A closely watched United Nations (UN) Security Council election delivered a mix of continuity and change on local time Wednesday, as Austria, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, Zimbabwe, and first-time member Kyrgyzstan secured seats as non-permanent member of the Security Council, while Germany suffered a notable setback, according to UN News.

The election came against the backdrop of widening geopolitical divisions and repeated deadlock within the UN body in resolving conflicts and preventing wars. The five countries were elected by the 193-member General Assembly to serve as non-permanent members of the Security Council for two-year terms beginning on January 1, 2027.

Austria and Portugal won the two seats allocated to the Western European and other States Group, while Trinidad and Tobago was elected from the Latin American and Caribbean Group and Zimbabwe from the African Group.

Kyrgyzstan secured the Asia-Pacific seat after defeating the Philippines in four rounds of voting. Germany, however, suffered what the media refers to as "a historic defeat" in the election, breaking its winning streak.

The Security Council has 15 members: five permanent members with veto power - China, France, Russia, the UK and the US - and 10 non-permanent members elected by the General Assembly for staggered two-year terms.

Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Latvia and Liberia will remain on the Council through the end of 2027, providing continuity in its work.

The Security Council has the authority to impose sanctions, authorize peacekeeping missions, establish international tribunals and, in exceptional circumstances, authorize the use of force.

Although non-permanent members of the UN Security Council do not possess veto power, they can directly participate in the deliberation, voting, and agenda-shaping of issues concerning international peace and security. Their institutional influence should not be underestimated, Gao Wanni, the deputy dean of the School of Politics and International Relations at Lanzhou University, told the Global Times on Thursday.

Chen Hong, director of the Asia-Pacific Studies Center at East China Normal University, told the Global Times the election outcome reflects the UN member states' response to the principles of geographical balance, fair representation, and the broader trend toward a multipolar world.

Making history

One of the most dramatic and striking moment of the Wednesday election was the win for Kyrgyzstan. This marked not only a major diplomatic breakthrough for Bishkek, but also the return of Central Asian representation to the Security Council for the first time in nearly a decade, following Kazakhstan's 2017-2018 term, according to the UN official news site release and Central Asian media reports.

"A Truly Historic Moment! Thank You for Your Trust!" the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan wrote in a post on X, attaching a video of the announcement of the final round of voting where Kyrgyzstan defeated the Philippines. In the final round, 142 countries voted in favor of Kyrgyzstan, a two-thirds majority.

After the victory, Kyrgyzstan's Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubayev told reporters "we understand now is a turbulent time" and said Kyrgyzstan will work together with other council members, the AP reported on Thursday.

The Philippine local media Inquier.net covered the close contest between the two countries while highlighting that "Kyrgyzstan is among 59 UN member states that have never served on the Security Council."

According to the Philippine News Agency, Malacanang presidential palace on Thursday said domestic political tensions may have contributed to the Philippines' unsuccessful bid for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council.

Pass Blue, an independent, US-based digital publication that monitors and reports on activities by the UN, reported on Wednesday that Kyrgyzstan campaigned on a commitment to the UN Charter, multilateralism and conflict prevention. The permanent representative, Aida Kasymalieva, described the race as a milestone in the country's post-independence development.

"This is not only about a seat," she said during a World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) session on May 20. "It's about the completion of a long chapter of state-building, democratic transition, national consolidation, and international engagement."

Kyrgyzstan's election reflects a deeper demand for representation. Among UN member states, there are numerous landlocked small and medium-sized countries like Kyrgyzstan, yet they have long remained on the margins of the Security Council agenda. In this election, a country that has never held a Security Council seat before defeated the Philippines — which possesses a stronger traditional diplomatic network — by a wide margin of 142 votes to 49. This in itself is a clear signal, Gao said.

The victory also carries broader regional significance. Central Asia sits at the intersection of several issues regularly discussed at the Security Council, including counterterrorism, water security, transnational crime and regional stability. Kyrgyzstan's term is expected to give the region a more direct platform in Council deliberations, the Times of Central Asia report noted.

Bitter defeat

Western media services such as Reuters emphasized more over the fallout of Germany, stating that Germany, which had lobbied hard for a seat, came third for the two places contested by the Western European and Others Group, with 104 votes, against 134 for Portugal and 131 for Austria.

Germany's leading role in rallying support for Ukraine and its close relations with Israel may have cost Berlin the chance of a seat ‌on the UN Security Council, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on Wednesday, Reuters reported in another report on Wednesday.

Speaking to the press after the vote, Wadephul called the outcome "a real disappointment." German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said: "We applied with conviction. We did not achieve our goal," local media DW reported.

According to RFI, this marks Germany's seventh bid for a non-permanent UN Security Council seat and its first-ever defeat. As Europe's largest economy, a G7 member and one of the major UN contributors, Germany had won all six previous campaigns.

DW noted that Germany is the second-largest contributor to the UN. The DW report also said that Wadephul, who had traveled to the UN in New York for the occasion, told the press afterwards that Germany's positions on the wars in Ukraine and Gaza may have influenced how states voted.

"It also may have cost us votes that Germany must always assume a special responsibility to Israel with regard to the Middle East conflict," Wadephul said.

Euronews wrote that diplomatic circles also viewed critically the fact that the German federal government had failed to clearly describe either the US or the Israeli attacks on Iran as violations of international law. Observers saw this as a potential handicap for the candidacy.

The Times headlined its report "Germany suffers historic UN Security Council defeat." A loss to Austria denies Berlin a seat, breaking a winning streak in the periodic ballots, per the Times.

Germany has been a non-permanent member of the Security Council six times to date: 1977/1978, 1987/1988, 1995/1996, 2003/2004, 2011/2012 and 2019/2020, per the federal government.

The defeats of Germany and the Philippines — both close US allies — show reliance on US-style alliances and bloc confrontation is no longer widely supported by the international community, Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Thursday.

Through unilateral measures such as slashing UN funding, successively withdrawing from multilateral mechanisms, and selectively engaging in international affairs, the US has further worsened the international community's perception of the American-style global governance model, said the experts.

According to Li, the election signals expectations that global governance should shift toward greater equity, balance and stability.

Luan Yukun, a 33-year-old climber from North China's Hebei Province, completed a consecutive climb of Mount Qomolangma and Mount Lhotse in less than 48 hours, becoming the first Chinese mountaineer to have accomplished both the Qomolangma-Lhotse consecutive climb and earlier ascents of Mount Qomolangma from its southern and northern routes, China Central Television News (CCTV) reported on Sunday.

According to CCTV, Luan reached the summit of Mount Qomolangma at 11:33 am on May 20 and, instead of descending from Camp 4, he continued toward Mount Lhotse, reaching its summit at 11:31 am on May 22, according to CCTV. He had previously summited Mount Qomolangma from the south face of the mountain (on the Nepalese side) in 2023 and from the northern slope of China's Xizang Autonomous Region, in 2024. 

In a close-up image of Luan posted by CCTV in its coverage, on the summit of Mount Lhotse, Luan looked weathered by the climb, with deep marks from his oxygen mask pressed into his face. He said one finger was badly frostbitten and had turned slightly dark, while his right hand and feet were also affected. "The frostbite was quite serious this time," Luan said. "It is a mark left by the climb, and in a way, also a gift."

After serving in the military, Luan carried that drive into work and mountaineering. He climbed the first high-altitude snow mountain of his life in 2017 and summited Muztagh Ata in 2022. A failed Qomolangma-Lhotse attempt in 2023 became "a regret and a motivation." In 2024, he summited Qomolangma from the tougher northern route.

After returning from more than 8,000-meter to lower altitudes, Luan is often asked why he keeps climbing, he says the feeling is hard to explain, but "everything feels worth it." Mountaineering may not always be enjoyable at the moment, he said, yet the happiness and growth it brings last far longer. "A ship is safest in harbor, but that is not what ships are built for," Luan said.

Several individuals have been administratively punished for cyberbullying a village Party secretary in Central China's Hunan Province after spreading rumors about her wearing "gold earrings" while engaged in flood relief work, the Xinhua News Agency reported on Tuesday, citing China's Ministry of Public Security.

According to the report, Shimen County in Hunan Province was recently hit by heavy rainfall. A village cadre remained on the front line of flood control and disaster relief for several consecutive days, going door to door to alert residents, organizing evacuations, arranging temporary shelter, and delivering supplies. Her dedication moved many netizens.

However, while society was rallying to support disaster-relief efforts, a small number of netizens made groundless accusations against her because of the accessories she wore during an interview. They speculated that "the earrings weigh two liang (about 100 grams)," and posted belittling and mocking comments such as "ordinary rural women can't afford gold earrings" and "it would be more touching if she donated the earrings." Their actions interfered with flood relief efforts and created a highly negative impact, according to the Xinhua report.

Public security and cyber security authorities moved swiftly to investigate the case and handled 15 incidents of cyberbullying in accordance with the law. A 44-year-old man surnamed Qin, and a 45-year-old man surnamed Wei, among others, were given administrative penalties in accordance with the law, per Xinhua.

The cyber security department of the public security authorities said it will continue its "Clean Internet" campaign, focusing on tackling prominent online problems such as cyberbullying, online trolls, and online rumors, while cracking down on related illegal and criminal activities to safeguard the lawful rights and interests of the public and maintain order in cyberspace.

In response to the "reciprocity " cited by the US Department of State regarding media-related issues, Mao Ning, spokesperson of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, criticized the US's professed commitment to freedom of speech and urged Washington to implement common understandings through concrete measures to ensure Chinese journalists' lawful right to work and reside normally in the US.

At the press briefing on Wednesday, when asked to comment on a spokesperson of the US State Department claiming that the current US administration has a firm commitment to freedom of speech, and would not accept China's continued lack of reciprocity in treating US media, alleging China has long imposed restrictions on US journalists and other foreign journalists in China, Mao said the US is the one that caused the media issue. Since the two sides reached the three common understandings on this issue, China has implemented them in their entirety, and has facilitated US journalists' reporting in China in ways such as visa approvals, whereas Chinese journalists' reporting right has been severely curbed. 

Hardly any Chinese journalists are allowed to raise questions at the White House briefings. Their applications for visa or residence permits are often delayed without explanation. Multiple journalists have been forced to return to China. Chinese journalists' applications for short-term reporting rarely get approved, Mao said. 

Mao asked, " Is that what the US side means by "reciprocity"?"

Mao said that the US side keeps emphasizing freedom of speech., But when Chinese media are labeled "foreign agent" or "foreign mission" in the US, does that look like freedom of speech to the US side?

"What the US side should do is to implement the common understandings with real actions and ensure that Chinese journalists can work and stay normally in the US, which is their lawful right," Mao said. 

The number of visitors to new properties and second-hand houses increased after a series of policies and measures boosting the real estate sector were released in rapid succession during the past week.

"Inquiries for new houses and second-hand houses have increased, with about 30 percent more visits on Saturday and Sunday compared to the previous week," a sales manager surnamed Hao at a Beijing branch of Lianjia, a leading housing agency in China, told the Global Times on Monday.

As one of the latest moves, the People's Bank of China (PBC), China's central bank, on Sunday night released four major policies regarding the real estate sector, including lowering the interest rate on mortgages, lowering the down payment ratio, improving refinance for low-income housing, and extending the duration of some real estate financial policies.

The adjustment in the pricing mechanism for mortgage rates indicated a significant reduction in mortgage rates for existing home loans, with an average estimated reduction of 0.5 percentage points, CCTV reported.

Also on Sunday night, first-tier cities such as Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzen released policies easing house purchases to help boost the market.

Guangzhou, the capital city of South China's Guangdong Province, announced the cancellation of various restrictions on households buying homes in the city on Sunday, effective from Monday.

Stocks related to the real estate sector surged on Monday, with some stocks surging to reach their daily trading limit.

CITIC Securities said in an analysis report published on Monday that the new housing policies are expected to release improved demand actively, optimize the stock, and promote the real estate market to reverse the downturn and stabilize. The construction of the new model of the real estate market and the recovery of the real estate market demand will coexist.

China and Brazil, together with a number of countries from the Global South, have established a "Friends of Peace" platform on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, in a bid to seek peace amid the Ukraine crisis, which has been dragged on for more than two years. 

The move is another step forward after China and Brazil jointly issued a six-point consensus on their common understanding of the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis in May.

Ever since the Russia-Ukraine conflict started, Global South countries have avoided taking sides in the conflict. They also don't see eye to eye the way the Western countries deal with Russia in an international system that has long been dominated by the US-led West. The Global South countries, represented by China and Brazil, have delivered a message that is different from the self-centered West.

Historically speaking, Global South countries were beset by the dominance of the Global North through political and economic exploitation and had long been outside the center of international political arena. In other words, they were in a weak or even marginalized position. But in recent years, Global South countries have emerged and their voices can be heard clearly on the world stage. Even Western countries have taken notice of this trend. This is because Global South countries think independently and have the courage to pursue a fair and just international order.

The root cause of the Ukraine crisis is clear. So is the reason why it is dragging on for so long. The US and the West, with their inherent arrogance and self-righteousness, have been pushing forward NATO's eastward expansion without taking into account the special historical and geographical sensitivities of Russia and Ukraine, which ultimately led to the situation being out of control. As the initiator of the conflict, the US would rather prolong the conflict than end it, only to sustain its hegemony. During the more than two years' time, many opportunities for peace have been missed.

This time, again, the US has tried to dismiss the efforts made by Global South countries. When asked about the latest peace proposal, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken resorted to the old-fashioned cliché of China's "support" to Russia. 

Cui Heng, a lecturer from the Shanghai-based China National Institute for SCO International Exchange and Judicial Cooperation, believes this reflects the paucity of the US' diplomatic rhetoric. 

"The US only wants to shirk its responsibility in the Ukraine crisis. Few countries now buy the 'China responsibility' rhetoric," said Cui.

Cui noted that if the US were in the situation of Russia, it could have kicked NATO out of its sphere of influence. 

"In an international order dominated by the US, there is no such a thing as fairness and justice. In this context, why can't Global South countries push forward changes?" he asked. 

The Ukraine crisis is a tragedy of international politics and tragedy of the world. In the past, when faced with major regional conflicts or international conflicts, it was often Western countries that decided the final direction or ultimately played a role. But this time the situation is different. Unlike Western countries that choose sides, most countries in the Global South uphold a balanced and neutral position and champion peace. 

The emergence of Global South countries is offering hope to the Ukraine crisis. Perhaps the US and the West should ponder why they only bring war but the Global South could create conditions and atmosphere for peace talks. 

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had discussions on the Ukraine crisis, among other issues, with his counterparts from Russia and Ukraine when Wang met them separately on Wednesday. 

Chinese analysts said the positive response and appreciations from the two conflicting parties toward China's contribution just prove that accusations from a few countries over China's stance on the crisis are nonsense and laughable. 

China's exchanges and interactions with Russia and Ukraine at the UN have also exposed that some Western countries, especially the US, are not standing for peace, and don't care about the Ukrainian and Russian people who are suffering from the war; instead, they have selfish hegemonic interest in this issue, experts noted.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha separately on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly.

Wang said at the meeting with Ukraine's top diplomat that China is willing to work with Ukraine to maintain the momentum of stable development in bilateral relations. Wang emphasized that China has always advocated for peaceful resolution of conflicts, and this remains true for the Ukraine issue.

China has been closely monitoring the humanitarian situation in Ukraine, and has provided four batches of humanitarian aid so far, and is ready to offer additional assistance based on Ukraine's needs, Wang said. China is also willing to maintain communication with all parties including Ukraine, in an effort to achieve peace at an early date, he noted.

At the meeting with Wang, Sybiha reiterated Ukraine's adherence to the one-China policy and expressed the willingness to build a strong partnership with China, adding that Ukraine highly values China's stance on the crisis and its efforts for peace, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

During his meeting with the Russian top diplomat, Wang said China will always stay true to the original aspiration of establishing diplomatic relations with Russia and continuously enrich their comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era for the greater well-being of people of both countries.

Lavrov said at the meeting with Wang that Russia is willing to work with China to push for greater development of bilateral relations. The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Chinese analysts said China has always kept close communication with both sides since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022, and is still making great mediation efforts to try to stop the conflict and restore peace. This has already proven that China's stance for peace is undoubtable, but a few countries, especially the US, have kept blaming, accusing and distorting China's stance on the Ukraine crisis when they are trying to add fuel to the flame. These few countries are also spending huge amounts of their' taxpayers' money to prolong the deadly war.

Wang said on Tuesday at the UN headquarters while attending a UN Security Council high-level meeting on the situation in Ukraine that "any attempt to blame, attack or smear China on the Ukraine issue is irresponsible and will not succeed."

Selfishness, incompetence exposed

The US has frequently smeared and attacked China on the Ukraine issue. However, when Ukraine said it highly values China's stance on the crisis and its efforts for peace, the selfishness and hegemonic interest of Washington in the Ukraine crisis has completely been exposed. 

Zhang Hong, a research fellow at the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Thursday that an effective and sustainable solution of Ukraine crisis should be based on reality and the respect to the reasonable concerns of both sides, but the one-sided support from the US-led West to Kiev has made the conflict to escalate. 

"The past two years have proved that the military support from the West to Ukraine has failed to promote peace but has extended and escalated the conflict time and again," Zhang noted. 

By preventing the war from ending, the US military-industrial complex can keep earning money from the massive military aid and Washington can keep its influence over the EU and maintain pressure on Russia, so when the US trashes China's stance, it's laughable and nonsense, said experts.

Nonetheless, the US attacks and smears China's stance in order to sow discord between China and the EU over the Ukraine crisis, Zhang said. "This kind of trick has just exposed the incompetence and selfishness of Washington in handling this crisis." 

Wang Yi on Wednesday also met with Josep Borrell, high representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Wang expressed his appreciation for Borrell's commitment and effort as the EU's top diplomat on promoting mutual trust and cooperation between the two sides.

Borrell, for his part, said China's rise is an unstoppable historical trend. China is already a strong country and will continue to grow stronger. The world needs China and Europe should strengthen cooperation with China.

The world is not peaceful as challenges are growing and conflicts keep cropping up, and countries need to work together to maintain peace and security, said Borrell. The two sides also exchanged views on the crisis in Ukraine.

Cui Heng, a research fellow with the Center for Russian Studies of East China Normal University, said that the US' attempts to sow discord between China and EU members by smearing China's stance on the Ukraine crisis did affect some EU members, but major countries like Germany and France still maintain strategic autonomy, and that's why the EU clearly understands that it needs to work together with China. 

Be realistic

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Wednesday rejected the China-Brazil peace proposal during his speech as the UN General Assembly, while Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva advocated on Tuesday at the same event for a plan for talks between Russia and Ukraine to end their conflict, Reuters reported. 

Zhang said Zelenskiy has high expectation to the peace plan. Yet, to be realistic, Ukraine needs to understand that the higher expectation it has, the more difficult it will be for all parties to reach a feasible plan. The conflicting parties can at least stop the conflict first and solve other complicated issues by negotiations, but if the conflicting parties refuse to do so, the war will be maintained in long term.

Another reason is that Ukraine is unable to make decisions on its own, as the US is the real key player behind this war. So, before Washington believes that it's time for a talk with Moscow to stop this war in Ukraine, we might not be able to see Ukraine make a clear decision and accept any peace proposal. However, China and Brazil, as well as other members who are calling for peace among the international community, will keep on working toward stopping this endless war, said experts. 

On September 19, State Grid Aksu Power Supply Company successfully achieved, for the first time, the one-click "full stop and full turn" of the entire 110 kV Sunshine distribution network load through power distribution automation. The successful application of this technology will elevate the practical level of distribution automation in the Aksu region to new heights.
The one-click "all-stop-all-turn" technology for the entire distribution network load station refers to a sequence control technology that enables one-click initiation and sequential execution of batch distribution network switch operations. The application of this technology is of great significance for improving power supply reliability, optimizing power system operation, and improving customers' electricity experience.

It has been reported that the traditional load transfer method for the whole station often involves complex processes and lengthy operations for transferring the distribution network load of four 10kV lines. The conventional on-site load transfer requires 8 operating points and 16 people, with simultaneous operations taking at least 30 minutes, which not only increases operational risk, but also negatively impacts on the user experience. However, by utilizing the one-click "full stop and full switch" technology for the entire distribution network load, four 10 kV lines can be operated through a single power adjustment and switching action. It only takes 1 minute to achieve "full stop and full rotation" of the entire station's distribution network load, an approach that greatly improves work efficiency and reduces operational risks.

To successfully complete this load transfer work, State Grid Aksu Power Supply Company planned and prepared in advance, organizing coordination among various disciplines, such as dispatching, mode, protection, automation, and local county companies. They conducted on-site terminal location verification, remote control preset, switch status verification, and remote signaling checks to ensure the smooth completion of the one-click "full stop and full turn" task for the 110 kV Sunshine Transformation and Distribution Network Load Station.

The successful application of this technology not only enhances the "zero perception" of customers' electricity consumption during operations, improving their overall electricity experience, but also paves the way for Aksu's distribution network to quickly adjust and cope with large-scale maintenance operations.

Next, State Grid Aksu Power Supply Company will continue to promote the functional innovation and construction of the distribution automation master station system. They will keep promoting the one-click "all-stop-all-turn" working method, achieve lean dispatching empowerment through automated means, and continue to pursue high-quality development to meet people's electricity needs for a better life.

As the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) unfolds, global attention turns to the strengthening partnership between China and Africa. As China and Africa discuss the path of Global South modernization, artworks have showcased the deep emotional and cooperative ties between them. 

The relationship between China and Africa is not a distant concept. From infrastructure projects to healthcare improvements and entrepreneurship, the collaboration between the two sides has expanded into an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era  that goes beyond politics and economics and encompasses the emotional and psychological integration of the people of China and Africa.

Close Friends Across Continents, a three-episode documentary created by CCTV that recently aired, paints a vivid picture of the intertwined destinies of both regions through the lens of people-to-people exchanges, while also highlighting a robust, enduring partnership based on mutual respect and shared development goals.

Since the 20th century, China has played a key role in Africa's infrastructure development, a sector that remains crucial today. Projects like the Magufuli Bridge in Tanzania stand as symbols of this partnership. Spanning Lake Victoria, the bridge is set to eliminate commuting barriers for millions of people and strengthen social and economic ties between communities. 

For the engineers and workers who built it, this project was more than just a job - it was a commitment to creating a more connected and prosperous Africa. Across the continent, Chinese construction teams are building roads, railways, and bridges that not only increase economic opportunities but also enhance the quality of life for African communities.

Public service improvements, such as healthcare and education, are equally central to the China-Africa relationship. One standout example is the African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, constructed with China's assistance. This state-of-the-art facility, along with Chinese-built hospitals, has become a pillar of Africa's healthcare infrastructure. These healthcare projects do more than save lives; they foster a sense of community and shared destiny between China and Africa.

The future of China-Africa cooperation lies not only in infrastructure and public service, but also in business in a variety of fields. In the past few years, the two regions have explored new models of cooperation in industries like renewable energy, healthcare technology, and more. Chinese companies have helped establish solar power plants and electric vehicle battery factories in Africa, promoting the sustainable development of the continent.

Joint ventures in medical testing technology have also modernized healthcare systems, helping Africa transform from a developing region to an emerging leader in high-tech industries. This shift is not just about economic growth, it is about empowering Africa to stand as a global leader, contributing to solutions that benefit both the continent and the world.

Ultimately, the connection between China and Africa is humanistic. The phrase "Miles apart, yet close at heart" perfectly captures the emotional and cultural bonds that have formed between the people of these two regions. As a global communication scholar, I deeply feel that the cooperation between China and Africa is based on the interactions of ordinary people - engineers, doctors, entrepreneurs - who aim at not only improving their lives but also creating lasting friendships.

We need to focus on the two-way interaction and multilateral development between China and Africa, especially the role that media in this era assigns to each of us. Building a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future and promoting the modernization of the Global South are the tasks and practices in which we must actively engage.

The author is a professor and deputy dean of the Institute for A Community with Shared Future at Communication University of China in Beijing, and vice chair of the International Communication Section of International Association for Media and Communication Research.

Editor's Note:

Mid-Autumn Festival, a celebration that has spanned centuries in China, is synonymous with the ancient practice of moon worship. Falling on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, when the moon is at its fullest and brightest, the festival has been bestowed with the meaning of unity, with legends such as Chang'e and the moon rabbit enriching its heritage. For Chinese people, the festival is of special ethical significance, while the thought of reuniting with family on this occasion has been a sentiment and mind-set for hundreds of years. The symbolic snack known as mooncake, a traditional offering to the lunar deities and a seasonal treat, has now evolved into a cultural brand representing China.

In this special issue, Global Times reporters Chen Xi, Li Hang and Sun Langchen will help you understand how and why Chinese celebrate this day even though many customs are changing with the times. As the Mid-Autumn Festival, which falls on Tuesday this year, is being celebrated across the whole world nowadays, the festival has also evolved in different ways.

Looking at the Moon and Longing for One Far Away

Zhang Jiuling (Tang Dynasty)

"Over the sea the moon grows bright;

We gaze on it far, far apart.

Lovers complain of long, long night;

I rise and long for my dear heart.

Candles blown out, fuller is light;

My coat put on, I'm moist with dew.

As I can't hand you moonbeams white,

I go to bed to dream of you."
In ancient times, the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival was marked with grand altars adorned with mooncakes, fruit, and other offerings. Families would gather under the lunar glow, positioning the image of the moon god in the direction of the full moon. As red candles burned brightly, family members would take turns paying homage to the moon as the matriarch of the household sliced into a round, reunion mooncake, a gesture signifying the completeness of family bonds.

Nowadays, people celebrate the festival in more creative ways. Experts told the Global Times that both innovative and traditional forms of celebrations are ways to express one's cultural identity and communicate feelings, and these are better expressed through objects or certain mediums.

In Beijing, Tianjin, and Shandong Province, the Tu'er Ye, or Lord Rabbit, emerged as a new festival symbol after the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). The rabbit god represents a secularized imagination of the Jade Rabbit that lives on the moon and is traditionally depicted pounding medicinal herbs.

"We can see that this is a trend with a certain global significance. The Lord Rabbit can serve as a globally shared deity figure during the Mid-Autumn Festival. In the West, the rabbit also symbolizes trust , making it a universally shareable symbol," Xiao Fang, head of the Department of Anthropology and Folklore Studies at Beijing Normal University, told the Global Times.

Moon-viewing tours

As this is the time of the year when the moon is at its fullest, "Chinese-style night tours" have become a new choice for people to celebrate the holiday, including spending the night with family and friends in a garden, or even taking a moon-viewing flight to admire the moon from a closer vantage point.

This year, China will celebrate with a three-day holiday running from September 15 to September 17.

Popular among younger travelers, activities such as moon gazing and exploring historical sites have drawn crowds to cities across the country, particularly to boat tours, ancient gardens, and bustling night markets.

According to data from Tongcheng Travel, in the week leading up to September 5, searches related to domestic ancient towns and garden night tours during the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday saw a 77 percent week-on-week increase, while searches for night cruises increased by 42 percent.

In Suzhou, East China's Jiangsu Province, a city renowned for its classical gardens, a series of moon-viewing night tours are being introduced, offering travelers a visual feast.

As night falls and lanterns illuminate the streets, the thousand-year-old Tiger Hill Pagoda in Suzhou shines brightly under the lights. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, visitors can enter the lower level of the pagoda, without reservations, to experience the ancient structure up close and appreciate its historical significance.

With the moon-viewing tradition at the heart of these celebrations, an increasing number of travelers are also flocking to take special "moon-viewing flights." Multiple airlines have launched unique routes designed to offer passengers a closer view of the moon from the cabin during flight.

For example, China Southern Airlines' Hunan branch plans to operate over 80 flights during the Mid-Autumn Festival to provide moon-viewing opportunities, taking into account factors such as moonlight and flight routes.

In ancient times, the Mid-Autumn Festival was one of the few occasions when night markets were held, making it an important time for socializing. In the past, as people crafted and lit paper lanterns, scholars dreamed of achieving fame, while the young prayed for love. Today, the tradition continues, with people across China enjoying evenings out with their friends.

Cultural fusion mooncakes

Besides trendy night tours during the festival, the traditional mooncake has also transcended its identity as a simple festival snack to become a vessel for well-wishes.

From the plain, round pastries adorned with simple patterns to the myriad fillings of recent years, and now to the creative mooncakes that artfully incorporate cultural elements, the cultural "flavor" of mooncakes has grown increasingly significant.

This year, creative mooncake products in major universities have been a feast for the eyes. From mooncakes featuring Peking University's iconic campus landscapes to ones from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine that have been infused with traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients, the creativity of these academic institutions has been remarkable. Museums have also joined the trend, launching their own cultural and creative mooncakes. For example, the Chinese Archaeological Museum has incorporated five representative "dragon" motifs from its collection into the design of their mooncakes.

A standout mooncake gift box this year is the "Clasp the Moon in the Heaven Mooncake Gift Set," a collaboration between the Suzhou-style mooncake maker, Daoxiangcun, and the popular video game Black Myth: Wukong.

Zhou Liyuan, a manager with the time-honored brand, told the Global Times that the overall design draws inspiration from cultural elements in Journey to the West, upon which the game is based, and combines traditional pastry-making skills with modern aesthetics. The gift box unfolds like a flip-book when opened and features not only the game's characters but also scenes from the game.

"Currently, the gift box is mainly sold domestically and is a hot-seller with supply not meeting demand. However, some foreign customers in China are purchasing this gift box and sending it to their relatives and friends overseas by mail," Zhou said.

Zheng Changling, a research fellow at the Chinese National Academy of Arts, told the Global Times that the popularity of cultural and creative mooncakes, especially among young people, stems from their transformation of the traditional, somewhat rigid image of mooncakes. However, the real reason for their appeal lies in the way they embed culture within these pastries.

"It can be said that while mooncakes once represented the warmth of family reunion, they now offer a taste of national trends, cultural styles, and even cultural confidence," he said.

A global festival

As more people both in China and abroad celebrate the traditional festival, the Mid-Autumn Festival highlights both new and traditional ways of honoring this beloved holiday, reflecting its continued significance in contemporary life.

In Wuhan, Hubei Province, a Chinese-style mecha show at Happy Valley marks a groundbreaking approach to celebrating the festival. This show features interactive mechanical representations of legendary Chinese figures such as Zhao Yun, a military general who lived during the late Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220) and early Three Kingdoms (220-280) period, Erlang Shen, a god in Chinese folk religion and Taoism. Visitors can engage with these larger-than-life characters, offering a fresh and captivating way to experience Chinese mythology and cultural heritage.

In addition, the lantern festival in Beijing also promises to be the largest lantern display in the city's history. It will showcase over 200 creative lantern displays, including a remarkable 10-meter-tall phoenix lantern made from colored blow-molded paper and transparent acrylic. The festival will also feature more than 150 specialty shops and various themed activities, including performances and interactive events. This extensive and imaginative presentation of lanterns reflects a deep appreciation for both traditional craftsmanship and modern design.

"Modern urban life is becoming increasingly atomized, and we should use the Mid-Autumn Festival as an opportunity to encourage more interaction among people," said Xiao.

The global significance of shared figures is also reflected in other countries. The light-up ceremony in Singapore's Chinatown has introduced a novel feature: a digital riddle-solving activity. This new addition aims to engage younger generations by combining traditional festival elements with modern technology.

Josephine Teo, Minister for Digital Development and Information of Singapore, emphasized the importance of blending tradition with innovation, noting that this approach not only preserves cultural heritage but also makes the festival more relevant to the diverse demographics of today.

"Family and national unity, as well as the integrity of the nation, are deeply significant concepts in Chinese thought. No matter where Chinese people go, they carry with them this sense of national togetherness. This national psychological factor is not easily abandoned just because they are abroad," Li Hanqiu, a veteran folk custom expert who first proposed the Mid-Autumn Festival be designated a public holiday, told the Global Times.

He noted that through the moon, emotions are conveyed, and in this way, the feelings of reunion also merge into a sense of national identity. The shared act of gazing at the moon from afar is not only an expression of longing for loved ones but also a longing for one's homeland.