collar employees and many young consumers, especially as more people stay up late, work overtime, or venture out for social entertainment, and late night dining gradually becomes a part of their daily routine.中国国际贸易促进委员会国际贸易经济合作研究院副研究员洪勇指出，夜间餐饮的普及，满足了城市白领及众多年轻消费者的夜宵需求。如今熬夜、加班、外出社交娱乐的人群增多，夜宵逐渐成为他们日常生活的一部分。"Nighttime economic activities such as dining, night tours and shopping provide richer consumption scenarios, and meet consumers' demand for leisure and entertainment, social interaction and emotional release," Hong said.“餐饮、夜游、购物等夜间经济活动，提供了更丰富的消费场景，满足了消费者休闲娱乐、社交互动、情感释放的需求。” 洪勇说。"The expansion of nighttime consumption scenarios will help promote the diversification of consumption formats, encourage higher frequencies of spending, effectively stimulate domestic demand and promote sustained economic growth momentum," he added.他补充道：“夜间消费场景的拓展，有助于推动消费业态多元化，提高消费频次，有效激发内需，为经济持续增长注入动力。”According to a report released by the Ministry of Commerce, 60 percent of China's urban consumption takes place after dusk. At large-scale malls, sales between 6 pm and 10 pm usually account for over half of the whole day's revenue.商务部发布的报告显示，我国60% 的城市消费发生在傍晚之后。在大型商场，18 时至 22 时的销售额通常占全天营收的一半以上。Shui Tea Shop, a tea drink brand based in Jinan, Shandong province, now operates some 1,400 stores nationwide, which are mainly located in Shandong, Jiangsu and Hebei provinces, as well as Tianjin and Beijing.总部位于山东济南的茶饮品牌“阿水大杯茶”，目前在全国拥有约 1400 家门店，主要分布在山东、江苏、河北三省及天津、北京两地。Since June, some of its stores began to extend their business hours. Now, over 300 stores operate until 11 pm, more than 100 stores operate until midnight, and a further 100 outlets are open beyond midnight. The extension of business hours will last until the end of September, the company said.该公司表示，自今年6 月起，部分门店开始延长营业时间：目前超 300 家门店营业至 23 时，100 余家营业至次日 0 时，另有 100 家门店营业至凌晨之后，这一延长营业时间的举措将持续至 9 月底。"After extending the business hours, there has been a clear trend of growth in store revenue, and some stores have experienced sales growth of over 100 percent compared with the period before the extension," said Wei Qun, director of delivery services at A-Shui Tea Shop.“延长营业时间后，门店营收增长趋势明显，部分门店销售额较延长前增长超 100%。” 阿水大杯茶外卖业务负责人魏群说。"Nighttime sales have been especially high in Jinan and Qingdao of Shandong, as well as Tianjin. Stores with higher revenues are mainly located in core business circles, and nighttime sales mainly come from orders for deliveries," Wei said.“山东的济南、青岛以及天津等地的夜间销售额表现尤为突出。高营收门店主要集中在核心商圈，夜间销售以外卖订单为主。” 魏群介绍。He added that in summer, many consumers are interested in having barbecues and crayfish at night, and restaurants providing such meals located in core business districts have largely extended their operating hours. Their popularity has also driven the sales growth of beverages, as certain drinks pair nicely with these kinds of food.他还提到，夏季夜晚，不少消费者喜欢吃烧烤、小龙虾，核心商圈内提供这类餐食的餐厅大多延长了营业时间。这些餐饮的火爆也带动了饮品销量—— 部分饮品与这类食物搭配口感更佳。In addition to the catering sector, many sightseeing spots have extended their opening hours this summer, and upgraded night tourism products to meet the diverse demand of travelers. Besides driving an increase in ticket revenue for scenic spots, it has promoted the growth of related businesses such as catering, accommodation and shopping in surrounding areas.除餐饮行业外，今年夏季，多家景区延长开放时间，并升级夜间旅游产品，以满足游客多样化需求。这不仅推动景区门票收入增长，还带动了周边餐饮、住宿、购物等关联业态的发展。The government has encouraged more industry players to actively develop the night tourism economy.政府也积极鼓励更多市场主体参与夜间旅游经济发展。According to a guideline issued earlier this year by the State Council, China's Cabinet, the holding of more nighttime activities such as folk performances, lantern fairs, temple fairs, and light and shadow shows has been encouraged, and different regions could develop water night tours based on local conditions.今年早些时候，国务院印发的指导意见明确，鼓励举办民俗展演、灯会、庙会、光影秀等夜间活动，各地可结合实际发展水上夜游项目。In addition, the government will support the upgrading and renovation of lighting services at night in commercial areas, and the optimization of support facilities such as parking lots and public transportation, according to the document.意见还提出，将支持商业街区夜间照明设施升级改造，优化停车场、公共交通等配套设施。In Guiyang, Southwest China's Guizhou province, a three-day international kite festival that included nighttime events attracted more than 163,000 tourists in July, netting tourism revenue of over 60 million yuan, according to the local government.据贵州省贵阳市政府消息，今年7 月举办的为期三天的国际风筝节（含夜间活动），吸引游客超 16.3 万人次，实现旅游收入超 6000 万元。Night markets, roadside concerts in parks, trunk markets and other nighttime consumption scenes were attractive to tourists.夜市、公园路边音乐会、后备箱集市等夜间消费场景，对游客具有很强的吸引力。"This type of nighttime cultural tourism model, with feature activities as its core, gathers popularity and forms a consumption loop, and has become an effective way to boost the nighttime economy," said Mu Qianyi, an analyst of LeadLeo Research Institute, a market research provider based in Shanghai.“这种以特色活动为核心的夜间文旅模式，能聚集人气、形成消费闭环，已成为拉动夜间经济的有效方式。” 上海市场研究机构头豹研究院分析师穆芊伊说。Mu added that new technologies and scenarios such as drone light shows at night will help enrich the experiences of tourists. The improvement in the quality of scenes naturally enhances the attractiveness and vitality of nighttime cultural tourism, and could help inject new impetus into economic growth.穆芊伊补充道，夜间无人机灯光秀等新技术、新场景，将进一步丰富游客体验。消费场景品质的提升，自然会增强夜间文旅的吸引力与活力，为经济增长注入新动力。Particularly, Shanghai has been developing a booming nighttime economy, and the city's after-dark economy index has maintained the top position in the country for five consecutive years. This year, it has been followed by Guangzhou, Guangdong province, and Chengdu, Sichuan province, said Rising Lab, a city-oriented big data platform of Yicai Media Group.值得关注的是，上海夜间经济持续繁荣。第一财经传媒集团旗下城市大数据平台“第一财经研究院” 数据显示，上海夜间经济指数已连续五年位居全国首位，今年紧随其后的是广东广州与四川成都。In Shanghai, nighttime lighting covered 75 percent of the city's area last year, and nighttime public transportation covered 1,975 square kilometers, which significantly helped to improve the local nighttime consumption environment, the platform found.该平台还发现，去年上海夜间照明覆盖面积占全市面积的75%，夜间公共交通覆盖范围达 1975 平方公里，这一配套设施的完善显著改善了当地夜间消费环境。

China announced on Thursday that it will introduce a new type of visa — a K visa — for young foreign talent in science and technology. 中国于周四宣布，将推出一种新的签证类型——K签证，专门用于吸引科技领域的年轻外籍人才。 The new visa type was unveiled after Premier Li Qiang signed a State Council decree to promulgate a decision amending the country's regulations on the administration of foreigners' entries and exits.新的签证类型是在李强总理签署国务院法令以颁布一项修正案后公布的，该修正案旨在修订我国有关外国人出入境管理的规定。 The decision came as China puts a greater emphasis on building a more proactive, open and effective talent policy.这一决定出台之际，中国正更加注重制定更具前瞻性、更加开放且更加有效的人才政策。 The K visa is a new addition to the ordinary visa categories and the new rules will take effect on Oct 1, according to the decision, which was drafted by the Ministry of Justice, along with the Foreign Ministry, the Ministry of Public Security and the National Immigration Administration.K 类签证是普通签证类别中的新增种类，新规定将于 10 月 1 日生效。该决定由司法部、外交部、公安部和国家移民管理局共同起草。 Applicants for the K visa should be young international professionals in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics who have earned a bachelor's degree or higher from prestigious universities or research institutions. In addition, it will be available to individuals involved in educational or research activities at prestigious universities or research institutions, according to a joint statement released by the four departments on Thursday night.申请 K 类签证的人员应为在科学、技术、工程和数学领域工作的年轻国际专业人才，他们需毕业于知名大学或研究机构并获得学士及以上学位。此外，根据周四晚间由四个部门联合发布的声明，该签证也适用于在知名大学或研究机构从事教育或研究工作的人员。 K visa holders are permitted to engage in activities in fields such as education, science and technology, and cultural exchanges, according to the joint statement.根据联合声明，K 类签证持有者被允许从事教育、科技以及文化交流等领域的工作。 Before this addition, there were 12 visa types classified based on the purposes of visiting China, including the L visa for sightseeing and tourism, the D visa for permanent residence and the G visa for transit through the country. 在此之前，根据访华目的，签证类型共分为 12 种，其中包括 L 类签证（用于观光旅游）、D 类签证（用于永久居留）以及 G 类签证（用于途经中国）。 Compared with other visa types, the K visa will offer holders more convenience in terms of the number of entries, validity period and duration of stay. The eligibility criteria for the K visa are set based on applicants' age, educational background and work experience, without requiring them to have an employer or inviting organization within China, according to the statement.与其他签证类型相比，K 签证将为持有者提供更多的便利，包括入境次数、有效期以及停留时间等方面。根据声明，K 签证的申请资格标准是基于申请人的年龄、教育背景和工作经历设定的，无需要求他们在中国有雇主或邀请机构。 The application process for this visa is designed to be more convenient, streamlining the steps for eligible applicants, it added.该签证的申请流程旨在更加便捷，简化了符合条件申请者的各项步骤，它补充道。 The Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Public Security, along with embassies and consulates abroad, will step up collaboration in management of the issuance, extension, renewal and replacement of K visas, as well as the residence and stay of K visa holders. They will provide appropriate assistance to applicants and holders of K visas in accordance with the law, the statement said.外交部、公安部以及驻外使领馆将加强在K签证签发、延期、换发和补发以及K签证持有人居留和停留管理方面的协作。声明表示，他们将依法为K签证申请人和持有人提供适当协助。 ● K visa n.K签证/keɪ ˈviːzə/ ● foreign talent n.外籍人才/ˈfɒrən ˈtælənt/

pWotD Episode 3017: 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre Welcome to popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 708,271 views on Tuesday, 5 August 2025 our article of the day is 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre.The Tiananmen Square protests, known within China as the June Fourth Incident, were student-led demonstrations held in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China, lasting from 15 April to 4 June 1989. After weeks of unsuccessful attempts between the demonstrators and the Chinese government to find a peaceful resolution, the Chinese government deployed troops to occupy the square on the night of 3 June in what is referred to as the Tiananmen Square massacre. The events are sometimes called the '89 Democracy Movement, the Tiananmen Square Incident, or the Tiananmen uprising.The protests were precipitated by the death of pro-reform Chinese Communist Party (CCP) general secretary Hu Yaobang in April 1989 amid the backdrop of rapid economic development and social change in post-Mao China, reflecting anxieties among the people and political elite about the country's future. The reforms of the 1980s had led to a nascent market economy that benefited some people but seriously disadvantaged others, and the one-party political system also faced a challenge to its legitimacy. Common grievances at the time included inflation, corruption, limited preparedness of graduates for the new economy, and restrictions on political participation. Although they were highly disorganised and their goals varied, the students called for things like rollback of the removal of iron rice bowl jobs, greater accountability, constitutional due process, democracy, freedom of the press, and freedom of speech. Workers' protests were generally focused on inflation and the erosion of welfare. These groups united around anti-corruption demands, adjusting economic policies, and protecting social security. At the height of the protests, about one million people assembled in the square.As the protests developed, the authorities responded with both conciliatory and hardline tactics, exposing deep divisions within the party leadership. By May, a student-led hunger strike galvanised support around the country for the demonstrators, and the protests spread to some 400 cities. On 20 May, the State Council declared martial law, and as many as 300,000 troops were mobilised to Beijing.After several weeks of standoffs and violent confrontations between the army and demonstrators left many on both sides severely injured, a meeting held among the CCP's top leadership on 1 June concluded with a decision to clear the square. The troops advanced into central parts of Beijing on the city's major thoroughfares in the early morning hours of 4 June and engaged in bloody clashes with demonstrators attempting to block them, in which many people – demonstrators, bystanders, and soldiers – were killed. Estimates of the death toll vary from several hundred to several thousand, with thousands more wounded.The event had both short and long term consequences. Western countries imposed arms embargoes on China, and various Western media outlets labeled the crackdown a "massacre". In the aftermath of the protests, the Chinese government suppressed other protests around China, carried out mass arrests of protesters which catalysed Operation Yellowbird, strictly controlled coverage of the events in the domestic and foreign affiliated press, and demoted or purged officials it deemed sympathetic to the protests. The government also invested heavily into creating more effective police riot control units. More broadly, the suppression ended the political reforms begun in 1986 as well as the New Enlightenment movement, and halted the policies of liberalisation of the 1980s, which were only partly resumed after Deng Xiaoping's Southern Tour in 1992. Considered a watershed event, reaction to the protests set limits on political expression in China that have lasted up to the present day. The events remain one of the most sensitive and most widely censored topics in China.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 01:52 UTC on Wednesday, 6 August 2025.For the full current version of the article, see 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm standard Geraint.

A State Council executive meeting presided over by Premier Li Qiang on Thursday called for stepping up efforts to improve the effectiveness of macroeconomic policies, while arranging the implementation of interest subsidies on personal consumption loans and loans to service sector businesses to better stimulate consumption and enhance market vitality.本周四，国务院常务会议主持李强总理呼吁加大力度提高宏观经济政策的有效性，同时安排对个人消费贷款和服务业企业贷款实施利息补贴，以更好地刺激消费，增强市场活力。As the country's latest step to boost innovation-driven growth, the State Council executive meeting approved a guideline on deeply implementing the AI Plus initiative, calling for promoting the large-scale, commercial application of artificial intelligence and advancing its accelerated adoption and deep integration across various fields of economic and social development.作为中国推动创新驱动增长的最新举措，国务院常务会议批准了一项关于深入实施人工智能+倡议的指导方针，呼吁促进人工智能的大规模商业应用，并推进其在经济和社会发展各个领域的加速采用和深度融合。On Thursday, the National Bureau of Statistics released the latest purchasing managers index, or PMI, data, which suggested the necessity to consolidate the resilience of the manufacturing sector and overall economic momentum in the second half of the year.周四，国家统计局发布了最新的采购经理人指数（PMI）数据，该数据表明，下半年有必要巩固制造业的韧性和整体经济势头。Economists called for further reinforcing support for domestic demand and employment, as the nation's manufacturing activity cooled in July amid unfavorable weather and the traditional off-season. The official PMI for the manufacturing sector stood at 49.3 in July, down from 49.7 in June, the NBS said on Thursday.经济学家呼吁进一步加强对国内需求和就业的支持，因为在不利天气和传统淡季的影响下，该国7月份的制造业活动有所降温。国家统计局周四表示，7月份制造业官方采购经理人指数为49.3，低于6月份的49.7。Despite the moderation, high-tech manufacturing continued to gain traction in July, highlighting the vitality of the country's industrial upgrading and reinforcing the sector's ability to withstand ongoing external challenges, experts said.专家表示，尽管有所放缓，但高科技制造业在7月份继续获得动力，突显了该国产业升级的活力，并增强了该行业抵御持续外部挑战的能力。Wang Qing, chief macroeconomic analyst at Golden Credit Rating International, said, "With both domestic and external demand softening, the manufacturing PMI ended its two-month rebound and declined within the contraction territory in July."东方金诚首席宏观经济分析师王青表示：“随着国内外需求疲软，制造业采购经理人指数结束了两个月的反弹，7月份在收缩区间内下降。”The official manufacturing PMI has stayed below the 50 mark that separates expansion from contraction for the fourth consecutive month. In July, the subindex of new orders — a barometer of market demand — dropped to 49.4 from 50.2 in June, while that of new export orders went down to 47.1 from 47.7 in the previous month.官方制造业采购经理人指数（PMI）连续第四个月保持在50分以下，50分是扩张与收缩的分界线。7月份，作为市场需求晴雨表的新订单分项指数从6月份的50.2降至49.4，而新出口订单分项指数从前一个月的47.7降至47.1。External headwinds dampened export momentum, while the effect of earlier policies to boost domestic demand started to wane in July, Wang said, adding that high temperatures, heavy rains and flooding in some regions disrupted production.王说，外部逆风抑制了出口势头，而早些时候提振内需的政策的效果在7月份开始减弱，并补充说，一些地区的高温、暴雨和洪水扰乱了生产。Downward pressures on economic growth may intensify in the third quarter, said Wang, who expects additional measures to boost domestic demand as China's relatively low levels of sovereign debt and inflation have offered ample policy room to offset a slowdown in external demand.王表示，第三季度经济增长的下行压力可能会加剧。他预计，随着中国相对较低的主权债务和通胀水平为抵消外部需求放缓提供了充足的政策空间，将采取额外措施提振内需。The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee held a meeting on Wednesday that made arrangements for economic work in the second half, emphasizing that macro policies should continue to exert force and be strengthened at an appropriate time.中共中央政治局周三召开会议，对下半年经济工作作出部署，强调宏观政策要继续发挥作用，适时加强。Xiong Yi, Deutsche Bank's chief economist for China, said, "If GDP growth slows faster than expected, a budget deficit increase may become necessary in the fourth quarter."德意志银行中国首席经济学家熊奕表示：“如果GDP增长放缓速度超过预期，第四季度可能需要增加预算赤字。”He said he anticipates that the Chinese economy will grow 4.8 percent in 2025, following its strong resilience in the first half of the year.他说，他预计中国经济在上半年强劲复苏后，到2025年将增长4.8%。According to Xiong, service consumption is expected to become a new driver of economic growth and employment in the second half of the year. China is enhancing its support for service consumption, with a particular focus on cultural tourism, elderly care, healthcare and domestic services.熊表示，服务消费有望成为下半年经济增长和就业的新动力。中国正在加强对服务消费的支持，特别关注文化旅游、养老、医疗保健和家政服务。Despite the overall decline, the PMI for high-tech manufacturing came in at 50.6 in July, while that for equipment manufacturing was at 50.3, the NBS said, indicating the sectors' capability to thrive despite challenges.国家统计局表示，尽管整体下降，但7月份高科技制造业的采购经理人指数为50.6，而设备制造业的PMI为50.3，表明这些行业在面临挑战的情况下仍有能力蓬勃发展。For instance, Nantong Haixing Electronics Co, an electronic energy storage materials producer based in Nantong, Jiangsu province, saw its export value exceeding 50 million yuan in the first half of 2025, marking a year-on-year increase of 67.23 percent, data from Nanjing Customs showed.例如，南京海关的数据显示，总部位于江苏省南通市的电子储能材料生产商南通海星电子有限公司在2025年上半年的出口额超过5000万元人民币（695万美元），同比增长67.23%。Jin Wenhui, the head of the company's foreign trade unit, said that despite intense worldwide competition, sustained investment in innovation has enabled the company to pursue industrial upgrading and remain resilient in a rapidly evolving global landscape.该公司外贸部门负责人金文辉表示，尽管全球竞争激烈，但对创新的持续投资使该公司能够追求产业升级，并在快速发展的全球格局中保持弹性。Guangdong Greenway Technology Co, a manufacturer of electric motorcycles and bicycles, as well as mobile energy storage systems, based in Dongguan, Guangdong province, shipped its products to more than 80 countries and regions across Europe and the Americas in the first half of the year, according to Huangpu Customs in Guangdong.广东黄埔海关表示，总部位于广东省东莞市的电动摩托车和自行车以及移动储能系统制造商广东绿道科技有限公司上半年将其产品运往欧美80多个国家和地区。Wu Jing, head of the company's foreign trade unit, said, "With years of development in lithium battery manufacturing, we've steadily increased our supply of high-quality, eco-friendly products amid the global shift toward energy transition, while actively exploring new markets and opportunities overseas."该公司外贸部门负责人吴京表示：“随着锂电池制造业多年的发展，在全球能源转型的背景下，我们稳步增加了高质量、环保产品的供应，同时积极探索海外新市场和机遇。”economic momentumn.经济势头/ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk məˈmɛntəm/budget deficitn.预算赤字/ˈbʌdʒɪt ˈdɛfɪsɪt/

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China ranks second globally in STEM education development, trailing only the United States, according to a new index released on Sunday by the Tongji University STEM Education think tank in Shanghai. 上海同济大学 STEM 教育智库周日发布的一项新指数显示，中国在 STEM 教育发展方面位居全球第二，仅次于美国。 The Global STEM Education Development Index 2025, billed as the world's first comprehensive evaluation tool for national and regional science, technology, engineering and mathematics education development, placed the US in the top position with 86.50 points. China followed closely with 85.46 points. Switzerland, Singapore and Denmark rounded out the top five countries. 《2025 全球 STEM 教育发展指数》被誉为全球首个针对国家和地区科学、技术、工程与数学教育发展的综合评估工具。该指数中，美国以 86.50 分位居榜首，中国以 85.46 分紧随其后，瑞士、新加坡和丹麦跻身前五。 The index, developed with academic guidance from the Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy and data from Elsevier, systematically assessed the STEM education development levels of 40 major countries and regions worldwide. It established 22 indicators across three dimensions: policy and resources, educational processes, and outcomes and impacts, aiming to provide a scientific benchmark for optimizing national STEM education strategies.该指数在全国教育发展战略学会的学术指导下编制，数据来源于爱思唯尔（Elsevier），系统评估了全球 40 个主要国家和地区的 STEM 教育发展水平。指数从政策与资源、教育过程、成果与影响三个维度设置了 22 项指标，旨在为优化各国 STEM 教育战略提供科学基准。 A representative from Tongji University highlighted the increasing global technological competition, stating that STEM education has become a core pillar supporting national innovation capacity and high-quality development. 同济大学一位代表强调，全球科技竞争日益激烈，STEM 教育已成为支撑国家创新能力和高质量发展的核心支柱。 The release of the index is a direct response to a guideline jointly published in January by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council, which called for deepening international STEM education cooperation and creating internationally influential indexes and reports. 该指数的发布是对今年 1 月中共中央、国务院联合印发的一份指导意见的直接响应，意见中呼吁深化 STEM 教育国际合作，打造具有国际影响力的指数和报告。 Further underscoring international recognition of China's STEM practices is the establishment of UNESCO's first Category 1 Center outside Europe and North America — the International Institute for STEM Education — in Shanghai. 联合国教科文组织在上海设立了国际 STEM 教育研究所，这是该组织在欧美以外地区设立的首个一类中心，进一步彰显了国际社会对中国 STEM 教育实践的认可。 The US' top ranking was attributed to its strong institutional and resource advantages, particularly in education funding as a percentage of GDP, its per-student expenditure and abundant education resources. 美国之所以位居榜首，得益于其强大的制度和资源优势，尤其是在教育经费占 GDP 比例、生均教育支出以及丰富的教育资源方面。 China, despite a relative gap in per capita resources, excelled in the "educational processes"dimension. Its outstanding performance in teachers' STEM competency scores, results from the Programme for International Student Assessment, or PISA, competition achievements and large-scale STEM graduate output helped offset these resource disparities. 中国尽管在人均资源方面存在相对差距，但在 “教育过程” 维度表现突出。其在教师 STEM 能力评分、国际学生评估项目（PISA）成绩、竞赛成果以及大规模 STEM 毕业生输出等方面的优异表现，弥补了这些资源差距。 Among emerging economies, India produced the world's largest number of STEM graduates at 3.34 million. However, its per-student funding amounted to only 17 percent of US levels, leading to a lower overall ranking of 30th place. 在新兴经济体中，印度的 STEM 毕业生数量全球最多，达 334 万人。但该国生均教育经费仅为美国的 17%，导致其总体排名较低，位列第 30 位。 The report emphasized that high proportions of education funding in GDP and per-student expenditure provide ample hardware support for research and teaching, fostering a virtuous cycle between basic research and talent cultivation. It also validated the significant impact of industry-academia-research collaboration and open international cooperation on the efficiency of STEM research output translation. 报告强调，教育经费占 GDP 比例高、生均教育支出高，能为科研和教学提供充足的硬件支持，促进基础研究与人才培养之间的良性循环。报告还证实，产学研合作以及开放的国际合作对 STEM 研究成果转化效率具有显著影响。 In past international assessments, Chinese students have demonstrated strong performance. The 2018 PISA, hosted every three years by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, found that 15-year-olds in Beijing, Shanghai and the provinces of Jiangsu and Zhejiang ranked No 1 in all three core subjects — reading, science and mathematics — achieving the highest Level 4 rating. While China did not participate in the 2022 PISA test, it has consistently been among the top scorers. 在过去的国际评估中，中国学生表现优异。经济合作与发展组织每三年举办一次 PISA 测试，2018 年的测试显示，北京、上海、江苏、浙江的 15 岁学生在阅读、科学、数学三个核心科目中均排名第一，达到最高的 4 级水平。尽管中国未参加 2022 年 PISA 测试，但此前一直位居高分行列。 Domestically, China is prioritizing AI education. A recent document issued by the Ministry of Education outlines a tiered AI education system covering all levels of primary and secondary education. The system will guide students from basic cognitive understanding in primary school to deeper analysis in middle school and applied innovation in high school. At the higher education level, the development of artificial intelligence education at universities has been a priority. 在国内，中国正优先发展人工智能教育。教育部近期发布的一份文件规划了覆盖中小学各学段的分级人工智能教育体系。该体系将引导学生在小学阶段形成基础认知，初中阶段进行深入分析，高中阶段开展应用创新。在高等教育层面，高校人工智能教育的发展已成为重点。 Since 2018, when the first 35 Chinese universities introduced undergraduate AI programs, the field has expanded significantly, with over 626 institutions nationwide now offering AI-related degrees. 自 2018 年中国首批 35 所高校开设人工智能本科专业以来，该领域发展显著，目前全国已有 626 所院校开设人工智能相关专业。 STEM /stem/ 科学（Science）、技术（Technology）、工程（Engineering）、数学（Mathematics）的缩写 index /ˈɪndeks/ 指数，指标 competency /ˈkɒmpɪtənsi/ 能力，胜任力 collaboration /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ 合作，协作

The State Council, China's Cabinet, unveiled a batch of new policies on Wednesday to further promote employment and keep the country steered toward its economic goals, with an aim to stabilize the job market and bolster high-quality economic development.中国国务院周三公布了一系列新政策，进一步促进就业，使国家朝着经济目标前进，旨在稳定就业市场，促进经济高质量发展。According to a notice about the policies released by the State Council, a series of stronger financial incentives for employers, such as reimbursing them a higher proportion of unemployment insurance payments, will be offered if they meet certain standards.根据国务院发布的政策通知，如果用人单位达到一定标准，将为用人单位提供一系列更强有力的财政激励，如报销更高比例的失业保险金。Employers having trouble keeping their businesses afloat can apply to defer their payments into the pension, unemployment and work-related injury insurance programs. No late fees will be charged during the deferment periods.在维持企业运营方面遇到困难的雇主可以申请推迟支付养老金、失业保险和工伤保险。延期期间不收取滞纳金。Small and medium-sized companies in the nation's pillar industries, including modern manufacturing and new energy, will receive social insurance subsidies upon hiring people from key groups such as college graduates, migrant workers and demobilized military members and signing standard labor contracts lasting at least one year. The company is responsible for applying for the subsidies and passing them on to employees promptly.包括现代制造业和新能源在内的国家支柱产业的中小企业，在从大学毕业生、农民工和退役军人等关键群体中招聘人员并签订至少一年的标准劳动合同后，将获得社会保险补贴。公司负责申请补贴并及时发放给员工。Companies and social organizations which are hiring young registered unemployed people between the ages of 16 and 24, and have signed standard labor contracts and also paid their portion of the social insurance for at least three months, will receive one-time subsidies from the government. The subsidy is up to 1,500 yuan per person and is for the employers. It is available until December.雇佣16至24岁的年轻登记失业人员，并已签订标准劳动合同且已缴纳至少三个月社会保险的公司和社会组织，将获得政府的一次性补贴。补贴高达每人1500元，面向用人单位。它可以使用到12月。County-level authorities are encouraged to start construction programs focusing on urban-rural integration and countryside development, thus providing jobs to migrant workers and people who have been laid off.鼓励县级政府启动以城乡一体化和农村发展为重点的建设项目，为农民工和下岗人员提供就业机会。Skills training is highlighted in the notice. The government will give stronger financial support to companies to encourage them to organize skills training programs for their workers. Vocational colleges and schools are encouraged to relax their age restrictions for new students and to enroll young laid-off people or migrant workers who want to improve their professional competence.通知中强调了技能培训。政府将为企业提供更强有力的财政支持，鼓励他们为工人组织技能培训项目。鼓励职业院校放宽对新生的年龄限制，招收希望提高专业能力的年轻下岗人员或农民工。Governments at all levels are required to optimize job services to both employers and job seekers. For college graduates who are having trouble landing jobs due to physical disabilities or financial problems, local human resources bureaus should recommend high-quality job openings or internships.各级政府都需要优化对雇主和求职者的就业服务。对于因身体残疾或经济问题而难以找到工作的大学毕业生，当地人力资源局应推荐高质量的职位空缺或实习机会。According to the notice, local authorities are required to offer unemployment insurance to registered workers who have paid into the insurance for at least a year before being laid off so they can meet their basic living needs. Employment aid or assistance should be available to people who go for long periods without finding work because they are older or have a disability.根据通知，地方当局必须为下岗前已缴纳失业保险至少一年的注册工人提供失业保险，以满足他们的基本生活需求。应向因年龄较大或残疾而长期找不到工作的人提供就业援助或协助。Governments at all levels should also strengthen employment data collection and analysis to get a more comprehensive picture of the job market, strengthen supervision over the use of employment funds and prevent illegal practices such as cheating or submitting fraudulent applications to receive the funds.各级政府还应加强就业数据的收集和分析，更全面地了解就业市场，加强对就业资金使用的监督，防止作弊或提交欺诈性申请领取资金等违法行为。Employment should be prioritized by the governments, who should analyze the impact the new policies will have on the job market before establishing further policies or programs and prepare for potential unemployment risks, the notice said.通知称，政府应优先考虑就业问题，在制定进一步的政策或计划之前，政府应分析新政策对就业市场的影响，并为潜在的失业风险做好准备。county-level authoritiesn.县级机关/ˈkaʊnti ˌlɛvəl ɔːˈθɒrɪtiz/laid-offn.下岗/leɪd ˈɒf/

A humanoid robot waves at guests attending the 2025 Cross-Strait Youth Summit in Beijing on Thursday. The summit, which kicked off on the same day, attracted about 700 participants, including young people from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.周四，一个人形机器人向出席北京2025年海峡两岸青年峰会的客人挥手致意。当天开幕的峰会吸引了约700名与会者，其中包括来自台湾海峡两岸的年轻人。A senior official from the Chinese mainland has called on young people in Taiwan to actively participate in cross-Strait exchanges, contributing to peaceful development across the Strait and the country's modernization drive.中国大陆一位高级官员呼吁台湾青年积极参与两岸交流，为两岸和平发展和国家现代化建设做出贡献。Song Tao, head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, attended a cross-Strait youth summit in Beijing on Thursday. The event attracted approximately 700 participants, including young people from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.中共中央台湾工作办公室和国务院台湾事务办公室主任宋涛周四出席了在北京举行的两岸青年峰会。此次活动吸引了约700名参与者，其中包括来自台湾海峡两岸的年轻人。"In recent years, an increasing number of Taiwan youth have come to the mainland to exchange, study and develop, and they feel pride and a sense of belonging as Chinese," Song said, welcoming more to pursue their aspirations.“近年来，越来越多的台湾青年来到大陆交流、学习和发展，他们作为中国人感到自豪和归属感，”宋说，并欢迎更多人追求自己的愿望。The summit consists of forums on technology, traditional Chinese medicine and youth development, an internship and job fair for young people from Taiwan, and a lifestyle festival showcasing popular food from both the mainland and Taiwan.峰会包括科技、中医药和青年发展论坛，台湾青年实习和招聘会，以及展示大陆和台湾流行美食的生活方式节。Shenzhou XVI astronaut Gui Haichao and Winter Olympic short-track speedskating champion Wu Dajing were among keynote speakers from various fields who met with young attendees from across the Strait.神舟十六号宇航员桂海潮和冬奥会短道速滑冠军吴大靖等来自不同领域的主讲人会见了来自海峡两岸的年轻与会者。Hsiao Hsu-tsen, executive director of the Ma Ying-jeou Culture and Education Foundation based on the island, said, "Although the Democratic Progressive Party administration in Taiwan has placed many obstacles to cross-Strait exchanges, the public strongly supports such interactions."设在台湾的马英九文教基金会执行长萧旭森说：“尽管民进党在台湾政府给两岸交流设置了许多障碍，但公众强烈支持这种互动。”Hsiao noted that the journey of Taiwan internet influencer Chen Chih-han, also known as "Guan Zhang" or "gym boss", to the mainland in June and his online livestreaming to millions of viewers have helped those who had never visited the mainland break free from the "information cocoons".萧指出，台湾网红陈志汉（又名“关张”或“健身房老板”）6月前往大陆的旅程，以及他向数百万观众进行的在线直播，帮助那些从未去过大陆的人摆脱了“信息茧”。With the further deepening of cross-Strait exchanges, negative perceptions of the mainland, spread by certain separatist forces in Taiwan, are gradually being recognized by Taiwan people, he said.萧指出，台湾网红陈志汉（又名“关张”或“健身房老板”）6月前往大陆的旅程，以及他向数百万观众进行的在线直播，帮助那些从未去过大陆的人摆脱了“信息茧”。Hsiao, who has brought Taiwan students to visit the mainland frequently, said he was delighted that the students, while riding the high-speed trains on the mainland, actively seek out the truth and understand the technological advancements behind the high-speed rail on their own.经常带台湾学生来大陆访问的肖说，他很高兴学生们在大陆乘坐高铁时，能主动寻找真相，了解高铁背后的技术进步。"I hope they will witness firsthand the mainland and, at the same time, come back and tell their friends based on their own judgment, to invite more to come and see for themselves," he said.经常带台湾学生来大陆访问的肖说，他很高兴学生们在大陆乘坐高铁时，能主动寻找真相，了解高铁背后的技术进步。A participant surnamed Tseng, an art graduate student from Taiwan, said she and other art students from Taiwan will visit Beijing's hutong with their mainland counterparts. Following their visit, they plan to engage in artistic creation and hold an exhibition themed around hutong.来自台湾的艺术研究生曾表示，她和其他来自台湾的艺术学生将与大陆同行一起参观北京胡同。参观结束后，他们计划从事艺术创作，并举办一场以胡同为主题的展览。"The hutong architecture exudes a charming ancient style. I look forward to exploring those streets on shared bicycles," she said.她说：“胡同建筑散发着迷人的古老风格。我期待着骑着共享自行车探索那些街道。”。cross-Straitn.海峡两岸The hutong architecturen.胡同建筑

When asked to confirm and provide more details about claims by Japan's Kyodo News report that China is planning to invite US President Donald Trump to attend the military parade in Beijing in September, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday that at a press conference held by the Information Office of the State Council last week, relevant departments introduced the situation and arrangements for inviting foreign leaders to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.当被要求证实并提供更多细节时，日本共同社报道称，中国计划邀请美国总统唐纳德·特朗普参加9月在北京举行的阅兵式，中国外交部发言人毛宁周一表示，在国务院新闻办公室上周举行的新闻发布会上，有关部门介绍了邀请外国领导人参加中国人民抗日战争和世界反法西斯战争胜利80周年纪念活动的情况和安排。"Regarding the specific question you mentioned, I currently do not have any information to provide," Mao said.毛宁说：“关于你提到的具体问题，我目前没有任何信息可以提供。”。Kyodo News reported on Sunday that China is planning to invite Trump to a military parade scheduled for September 3 in Beijing's Tian'anmen Square to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, citing sources familiar with the matter.共同社周日援引知情人士的话说，中国计划邀请特朗普参加定于9月3日在北京天安门广场举行的阅兵式，以纪念第二次世界大战结束80周年。Last week, China's State Council Information Office held a press conference on plans for marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, China will host a year-long series of events, including a grand gathering and military parade, under the theme "Remember History, Honor the Martyrs, Cherish Peace, and Create the Future."上周，中国国务院新闻办公室就纪念中国人民抗日战争和世界反法西斯战争胜利80周年的计划举行了新闻发布会。值此中国人民抗日战争和世界反法西斯战争胜利80周年之际，中国将举办为期一年的系列活动，包括以“铭记历史、缅怀烈士、珍视和平、创造未来”为主题的盛大集会和阅兵式。The commemorative event on September 3 in Beijing will welcome many foreign leaders and dignitaries, highlighting the fact that this victory is a common memory cherished by all humankind while reflecting the universal aspirations of people around the world for peace.9月3日在北京举行的纪念活动将欢迎许多外国领导人和政要，突显出这一胜利是全人类珍视的共同记忆，同时反映了世界各国人民对和平的普遍愿望。Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggressionn.中国人民抗日战争military paraden.阅兵

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As the global economy confronts heightened volatility, China is anchoring its strategy in one of its most enduring tools of governance, the five-year plans, to chart a steady course.随着全球经济面临更大的波动，中国正在将其战略锚定在其最持久的治理工具之一——五年计划中，以制定一条稳定的路线。With the 15th Five-Year Plan from2026 to 2030 now under development, policymakers are placing stronger emphasis on innovation, inclusive growth and domestic resilience as anchors for China's high-quality growth.随着第十五个五年计划（2026-30）的制定，政策制定者更加重视创新、包容性增长和国内韧性，将其作为中国高质量增长的支柱。The blueprint will serve as a source of certainty in a world grappling with rising uncertainty, and will present a China solution that shares opportunities with the rest of the world, analysts said.分析人士表示，在一个正在努力应对日益增加的不确定性的世界中，该蓝图将成为确定性的来源，并将提出一个与世界其他地区分享机会的中国解决方案。President Xi Jinping, in setting the tone for the making of the blueprint, reiterated China's twin imperatives: to resolutely manage its own affairs and to press ahead with high-level opening-up, this isa dual strategy aimed at reinforcing resilience at home while deepening engagement with the world.During a meeting with provincial leaders in April, Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted the need to set out goals and policy initiatives sector by sector, all aligned with the overarching objective of basically achieving socialist modernization by 2035.Dong Yu, executive vice-president of the China Institute for Development Planning at Tsinghua University, said that China's five-year plans, enacted upon approval by the nation's top legislature, help stabilize market expectations and ensure the consistency of major policies, unlike the frequent pivots seen in some major economies.清华大学中国发展规划研究院执行副院长董宇表示，中国经最高立法机构批准制定的五年计划有助于稳定市场预期，确保主要政策的一致性，这与一些主要经济体经常出现的支点不同。China launched its First Five-Year Planfrom1953 to 1957, four years after the founding of the People's Republic of China, and the making of the plans has long been a hallmark of China's strategic governance.中华人民共和国成立四年后，中国于1953年至1957年启动了第一个五年计划，该计划的制定长期以来一直是中国战略治理的标志。"What makes the five-year plans so vital is China's long-standing emphasis on medium- and long-term thinking," he said.他说：“五年计划之所以如此重要，是因为中国长期以来一直强调中长期思维。”。"The Party's governance philosophy has consistently prioritized carrying forward and innovating on major policy directions through a forward-looking strategic vision," said Dong, who has taken part in the policymaking process of three previous five-year plans.董曾参与前三个五年计划的决策过程，他说：“党的执政理念始终以前瞻性的战略眼光，优先推进和创新重大政策方向。”。The CPC Central Committee is now organizing the drafting of proposals for the 15th Five-Year Plan. Public consultations — including online solicitations — are now underway, with input being collected from officials, experts and ordinary residents.中共中央正在组织起草“十五”计划方案。公众咨询，包括在线征求意见，目前正在进行中，收集了官员、专家和普通居民的意见。Dong noted that the drafting of the plan has begun earlier than in past cycles to ensure wider participation.董指出，为确保更广泛的参与，该计划的起草工作比以往周期更早开始。The final recommendations will be deliberated by a plenary session of the CPC Central Committee and submitted to the national legislature for approval next year.最终建议将由中共中央委员会决定，明年提交国家立法机构批准。"The scientific formulation and successive implementation of five-year plans is a key governance practice of the CPC and a major political strength of socialism with Chinese characteristics," Xi wrote in an article published in Qiushi Journal, the flagship magazine of the CPC Central Committee.习近平在中共中央旗舰杂志《求是》上发表的一篇文章中写道：“科学制定和连续实施五年计划是中国共产党的一项重要执政实践，也是中国特色社会主义的一项主要政治力量。”。"Practice has shown that medium-and long-term development planning can both harness the decisive role of the market in resource allocation and give better play to the role of the government," Xi wrote.Analysts have pointed out that the 2026 to 2030 period could be a critical window for the world's second-largest economy to fulfill its goal of basically achieving modernization by 2035. They have underlined a more complex global landscape, including rising protectionism and simmering trade tensions, in addition to domestic challenges including the graying population.分析人士指出，2026-30年可能是世界第二大经济体实现到2035年基本实现现代化目标的关键窗口。他们强调了更复杂的全球格局，包括保护主义抬头和贸易紧张局势加剧，以及包括人口老龄化在内的国内挑战。During a meeting in May, the State Council, China's Cabinet, highlighted the need to anchor the nation's development strategy in strengthening the domestic economy and to leverage its inherent stability and long-term growth potential as a buffer against the rising uncertainties of the global economic cycle.在5月的一次会议上，中国国务院强调，需要将国家发展战略锚定在加强国内经济上，并利用其固有的稳定性和长期增长潜力，作为应对全球经济周期日益增加的不确定性的缓冲。Xi has highlighted giving further strategic priority to developing new quality productive forces in alignment with local conditions, and steadily advancing the drive for common prosperity, as key priorities in the next five years.Zhu Keli, founding director of the China Institute of New Economy, said the growth of new quality productive forces, featuring high technology, high efficiency and high quality, will help elevate China's position in global supply chains and build economic resilience and competitiveness over the next five years.中国新经济研究院创始院长朱克利表示，以高技术、高效率和高质量为特征的新型优质生产力的增长，将有助于提升中国在全球供应链中的地位，并在未来五年建立经济韧性和竞争力。"By targeting breakthroughs in core technologies and shoring up critical supply chains, the nation can pioneer the next stage of industrial development," he said.他说：“通过瞄准核心技术的突破和支撑关键供应链，国家可以引领下一阶段的工业发展。”。Zhu also highlighted the significance of expanding high-level opening-up going forward, which will enable the further integration of domestic and global markets.朱还强调了进一步扩大高水平对外开放的重要性，这将使国内和全球市场进一步融合。With birth rates falling and the population aging, expanding access to higher education and easing the burdens of childbearing are likely to become policy priorities.随着出生率下降和人口老龄化，扩大高等教育机会和减轻生育负担可能成为政策重点。"If a more supportive environment for childbearing can be established — one that allows people to better balance work and family life — it would play a critical role in stabilizing the population decline and securing sustainable economic development in the medium to long term," said Dong, from Tsinghua University.清华大学的董说：“如果能够建立一个更加支持生育的环境，让人们更好地平衡工作和家庭生活，这将在稳定人口下降和确保中长期经济可持续发展方面发挥关键作用。”。Li Shi, dean of the Institute for Common Prosperity and Development at Zhejiang University, said the raising of residential income and the narrowing of gaps in wealth and public services should be prioritized to advance the drive for common prosperity.浙江大学共同富裕与发展研究所所长李石表示，应优先提高居民收入，缩小贫富差距和公共服务差距，以推进共同富裕。Meanwhile, more targeted measures should be rolled out to improve the social safety net for people of low-income groups, the majority of whom live in rural areas, he said, adding that one policy direction could be raising the level of pension payments to elderly residents in rural areas.同时，他说，应推出更有针对性的措施，改善低收入群体的社会保障网，其中大多数生活在农村地区。他补充说，一个政策方向可能是提高农村老年居民的养老金水平。CPC Central Committeen.中共中央委员会common prosperityn.共同富裕

Chinese authorities and companies are taking steps to address the so-called "curse of 35", a discriminatory hiring practice that sidelines or dismisses workers age 35 and older due to labor costs. More employers across the country are easing age restrictions in their recruitment policies in an effort to promote fairer hiring.中国政府部门和企业正采取措施应对所谓的 “35 岁魔咒”—— 这是一种歧视性招聘做法，因劳动力成本问题将 35 岁及以上的劳动者边缘化或解雇。全国越来越多雇主在招聘政策中放宽年龄限制，以推动更公平的招聘。In Heyuan, Guangdong province, a government recruitment program announced earlier this month that 355 new employees would be hired for government departments this year. The general age requirement is 18 to 35 years old, but that age limit has been extended to 40 for candidates with master's degrees or for demobilized military personnel and their family members.在广东省河源市，本月早些时候公布的一项政府招聘计划显示，今年政府部门将新招聘 355 名工作人员。一般年龄要求为 18 至 35 岁，但拥有硕士学位的应聘者、退役军人及其家属的年龄限制放宽至 40 岁。Candidates as old as 45 who have doctorates and those up to age 50 with senior professional titles may also apply for the program.拥有博士学位的应聘者年龄可放宽至 45 岁，具有高级专业技术职称的应聘者年龄可放宽至 50 岁。Other provinces and cities have introduced similar changes. In November, Shanghai said applicants for the city's civil service exam must be between 18 and 35 years old, with the age limit raised to 40 for those with master's or doctoral degrees.其他省市也推出了类似调整。去年 11 月，上海市表示，该市公务员考试的报考者年龄须在 18 至 35 岁之间，拥有硕士或博士学位者年龄限制放宽至 40 岁。Guangzhou Pharmaceuticals Holdings, a major State-owned enterprise specializing in traditional Chinese medicine, biomedicine and healthcare, announced in May that it welcomes jobseekers under the age 45, with the cap extended to 50 for applicants with notable work experience.广州医药集团是一家专注于中医药、生物医药和医疗健康领域的大型国有企业，在 5 月宣布，欢迎 45 岁以下的求职者应聘，具有显著工作经验的应聘者年龄上限可放宽至 50 岁。"Companies generally seek to hire employees in economical and reasonable ways. That means workers must produce value equal to their pay, or companies may prefer younger candidates who have more energy and cost less," said Zhaopin, a leading online recruitment platform.领先的在线招聘平台智联招聘表示：“企业通常寻求以经济合理的方式雇佣员工。这意味着劳动者必须创造与薪酬相等的价值，否则企业可能更倾向于选择精力更充沛、成本更低的年轻候选人。”Cheng Yang, a senior partner at Beijing-based law firm Lantai Partners, echoed that view in a recent interview with Workers' Daily, a major national newspaper. Cheng said age caps are often used to control labor costs, as older workers may incur higher expenses for wages, healthcare and benefits.最近，北京兰台律师事务所高级合伙人程阳接受《工人日报》采访时对此观点表示赞同。程阳称，年龄限制常被用来控制劳动力成本，因为年长员工可能在工资、医疗和福利方面产生更高费用。However, she emphasized that older employees tend to be more experienced and skilled, and that eliminating age discrimination is becoming increasingly urgent. China began implementing a policy this year to progressively raise the statutory retirement age over 15 years — from 60 to 63 for men and from 50 or 55 to 55 or 58 for women, depending on the occupation.然而，她强调，年长员工往往更有经验和技能，消除年龄歧视变得日益迫切。中国今年开始实施一项政策，将在 15 年内逐步提高法定退休年龄 —— 男性从 60 岁提高到 63 岁，女性根据职业不同从 50 岁或 55 岁提高到 55 岁或 58 岁。Li Xinyu, 33, who works at an advertising agency in Beijing, said she feels growing insecurity and anxiety as she ages in a youth-driven industry.33 岁的李新宇在北京一家广告公司工作，她表示，在一个以年轻人为主导的行业中，随着年龄增长，她感到越来越没有安全感和焦虑。"Younger people are always favored in our industry because employers believe they have more creative ideas," Li said. "That puts a lot of pressure on those of us nearing 35."“在我们这个行业，年轻人总是更受青睐，因为雇主认为他们有更多创意想法，” 李新宇说，“这给我们这些接近 35 岁的人带来了很大压力。”She added that she has enrolled in numerous training programs over the past two years to stay current and enhance her skills, and hopes the government will introduce stricter rules to protect workers in her age group.她补充说，在过去两年里，她参加了许多培训项目，以保持与时俱进并提升技能，并希望政府能出台更严格的规定来保护她这个年龄段的劳动者。In recent years, China has rolled out several national policies aimed at curbing age discrimination. In September, the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, China's Cabinet, released a guideline calling for high-quality and full employment. The guideline pledged to eliminate unreasonable restrictions and discrimination in employment related to gender and age.近年来，中国已推出多项旨在遏制年龄歧视的国家政策。去年 9 月，中共中央和国务院发布了一份关于高质量充分就业的指导意见。该指导意见承诺消除就业中与性别和年龄相关的不合理限制和歧视。Cheng, from Lantai Partners, said stronger legal measures are needed to define and penalize age discrimination. She recommended that authorities establish a system to screen job ads for biased age limits, and publicly name and penalize companies that engage in discriminatory hiring practices.兰台律师事务所的程阳表示，需要更强有力的法律措施来界定和惩罚年龄歧视。她建议有关部门建立一个系统，筛查招聘广告中存在偏见的年龄限制，并公开点名和惩罚从事歧视性招聘做法的企业。重点词汇age discrimination /eɪdʒ dɪˌskrɪmɪˈneɪʃn/ 年龄歧视recruitment policy /rɪˈkruːtmənt ˈpɑːləsi/ 招聘政策statutory retirement age /ˈstætʃətɔːri rɪˈtaɪərmənt eɪdʒ/ 法定退休年龄labor costs /ˈleɪbər kɔːsts/ 劳动力成本

China will hold a grand military parade in Beijing on Sept 3 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, senior Chinese officials announced on Tuesday. 中国官方于周二（6月20号）宣布，9月3日将在北京举行盛大阅兵仪式，纪念中国人民抗日战争暨世界反法西斯战争胜利80周年。On the morning of Sept 3, China will hold a grand ceremony at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of these two wars, including a troop review, said Hu Heping, deputy head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.中共中央宣传部副部长胡和平表示，9月3日上午将在北京天安门广场举行纪念中国人民抗日战争暨世界反法西斯战争胜利80周年大会，包括阅兵式。The ceremony will be held in the name of the CPC Central Committee, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the State Council, the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and the Central Military Commission, he added in a news conference held by the State Council Information Office.他在国务院新闻办公室举行的记者会上补充道，该仪式将以中共中央委员会、全国人民代表大会常务委员会、国务院、中国人民政治协商会议全国委员会和中央军事委员会的名义联合举行。Wu Zeke, deputy head of the combat operations department of the Central Military Commission's Joint Staff Department, said that the equipment formations participating in the upcoming parade will prominently display the latest achievements in the Chinese military's equipment system development.中央军委联合参谋部作战局副局长吴克杰表示，此次阅兵的装备方队将重点展示我军武器装备体系化发展成就。"All weapons and equipment to be reviewed are domestically produced, active-duty main battle gear," Wu said.吴克杰说："所有受阅装备均为国产现役主战装备。"In addition, leaders, former political dignitaries from relevant countries, main leaders of international organizations, and foreign diplomatic envoys in China will be invited to attend the commemorative activities, Hu said.此外，胡和平表示中方还将邀请相关国家领导人、前政治要员，国际组织主要负责人，以及外国驻华使节出席纪念活动。Representatives of international friends who contributed to China's victory against Japanese aggression, or their descendants, will also receive invitations, he said.胡和平说，中方还将邀请为中国抗战胜利作出贡献的国际友人及其遗属代表出席纪念活动。Additionally, China will host a series of commemorative activities nationwide starting from July. It will also award commemorative medals for the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression to living veterans and old comrades of the war, anti-Japanese war generals or their descendants.此外，7月起全国各地将陆续推出一系列纪念活动。中方还将向健在的抗战老战士、老同志，抗战将领或其遗属颁发中国人民抗日战争胜利80周年纪念章。A ceremony will be held on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing to commemorate the 88th anniversary of the Lugou Bridge Incident, according to Hu.胡和平介绍，7月7日将在中国人民抗日战争纪念馆举行仪式，纪念全民族抗战爆发88周年。The incident is recognized as the start of Japan's full-scale invasion and China's whole-nation resistance against the invaders.1937年7月7日发生的卢沟桥事变标志着日本全面侵华战争爆发，中国全民族抗战开始。Around Oct 25, a conference will be held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's retrocession, Hu said, expressing support to overseas Chinese to organize related commemorative activities in their local areas.胡和平表示，10月25日左右将举行台湾光复80周年纪念大会，支持海外侨胞在当地开展相关纪念活动。OnDec 13, a national memorial ceremony for the victims of the Nanjing Massacre willbe held in Nanjing, Jiangsu province.12月13日将在江苏南京举行南京大屠杀死难者国家公祭仪式。Furthermore, Hong Kong and Macao will also organize a series of commemorative activities.此外，香港和澳门特别行政区也将组织一系列纪念活动。military parade阅兵anniversary/ˌænɪˈvɜː(r)s(ə)ri/n.周年纪念（日）troop review阅兵式full-scale invasion全面入侵commemorative/kəˈmem(ə)rətɪv/adj.纪念的，纪念性的

In response to a media inquiry on US President Donald Trump's remarks related to "unification" when commenting on the ongoing trade negotiations between the US and China, which have drawn high attention in the Taiwan island, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said that"we have taken note of the relevant reports."国务院台湾事务办公室发言人陈斌华，在回答媒体有关美国总统特朗普提到台湾岛内引起高度关注的中美贸易谈判且有关“统一 ”言论的提问时表示，“我们已经注意到了相关报道”。We hope the international community will gain a broader understanding of and support the just cause of the Chinese people in opposing“Taiwan independence”separatist activities and striving to achieve national reunification, Chen said.陈斌华说，我们希望国际社会能够更广泛地理解并支持中国人民反对“台独”分裂活动、争取实现国家统一的正义事业。Washington and Beijing on Monday agreed to slash steep tariffs for at least 90 days, pausing their trade war, a move Trump praised when speaking to reporters at the White House, Reuters reported on Tuesday. 据路透社周二报道，华盛顿和北京周一达成协议，在至少90天将大幅削减关税，暂停贸易战。特朗普在白宫对记者发表讲话时称赞了这一举措。"They've agreed to open China, fully open China, and I think it's going to be fantastic for China, I think it's going to be fantastic for us, and I think it's going to be great for unification and peace," Trump said, according to the Reuters report.据路透社报道，特朗普称：“他们已同意全面开放中国，我认为这对中国的未来会非常棒，我认为这对我们也非常棒，我认为这对统一与和平也会非常有利。”Although Trump didn't mention Taiwan island, his remarks triggered a discussion on the island of Taiwan, with some Taiwan independence-minded organizations expressing obvious unease over the matter.尽管特朗普没有提及台湾岛，但他的言论在台湾岛引发了讨论，一些“台独”组织对此明显感到不安。unification/ˌjuːnɪfɪˈkeɪʃn /n. 统一; 联合international community国际社会national reunification国家统一；祖国统一slash/slæʃ/vt. 大幅度削减; 大大降低steep tariffs高额关税

Take your flashlight and grab a compass - let's go exploring! Peter Berquist lives and breathes boats. He captains the R/V Investigator, a 24 foot Carolina Skiff. Every semester he takes his students out on the boat for adventures and first-hand research experience. Peter has been named an outstanding faculty member by The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. And: Dave Waldien is a real life explorer. And he has the title to prove it! He's a National Geographic Explorer and travels all over the world protecting endangered bat species. Later in the show: European explorers first made contact with West Africa in the 15th century, and thriving trade relations soon followed. But Neil Norman says the Europeans weren't the ones calling the shots - it was powerful West African kingdoms like Ouida, located in present day Benin.

China is likely to announce additional stimulus policies, including extra fiscal support, targeted monetary easing and stronger consumption-boosting initiatives, to put its economic growth on a more solid footing, as the country's top leadership usually convenes a high-level meeting centered on economic issues around the end of April, analysts said.分析人士表示，中国有望宣布更多刺激政策，包括增加财政支持、定向货币宽松以及更有力的促消费举措，以进一步夯实经济增长基础。中国最高领导层通常会在4月底左右召开一次以经济问题为中心的高层会议。The tone-setting meeting would be an important occasion for China's policymakers to reassess the fast-paced developments in the trade war initiated by Washington against Beijing over the past month, and to formulate offsetting policies in response, they added.他们补充道，此次定调会议将成为中国政策制定者重新评估过去一个月华盛顿对北京发起的贸易战快速发展态势，并制定相应政策的重要契机。"While the 5.4 percent GDP growth rate in the first quarter is a good start, key indicators like the consumer price index and producer price index suggest that weakness in domestic demand still persists," said Xiong Yuan, chief economist at Guosheng Securities.国盛证券首席经济学家熊园表示：“虽然第一季度GDP增长率达到5.4%是一个良好的开端，但消费者价格指数和生产者价格指数等关键指标表明，国内需求仍然疲软。”The impact of the tariffs by the United States, which is expected to materialize more visibly in the second quarter, further underscores the urgency for policymakers to ramp up supportive efforts, Xiong said.熊园表示，预计美国加征关税的影响将在第二季度更加明显，这进一步凸显了政策制定者加大支持力度的紧迫性。China's top leadership has suggested on various occasions that the country has ample capability to roll out new policy measures as needed, to address the rising uncertainties in the external environment.中国高层领导已多次表示，中国有足够的能力根据需要推出新的政策措施，以应对外部环境中日益增加的不确定性。Premier Li Qiang said on April 17 during a study session held by the State Council—the country's Cabinet—that at critical moments, the government must act swiftly to deploy policy tools across various fronts in order to generate positive market expectations.4月17日，李强总理在国务院举行的一次学习会议上表示，在关键时刻，政府必须迅速行动，综合运用各种政策工具，以创造积极的市场预期。Analysts expect that the end-April meeting is poised to introduce significant fiscal stimulus measures, potentially exceeding 1 trillion yuan ($137 billion) in scale.分析人士预计，4月底的会议将推出重大财政刺激措施，规模可能超过1万亿元人民币（1370亿美元）。"We expect incremental funds of 1.5 trillion yuan, or 1 percent of GDP, on top of the budget approved earlier this year. End-demand, especially consumption, should be more a focus than investment this time, given the nature of the tariff shock," Citi analysts said in a report on Monday.花旗分析师周一在一份报告中表示：“我们预计，在年初批准的预算基础上，新增资金将达到1.5万亿元人民币，占GDP的1%。鉴于关税冲击的性质，此次应该更多地关注终端需求，尤其是消费，而非投资。”China Galaxy Securities also said on Sunday in a report that the size of the new fiscal stimulus measures could be around 1.5 to 2 trillion yuan, with a particular emphasis on further strengthening policies to stimulate consumption.中国银河证券周日也在一份报告中表示，新的财政刺激措施规模可能在1.5万亿至2万亿元人民币左右，尤其强调进一步加强刺激消费的政策。In particular, with the goal of better offsetting the slowdown in external demand, the overall fiscal budget for consumption-boosting measures this year might be increased from the initially planned 300 billion yuan to a range of 700 billion yuan to 1 trillion yuan, said Feng Lin, executive director of the research and development department at Golden Credit Rating International.东方金诚国际信用评估有限公司研究发展部执行总监冯琳表示，为了更好地抵消外部需求放缓的影响，今年用于刺激消费措施的财政总预算可能会从最初计划的3000亿元人民币增加到7000亿至1万亿元人民币。China's annual exports to the US have been around $500 billion in recent years, which is equivalent to 7-8 percent of the China's domestic consumer goods consumption, according to Feng.冯琳表示，近年来，中国对美年出口额约为5000亿美元，相当于中国国内消费品消费的7%至8%。"This means that as long as domestic consumption is effectively stimulated, China is capable of absorbing the decline in exports to the US. Before the pandemic, the normal growth rate of the country's total retail sales of consumer goods was between 8 and 9 percent," Feng said.“这意味着，只要有效刺激国内消费，中国就有能力消化对美出口的下滑。疫情爆发前，中国社会消费品零售总额的正常增长率在8%到9%之间，”冯琳表示。Notably, any major fiscal policy in China requires going through legislative procedures. The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, which has the power to approve budget adjustments, is scheduled to meet in Beijing from Sunday to Wednesday.值得注意的是，中国任何重大财政政策都需要经过立法程序。拥有预算调整审批权的全国人大常委会计划于本周日到周三在北京召开会议。"If any fiscal resolution indicated by the upcoming meeting is approved by the NPC Standing Committee, it would buttress Beijing's determination to achieve growth despite the trade hardships," Citi said.花旗银行表示：“如果即将召开的全国人大常委会会议中提出的任何财政决议获得批准，这将坚定中国政府在贸易摩擦中实现增长的决心。”Even if the upcoming meeting and the NPC Standing Committee session greenlight new fiscal stimulus measures, analysts said the details and timeline of the rollouts would be determined in a flexible manner, depending on the evolving economic dynamics.分析人士表示，即使即将召开的全国人大常委会会议和全国人大常委会会议批准新的财政刺激措施，这些措施的具体细节和时间表也将根据不断变化的经济形势灵活确定。For the previously announced government bonds in March, the country is expected to accelerate their issuance in the second quarter, and expedite the utilization of these funds to support concrete projects, said Zhang Jun, chief economist at China Galaxy Securities.中国银河证券首席经济学家章俊表示，对于此前宣布的3月份国债发行，预计国家将在第二季度加快发行，并加快资金用于支持具体项目。The anticipated introduction of the extra fiscal stimulus measures and accelerated implementation of the existing ones would "create a window of opportunity" for a corresponding level of liquidity support from the monetary policy side, Zhang said.章俊表示，预期中的额外财政刺激措施将出台，现有措施也将加快落实，这将为货币政策层面提供相应流动性支持“创造机会窗口”。China's central bank is expected to employ a combination of both quantitative and structural policy tools, with a reserve requirement ratio cut of around 20 basis points likely to be implemented on the heels of the end-April meeting, followed by a potential interest rate reduction around June. The government is also expected to introduce a range of structural monetary policies aimed at providing targeted relief to the foreign trade sector, as well as bolstering consumer demand and technological innovation, Zhang added.预计中国央行将结合运用数量型和结构性政策工具，在4月底会议后可能实施约20个基点的降准，随后可能在6月左右再度降息。章俊补充道，预计政府还将推出一系列结构性货币政策，旨在为外贸行业提供定向纾困，并提振消费需求和技术创新。Citi said in its report that, "Finding patience to play the long game, the end-April meeting will stick to the policy framework of 'high-quality development' and will not take an all-out approach."花旗在其报告中表示：“4月底的会议将秉持耐心，着眼长远，坚持‘高质量发展'的政策框架，不会采取全面举措。”stimulus/ˈstɪmjələs/n.刺激（措施）；促进因素reassess/ˌriːəˈses/v.重新评估；重新考虑buttress/ˈbʌtrəs/v.支持；加强liquidity/lɪˈkwɪdəti/n.流动性；资产变现能力

With rising strategic importance in terms of improving expectations and boosting confidence, China's capital market now provides opportunities for both Chinese and foreign investors as global economic growth stagnates due to Sino-US trade frictions, experts said.专家表示，在中美贸易摩擦导致全球经济增长停滞的背景下，中国资本市场在改善预期、提振信心方面的战略意义日益凸显，为中外投资者提供了投资机会。Their comments followed messages delivered during a State Council executive meeting on Friday, which included making continuous efforts to stabilize the stock market and advance the sound and stable development of the property sector. Once related measures are introduced, they should affect targeted companies and individuals directly. The implementation efficiency of the measures should be improved and their effect ensured, according to the meeting.此前，国务院常务会议于上周五发布消息，强调要持续稳定股市，促进房地产市场健康稳定发展。会议指出，相关措施一旦出台，要直接惠及相关企业和个人。会议强调，要提高措施的执行效率，确保其效果。The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index gained 0.45 percent on Monday while the Shenzhen Component Index closed up 1.27 percent. The tech-heavy ChiNext in Shenzhen jumped 1.59 percent.周一，上证综指上涨0.45%，深证成指上涨1.27%，以科技股为主的深圳创业板上涨1.59%。The A-share market is crucial for lifting market confidence during trade tensions. Investors should be confident in China's dedication to safeguarding the stability of its capital markets, said Qiu Xiang, chief A-share market strategist at CITIC Securities.中信证券首席A股策略师裘翔表示，A股市场对于在贸易摩擦期间提振市场信心至关重要。投资者应该对中国维护资本市场稳定的决心充满信心。Economic resilience is crucial during the ongoing stalemate. China has more choices and room for more policies, helping it to last longer during the tensions. But the huge amount of government debt that will mature or need refinancing before July will serve as the first turning point for US tariff policies, said Qiu.在持续的僵局中，经济韧性至关重要。中国拥有更多选择和政策空间，有助于其在紧张局势中维持更长时间。但裘翔表示，7月前即将到期或需要再融资的巨额国债将成为美国关税政策的第一个转折点。Against such a backdrop, self-reliant technology companies, sectors benefiting from Europe's increasing capital expenditure, consumer staple providers and companies generating stable dividends are worth looking at in the A-share market, he added.在这样的背景下，他建议A股市场关注自主科技企业、受益于欧洲资本支出增加的行业、消费必需品提供商，以及能够提供稳定分红的公司。Market turmoil and volatility continued in overseas markets last week, indicating continued external pressure. But the Chinese market is stable, thanks to its recovering economic fundamentals and quick responses to recent uncertainties, said Zhang Qiyao, chief strategy analyst at Industrial Securities.上周，海外市场动荡和波动持续，表明外部压力仍在。但中国市场保持稳定，得益于经济基本面持续恢复，以及对近期不确定性作出的迅速反应，兴业证券首席策略分析师张启尧指出。Meanwhile, China's dual circulation development pattern and the country's strategic focus will help to anchor market stability, said Zhang.同时，张启尧表示，中国的双循环发展格局和国家战略重点将有助于巩固市场稳定。Experts from Huaxi Securities wrote in a recent report that the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong stock markets may serve as havens for foreign investors, while other markets are undergoing more drastic fluctuations in the short term and global economic growth faces more uncertainties.华西证券专家在近期报告中指出，在其他市场短期内出现更剧烈波动、全球经济增长面临更多不确定性的背景下，中国内地和香港股市或将成为海外投资者的避风港。The Chinese government has been dedicated to advancing supply side reform and deeper restructuring. Combined with its continued efforts in expanding domestic demand, Chinese firms are provided with a better environment, which means new investment opportunities, Huaxi said.华西证券表示，中国政府致力于推进供给侧结构性改革，深化结构调整，加之持续扩大内需，为中国企业提供了更有利的环境，意味着新的投资机会。In addition, Chinese equity assets now enjoy more valuation advantages compared to their foreign peers. The former's investment value over the mid to long term is especially noticeable. The market should not underestimate policymakers' resolution to stabilize market performance and investor expectations, they added.此外，与境外同类资产相比，中国股票资产目前享有更大的估值优势，其中长期投资价值尤为突出。他们补充道，市场不应低估政策制定者稳定市场表现和投资者预期的决心。During a forum on Sunday, Liu Yuhui, a council member of the China Chief Economist Forum, said that now is a good time to invest in the A-share market, as it is projected to enjoy longer-term prosperity. Investors are especially advised to look for opportunities in core China assets, whose investment value has been manifested during the China-US trade frictions, he said.在周日举行的论坛上，中国首席经济学家论坛理事刘煜辉表示，目前是投资A股市场的好时机，预计A股将迎来长期繁荣。他建议投资者重点关注“核心中国资产”，在中美贸易摩擦中其投资价值已显现。Fu Si, China portfolio strategist at Goldman Sachs, said that global actively managed funds and overseas hedge funds have increased their exposure to A shares since the beginning of the year, mainly driven by the rapid development of Chinese artificial intelligence technology. But their current exposure is still lower than historic levels, while selling room is limited. Therefore, global capital will flow back to the A-share market in the mid to long term, Fu said.高盛中国股票策略分析师付思表示，自年初以来，全球主动管理型基金和海外对冲基金已增加了对A股的配置，主要受到中国人工智能技术快速发展的推动。但目前其配置仍低于历史水平，进一步减仓的空间有限，因此预计全球资本将在中长期回流A股市场。As of the end of March, qualified foreign institutional investors have increased their holdings in A shares—both in terms of volume and market value—on a quarterly basis, according to market tracker Wind Info. QFII held at least 500 million yuan ($68.6 million) worth of shares in Zijin Mining, Centre Testing International Group and China XD Group each, with the latter—a transmission and distribution equipment maker—seeing the most rapid increase of QFII holdings in the past three months.据万得资讯的数据，截至3月底，合格境外机构投资者（QFII）在A股的持股数量和市值均环比上升。QFII在紫金矿业、华测检测和中国西电等公司的持股市值均超过5亿元人民币（约合6860万美元）。其中，作为输配电设备制造商的中国西电，是近三个月QFII持仓增长最快的企业。resilience/rɪˈzɪliəns/n.韧性；应变能力volatility/ˌvɒləˈtɪləti/n.波动性；不稳定性implementation/ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/n.执行turmoil/ˈtɜːmɔɪl/n.混乱；骚动

On a special time-sensitive episode we are joined by members of the arts community in New Hampshire to discuss the risk of potential budget cuts to the arts, and specifically the NHSCA. ConcordTV is a nonpartisan organization but thought it was important to provide a platform for this discussion about both the economic and holistic value of supporting the arts. Featuring: Deanna Hoying, NH Symphony; Dr. Roger Brooks, fmr. chair NHSCA and arts advocate; and Lynne Sabean, Concord Community Music SchoolMore information and how to get involved: https://arts4nh.org/https://www.nharts.dncr.nh.gov/https://symphonynh.org/https://www.ccmusicschool.org/

Last time we spoke about Operation Jinzhou and the defense of Harbin. In the tumultuous landscape of early 1930s China, Chiang Kai-shek hesitated to engage in combat, fearing internal factions and the looming threat of the CCP. Zhang Xueliang, commanding a substantial force, felt pressure from both the Japanese and his own government. As tensions escalated, the Kwantung Army launched a brutal campaign against Jinzhou, leading to its fall. Amidst chaos, resistance leaders like Ma Zhanshan and Ding Chao emerged, rallying against Japanese aggression, determined to protect their homeland despite limited support. In November, the Jilin Provincial Anti-Japanese Government formed under Cheng Yun, rallying over 3,000 troops led by Feng Zhanhai against Japanese forces. After several battles, including the retaking of Shulan, they faced fierce resistance but ultimately had to retreat. As the Japanese advanced, the Jilin Self-Defense Army was established, but after intense fighting, Harbin fell to the Japanese on February 6. Despite earlier victories, the Chinese resistance crumbled, leading to the establishment of Manchukuo and the end of organized resistance in Manchuria.   #145 What was Manchukuo? Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War.   To start off this episode I want to turn back to our old friend Ishiwara Kanji. Ishiwara's ambition to dominate Manchuria was primarily a means to an end: to secure resources and a strategic position against America. After gaining control of Manchuria, Ishiwara shifted his focus toward another objective: fostering racial cooperation among Asian peoples. His vision for Manchukuo, or rather his interpretation of it, served as a launching pad for his idea of an East-Asian league, rooted firmly in his Final War theory. During his time in Manchuria in 1932, this Pan-Asian concept of Manchukuo distinguished him from many of his colleagues in the Kwantung Army and marked him as unconventional within the Imperial Japanese Army .   As many of you may know, Manchukuo was a fraudulent puppet state designed to legitimize Japan's takeover of Manchuria. The Japanese high command aimed to disguise their invasion of this part of China as an indigenous independence movement. To achieve this, they installed Puyi, the last Qing emperor, as the figurehead of Manchukuo while promoting ideals of racial harmony. This facade was necessary, as controlling a population that harbored resentment towards them required some effort to win their favor. Fortunately for the Japanese, there were factions in Manchuria that actually desired independence. This region was the heartland of Nurhaci's Manchu people—yes that guy we spoke about all the way back in the beginning of this podcast. The Japanese had considerable leverage, framing their actions as a noble revival of the Qing dynasty or a restoration of power to the Manchu. Additionally, there was a significant Mongolian presence, and Inner Mongolia would soon play a role in these events. Manchuria was reluctantly drawn into the nationalist movement, and it shared Japan's apprehension towards the USSR, having faced its own struggles against it for a long time. Moreover, a large population of Japanese settlers in Manchuria welcomed the takeover, as the Zhang Xueliang regime had not been particularly accommodating to them, implementing various discriminatory measures. Zhang Xueliang's alliance with the Nationalists effectively sealed the fate of the Japanese settlers, who anticipated expulsion.   As military operations progressed, Ishiwara and Itagaki convened with other prominent Kwantung officers to strategize control over Manchuria. They met with Officer Katakura, Chief of Staff Miyake, and Dohihara Kenji from the Mukden special service, reviewing a prior plan by Colonel Dohihara for a multi-ethnic autonomous nation in Manchuria. This entity was to be led by Puyi, possessing complete autonomy in internal matters, while defense and foreign relations would be managed by Japan. Ishiwara drafted the plans by September 22nd, which were sent to Tokyo on October 2nd. Although Tokyo's high command disapproved of the objectives, they collaborated with the Kwantung Army for five months to establish a new state based on two main principles: the purported indigenous movement for Manchurian independence and the administrative framework for Kwantung Army control.   The Kwantung Army proceeded to utilize Manchuria's traditional structure of local self-governing bodies. Throughout 1931, they bribed, persuaded, and threatened local leaders to foster a movement for autonomy against the Kuomintang hardliners. One of their first initiatives was the establishment of the "Jichi Shidobu Self-Government Guidance Board," responsible for coordinating regional independence movements in collaboration with the Kwantung Army to, as Miyake put it, "guide Manchuria to self-government." The board was headed by Yu Ch'ung-han, a Mukden elder statesman educated in Japan and a former advisor to Zhang Zuolin. It comprised 20 Japanese and 10 Manchurian members. Such organizations attracted Japanese civilians in Manchuria, who supported the so-called multiracial political structure, as they could exploit it for their own interests. The Kwantung Army heavily promoted slogans like “racial harmony, racial equality, and the righteous way.” Their control over Manchuria was solidified by placing Japanese advisors in all governmental bodies with ultimate veto power, ensuring that everything was effectively under Japanese control. While it seemed that Ishiwara's vision was unfolding as planned, by 1933, he became a fierce critic of the very system he had helped establish.   It's quite ironic that the man who played a key role in initiating the conquest of Manchuria would be unable to exert his influence in shaping Manchukuo. While Ishiwara Kanji served as the operations officer officially responsible for planning and executing military operations to capture Manchuria, the political arrangements for the new state fell outside his control. Nevertheless, Ishiwara was very vocal about his views on the development of Manchukuo, strongly advocating for racial harmony. He persistently urged his colleagues that the economic growth of Manchukuo should embody the spirit of racial cooperation. Ishiwara believed that the economic interests of Manchukuo would naturally align with those of the Kwantung Army, as both aimed for the unity of Asia against the West. He was gravely mistaken. Ishiwara was driven by his theory of a final war, and everything he did was aimed at preparing for it; thus, his fixation on racial harmony was part of this broader strategy.   In March 1932, the self-government guidance board was dissolved, transferring its functions and regional organizations to newly established bureaus within the Manchukuo government. In April, an organization called the Kyowakai (Concordia Association) was formed, led by Yamaguchi Juji and Ozawa Kaisaku, with the goal of promoting racial harmony. This initiative received support from members of the Kwantung Army, including Ishiwara, Itagaki, and Katakura. The Kwantung Army invested heavily in the organization, which quickly gained traction—at least among the Japanese. General Honjo expressed concerns about the organization's potential political influence in Manchukuo; he preferred it to remain an educational entity rather than evolve into an official political party. By "educational role," he meant it should serve as a propaganda tool for the Kwantung Army, allowing them to exert influence over Manchukuo without significant commitment.   But to Ishiwara the Concordia Association was the logical means to unify the new nation, guiding its political destiny, to be blunt Ishiwara really saw it should have much more authority than his colleagues believed it should. Ishiwara complained in August of 1932, that Manchuria was a conglomerate of conflicting power centers such as the Kwantung army, the new Manchukuo government, the Kwantung government, the Mantetsu, consular office and so on. Under so many hats he believed Manchukuo would never become a truly unified modern state, and of course he was one of the few people that actually wanted it to be so. He began arguing the Kwantung army should turn over its political authority as soon as possible so “Japanese of high resolve should hasten to the great work of the Manchurian Concordia Association, for I am sure that we Japanese will be its leaders. In this way Manchukuo will not depend on political control from Japan, but will be an independent state, based on Japanese Manchurian cooperation. Guided by Japanese, it will be a mode of Sino-Japanese friendship, an indicator of the present trends of world civilization” Needless to say the Concordia Association made little headway with the Chinese and it began to annoy Japanese leaders. The association gradually was bent into a spiritless propaganda and intelligence arm of the IJA, staffed largely by elite Japanese working in the Manchukuo government.  Ishiwara started utilizing the Concordia Association to advocate for various causes, including the return of leased territories like the Railway zone, the abolition of extraterritoriality, and equal pay for different races working in Manchukuo—efforts aimed at fostering racial harmony. However, this advocacy clashed significantly with the Japanese military's interests, damaging Ishiwara's reputation. As a result, the staff of the Kwantung Army began to shift dramatically, leaving Ishiwara increasingly isolated, except for Itagaki and a few loyal supporters. The higher-ups had grown weary of the disruptive Concordia Association and gradually took control, ensuring that discussions about concessions were halted. In August 1932, Ishiwara received a new assignment, and he appeared eager to leave Manchuria. Now that finishes off our story of Ishiwara, he will return later on in future episodes. Again if you want a full sort of biography on him, check out my youtube channel or Echoes of War podcast where I have a 4 part series on him.    Now I want to get more into the specifics of what exactly was this new state known as Manchukuo? During the mayhem that was the invasion of Manchuria, by October 6th of 1931, the Japanese cabinet had finally relented and decided to no longer interfere with the establishment of a new regime in Manchuria and Inner Mongolia. The remaining disagreement between the Japanese government, Tokyo General HQ and the Kwantung army was not whether or not to establish a new regime, but whether or not to promote the establishment of a new regime. Japan obviously did not want to break the Washington system established by the treaty of Versailles. Yet they of course wanted to expand Japanese interest in Manchuria. So it was to be a delicate game of chess balancing their interests in coordination with the western powers. This was specifically why Prime Minister Wakatsuki Reijiro had opposed direct participation of Japanese soldiers in the establishment of a new regime, because clearly it would open Japan to condemnation from the west.    Over the course of the invasion, Japan managed to occupy the 3 northeastern provinces of Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang by establishing pro-japanese regimes within each under Zhang Shiyi, Xi Qia and Ma Zhanshan respectively. On September 20, 1931, Jianchuan proposed the establishment of a Japanese-backed regime led by Puyi during a meeting with Honjo Shigeru, the commander of the Kwantung Army. Obviously Jianchuan was in league and under the influence of our old friend Doihara. Two days later, on September 22, the Kwantung Army General Staff developed the "Solution to the Manchuria-Mongolia Issue," based on Doihara's suggestion to create a Five-Nation Republic in Manchuria and Mongolia, with Japan as the "leader." The plan outlined the establishment of a new regime under Puyi, supported by Japan, to govern the 3 northeastern provinces and Mongolia. The new regime would entrust Japan with national defense and diplomacy, as well as the management of key transportation and communication infrastructure. It also proposed appointing Xi Qia, Zhang Haipeng, Tang Yulin, Yu Zhishan, and Zhang Jinghui to oversee garrisons in locations such as Jilin, Taonan, Rehe, Dongbiandao, and Harbin. To execute this plan, the Japanese Kwantung Army, led by Chief of Staff Itagaki, utilized local intelligence agencies and some mainland ronin to initiate a so-called strategic operation. To facilitate the plan's implementation, the Kwantung Army informed the commander of the Japanese Army in Tianjin that afternoon, requesting immediate "protection" for Emperor Xuantong.   After the Kwantung Army took control of Jinzhou, it believed the moment was right to establish the hastily assembled puppet regime. To secure the full backing of the Japanese government and the military leadership, the Kwantung Army decided to send Itagaki back to Tokyo for negotiations. At that time, Itagaki had a fairly detailed plan to present. The proposed "Manchuria-Mongolia Central Government" aimed to create a centralized power structure that would be distinct from mainland China, effectively becoming a truly "independent" nation. They intended to appoint local collaborators as officials at all levels and were prepared to fabricate "public opinion" to obscure global perceptions of Japan's scheme to establish this regime. This of course was highly influenced by the announcement from the League of Nations that they would be investigating the entire incident in what would become known as the Lytton Commission.  Thus they believed it was essential to set up the regime before the League of Nations investigation team arrived in Manchuria. They understood that if these actions were "carried out directly by Japan," they would violate both the Nine-Power Treaty and the League of Nations. However, they reasoned that if the Chinese initiated the separation themselves, it would not contradict the principles of those treaties.   The Kwantung Army established puppet organizations using collaborators, starting with the "Liaoning Provincial Local Maintenance Association," which was formed on September 25, 1931. The association's chairman, Yuan Jinkai, represented the civil governance faction of the Fengtian clique. After the First Zhili-Fengtian War, he was appointed governor of Fengtian Province by the Zhili government, which led to his unpopularity with Zhang Zuolin. At the time of the incident, he was already retired. The association's vice chairman, Kan Chaoxi, had previously served as the governor of Rehe and commander of the Third Division. He fell out of favor with Zhang Zuolin due to his involvement with Guo Songling and subsequently retired. A common characteristic of the puppet organizations created by the Kwantung Army is that they always included Japanese advisors, regardless of their level. The "Liaoning Provincial Local Maintenance Association" was no exception, hiring Kanai Shoji, head of the health section of the local department of the Manchurian Railway and chairman of the Manchurian Youth League, as its top advisor. In the Japanese-occupied Fengtian, this highest advisor effectively became the leader of the maintenance association. While the association was ostensibly responsible for maintaining local order, it actually functioned as a tool for Japan to establish a puppet regime. Recruiting discontented officials and creating puppet institutions was just a minor part of the Kwantung Army's strategy to set up a puppet regime. The crucial factor in this endeavor was gaining the support of influential local warlords. To achieve this, the Japanese Kwantung Army, along with various intelligence agencies, employed a mix of soft and hard tactics, including coercion and incentives. As a result, they successfully pressured figures such as Yu Zhishan, Zhang Haipeng, Zhang Jinghui, Xi Qia, Zang Shiyi, and Ma Zhanshan to defect to the Japanese forces.   Following the Mukden Incident, former Qing nobles who had hoped to restore the Qing Dynasty believed the moment had arrived. Xi Qia, a member of the former Qing royal family and the Chief of Staff of the Jilin Provincial Army at the time, took advantage of the Jilin governor's absence due to his mother's funeral to open the gates of Jilin and surrender to Japan. This made Xi Qia the first Chinese official to collaborate with the Japanese invaders since their invasion of China. He sent a secret letter to the abdicated Qing emperor Puyi, urging him to return to "the birthplace of the ancestors, restore the Qing Dynasty, and rescue the people from their suffering," with the backing of "friendly nations". Xi Qia and the former Manchu nobles, who had elevated him to acting governor of Jilin Province, proposed to the Japanese to invite Puyi to the Northeast to establish a monarchy. The Japanese Kwantung Army had already identified Puyi as a suitable puppet leader. After the 15 year war had concluded, under interrogation, Shirono Hiroshi confessed that the reason why the Japanese chose Puyi was: First, Puyi had “no connection with the Kuomintang in mainland China”; Secondly, "some old classes in the Northeast and Mongolia still have traditional yearnings for the Qing Dynasty"; Third, “the peasants in general… seemed to welcome the kingly political system implemented by the Aisin-Gioro family.”   On November 8th, 1931, Doihara orchestrated the "Tianjin Incident" and covertly removed Puyi from his home in the Japanese Concession in Tianjin. They traveled through Dagukou, Yingkou, and Lushun before arriving in Fushun. By February 5th, 1932, the Japanese army had taken control of Harbin, stabilizing the situation in North Manchuria. Afterwards the Kwantung Army Headquarters organized a series of "National Construction Staff Meetings" to plan for a "National Construction Conference" involving collaborators. On February 16th, leaders from the Northeast provinces, including Zhang Jinghui, Xi Qia, Ma Zhanshan, Zang Shiyi, Xie Jieshi, Yu Chonghan, Zhao Xinbo, and Yuan Jinkai, gathered for the "Northeast Political Affairs Conference" at the Yamato Hotel in Shenyang. The meeting was led by Honjo Shigeru, the commander of the Kwantung Army. They decided to invite Puyi to rule the puppet state of "Manchukuo" and assigned government positions to the attendees. Notably, Itagaki Seishirō was appointed as the head of the Fengtian Special Agency and the chief advisor to the Military and Political Department of Manchukuo.    On February 18th, the "Northeast Administrative Committee" issued a "Declaration of Independence," stating: "From now on, we declare that the regions of Manchuria and Mongolia will be separated from the Chinese central government. Based on the free choice and appeal of the residents of Manchuria and Mongolia, these regions will achieve complete independence and establish a fully independent government." On February 23rd, Itagaki met with Puyi in Fushun to inform him that he would be the "ruler" of Manchukuo. Although Puyi had hoped to reclaim the throne, he was disappointed with the "ruler" designation but felt compelled to accept it. On the 29th, the "All-Manchuria National Construction Promotion Movement Conference" passed a resolution urging Puyi to take on the role of ruler. In February, the Japanese army began its offensive against Rehe. Meanwhile, the League of Nations declared that it would not recognize Manchukuo.   On March 1st, Japan orchestrated the establishment of "Manchukuo," appointing Puyi as its "ruler" under the reign title "Datong." China firmly rejected the notion of Manchukuo's "independence" and lodged a strong protest against Japan on the same day. On March 8th, Puyi officially declared his inauguration as the "ruler of Manchukuo" in Xinjing. Concurrently, officials were appointed to various "offices," "ministerial positions," and "ministries," leading to the formal establishment of Manchukuo. The following day, Puyi conducted an inauguration ceremony, and on March 10th, a secret agreement was signed with Japan. Japanese Ambassador to Manchuria, Nobuyoshi Mutō, and "Prime Minister" Zheng Xiaoxu signed the Japan-Manchuria Agreement in Changchun, with the Japanese government issuing a statement recognizing "Manchukuo."   In October of 1932, the League of Nations Assembly released the Lytton Commission Report.  Alarmed by the Mukden incident, the League of Nations had dispatched a group of investigators, led by British statesman Lord Lytton, to uncover the truth of what was going on. The commission traveled to Manchuria, gathering testimonies and examining evidence. Their task was daunting: Japan insisted its actions were defensive, protecting its economic interests and citizens. Meanwhile, China accused Japan of orchestrating the railway incident as an excuse for invasion. Months later, the Lytton Report emerged, painting a balanced yet damning picture.    On February 24, the commission concluded that the "Mukden Incident" was staged by Japanese troops. It condemned Japan's actions as a violation of Chinese sovereignty, rejecting their claims of self-defense. Moreover, the report did not recognize the puppet state of Manchukuo, established by Japan in Manchuria. Instead, it called for Manchuria's return to Chinese control under an arrangement respecting regional autonomy. Though praised for its fairness, the report lacked teeth. Later on the League urged Japan to withdraw, but Japan walked out of the League instead, solidifying its grip on Manchuria.    Manchukuo's territory would span the former provinces of Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang, excluding the Kwantung Leased Territory. It would also gradually incorporate eastern parts of Inner Mongolia, Chengde City and Rehe Province. The 1932 "Japan-Manchuria Protocol" established that the sovereignty of the Kwantung Leased Territory belonged to "Manchukuo." This entity acknowledged the Qing Dynasty's agreement to lease the Guandong Territory, which includes Lushun and Dalian, to Japan. As a result, the Guandong Territory remained under direct Japanese control and was not included in the "administrative division of Manchukuo." By 1934 Manchukuo was divided into 14 provinces, 2 special cities and 1 special district: Andong Province , " Fengtian Province ", Jinzhou Province , Jilin Province , Rehe Province , Jiandao Province , Heihe Province , Sanjiang Province , Longjiang Province , Binjiang Province, Xing'an East Province , Xing'an West Province , Xing'an South Province , Xing'an North Province , Xinjing Special City , Harbin Special City , and North Manchuria Special District. By 1939 this would increase to 19 provinces and 1 special city.   Politically, Puyi served as the nominal head of state for "Manchukuo." He took on the role of ruler on March 8, 1932, adopting the reign title "Datong." On March 1, 1934, Puyi conducted a "coronation ceremony" in Xinghua Village, located south of "Xinjing," and renamed "Manchukuo" to the "Great Manchurian Empire." In this capacity, Puyi was designated as the "emperor," with the reign title "Kangde." "Manchukuo's administrative structure was led by the 'State Council,' headed by the 'Premier.' This pseudo 'State Council' included the 'Ministry of Foreign Affairs,' 'Ministry of Civil Affairs,' 'Ministry of Finance,' 'Ministry of Justice,' 'Ministry of Industry,' 'Ministry of Transportation,' 'Ministry of Culture and Education,' and 'Ministry of Military Affairs.' The 'Ministry of Finance' was later renamed the 'Ministry of Economy,' while the 'Ministry of Military Affairs' retained its name. The 'Ministry of Industry' was split into the 'Ministry of Agriculture' and the 'Ministry of Labor,' and additional departments like the 'Ministry of Health and Welfare' were established. Each ministry was led by a 'minister,' but real power rested with the Japanese vice ministers. The head of the 'General Affairs Department of the State Council,' who was also Japanese, effectively served as the 'Premier.' This role was first held by Komai Tokuzo, followed by Hoshino Naoki and Takebe Rokuzo. Every Tuesday, the Japanese vice ministers convened to discuss and make decisions on 'national' policies and various specific matters in a meeting known as the 'Fire Tuesday Meeting.'"   The legislative assembly of "Manchukuo" was known as the "Legislative Yuan," with Zhao Xinbo serving as its first "President." However, true legislative authority rested with the Kwantung Army. Manchukuo operated without a formal constitution, instead relying on a series of special laws. The advisory group was referred to as the "Senate," led by a "Speaker," with Zang Shiyi being the inaugural holder of that position. The highest judicial authority in puppet Manchukuo was the "Supreme Court," with Lin Qi as the first "Supreme Justice" and Li Pan serving as the "Supreme Prosecutor General." The judicial agency was the "Imperial Household Agency," headed by Xi Qia.   Following the September 18th Incident, Zhang Xueliang maintained a policy of "non-resistance." Most of the former Northeastern Army was "ordered" to retreat south of Shanhaiguan without engaging in combat. Those who could not withdraw were split into two factions: one group, motivated by national integrity and a shared animosity toward the enemy, rose to fight against Japan and became a significant part of the renowned Northeast Volunteer Army. The other faction consisted of traitors who surrendered, acknowledged the enemy as their leader, and acted as the enforcers and thugs for the Japanese invaders. These collaborators and the forces they commanded formed the backbone of the puppet Manchukuo army. Simultaneously, they recruited defectors and traitors, as well as bandits and social miscreants, thereby bolstering the ranks of the puppet Manchukuo military. They were under the influence of the highest advisors from the puppet Manchukuo Military and Political Department, which was made up of Japanese military officials. Directly controlled by the Kwantung Army, they served as vassals and accomplices of Japanese imperialism.   "The State Council of Manchukuo" served as the governing body of the puppet state. It functioned as the highest political authority in the region. Structurally, it operated under the direct control of the head of state, Puyi. However, in practice, the State Council was heavily influenced by the Japanese Kwantung Army, with many key positions occupied by Japanese officials. The breakdown of power is as follows: "Head of State": "Emperor" ( before the transition to the imperial system , the ruler) "Emperor's direct agencies": Imperial Household Agency - Shangshufu - Senate - Military Attaché Office - Military Advisory Council - Sacrifice Office "Yuan": State Council - Courts - Legislative Yuan - Control Yuan "National Army": Royal Guards - River Defense Fleet - Flying Squadron - Xing'an Army - Jiandao Special Forces "Police": Maritime Police Force - Security Bureau Other "agencies": General Affairs Department (not official) External Group: Concord Society   To fulfill its goal of annexing Northeast China, Japan initiated a "national policy immigration" campaign under the guise of development, intending to relocate 1 million households and 5 million Japanese citizens from Japan to Northeast China over two decades. Additionally, around 2 million Koreans were moved to the region as political immigrants. In April 1936, the Japanese Kwantung Army convened an "immigration" meeting in Changchun, where they developed the "Manchuria Agricultural Immigration Million Households Migration Plan." By September 1944, there were 1,662,234 Japanese immigrants (including early settlers) residing in various areas of Northeast China. Following 1945, most Japanese immigrants were repatriated, notably during the large-scale repatriation in Huludao, although the issue of Japanese orphans also arose.   After the September 18th Incident, in response to the invasion by Japanese fascists, people from all nationalities and professions in China resisted fiercely. The Japanese fascists employed military forces, police, and special repressive agencies to brutally suppress the anti-Japanese movement, inflicting significant suffering on the Chinese populace. In addition to collaborating with the Kwantung Army for extensive military encirclement and suppression, the Kwantung Military Police Force oversaw other repressive agencies during peacetime and became the primary force behind the implementation of white terror.   As for its economy, Manchuria is rich in natural resources. By 1936 its coal reserves were about 3 billion tons, iron reserves roughly 4 billion and had other minerals including Gold, Magnesite, Bauxite, Oil shale, Diamonds. Its forestry and fishery industry was quit rich as well. During the Zhang Zuolin era, Manchuria's industrial base was already well-developed, and Japan required a robust military industry to support its aggressive war efforts. Steel production was primarily located in Anshan and Benxi, while the chemical industry was centered in Liaoyang. The coal industry was concentrated in Fushun, Benxi, and Fuxin. Oil shale and synthetic fuel production were mainly found in Fushun and Jilin. Magnesite mining took place in Haicheng and Dashiqiao, and hydropower generation was focused in Jilin and along the Yalu River. Fengtian (now Shenyang) served as the hub for machinery, arms, and aircraft industries, whereas light industries, including textiles and food production, were concentrated in cities like Dalian, Dandong, Harbin, and Qiqihar.   The industrial sector of the puppet state was largely controlled by the South Manchuria Railway Company. Following the establishment of the puppet state, investments from various Japanese conglomerates rapidly flowed into Northeast China. After 1937, the puppet state implemented an economic control policy for the industrial sector, adhering to the principle of "one industry, one company," which led to the creation of monopoly companies for each industry. Under this framework, the South Manchuria Railway transferred its industrial operations and reorganized them into a massive conglomerate called the "Manchuria Heavy Industry Development Corporation ," which monopolized all steel, coal, chemical, and electric power industries in the region. Additionally, over 40 specialized companies were established, including the "Manchuria Electric (Telephone and Telegraph) Company," "Manchuria Machinery Manufacturing Company," "Manchuria Mining Company," "Manchuria Airlines," "Manchuria Artificial Oil Company," "Manchuria Textile Company," "Manchuria Wool Textile Company," "Manchuria Chemical Industry Company," "Manchuria Forestry Company," "Manchuria Gold Mining Company," "Manchuria Livestock Company," "Manchuria Fisheries Company," "Manchuria Tobacco Company," "Manchuria Agricultural Commune," and "Manchuria Development Commune." These companies were jointly established by Japanese investors and the "Manchukuo" government, with profits shared according to their respective investments. In case of losses, the Manchukuo government guaranteed 10% of the profits for Japanese investments.   To transform Manchuria into a base for its aggressive expansion against China and the Pacific War, Japan imposed strict control and extensive exploitation of the region's economy and resources. The primary focus of this control and exploitation was on mineral resources such as coal, iron, and oil, as well as essential industries. Under the intense plundering and strict oversight of Japanese imperialism, Northeast China's economy rapidly became colonial, leading to severe hardships for its people. Due to Japan's stringent economic control policies and large-scale colonial exploitation, the local industry and mining sectors suffered, national industries declined, and the rural economy collapsed, resulting in a swift transformation of Northeast China into a colony. To maximize the extraction of colonial resources, the Japanese invaders minimized the consumption levels of the local population. Since 1935, they implemented comprehensive distribution controls on vital strategic materials and everyday necessities. This distribution control policy plunged the people of Northeast China into extreme poverty and suffering.   The 1936 resource survey report from the State Council of the puppet Manchukuo indicated that the region had an arable land area of 40 million hectares (equivalent to 4 billion mu), with 25 million hectares classified as cultivated land. Additionally, the forested area covered 170 million hectares. The annual production figures included 2.5 million tons of soybeans, 2 million tons of wheat, 700,000 tons of rice, 1 million tons of millet, 8 million tons of sorghum, 5 million tons of corn, 600,000 tons of other grains and beans (excluding soybeans), 300,000 tons of cotton, and 160,000 tons of tobacco. The livestock population consisted of 4 million horses, 3 million cattle, 30 million sheep, and 40 million pigs. The total annual grain output in the puppet Manchukuo was approximately 20 million tons. Of this, around 7.5 million tons were consumable grains for local farmers throughout the year, while 4 million tons were designated as seed grains. Furthermore, the region was responsible for supplying rations to Japanese and Korean immigrants. In compliance with the demands of the Kwantung Army, the puppet Manchukuo was obligated to deliver over 1 million tons of grain to Japan annually. The grain collection process commenced in mid-August and concluded at the end of November, imposing a significant burden on farmers. Japanese colonists were exempt from agricultural taxes and received monthly rations.   The puppet state of Manchukuo had a “military force” known as the “Manchukuo Army.” It was divided into three components: "rear security" and "law and order maintenance," all under the control of the Japanese Kwantung Army. Initially, its military capabilities were limited, with the Kwantung Army handling most combat operations. However, as the main forces of the Kwantung Army shifted south and manpower became scarce, the anti-Japanese armed groups in Northeast China were suppressed and weakened. Consequently, the puppet Manchukuo began to assume more military responsibilities on its own, with many of its soldiers being Korean Japanese recruited from the Korean Peninsula. The entire Northeast was segmented into eleven military control zones, each led by an individual known as a commander. The military authority of the puppet state of Manchukuo was under the control of the Japanese Kwantung Army. Any troop movements, training exercises, equipment modifications, or personnel changes required approval from the Kwantung Army Headquarters. The puppet Manchukuo Army had nine ranks: general, colonel, and lieutenant. Upon graduating from the military academy, individuals were promoted to second lieutenant. After two years, they advanced to first lieutenant, and then to captain after another three years. Following that, a captain would be promoted to major after three years, then to lieutenant colonel after another three years. After four years, a lieutenant colonel would become a colonel, who would then be promoted to major general after four years. After three additional years, a major general could rise to the rank of lieutenant general, and finally, after four years, a lieutenant general could achieve the rank of general. The highest military rank was general, which was a lifetime appointment. Above the rank of general was an honorary title modeled after the Japanese marshal. Individuals such as Zhang Jinghui, Zhang Haipeng, Yu Zhishan, and Ji Xing were conferred the title of general. Thus was born a puppet state that would contribute to the 15 year war in Asia.   I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. Yes perhaps this episode was a bit on the boring side of things, but its important to take a critical look at what exactly Manchukuo was. The new puppet state would be used for various means during the 15 year war and would ultimately be the crown jewel in a long list of conquered territories by the Japanese Empire.

The meetings last week of China's National People's Congress, or NPC, and the Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, or CPPCC, ended with commitments to maintain economic growth at around 5 percent, keep unemployment at 5.5 percent and increase the fiscal deficit target to 4 percent, the highest in 30 years. However, the annual session of China's two-chambered rubber-stamp legislature, known as the "Two Meetings," did not include any detail, let alone surprises, for how the government might reach these ambitious targets. On Sunday, however, the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and the State Council, the main governing body of the government, jointly issued a 30-point Special Action Plan to boost consumption. Coming so soon after the Two Meetings, the announcement generated some enthusiasm that the focus on consumer spending demonstrates a renewed dedication to move away from Beijing's focus on export-oriented manufacturing, which has exacerbated tensions with trading partners from the U.S. to Brazil, while fueling excess capacity, price wars and unhealthy competition in China. As an action plan, the document itself is disappointing, because while it contains laudable goals - such as better enforcement of labor rights and increased payouts for the basic pension system - it does not specify how these can be achieved. For instance, who will enforce China's strict but often ignored labor laws now that President Xi Jinping has dismantled labor rights organizations and weakened the trade union? Who will pay for the increased pensions when local governments already struggle to pay the salaries of civil servants? More fundamentally, will the central government finally reform the central-local fiscal relationship so that the local governments tasked with implementation of the plan have the resources to do so? As a policy document, however, the plan is interesting and important, as it reveals how Xi's government envisions the role of consumption in a development model that is still solidly built on manufacturing and investment. As such, the plan is clearly in alignment with Xi's vision for China's economy. It's not that consumption has no role in boosting the economy, but that the role of consumption is subordinate to higher-level goals. Indeed, even the ordering of the plan's seven sections reveal how consumption relates to these goals, such as revitalization of northeastern China through winter tourism and support for key goods, such as automobiles and consumer electronics, which have already been hit hard by external tariffs. The plan to boost consumption resonates with many of Xi's admonitions over the years, including his slogan that the pathway to common prosperity is not through government handouts, but through hard work. In effect, the plan sees the role of the Chinese consumer as intrinsically linked to the more important role of the Chinese worker on the productive side of the economy. Indeed, it is an almost quaintly Leninist depiction of the relationship between China's manufacturing juggernaut and the workers who fuel China's achievements in automotives, robotics, semiconductors and electronics, as well as basic consumer items from Shein apparel to Temu gadgets. It resonates with many of Xi's admonitions over the years, including his famous critique of "welfarism" as encouraging laziness - or "lying flat" - and his slogan that the pathway to common prosperity is not through government handouts, but through hard work. As such, work is paramount to the plan, which both encourages more employment and proposes ways to make employment easier. The first section highlights the need to boost incomes through employment, including support for "reasonable" increases in the minimum wage. The second section sets out recommendations to make work easier, especially for women of childbearing age and students. This section highlights the government's anxieties over two social problems: the lo...

Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found Click On Picture To See Larger Picture CA raised the minimum wage and now 16k fast food jobs have been lost. Cramer predicts that a Fed rate cut will ward off recession, the opposite is going to happen. Schumer folded and Trump confirms we are headed in a whole new direction. Economy is about to take off. Everything the [DS] projected onto we the people is now boomeranging on them. They called MAGA domestic terrorist but now we can see who the real domestic terrorists are. Sometime you have to show the people. Why did Trump start with fraud? This will build the narrative that everything that these people have done has to do with fraud. This will lead directly to the 2020 elections and that Biden was not the President of the US.   (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:13499335648425062,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-7164-1323"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="//cdn2.customads.co/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); Economy CA down 16K fast food jobs amid $20 wage, debunking Newsom-cited study  Federal data now shows California fast food employment is down 16,000 jobs since the passage of the state's $20-per-hour fast food minimum wage last year. A fast food study from the Berkeley Research Group found California fast food prices increased 14.5% from September 2023 to October 2024, or double the national average. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' quarterly employment survey covers 95% of American jobs, and is considered the gold standard for jobs and wage data. Now its latest report shows California fast food jobs declined from 570,909 in September 2023 to 554,748 in September 2024. Source: gopusa.com   Fed rate cuts could ward off a serious recession, Jim Cramer says CNBC's Jim Cramer analyzed   market action, saying new economic data could pave the way for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates. “We're most likely not going to go into a serious recession, because the Fed can take action to prevent that,” he said. “And even if the Fed does nothing, the market can recover once all of this tariff stuff is behind us — and it will be behind us at some point.”Trump has a point with tariffs, but his rhetoric is too aggressive, says Jim Cramer Source: nbcnews.com China hits back at Canada with fresh agriculture tariffs  China has announced plans to impose tariffs on certain Canadian goods. This decision was made in retaliation to Canada's earlier imposition of tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum products in October of the previous year. According to statements from China's Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council, effective March 20, 2025, China will apply a 100% tariff on Canadian rapeseed oil, oil cakes, and peas, as well as a 25% tariff on Canadian aquatic products and pork. This move is part of an escalating trade dispute, influenced in part by broader tensions involving U.S. trade policies under President Donald Trump, who has also imposed tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. China's commerce ministry has described Canada's actions as violating World Trade Organization rules and constituting protectionism, prompting this retaliatory response  Trump Effect: Gas Prices PLUMMET Below $3 in 31 States — A Stark Contrast to Biden's $5/Gallon Disaster Source: AAA https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1900529607129944543?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1900529607129944543%7Ctwgr%5Eb15a05fb480f65d2195faf46cde22bf1b8b17ed6%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegatewaypundit.com%2F2025%2F03%2Ftrump-effect-gas-prices-plummet-below-3-31%2F Source: thegatewaypundit.com 

March 6, 2025 - Assemblymember Emily Gallagher, a Brooklyn Democrat, discusses the implementation of restrictions on the availability of gas appliances in most new homes starting in 2026.

Dec. 3, 2024 - Building homes in New York could become much more expensive if an obscure building council follows through with plans to mandate fire suppression systems in one- and two-family residential construction projects. We hear opposition to this mandate from Mike Kelly, from the New York State Association of REALTORS, and Michael Barrett, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of New York State.

Last time we spoke about the Zhejiang-Fengtian War, part of the Anti-Fengtian War. Sun Chuanfang had rising through the ranks and quickly seized himself a powerbase in southeast China. Zhang Zuolin and his Fengtian commanders meanwhile became quite arrogant and began bullying and seizing as much territory as they could. This led the Fengtian forces to begin encroaching in Sun Chuanfang newfound territory of Zhejiang. Assuming Sun Chuanfang like the rest would not resist them, they were certainly surprised when he did. Sun Chuanfang formed a coalition with the warlords that controlled Jiangasu, Fujian, Jiangxi, Anhui and his own Zhejiang to fight off the Fengtian menace. Sun Chuanfang went straight onto the offensive, surprising the Fengtian who were in a passive phase and ultimately defeating them, pushing them further north to Shandong. Sun Chuandfang's victory in the Zhejiang-Fengtian War marked the peak of his career, but peaks tend to fall.   #109 The Anti-Fengtian War Part 2: The Guominjun-Fengtian War Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. In the previous episode we spoke about the Zhejiang-Fengtian War. It was part of a larger war known loosely as the anti-fengtian war or third Zhili-fengtian war. To be blunt, if you look up the anti-fengtian war, they barely take notice of the Zhejiang-Fengtian War. Most of the focus is directed north, particularly with the conflict between the Guominjun and Fengtian. Certainly the Guominjun took the spotlight during this war as Feng Yuxiang and Zhang Zuolin were clearly fighting for dominance over Beijing. However Zhang Zuolin was simply too powerful and began to bully his way across China. Through Duan Qirui and the Beiyang government, Zhang Zuolin secured vital positions for his subordinates. The 5th Fengtian army commander Kan Chaoxi was ordered to take two Fengtian Mixed Brigades and occupy Rehe province as its governor. Li Jinglin the commander of the Fengtian 2nd army and a Hubei native, became the military inspector of Hubei. Zhang Zongchang was given the title of commander in chief of suppressing banditry in Jiangsu, Shandong and Anhui which further led him to become the governor of Shandong. Yang Yuting was made governor over Jiangsu and Jiang Dengxuan over Anhui.. By 1925 the Fengtian military was 370,000 men strong across land, sea and air. By January of 1925, Fengtian forces began occupying Shanghai, threatening Sun Chuanfang who unleashed the Zhejiang-Fengtian War in retaliation As for Feng Yuxiang, he was unable to exert any real control in Beijing. He had received the title of inspector general over the northwest, effectively a military governorship. This saw him gain direct control over Rehe, Chahar and Suiyuan. In early 1925 he moved his headquarters to Kalgan. Through his subordinates and allies he also exerted control in Hunan, Shanxi and Gansu. Because of his recent acquisition of Soviet aid, his armies were growing in size, though declining in quality. He had gradually distanced himself from Zhang Zuolin. In January of 1925 Feng Yuxiang was being excluded by Duan Qirui and Zhang Zuolin. At this point Feng Yuxiang met Li Dazhao as Soviet military advisors were coming to help train his forces. In the late spring and summer Feng Yuxiang dispatch young officers to study in the Soviet Union. After a very strict examination period, presided over by Feng Yuxiang, 24 out of 300 students were enlisted into the Soviet Officer training corps. Another 24 were sent to Japan. When the May 13th incident broke out, Feng Yuxiang alongside some subordinates sent a telegram to Duan Qirui asking the Beiyang government to "take the external situation seriously and not to worry about it, and expressed his willingness to go to the front for the country". Feng Yuxiang then began supporting student demonstrations and on June 13th had his troops all wear black armbands to mourn the Shanghai martyrs. Feng Yuxiang pushed his men to donate to the Shanghai strike workers and personally donated 10,000 yuan. Feng Yuxiang watched costly the events unfold in the southeast. Upon discovering Sun Chuanfang was gaining the upper hand, Feng Yuxiang finally made his move. He began secretly extending his hand to just about anyone who would join with him to fight the Fengtian forces. Obviously Sun Chuanfang was immediately receptive. Feng Yuxiang then reached out within the Fengtian clique to see if any disgruntled commanders would defect. He flirted with Li Jinglin, the current governor over Hubei province. It seemed Li Jinglin was completely on board for the time being as another Fengtian commander welcomed the invitation. Guo Songling, holding the courtesy name Maochen, was born on December 25th of 1883 in Yuqiaozhai village of Dongling district in Liaoning province. In 1903 Guo Songling began studying under Mr. Dong Hanru in Changwangzhai. However he was soon forced to pull out of school because of the outbreak of the Russo-Japanese War. In Autumn of 1905, General Zhao Erxun established the Fengtian Army Primary School at Dabeiguan in Fengtian. Guo Songling immediately joined up. The next year he met Fang Shengtao, a member of the Tongmenghui where he became exposed to revolutionary ideology. In 1907 Guo Songling graduated with honors and soon served as a sentry to the Shengjiang General's office. He was soon taken under the wing of commander Zhu Qinglan.  In 1909 Guo Songling was transferred to Chengdu, Sichuan alongside Zhu Qinglan. The next year Guo Songling joined the nationalist army of the Tongmenghui, joining the Tongmenghui as well. In 1911 the Sichuan Railway protection movement broke out and Guo Songling joined the uprising. By this point he was promoted to commander of the 2nd battalion of the 68th regiment, responsible for the defense of northern Chengdu. He persuaded the masses to lift the siege without bloodshed. The governor of Sichuan, Zhao Erfeng dismissed Guo Songlong, suspecting him to be colluding with bandits, but later restored him to his original post at the request of Zhu Qinglan. After the Wuchang uprising, various regions of Sichuan declared independence one after another. In Chengdu a new government formed with Zhu Qinglan as deputy governor. However sichuan generals soon instigated local troops to launch a mutiny, forcing Zhu Qinglan and many Hakka Generals to flee Sichuan. Guo Songling then decided to return to Fengtian province.  Back in Fengtian he joined another uprising movement led by Zhang Rong, but he was quickly arrested by the Qing government and beheaded. At this point one Han Shuxiu risked her life trying to stop the carriage carrying Zhang Rong to his execution. She was caught, but before they seized her, she told the police she was the fiance of Guo Songling, and this led them to let her go. She married Guo Songling shortly after. In 1912 Guo Songling entered the Beijing Officers institute and the next year he entered the army university. After graduating he served as a Beijing military academy instructor. In 1917 after Sun Yat-Sen established his military government in Guangzhou, Guo Songling joined up as the chief of staff to the Guangdong-Jiangxi-Hunan Border defense and became the battalion commander of the Guangdong provincial army. After Sun Yat-Sen saw some major defeats, Guo Songling departed Guangzhou, yet again returning to Fengtian where he took up a position as a tactical instructor for the military academy of Manchuria. It was here he met Zhang Xueliang. Zhang Xueliang soon recommended him to his dad who made him chief of staff and head of the 2nd regiment. By 1921 he was the head of the 8th Brigade.  During the first Zhili-Fengtian war of 1922, the eastern route force led by Zhang Xueliang and Guo Songling shattered Wu Peifu's plan to break through Shanhaiguan. During the second Zhili-Fengtian war of 1924, Zhang Xueliang and Guo Songling were serving as commander and deputy commander of the 3rd army. Alongside Jiang Dengxuan and Han Linchun commanding the 1st army, they soundly defeated the Zhili forces winning the war. Zhang Zuolin then appointed his son as commander of the BEijing-Yulin garrison with Guo Songling as his deputy commander. As Zhang Zuolin dispatched Fengtian commanders into China proper to occupy southern provinces. Guo Songling believed Zhang Zuolin and many of his commanders were becoming war mongers, and proposed a different strategy, emphasizing pulling back forces into China's interior to try and win over rural populations. Other commanders worked to politically exclude Guo Songling from Zhang Zuolin's ear, such as Yang Yuting, thus Guo Songling's proposal was rejected.  In 1925 Guo Songling took his wife to Japan to study military affairs. While in Japan Guo Songling learnt Zhang Zuolin was dispatched his troops south drawing Sun Chuanfang into a war. He also learned the extent of Zhang Zuolin's dealings with the Japanese and became disgusted with how he was seemingly selling out China. Now Guo Songling's wife Han Shuxiu was a graduate of Yenching University and a classmate of Feng Yuxiang's wife, Li Dequan. They had a good relationship and were close contacts. Han Shuxiu learned about Feng Yuxiang's dealings with the Soviets and told Guo Songling who became quite excited. Guo Songling had acquired quite a few grievances under Zhang Zuolin and wanted to overthrow him. Therefore he began to secretly negotiate with Feng Yuxiang. In November Guo Songling was recalled to China for the war effort. Instead of aiding the war effort, On November 22nd, Guo Songling raised an army in Luanzhou and sent a telegram stating he was rebelling against Zhang Zuolin. He called his force the “Northeast National Army”. Jiang Dengxuan rushed over to Luanzhou station to try and reason with Guo Songling, but was arrested upon entering the city. Guo Songling tried to persuade Jiang Dengxuan to join him to oppose Zhang Zuolin, but Jiang simply scolded him. Guo Songling then had him shot on November 26th. Guo Songling raised 70,000 troops who quickly captured Shanhaiguan. In the face of the onslaught, Zhang Zuolin only had 40,000 troops in the vicinity, as he had dispatched the vast majority of his forces into China proper to expand the Fengtian empire. Pretty ironic, the guy who told him to pull back his forces into the interior was now attacking his interior. Guo Songling's forces brushed aside the Fengtian armies, seizing Suizhong, Xingcheng and Jinzhou. The Fengtian forces were taken completely off guard and were quickly pushed towards the east bank of the Liaohe River. Guo Songling's main target was Mukden, which he soon erected a siege against. Guo Songling since November 22nd began repeatedly sending telegrams to Zhang Zuolin demanding he step down and allow his son Zhang Xueliang to take over. If Zhang Zuolin would simply do so, he promised to stop his rebellion. Zhang Zuolin panicked and began frantically placing a bounty over Guo Songling's head, up to 800,000 yuan. With no one to turn to, Zhang Zuolin ran with his tail between his legs to the Japanese asking if their Kwantung Army could stop Guo Songling. Zhang Zuolin knew very well the kind of man Guo Songling was. He knew the mans personality and vigor was a huge threat politically, allegedly Zhang Zuolin began the process of forming his resignation and peace talks. Zhang Zuolin was seen packing 29 cars with furniture and his valuables heading over to Dalian to flee, most likely for Japan. It is also said he had a ton of firewood and gasoline positioned around his mansion, so it could be burned down if Guo Songling got to it. Countless Fengtian civilian and military officials also began fleeing with their families, it was pure chaos. The Japanese were certainly not pleased with the situation. The Kwantung Army certainly did not want Guo Songling to gain power, it most certainly spelt doom over their dominance over Manchuria. Guo Songling was in league with Feng Yuxiang and to the Japanese this meant in one way or another, he was a communist sympathizer. The Japanese view of Guo Songling was “Guo's intention was to expel Zhang himself, clearly implement the Three Principles of the Kuomintang , involve the three northeastern provinces in war, attract Soviet forces into Manchuria, and induce a situation that Japan's national defense and Manchuria-Mongolia policy could not forgive." The president of the Manchuria railway company, Yasuhiro Banichiro believed “if Guo's rebellion was successful, the three northeastern provinces would be ravaged by the communist movement, and there might be a "free zone" without the Manchurian Railway and Kwantung Leased Territory." Consul General Yoshida Shigeru in Tianjin reported that if Guo Songling took over Manchuria, it was sure the Kuomintang would move in and the threat of communism with them. Thus the Japanese believed that Zhang Zuolin needed to stay in power. The Japanese began mediating a peace deal, highlighting how they wished both sides would recognize their empire's rights in Manchuria and Mongolia. They also added, if these demands were not respected they would go to war with either of them. Guo Songling slammed the table to this and shouted "How can this be! This is China's internal affairs! I don't understand what Japan's special rights are!" Then Zhang Zuolin made a secret agreement with the Japanese, caving into all their demands if the Kwantung army would send troops.  On december 8th, the Kwantung Army issued a warning to Guo Songling to stay 20 miles away from the south manchurian railway concession or they would get involved. The Kwantung army was taken measures to halt Guo Songling's advance and give Zhang Zuolin time to get his forces over. On the 9th the Japanese 10th divisional HQ moved from Liaoyang to Fengtian. The 63rd regiment,  1st artillery battalion and 1st Cavalry battalion of Gongzhuling alongside garrison units all converged upon Fengtian trying to intercept Guo Songling. On the 12th Guo Songling's vanguard arrived near Baiqibao. His right wing prepared an assault against Yingkou. On the 14th as they tried to enter Yingkou they were suddenly blocked by Japanese forces and issued another warning to back off. Guo Songling's men were thus banned from the urban area, forced to take the fighting along the Liaohe river. This was a huge obstacle between them at Fengtian, they would have to go 30 km's around the south manchuria railway to get to it. On the 15th the Japanese decided to withdraw part of the IJA 24th division from Korea and part of the 12th Division from Kurume to form a Manchuria expeditionary army that would be deployed in Fengtian to stop Guo Songling. On the 17th the main bulk of Guo Songling's army entered Baiqibao. On the 20th Guo Songling captured Xinmin and his vanguard was now arriving to the west bank of the Juliu river, due southwest of Mukden. Guo Songlings men could see the lights of Fengtian cities as they awaited the rest of the army to ford the river. The next day the main force arrived in Xinmen setting up a new HQ. The Fengtian defenses were led by Zhang Xueliang who deployed along the east bank of the Juliu river from Damintun to Gongzhutun. Wu Junsheng's 6th army, consisting mostly of cavalry were rushing south from Heilongjiang to take up a position on the Fengtian left wing while Zhang Zuoiangs 5th army was coming over from Jilin for the right wing. Zhang Xueliang personally led the 3rd army within the middle. Guo Songling set up his men along the west bank of the Juliu river, arranging them from north to south in the order of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th armies. On the 22nd Guo Songling gave the order for a general attack to take place the next day. The net day his army launched their attack against Zhang Xueliang's middle position, finding he was utilizing heavy Japanese weaponry. Zhang Zuoxiang attack with his right wing, quickly occupying Beigaotaizi, before hooking around to cut off Guo Songlings line of retreat. Then Wu Junsheng's left wing seized Liuhegou and assaulted Baiqibao where he burned Guo Songlings ammunition dumps, weaponry and provisions. Now Guo Songling's supply line was compromised and his rear was threatened. At this point Zhang Xueliang went out of his way to dispatch air forces to drop letters trying to get his friend to stop the rebellion. Without any response from Guo Songling, Zhang Xueliang took his force and began surrounding his army. That night Guo Songling held a meeting where his generals Zou Zuohua and Gao Jiyi advocated for a ceasefire and to go to the peace talks. Other generals such as Liu Wei and Fan Pujiang advocated to keep on fighting. In the end Guo Songling elected to keep the war going and decided to engage in a decisive battle on the 24th.  On the 24th, Guo Songling personally led the battle, launching three fierce attacks against the Fengtian forces. However Zuo Zuohua, his chief of staff defected, withdrawing an artillery brigade as he did so, greatly hampering the war effort. Guo Songling's army was defeated, he gave permission for his subordinates, even his personal guards to try and escape if they could during the night. Guo Songling and his wife Han Shuxiu were both captured by Wang Yongqing, the brigade commander of Wu Junshengs army. They were to be taken to Mukden for trial. On December 25th Wang Yongqing was escorting them when he received orders issued by Yang Yuting, Guo Songling's political rival. The orders were simply to shoot them on the spot. Now depending who you hear this story from, many claim it was actually Zhang Zuolin who sent the order. Historians believe Yang Yuting was worried Zhang Xueliang would rescue Guo Songling so he advised Zhang Zuolin it was best to simply kill him so the ordeal would not be repeated. At 10am Guo Songling and his wife were shot near Laodafang in Liaozhong county. Their bodies were transported to Mukden, which I should be calling Shenyang, I apologize the names change back and forth. Their bodies were left exposed in the Xiaoheyan stadium for three days. Thus ended the month long rebellion of Guo Songling. Now while all of that was breaking out in Manchuria, Feng Yuxiang had unleashed his war as well. In early december Feng Yuxiang led the Guominjun forces east launching a massive attack into Rehe province. Now if you recall, Feng Yuxiang had brokered a deal with Li Jinglin, and these parts of Rehe were his territory. Thus Li Jinglin saw this as a betrayal. He sent a telegram denouncing Feng Yuiang "He fooled his subordinates and used the heresy of communism to destroy the great defense and morality.I carry the sword for the country, not for party disputes or for profit, but only for this humanitarianism, in order to destroy the public enemy of the world and save our morality from the decline of five thousand years.It doesn't matter whether we are enemies or not, but only whether we are red or not.” Li Jinglin fought tenaciously against the Guominjun, however by December 23rd, Feng Yuxiang had seized Tianjin. Meanwhile alongside Sun Chuanfang, Wu Peifu had also joined the Zhili fight against the Fengtian forces, thus he was loosely allied to Feng Yuxiang. When Guo Songling's rebellion crumbled, it seemed clear to all, Feng Yuxiang was about to face the full brunt of Zhang Zuolin's Fengtian armies, who had withdrawn into the interior to meet his threat. While Feng Yuxiang dominated the Beijing area, it was only a matter of time before the Fengtian swarmed him. Wu Peifu had been quietly building up his powerbase in Hunan. While he appeared to be a good ally to the anti-Fengtian cause, he was anything but. The only person, Wu Peifu hated more than Zhang Zuolin, was of course Feng Yuxiang, the man who stabbed him in the back and ruined his Zhili dominated China dream. If Wu Peifu were to join Zhang Zuolin they would effectively surround and isolate Feng Yuxiangs pocket in the north. Wu Peifu knew if he wanted to rejoin the big boys club, he would have to kowtow to Zhang Zuolin and take up a subordinate position. If lets say Wu Peifu and Zhang Zuolin dominated Beijing again, they would be able to squeeze any funding away from Feng Yuxiang, shoving him back into the northwest, whence they could gradually beat him up. Thus Wu Peifu and Zhang Zuolin settled their differences and formed an alliance against the treacherous Feng Yuxiang. Its kind of funny but Feng Yuxiang had betrayed both men at some point so it was sort of the binding glue to their new found relationship. The Zhili and Fengtian cliques had united once again, this time calling themselves the Anti-Red coalition. Their objective was quite simple, they would surround and strangle Feng Yuxiang's army. On January 20th Feng Yuxiang had launched a battle against their new coalition at Shanhaiguan, Shandong and Henan simultaneously. Zhang Xueliang led his army to occupy Luanzhou before advancing towards Tianjin. Zhang Zongchang, whose army had withdrawn into Shandong after Sun Chuanfang had defeated them now attacked from the south. Zhang Zuolin dispatched a special envoy to officially form a alliance with Wu Peifu, asking him to attack Feng Yuxiang from his position and if possible see if Yan Xishan could be lured into the scuffle as well. Wu Peifu took his rather meager forces and marched north from Hubei into Hunan. His relatively weak army was assisted by the Red Spear Society. These were a rural self-defense movement that sprang up in Hebei, Henan and Shandong in the 1920s. They were local small land owners and tenant farmers trying to defend their lands or villages from roaming bandits, warlords, tax collectors and later on in history communists and Japanese. In many ways they were the spiritual successor to the Big Swords Society. This particular group of them had been abused by the Guominjun commander Yueh Weichun who presided over Hunan.  Back in the north, an incident broke out at the Taku forts. Feng Yuxiang having taken control of Tianjin and the Taku forts, seized some minor warships and began mining the seas. This was in violation of the Boxer Protocol and the IJN retaliated by bombarding his ships and even fired upon Feng Yuxiang's forces along the coast. Feng Yuxiang had his artillery fire back upon the IJN warships. In the face of the escalating situation, other foreign powers notified China they must stop what Feng Yuxiang was doing as it threatened to breach the Boxer Protocol. An ultimatum was given, prompting Duan Qirui to persuade Feng Yuxiangs forces to stop mining the waters. Then on March 18th, 1926, KMT and CCP members such as Xu Qian, Li Dazhao, Zhao Shiyan and others initiated a "National Congress against the Eight-Power Ultimatum" in front of Tiananmen, with Xu Qian served as the chairman of the presidium of the Congress. Mass demonstrations broke out in Tiananmen Square. They opposed the foreign ultimatum and called for an end to the unequal treaties, for foreign warships to depart their waters and for Feng Yuxiang to fight their imperial aggression. Li Dazhao took to the stage shouting "Don't be afraid, they dare not do anything to us!" Li Dazhao then led many to rush towards the state council. Duan Qirui panicked and ordered Beijing guards to fire upon them. A reporter at the scene stated stated that the marchers "the demonstrators attacked the State Council, poured oil, threw bombs, and attacked the military and police with pistols and sticks. The military and police were killed and injured in their legitimate defense." 47 demonstrators were killed, 150 more were wounded. Duan Qirui then ordered the arrest of the ring leaders, such as Li Dazho and Xu Qian who all fled. Back in the war for the north the Guominjun commander Lu Zhunglin now faced an offensive from Li Jinglin and Zhang Zongchang from Shandong and the main Fengtian forces coming from Manchuria. Li Jinglin began his advance in February of 1926, fighting Lu Zhunglin for several weeks. Feng Yuxiang realized they would lose the war at this rate and ordered the forces to pull out of Hubei and Henan into the Beijing area. Lu Zhunglin was forced to evacuate 100,000 man army by March 21st. Feng Yuxiang's took positions in the Beijing area where they would fight off the enemy for over a month, the enemy now including Wu Peifu who had advanced north from Hunan. Feng Yuxiang meanwhile arrested Duan Qirui and released Cao Kun on April 9th, trying to sow dissent between Wu Peifu and Zhang Zuolin. His idea was to declare he was once again willing to serve under Cao Kun, and sent word to Wu Peifu that they should join forces to destroy the Fengtian clique. Wu Peifu simply ignored this request. Lu Zhunglin leading the forces from the front knew he could not hope to hold back the onslaught any longer so on April 15th he evacuated the army to the Nankou Pass, roughly 30 miles northwest of Beijing. In the meantime the coalition led by armies under Zhang Zongchang, Zhang Xueliang, Li Jinglin and Wu Peifu occupied Beijing. They installed Yan Huiqing as a temporary figurehead as Duan Qirui was exiled to Tianjin under orders from Zhang Zuolin. The forces also sacked Beijing, so badly it would not recover until 1928. Now at the Nankou Pass, 90,000 Guominjun troops resisted the onslaught of over 450,000 of the enemy until August 16th. The Guominjun looking for another escape route dispatched a force led by Shi Yousan and Han Fuju into Shanxi. They were attacked near Datong by Yan Xishan's army. Despite being sympathetic to the Guominjun, as Yan Xishan was loosely associated with the KMT, his policy of neutrality had to be enforced, it was after all one of the ways he managed to survive this long. Feng Yuxiang's forces were quickly dislodged from Shanxi. Meanwhile Chahar fell to Zhang Xueliang's men as they advanced from Beijing and Suiyuan fell to Yan Xishan as his men advanced from Shanxi. The Guominjun put up a spartan-like resistance, but the Fengtian brought Japanese heavy artillery to the Nankou Pass where they blew away possibly 10,000 Guominjun. The Guominjun were forced to retreat into Gansu by August 15th.  Gansu at this time was being held by a bunch of lesser warlords whose domains were affected by religious divisions. Feng Yuxiang now took this time to go on a trip to the Soviet Union, announcing his resignation. Yet it was not actually a resignation, once in the USSR he began regaining control over his Guominjun army, winning back the favor of two of his best generals who had defected, Han Fuchu and Xu Yusan. Both these men had tossed their lot in with Yan Xishan temporarily. Feng Yuxiangs next goal was to recover his position in Shaanxi, where his forces had been under siege since April of 1926 by Liu Chenhua the previous warlord of Shaanxi. Liu Chenhua had been bolstered by Red Spear units from Hunan. Now Feng Yuxiang had basically united all the northern warlords in their hatred for him, so he pretty much had no one else to look to, except for of course, the Kuomintang.   I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. Feng Yuxiang unleashed his Guominjun after securing many sneaky deals with those like Guo Songling, Sun Chuanfang, Li Jinglin and even Wu Peifu sort of. His plans all came to naught as he gradually lost the anti-fengtian war and now Wu Peifu and Zhang Zuolin were back in Beijing together, talk about Deja Vu.