Members of the Shenzhou-19 crew aboard China's orbiting space station completed their mission's second series of extravehicular activities (EVAs) at 1:12 a.m. (Beijing Time) on Tuesday, according to the China Manned Space Agency.
Astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong and Wang Haoze worked for 8.5 hours to complete multiple tasks, including the installation of space debris protection devices and an extravehicular inspection. They were assisted by the space station's robotic arm and a team on Earth.
Cai and Song, the two crew members assigned to undertake spacewalk duties, have since returned to the Wentian lab module safely.
Since completing their first spacewalk on Dec. 17, 2024, the crew members have undertaken a series of tasks, including the inspection and maintenance of the space station's equipment, system-wide pressure emergency drills, and preparations for the second series of EVAs.
They have completed nearly half of their space journey and are scheduled to carry out a significant number of in-orbit scientific experiments and technological tests, the agency said. Amid their busy schedule, they will also welcome the upcoming Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese Lunar New Year.
Responding to an inquiry concerning the meeting of Quad’s foreign ministers on Tuesday (US time) during which they claimed that China seeks to change the status quo in the East and South China Seas, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Wednesday that China has always advocated that cooperation among countries should not target third parties.
Group politics and bloc confrontations will not bring peace and security and are not conducive to the peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region or the world. China’s activities in the relevant waters are legitimate and beyond reproach, the spokesperson said a regular press conference on Wednesday.
"In just one day, it rained as much as it does in a whole year!" On August 20, 2024, an extremely rare and intense rainfall led to a severe flood disaster in Huludao, Northeast China's Liaoning Province.
Zhujiagou village, located in a mountainous area with low-lying terrain, was one of the most severely affected villages. According to CCTV News, the deepest water accumulation in the village reached 6 meters, and 51 households' houses were damaged, among which 41 households no longer met the conditions for reconstruction on the original site.
After the flood, the village built new homes for 41 of the most severely affected households, totaling 186 people, at a different location. Cement roads were built to the doorstep of each home, and water, electricity, and internet facilities were connected. The new homes were fitted with modern flushing toilets. In less than two months, a new Zhujiagou village rose from the ground.
On Wednesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, braved the cold to visit the village, ahead of the Spring Festival, which falls on January 29 this year, the Xinhua News Agency reported.
Xi inspected the progress in post-disaster restoration and reconstruction. Visiting the villagers who had moved into their new houses just before this winter, Xi inquired about the quality of the reconstructed homes and whether their daily living conditions were adequate.
A number of natural disasters occurred across the country last year, Xi said, expressing his belief that restoration and reconstruction in the affected areas will yield good results.
"We have always put the people first," Xi said. "The people can always count on the Party and the government in their most difficult times, and we will help them overcome difficulties and rebuild their homes."
Always keeping the safety and well-being of the people in mind, before the Spring Festival, the most important festival for the Chinese people, Xi's visit not only warmed people's hearts, but also conveyed strong confidence.
'I have always been concerned about people in disaster-affected areas'
Xi has always been concerned about people in disaster-affected areas. In recent years, the Chinese president has made several visits to disaster-stricken areas to inspect and guide post-disaster recovery and reconstruction efforts. These visits include both pre-festival inspection tours and on-site inspections during domestic tours.
A year ago, Xi visited a village affected by floods the summer before during his inspection tour in North China's Tianjin Municipality from February 1 to 2, 2024, spending time in this region just ahead of the 2024 Spring Festival.
Villager Du told Xi that the family's more than 10 mu (about 0.67 hectares) of corn fields and vegetable patches were damaged by the flood, but with the help of the Party and the government, they managed to recover quickly, and their vegetable greenhouses were able to produce a good harvest, Xinhua reported.
On September 7, 2023, in the village of Longwangmiao in Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Xi walked into the fields to check the impact of the floods on the rice crops. Visiting villagers' homes to learn about their losses and the supply of daily necessities, Xi encouraged them to bolster their confidence to overcome difficulties.
In January 2022, braving the snow, Xi went to Fengnanyuan village of Huozhou city in North China's Shanxi Province, where he visited the flood-affected people and learned about local post-disaster reconstruction.
"I came to Shanxi today primarily out of the concern for people whose work and lives were affected by last year's disaster," Xi told the villagers.
"I am glad to observe that despite the severity of the disaster, you did a good job in reconstruction and replanting crops with the help of the Party and government," Xi said. "I feel assured."
Back to January 2015, Ludian county, which experienced a 6.5 magnitude earthquake in August 2014, was the first on the president's domestic inspection agenda. While in Longtoushan Town, the epicenter of the quake, he reviewed post-disaster reconstruction efforts and advised that the buildings must be able to withstand a quake of a similar magnitude and above.
The people staying in Ganjiazhai village, where a temporary camp was set up for those displaced by the quake, warmly welcomed Xi. He greeted the crowd and inspected inside the tents to check the quality and thickness of their quilts, Xinhua reported.
"The disaster destroyed your homes, but the [Communist] Party [of China] and the government will help you build more beautiful ones," Xi said.
"I have always been concerned about people in disaster-affected areas," he said, when leaving a village impacted by floods during the inspection tour to Beijing and Hebei Province in North China in November 2023. "The CPC is a party that serves the people wholeheartedly and always puts the people above everything else."
Chinese speed, efficient action
China has demonstrated its "speed" and "humanitarianism" in post-disaster responses, whether it is the rapid resettlement of people in disaster areas in Meizhou, South China's Guangdong Province, or the emergency rescue efforts in Xigaze, Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region.
"I never expected that we would have such a good Spring Festival this year," He Xinsheng, a villager from Shangtian, Meizhou, told Global Times on Thursday in an elated tone over the phone.
During the storm disaster in June 2024, He's house collapsed, and his family of four had to temporarily live with relatives. But thankfully, their worries did not weigh them down for long. On January 16, they stood in their brand-new relocation apartment and began a new chapter of their lives.
"We are satisfied with the facilities in the apartment," He smiled. "We just bought some electrical appliances, and everything else was provided by local government. Once again, I have a new understanding of our country's construction speed and quality." For him, this move was not just a change of residence, but also a deep expectation for the future.
In June 2024, when China entered the flood season, Meizhou was hit by a severe rainstorm on June 16, causing the collapse and damage of houses in some areas, severely impacting the production and lives of the local population.
On June 18, Xi delivered important instructions on the work to fight floods and droughts. The president called for all-out efforts to deal with the disaster, do everything possible to search and rescue those missing or trapped, properly resettle those affected, ensure production and life order, and minimize losses, according to Xinhua.
The People's Government of Guangdong promptly assigned Guangzhou and Shenzhen to assist Meizhou in constructing four housing projects.
The projects officially commenced on July 28, with the foundation work completed in just 14 days. The building's main structure was built in 69 days, and the project passed its final acceptance inspection in 138 days. Within 144 days, the handover was completed, and the project successfully passed safety production inspections at all levels, Diao Shangdong, deputy director of "Guangzhou town" project at the Guangzhou Key Public Construction Project Management Center, told the Global Times on Thursday.
The houses, which incorporate traditional Hakka elements, are equipped with advanced flood prevention technology and roof-mounted photovoltaic systems, making them low-carbon, smart, and secure.
According to Diao, by December 31, 2024, 383 families affected by the disaster had received the keys to their new homes.
While in Xizang region, the recent earthquake that hit Xigaze has attracted significant international attention, not only due to humanitarian reasons, but also because it occurred in a multi-ethnic region often targeted by some in the West with so-called human rights issues.
After the earthquake, Xi made an important instruction, demanding utmost efforts to carry out search and rescue and provide medical treatment for the injured. He also urged efforts to prevent secondary disasters, properly resettle affected residents, and handle the aftermath effectively, according to Xinhua. Ten minutes after the tremor, rescue helicopters had already reached the disaster area; within half an hour, rescue operations with debris removal began in the earthquake's epicenter. Nine hours after the quake, communication signals were restored, and all damaged roads were repaired and reopened. Eighteen hours after the disaster, power was restored in the hardest-hit areas, local media Tibet.cn reported.
That night, people in disaster-stricken areas moved into warm tents and were provided with hot meals. Within a week, medical stations, libraries, and counseling rooms were gradually set up. The swift and effective response demonstrated a profound respect for life and a deep concern for the disaster-stricken people.
Observing the rescue and reconstruction efforts in the wake of this earthquake, people see it clearly that while a natural disaster has torn a wound into the snowy plateau, the entire nation is working tirelessly to heal it. The motherland serves as a steadfast source of comfort and support for every individual affected by the disaster. This is the best example of how Xizang is an indispensable part of a people-centered national development effort.
Putting the people first
Wang Hongwei, a professor at the Renmin University of China's School of Public Administration and Policy, told the Global Times on Thursday that in recent years, the country's efficiency in responding to major emergencies has significantly improved, and a crucial reason behind this is China's institutional strength, which enables the integration of various forces to form a powerful collective effort in disaster relief.
He pointed out that since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, there have been many new conceptual changes in disaster prevention, reduction, and relief. In the past, the focus was primarily put on post-disaster management, while now a stronger emphasis is put on risk management.
In 2018, China established the Ministry of Emergency Management, which has the crucial responsibility of responding to natural disasters. One of the major tasks being undertaken is the comprehensive risk survey of natural disasters, which serves as a fundamental task for disaster prevention, reduction, and relief.
Meanwhile, China has been accelerating the development of more advanced emergency-rescue equipment. Thanks to the collaborative efforts between government authorities and manufacturers, numerous new aircraft models, smart robots, drones, and other forms of emergency response equipment are rapidly being developed and implemented.
China's response to natural disasters features rapid, collective action spearheaded by the government to ensure no one is left behind. This people-centered approach contrasts sharply with the challenges faced by some Western nations.
Right now, many parts of the world are grappling with an alarming increase in the frequency of natural disasters. In Southern California, for instance, wildfires rage on, serving as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in safeguarding communities against the forces of nature.
A California dad of two who spent nearly two days trying to save his home from wildfire was quoted as saying that the leadership "absolutely failed us," in a FOX news report on January 18, 2025.
"There's a deep part of me right now that's like, it wasn't just my home that burned down and my life's work that burned down. It is the trust in the leadership and the systems that absolutely failed us," Blake Mallen said in the FOX report.
A New York Times opinion article titled "You don't get disasters like the Palisades fire without human failure" read, "The problem of forest management looms larger in Northern California, with decades of fire suppression producing much denser and more flammable forests there, but the job of brush clearing and fuel thinning has been neglected around Los Angeles, too."
Wang Tun, head of a key earthquake early warning laboratory in China's Sichuan Province, who has vast experience in disaster relief, told the Global Times that compared to Western countries, China's emergency rescue system is more prominent in terms of implementation efficiency.
"China has formed a complete emergency management system based on a 'people-centered' philosophy, ensuring a full chain of work from disaster prevention to post-disaster recovery and reconstruction," Wang said.
In his new home in Meizhou, He is buying ingredients for the Spring Festival. During the holidays, He hopes to invite all the relatives and friends who have helped him to his new home for a reunion dinner.
"I hope everyone can stay safe and sound, away from disasters," he said.
In the ice cap region near China's Zhongshan Station in Antarctica, a domestically developed six-legged robotic dog recently completed a series of scientific research tests successfully, marking an innovative step in China's polar research equipment. A video shows the robotic dog navigating through snow and ice, carrying a box on its back, without slipping or falling, according to CCTV.
The developers designed a special type of shoe for the robotic dog to maintain stability to adapt to the harsh environment of Antarctica.
"The material of the shoe itself can withstand temperatures as low as -40 C. Additionally, when it comes into contact with the ice, the pressure it exerts becomes very small, providing anti-slip capabilities while causing minimal damage to the ice surface. This ensures the robotic dog can walk on ice as if it were flat ground," said Mao Shijie, the head of the Antarctic six-legged robotic team and director of Shanghai Branch of the Lenovo Research Institute, CCTV reported.
The robotic dog is equipped not only with specially designed shoes but also with a thermally insulated battery in its abdomen, enabling it to function for two hours in the harsh Antarctic temperatures ranging from -30 C to -40 C. Nevertheless, this measure alone falls short of expectations, prompting the development team to explore and implement more advanced solutions to significantly extend its battery life.
"For scientific research, we often need it to work for more than four hours, such as during ice surface detection. In such cases, we add two additional batteries on top of the robotic dog, ensuring it can operate for 4-6 hours," Mao added.
According to the CCTV, the six-legged robotic dog now has successfully completed tests involving walking and carrying loads on the slippery, low-temperature ice surfaces of Antarctica, capable of bearing loads between 70 to 100 kilograms. The research team stated that the robotic dog's tasks are not limited to transporting supplies. In the future, it will be improved and upgraded based on the needs of the scientific research teams to support applications such as safety detection and fieldwork operations.
Mao emphasized that the safety is another major concern, as crevices in the ice are invisible when walking on the surface. One of the robotic dog's critical missions is to carry an ice crevice detector and walk ahead of the entire team.
The data collected during the on-site tests will support future upgrades and modifications of the robotic dog. The research team plans to enhance the current technology to enable the robotic dog to take on safety detection tasks.
Additionally, developers aim to integrate the robotic dog with underwater robots and drones to perform combined operations, particularly addressing complex scenarios such as sampling at multiple underwater locations, which are frequently required by research teams.
Beyond scientific research, the six-legged robotic dog is expected to play a role in various other fields, such as monitoring power equipment or providing companionship for elderly individuals living alone or with mobility challenges through the integration of AI technology.
Nowadays, the six-legged robotic dog has been widely applied in the field of power inspection due to its high load capacity and stable walking capabilities. It is capable of monitoring the condition of power equipment and detecting issues such as rust, oil leaks, or instrument abnormalities.
A memorial ceremony was held at 9:30 am on Monday morning to honor the earthquake victims in Chamco Township, the area most severely affected by the 6.8-magnitude earthquake in Dingri county, Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region.
Hundreds of participants, including soldiers from the PLA and armed police, firefighters, public security officers, medical personnel, young volunteers, employees from relevant enterprises, officials, and representatives from the affected community, stood in silence with their hats off for three minutes to mourn their deceased compatriots, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
Monday marks the seventh day since the 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit Dingri. The earthquake struck in the morning of January 7. With a high magnitude and intensity, it resulted in the unfortunate loss of 126 lives and the damage of 27,248 households, including the collapse of 3,612 homes. The earthquake affected five counties, covering 26 townships and 206 villages (communities), with approximately 61,500 people affected to varying degrees.
Currently, a total of 407 people have been rescued, and over 47,500 disaster-affected individuals have been properly relocated. The earthquake relief efforts are being carried out effectively and in an orderly manner. At present, Xizang is making every effort to coordinate temporary and transitional housing arrangements to ensure that the affected population stays warm during the winter.
The Global Times has learned from the Xigaze relief headquarters that as of 6 pm on Sunday, a total of 2,198 prefabricated houses had been built across the quake-stricken areas with the arrival of more than 166,000 pieces of blankets, 40,737 heating stoves, 118,000 sets of clothing, 569 tons of fuel, and 32,363 lighting equipment.
According to the headquarters, other necessity supplies have also been made available to people in need, including roughly 50,530 kilograms of staple foods (tsampa, rice, noodles, and oil), 140 tons of meat, 487 tons of vegetables and fruits, 225,000 kilograms of food, 85,247 boxes of beverages, 15.2 tons of forage for cattle, and 41,275 other household items.
The prefabricated houses started being built on Sunday in Tonglai village, Chamco, with more than 60 completed so far, village official An Zhengfa told the Global Times on Monday. An said they plan to set up 110 units by Monday night so that all the villagers, a total of 491 people in 92 families, can move into the houses from tents on Tuesday.
Besides resident housing, An said Tonglai village had received supplies of instant food, warm clothing, and heating stoves as of Wednesday and had a canteen set up on Friday where villagers can have lunch and supper.
"It's such a relief for us that people have hot meals to eat and warm places to sleep. What we'll do next is to clear the rubble and transfer villagers' property, mainly grain and forage, from their ruined homes," said An.
As of 5 pm on Sunday, there were 650 prefabricated houses set up in Qulho Town, Dingri county, with 763 houses under construction, CCTV reported. According to the head of Qulho, affected residents who have moved into the prefabricated houses have electricity and water. Wi-Fi and public toilets will be soon equipped in settlement .
An emergency psychology research team from the Institute of Psychology under Chinese Academy of Sciences arrived in Xigaze on Thursday. The team visited the resettlement sites in Chamco and Qulho, bringing soccer balls, badminton shuttlecocks and rackets, jump ropes, and hula hoops for the children there as part of an effort in post-disaster psychological assistance.
In response to a media inquiry regarding the Philippine National Security Council spokesperson’s claims about China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels in the South China Sea, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday that CCG conducts patrols in relevant waters in accordance with the law, which is justified and beyond reproach.
“China has addressed similar questions on multiple occasions. I would like to reiterate that China’s sovereignty and related rights in the South China Sea have been established through a long historical process, supported by extensive historical and legal evidence, and are consistent with international law and practices. The CCG conducts law enforcement patrols in relevant waters in accordance with the law, which is entirely justified and beyond reproach,” Guo said.
We once again urge the Philippines to cease any infringement, provocative acts, and inflammatory claims, and to cease all actions that disrupt peace and stability in the South China Sea or complicate the situation, said Guo.
A new exhibition about the historic Yongle Palace, a renowned masterpiece of Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368) architecture which recently gained fame through its depiction in the popular Chinese game Black Myth: Wukong, kicked off at the National Museum of Classic Books on Wednesday.
The Glory Within Authenticity - Essential Cultural Relics and Digital Art Exhibition of Yongle Palace features a total of 15 cultural relics, including 13 first-class national cultural relics, most being displayed for the first time.
The Yongle Palace, the only surviving official architectural complex from the Yuan Dynasty in North China's Shanxi Province, is renowned for its magnificent ancient buildings and vibrant murals.
An Hai, a deputy director of the Ancient Architecture and Polychrome Mural Conservation Research Institute in Shanxi Province, told the Global Times that the artifacts on display are tangible evidence of the inclusiveness and originality of Chinese civilization.
For instance, the large-scale glazed ridge decorations in the Sanqing Hall of the palace showcase ancient craftsmen's innovative use of lattice carving techniques combined with traditional clay sculpture and polychrome painting, highlighting the two features of Chinese civilization.
In addition, the peacock blue glaze on these artifacts have remained vivid even after 700 years, while the secret formula for its production remains an unsolved mystery, adding an air of mystery to this architectural complex.
Another highlight of the exhibition is the integration of cutting-edge digital technology.
"AI has been used to restore and bring to life the murals, polychrome sculptures, and original appearance of the Yongle Palace," he said, pointing out that although many historical details of Yongle Palace have become blurred over time, the deep application of AI technology in this exhibition has helped restore its architectural layout and murals.
"Visitors can step into the digitally reconstructed Yongle Palace and immerse themselves in the architectural wonders and artistic treasures of seven centuries ago."
Zhang Huiguo, a deputy director of the Shanxi Museum, told the Global Times that following the release of Black Myth: Wukong, the number of visitors to the Yongle Palace has surged in the past year since some murals from the Yongle Palace were featured in the game. The exhibition in Beijing aims to attract more visitors to the history of the palace through these cultural relics and high-tech digital displays.
The year 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal. As friendly neighbors and strategic cooperative partners, China and Nepal have witnessed growing cooperation across a range of fields and deepening ties over the years. In December 2024, China and Nepal signed a framework agreement to promote Belt and Road cooperation, demonstrating the strengthening mutual political trust between the two countries. However, this cooperation has, at times, fallen prey to false accusations by certain foreign media outlets. What role do relations with China play in Nepal's foreign policy? How does Nepal stand to benefit from cooperation with China? Global Times reporter Xie Wenting (GT) spoke with newly appointed Ambassador of Nepal to China Krishna Prasad Oli (Oli), who arrived in China on November 21, 2024, on these topics and more. GT: Nepali Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli recently concluded his visit to China which attracted worldwide attention. How do you assess the outcomes of Prime Minister Oli's visit? How do you view the visit in terms of further promoting bilateral relations?
Oli: Our Right Honorable Prime Minister recently concluded a four-day visit to China. The visit has been very successful and productive. The whole gamut of our bilateral relations was assessed. Deliberations on issues of mutual interest have produced excellent results.
The signing of the framework agreement to promote Belt and Road cooperation is the most important result of the four-day sojourn to Beijing. This framework ushers in a new era of Nepal-China practical cooperation. This framework also exhibits political understanding and goodwill among the highest leaders of both our countries.
This framework will help augment Nepal's development endeavors. Nepal needs to invest in infrastructure to realize the goals of sustainable socio-economic transformation.
Together with the framework, 10 other Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, which are important in cooperation for the mutual benefit of the two countries.
I believe the visit has further elevated our ties. We have had several breakthroughs this time. Several projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) will help Nepal transform itself into a "landlinked" country from a landlocked country. We have also decided to make Bhairahawa and Pokhara international airports more operational by increasing the number of flights to those cities.
In summary, the visit has further consolidated the bilateral relations of our two countries.
GT: What role do relations with China play in Nepal's overall foreign policy?
Oli: Our foreign policy is guided by the principle of "Amity with all, enmity with none."
Our foreign policy attaches high significance to relations with our neighbors. We are situated between two giant neighbors that are growing at an excellent pace.
China is an economic powerhouse. We highly appreciate the achievements that China has made in a short span of time, especially the eradication of absolute poverty. We wish to learn from the miraculous development of China and embark on our own journey of socio-economic transformation.
On a political front, our friendship has always been free of trouble. Despite the difference in size and social systems, relations have always been exemplary. Hence, relations with a trusted friend and development partner like China are of significance in our foreign policy.
This year, we will be celebrating the 70th anniversary of Nepal-China diplomatic relations. To that end, both sides have jointly announced the year 2025 as "Nepal Visit Year," which will help further consolidate people-to-people ties.
GT: Nepal signed a framework agreement with China to promote BRI cooperation in December 2024. What does Nepal hope to accomplish under the framework? What are the priority projects for Nepal?
Oli: Seven years after signing the MoU on bilateral cooperation under the framework of the BRI, this new framework has ushered in a new era in enhanced Nepal-China "practical cooperation." Based on the MoU signed in 2017, this framework will be a guiding document for the implementation of projects initiated by Nepal and the funding modality will be discussed on a project-by-project basis.
With our political issues mostly settled, we are wholeheartedly focused on our journey of economic transformation. We want to focus on connectivity projects through this initiative. There are several projects enlisted under this framework.
The cross-border railway between Nepal and China under the purview of the Trans Himalaya Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network is a dream project that will not only allow the flow of goods, but also people and services from both countries. Tunnel construction, the construction of special economic zones, hydropower, energy, and tourism, among others, are some important areas of cooperation. Collaboration in various fields will further grow and expand the age-old relations.
GT: How do you assess past cooperation between the two countries under the BRI?
Oli: Our MoU regarding the BRI was signed in 2017, and nine projects were mutually identified under this agreement. A year later, in 2018, under the purview of transnational and multidimensional connectivity networks, we decided to collaborate on roads, railways, ports, and aviation. In the contemporary world, transportation and communication are crucial aspects of human development. For this reason, we need various modes of transportation, including aviation, land transportation, and railways. Additionally, trade plays a vital role in this development.
Now that the framework agreement for cooperation under the BRI has been signed, we can expect to see tangible results in the near future.
In addition to the major infrastructure projects, there are several other initiatives that can help connect the hearts and minds of the people living in the border areas of China and Nepal.
GT: The signing of the agreement was claimed by some media outlets to have generated concerns regarding the so-called "debt trap." What's your response?
Oli: I think criticizing the BRI as a "debt trap" would be totally misguided. This visionary initiative the BRI has lived through 10 years with its more than 150 partners.
The initiative ensures investment in infrastructure, connectivity, energy, and more, all the way through East Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, and Europe. The BRI is a vision for common development, collective prosperity, and a shared future for humanity that is based on the principles of mutual cooperation, mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation.
For all the parties, I see a brighter future for cooperation under the BRI. In Nepal, the feasibility study of the cross-border railways is underway and is expected to be completed in 2026. After the feasibility study, the project shall be launched into implementation. Similarly, transmission grid lines also hold the key to our aspirations of further deepening connectivity.
I believe it is not a debt trap; rather, it is an initiative to promote the prosperity of humanity globally. As neighbors, we aim to advance our agenda of a happy Nepal, a prosperous Nepal, and happy Nepalis. This will contribute to achieving those goals.
GT: How does Nepal navigate its relationships with both China and India? How do you view the hype by some media outlets that the Nepali Prime Minister "broke from tradition" to visit China first?
Oli: It is only played out by some media outlets. We are a country between two giant neighbors. We attach special importance to our relationship with these neighbors.
Let me clarify that there was no such tradition and there is no breach of any tradition. We have enormous engagements with our neighbors. We have a lot of areas of cooperation with our friendly neighbors China and India. China is a trusted friend and a development partner. We have so many projects that need to be implemented. Therefore, the Right Honorable Prime Minister paid an official visit to decide upon the implementation of projects and explore other potential areas of cooperation as per our development requirements.
However, there seems to be some misunderstanding regarding the purpose of this visit. Some media sources are attempting to politicize the issue and create diplomatic tensions. This should not be a matter of contention. It is important not to use such subjects as political weapons. We maintain friendly relations with both of our neighbors, and this should not be a source of conflict.
Our focus should remain on fostering friendship and cooperation. Unfortunately, this narrative has been distorted by some media outlets. In my view, this is not an issue at all. GT: What's your interpretation of the Global Development Initiative (GDI) and its significance to the world?
Oli: The GDI is a landmark initiative that maintains "development as a priority." The GDI, I believe, is going to augment the realization of Sustainable Development Goals. It aims to create a "brighter future for mankind" and a "global development community." This initiative has provided a stronger voice to the Global South and provided a much-needed impetus to South-South cooperation.
The eight priority areas spelled out in the GDI reflect the magnanimity of the initiative. Areas like poverty alleviation, food security, and financing for development hold particular significance for the Global South. Besides, the initiative advocates sustainability and inclusivity. The development efforts pursued should be in "harmony with nature" to create a sustainable world and save this world for future generations. Nepal supported the initiative and the government of Nepal has decided to join the Group of Friends of the GDI.
GT: How do you assess the role of the Global Security Initiative (GSI)?
Oli: The GSI is promoting global peace. We need to examine a couple of key factors contributing to insecurity. There are several reasons for this insecurity, but two significant ones are poverty and poor communication. Poor communication affects various aspects, including infrastructure, transportation, and health-related issues. The GSI can effectively focus on resolving them. I believe that once these challenges are tackled, people will begin to live in harmony and peace.
The goal of the GSI is to create a more peaceful world by fostering a conducive environment. If implemented properly by each country, it can enhance the overall quality of life. A high quality of human life also means that human nature will be protected and conserved, leading to fewer problems, less conflict, and reduced poverty.
GT: Nepal has a rich history and beautiful landscapes. China proposed the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), which advocates for respect for diverse cultures. What's your interpretation of the GCI?
Oli: The GCI respects the diversity of cultures and people-to-people exchanges. It respects the value of humanity.
Nepal is a country with a deep-rooted civilization, characterized by its many ethnic groups, diverse cultures, and various faiths. Therefore, the concept of mutual respect among people is crucial; it fosters an environment in which individuals can acknowledge each other's feelings and perspectives. This reciprocal respect enhances the overall value of humanity and upholds the dignity of every individual. Such principles are vital for promoting harmony and understanding in our interconnected world.
As a conservationist myself, I am hugely fascinated by the idea of "Eco-Civilization" where all civilizations live in harmony with nature. Balancing modernization endeavors and nature is a delicate task. It is a noble approach to put "green transformation" to centrality in all modernization efforts.
We need to learn from China, which is far ahead in the green economy. This is where all countries around the world need to pool their resources and effort to tackle all forms of pollution and promote green growth and fight the adverse effects of climate change.
China warmly welcomes the new addition to the BRICS family, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday, in response to Brazil, as the BRICS chair 2025, releasing a statement on Monday night announcing the official entry of Indonesia as a full member into BRICS.
The BRICS cooperation mechanism came into being amidst the collective rise of emerging markets and developing countries. It is also what the world would like to see in the interest of peace, the world's common development and better global governance, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a routine press conference.
BRICS has become a vital platform for promoting solidarity and cooperation of the Global South and a major force driving the reform of the global governance system, Guo said.
China stands ready to work with all BRICS members to embrace the spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, advance the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation, jointly advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and promote the building of a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and a community with a shared future for all, the spokesperson noted.
The future holds tremendous promise for greater BRICS cooperation, he said.
According to the Jakarta Post, Indonesia's foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday that it welcomed Brazil's announcement and that "BRICS membership is a strategic way to increase collaboration and partnership with other developing nations."
Indonesia's membership in BRICS is a strategic step toward strengthening South-South cooperation and represents the aspirations of Global South countries in global decision-making processes, the ministry said, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
Indonesia shares a similar perspective on global governance and international order to that of other BRICS member countries, as it is committed to the democratization of international relations and the multipolarization of the world, Wang Youming, director of the Institute of Developing Countries at the China Institute of International Studies in Beijing, told the Global Times on Tuesday, noting that its joining is expected to contribute more strength and voices from the Global South.
"The continuous expansion of BRICS reflects the growing momentum among an increasing number of Global South countries to jointly promote a more equitable and just transformation of global governance," Wang said, noting that the BRICS platform advocates for equity, consultation and cooperation rather than confrontation, which stands in stark contrast to the exclusive and closed circles of the West.
With more countries from the Global South joining the BRICS family, their collective strength in promoting global governance reform is guided by the principles of fairness, justice, openness and inclusiveness, and it will become more powerful, the expert said.
A card that foreigners can use to take public transportation and shopping, a portable terminal that combines multi functions including communication and payment ... The Global Times learned on Wednesday that Beijing is optimizing its services to facilitate international arrivals' stay and travel in China as the number of international arrivals kept climbing thanks to the country's increasingly relaxing visa-free policies.
According to the Beijing Municipal Administration of Government Services and Data Management, Beijing Service counters had been officially put into operation at prominent locations in the international arrival areas of both Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport since January 1.
Each counter offers more than 20 most requested services in the fields of finance, communication, transportation, and culture and tourism. These counters aim to provide convenient and friendly experiences in one go for all foreigners at their first stops in the city, Chang Jun, a manager of the quality service department of the Capital Airports Holdings Co Ltd, told the Global Times.
For example, in the Payment Services area, services such as those concerning cash withdrawal with foreign bank cards and currency exchange, consultations about payment methods, and guidance to download mobile payment Apps are provided; in the Mobile Services area, services such as issuance of SIM cards for mobile phones and airport Wi-Fi access are provided. Promotional brochures for various cultural, sports, and business activities are also available at these service counters.
"The services are great. First of all, they're very near to each other. So if a foreigner comes here for the first time, then he can basically come here to buy a SIM card, and also ask information for transportation to his hotel. If they want, they have access to other services, like banking. So it's very convenient for foreigners. Especially the translation APP. This is very useful. They have more than 14 languages. So if someone doesn't speak English, it's also very helpful," a vlogger from Canada named Felix Bachand told the Global Times after experiencing the services at the Beijing Capital International Airport.
China has been expanding its visa-free policies in the past year. As of now, the country has implemented transit visa-free policies for 54 countries. It also exempts ordinary passport holders from 38 countries from visa to enter China and stay for no more than 30 days for business, tourism, family visit, exchange visit and transit purposes from November 30, 2024 to December 31, 2025.
These policies have largely facilitated travel to China and enhanced international exchange, leading to a China Travel craze around the world.
In Beijing, local ports processed visa-free entry for a total of 920,000 foreign visitors in 2024, issuing temporary entry permits of 144 hours and 240 hours to 64,000 foreign travelers who met the entry conditions, which are 4.9 times and 2.2 times higher than the same period in 2023, respectively, the People's Daily reported on January 2.
Among them, approximately 1.91 million foreign visitors entered through the Beijing Capital International Airport, with 710,000 enjoying visa-free entry. More than 28,000 foreigners benefited from the 144-hour and 240-hour transit visa-free policies at the port. At the Daxing International Airport, around 560,000 foreign visitors entered, with 210,000 enjoying visa-free entry, and 36,000 foreigners benefiting from the 144-hour and 240-hour transit visa-free policies at that port, according to the report.
