The academic forum -Chinese-style Modernization and Building a Strong Country- was held at Northeastern University

On October 16th, a significant academic forum titled “Chinese-style Modernization and National Strength Building” was held at

On October 16th, a significant academic forum titled “Chinese-style Modernization and National Strength Building” was held at the International Academic Exchange Center of Northeast University.

The event was organized by the Institute for Chinese-style Modernization at Northeast University, in collaboration with the Marxism School of Northeast University, the Liaoning Provincial Marxism Society, the Liaoning Provincial Research Institute for Reform and Innovation in Ideological and Political Education, and the Education Ministry’s studio for thought and political theory educators led by Tien Pengying. Scholars and experts from various institutions, including the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the Party School of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (National Academy of Governance), Renmin University of China, Tongji University, Beijing Institute of Technology, Shenyang University of Technology, and Northeast University participated both online and in person.

During the forum, attendees focused on the key topic of “Chinese-style Modernization and National Strength Building,” discussing themes such as “Modernization in the Context of Global Capitalism and Socialism,” “Preliminary Thoughts on Further Deepening Reforms,” “The Intrinsic Connection Between Chinese-style Modernization and National Strength Building,” “Chinese-style Modernization and Innovations in National Governance,” “The Mission and Key Focuses of Northeast China’s Comprehensive Revitalization in the New Era,” “Research on Chinese-style Modernization from an International Perspective,” “Building Social Consensus Through Chinese-style Modernization,” and “Political Considerations Centered on Institutional Development.” The discussions fostered idea exchanges, created consensus, and provided intellectual support for advancing Chinese-style modernization.

This academic forum is part of a series of scholarly activities organized by the Institute for Chinese-style Modernization at Northeast University, aimed at further exploring and elucidating the scientific essence of Chinese-style modernization to contribute wisdom and strength to national development initiatives.

“Guangzhou Ancestral Temple” reproduces the bustling scene of the Maritime Silk Road- Guangzhou Yuexiu Maritime Silk Road Cultural Tourism Week opens

On the evening of October 16, 2024, the series of activities for the “Maritime Silk Road Cultural Tourism Week” kicked o

On the evening of October 16, 2024, the series of activities for the “Maritime Silk Road Cultural Tourism Week” kicked off in the Guangxiu District at the Wuxian Temple – Nanyue Sages Museum Square. The event featured a captivating array of performances including dance, magic, and opera, all of which illustrated the historical evolution and cultural heritage of the Maritime Silk Road.

Historically, Wuxian Temple was known as the ancient port of Poshang during the Jin Dynasty. It was a bustling hub for international trade along the Maritime Silk Road, and by the Tang Dynasty, the area transformed into a vibrant market, becoming a residential zone for foreign traders, famously known as “Fan Fang.”

The festivities brought the glory of the Tang Dynasty to life, with performances staged in a picturesque garden setting that evoked the era’s prosperity. The opening dance, titled “Poshan: The Crossing,” used dynamic movements to showcase the daily life and cultural richness of the ancient coastal regions of Lingnan. In the magic show “Treasure Hunting on the Maritime Silk Road,” the magician, dressed as a ship captain, interacted with merchants, creatively showcasing trade goods commonly exchanged during the Maritime Silk Road era, which received enthusiastic applause from the audience. Additionally, the exotic performance “Wonders of Maritime Culture” featured vibrant dances from India, Arabia, and Africa, blending various cultural influences.

This year, the Guangxiu District’s Maritime Silk Road Cultural Tourism Week emphasizes the preservation of Guangzhou’s millennia-old cultural and commercial heritage, woven around six key themes: travel, performance, exhibition, entertainment, shopping, and food. The event’s cultural hub, the Wuxian Temple, unfolded a captivating narrative that seemed to transcend time, akin to a fantasy realm. The immersive drama “Legend of the Five Rams: New Rhythms” seamlessly connected historical artifacts like the “Five Rams and Five Immortals Statues,” “The First Building in Lingnan,” and “The Ancient Poshang Port” with engaging dramatic elements, incorporating Cantonese storytelling and music, which made spectators the protagonists of the unfolding narrative.

Moreover, the “Cultural Dreamscape of Guangzhou” VR experience showcased a blend of culture and technology, offering an immersive stroll through historical scenes where participants could admire relics like the Western Han Dynasty jade seal and beast-patterned roof tiles. Accompanied by the “spirits of the Maritime Silk Road,” players could soar over historical sites, including the Guangxiu Temple’s light tower and the bustling trading scenes of the Tang Dynasty, all while enjoying a scenic sunset view from the vantage points of the deep Zhong tunnel.

“The spatial experience combines VR and Unreal Engine technology to accurately recreate the ancient Poshang port, representing the lively market life of the Tang and Song Dynasties,” explained Ke Linhai, Director of the Guangxiu District Cultural Heritage Management Center. “During the Maritime Silk Road Cultural Tourism Week, the eastern hall of Wuxian Temple will offer free VR experiences daily. Residents can reserve their spots via our WeChat account ‘Guangxiu Culture and Tourism.’ We welcome everyone to come and experience Wuxian Temple.”

In addition to daily performances and immersive experiences, Wuxian Temple and the Nanyue Sages Museum serve as the main venues for this year’s event, featuring an array of creative markets.

“Wuxian Temple, known as ‘the ancestral temple of Guangzhou,’ is essentially the first stop for visitors to understand both Guangzhou and the Guangxiu District,” shared He Yuanfei, Deputy Director of the Guangxiu District Cultural, Radio, Television, Tourism, and Sports Bureau. “Guangxiu has been the cultural heart of Guangzhou for over two thousand years and played a pivotal role in maritime trade, witnessing the development of the Maritime Silk Road. We aim to leverage our rich maritime cultural heritage through activities, artifact restoration, spatial enhancements, and neighborhood revitalization, effectively telling the stories of cultural lineage and revitalizing the old city with new vitality.”

The 3rd Philippine Chinese Teachers’ Seminar was held in Manila, and a new version of the textbook “Learn Chinese Easily” was unveiled

On October 12th, the Philippines hosted its third Chinese language teachers’ seminar in Manila, aimed at providing a platform for l

On October 12th, the Philippines hosted its third Chinese language teachers’ seminar in Manila, aimed at providing a platform for local educators to share teaching experiences and enhance their teaching effectiveness.

During the event, the second edition of “Easy Chinese,” published by Beijing Language University Press, was unveiled, capturing significant attention from attendees.

The seminar featured a keynote address by Ma Yamin, the author of “Easy Chinese,” who shared valuable insights and teaching strategies with Filipino Chinese language instructors. Her presentation not only clearly outlined the methodology for using the textbook but also addressed the challenges faced in teaching Chinese abroad, offering practical solutions that resonated well with the participants.

Additionally, Beijing Language University Press set up a display area for “Easy Chinese,” allowing attendees to interactively explore the new textbook. Many teachers expressed that the revised edition boasts a more elegant design and richer content, which they believe will better engage students and enhance learning outcomes.

“Easy Chinese” has become a popular choice among international schools, private institutions, and public schools in over 80 countries since its launch. With its unique teaching philosophy and approach, the textbook has proven to be an essential resource for Chinese language instruction abroad, beloved by both educators and students alike.

Moldovans back joining the EU by razor-thin majority

Moldova has narrowly voted in favor of EU membership by just 13,000 votes following a high-stakes referendum marred by allegations of Russian interfer

Moldova has narrowly voted in favor of EU membership by just 13,000 votes following a high-stakes referendum marred by allegations of Russian interference. This pivotal moment, which coincided with a presidential election, underscores the ongoing tug-of-war between Russia and the West over Moldova, a nation of 2.5 million located in Eastern Europe.

The referendum, which asked voters whether to enshrine a pathway to EU membership in the constitution, yielded a slim victory for the pro-EU camp, with 50.46% of nearly 1.5 million ballots cast supporting the initiative, according to the Central Electoral Commission. This narrow result represents a significant win for pro-Western President Maia Sandu, who faced potential political fallout.

Sandu led the first round of the presidential election with 42% of the vote and is set to compete against Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor backed by the pro-Russian Socialists, in the upcoming runoff. In her remarks post-election, Sandu declared, “Moldova has won the first difficult battle in the push to join the European Union,” while also condemning “foreign forces” for attempting to undermine the electoral process, which she characterized as “an attack on Moldovan sovereignty.”

This referendum was a crucial test for Sandu’s pro-European agenda. While the result allows for a constitutional clause defining EU accession as a national goal, experts warn that the path to EU membership remains long and fraught with challenges. Sandu’s supporters in Brussels are likely to be disheartened by the close result, especially considering pre-election surveys had suggested a more favorable outlook for her policies.

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Moldova applied to join the EU, and began negotiations in June, though skepticism persists regarding its ability to implement necessary reforms. Observers caution that a weakened Sandu may face a formidable challenge from the united pro-Moscow opposition in the forthcoming second round of the presidential election.

Preliminary reports indicated that Moldovans voting from abroad largely supported the referendum, providing a last-minute boost for the pro-EU campaign, despite a majority of domestic ballots appearing to oppose it. A Western diplomat remarked, “Sandu had hoped for a strong mandate for EU integration, but the narrow outcome raises significant questions about the level of support for her policies.”

Moldovan authorities alleged that Russia and its proxies orchestrated a hybrid war to destabilize the nation and derail its EU aspirations. Sandu accused these “foreign forces” of attempting to buy votes in what she described as “an unprecedented scale” of fraud.

EU officials echoed these concerns, asserting that Moldova faced unprecedented intimidation and interference ahead of the vote. The fugitive pro-Russian businessman Ilan Shor has been particularly implicated in destabilizing efforts, accused of running a vote-buying scheme from Moscow.

The impact of disinformation campaigns was also spotlighted by analysts, highlighting a deep division in Moldovan public opinion regarding EU integration. Lithuania’s Foreign Minister commended Moldovans for choosing a European future, despite external pressures.

In response, Russian officials have questioned the legitimacy of the referendum outcome, suggesting it reflects a lack of support for President Sandu’s policies. As Moldova navigates this complex political landscape, the results contribute to a broader trend of shifting allegiances in the region, as neighboring Georgia prepares for its own critical elections in the near future.

Italian explorer in his 70s travels through golden section of ancient Silk Road

On October 26, Italian explorer and internationally renowned hiker Vina Camarota continued her journey through the historical sites alo

On October 26, Italian explorer and internationally renowned hiker Vina Camarota continued her journey through the historical sites along the ancient Silk Road, having just traversed key locations in Gansu province, including Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Zhangye, Jinchang, and Wuwei. Her latest stops included the Shifo Valley National Forest Park and the Gansu Provincial Museum in Lanzhou.

While by the Yellow River, Vina took the opportunity to learn local dialects, mastering phrases such as “zan jing,” “wo ye,” and “liang huo,” which mean “good” in the Lanzhou dialect.

From October 15 to 28, Vina is on an expedition across the Golden Segment of the Silk Road in Gansu, visiting cities like Dunhuang and Jiayuguan. At Jiayuguan, she even experienced the historical significance of ancient trade routes and cultural exchanges firsthand.

At the age of 75, Vina’s passion for exploration was sparked back in 2000 when she began studying “The Travels of Marco Polo.” Inspired by his journey, she embarked on her own dream of retracing Polo’s path along the Silk Road. After more than two years of meticulous preparation and rigorous travel, Vina has crossed 14 countries across Eurasia, covering a remarkable 22,000 kilometers. China, as the 15th country she will traverse, stands as the culmination of her ambitious quest.

In Dunhuang, Vina officially launched the “Vina’s Silk Road Journey in China” series of events. She is captivated by the city’s rich historical heritage, vibrant cultural arts, and unique local customs, feeling compelled to document these experiences through her lens and share them globally.

“At Jiayuguan, I visited the Jiayuguan Fortress and the Cliffside Great Wall, both pivotal sites for ancient trade and cultural exchange,” Vina noted. Her explorations have not only allowed her to appreciate the unique natural scenery along the Silk Road but have also deepened her understanding of the cultural significance embedded in this ancient trade route.

During her time in Wuwei, she explored the Leitai Han Culture Museum and witnessed the exhilarating performance of “Liangzhou Drum,” known as the “soul of the West.” She wandered among the bronze chariots and horse figurines, immersing herself in the grandeur of ancient scenes. At the Wuwei Confucian Temple, she reflected on the Confucian values that have influenced centuries of scholarship and ethics. Additionally, she visited the innovative “Two Mountains” practice base and the memorial for the “Six Old Men” who fought desertification, where she was inspired by their determination.

In Zhangye, she paused in front of the Marco Polo statue on the Euro-style street, feeling a connection to the enthusiasm and dedication Marco displayed on his journey. “Each of these locations has made a lasting impression on me,” she shared.

“This trip has brought me countless friendships and made my experience in China even more colorful,” Vina concluded.

Natural disasters cost an average of $1 billion every three weeks, and the federal government faces fiscal challenges_2

As Hurricane Milton wreaks havoc in Florida, the economic impact is staggering. Initial estimates suggest that the damages could so

As Hurricane Milton wreaks havoc in Florida, the economic impact is staggering. Initial estimates suggest that the damages could soar to $50 billion, not to mention the costs associated with rebuilding essential infrastructure that will require federal budget allocations. This is particularly concerning as the Southeast has experienced two catastrophic hurricanes in just a few weeks, placing an even heavier financial burden on an already debt-stricken federal government.

In a recent report from The Washington Post, the growing crisis is evident as federal statistics reveal that the U.S. experiences a natural disaster causing at least $1 billion in losses every three weeks. The increasing frequency and intensity of storms, droughts, wildfires, and floods are significantly driving up the costs of disaster recovery, adding to the fiscal pressure on a federal government that is already grappling with a national debt exceeding $35 trillion.

Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, emphasized the alarming trend. “We are adding hundreds of billions, if not trillions, of dollars each year to disaster recovery efforts, which clouds the outlook for our finances,” he stated, adding that unless substantial changes are made, this trend could contribute to future fiscal challenges for the nation.

Multiple factors are contributing to the worsening fiscal health of the U.S., including increased spending, an aging population, and insufficient tax revenue. Climate change is exacerbating this financial crisis, compounding the challenges ahead.

Two years ago, a senior budget advisor to President Biden forecasted that the federal government would need to allocate an additional $128 billion in rebuilding funds to address a variety of major disasters over the coming decades. Andy Winkler, director of housing and infrastructure at the Bipartisan Policy Center, pointed out, “There is ample evidence that we are investing more in addressing the various types of disasters brought about by climate change.”

The Congressional Research Service (CRS), a nonpartisan agency, reported that funding for disaster relief through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has skyrocketed to over $41 billion for fiscal year 2023. Yet, as the scale of economic losses from disasters continues to grow, it seems inevitable that the federal disaster recovery budget will expand further.

W. Craig Fugate, former FEMA administrator, recounted the prolonged recovery following Hurricane Katrina, noting that even eleven years later, support continued to flow for disaster relief. “Disasters have a long tail,” he remarked, admitting that the increasingly powerful hurricane seasons are adding a new burden to recovery efforts.

Rayner defends Labour after Trump campaign complaint

In a recent session of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner addressed concerns reg

In a recent session of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner addressed concerns regarding Labour staff volunteering for Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign. She emphasized that many individuals choose to participate in political campaigns during their personal time, stating, “It happens in all political parties.” Rayner reiterated that there were no legal violations and that those involved were acting as volunteers.

The issue arose after Donald Trump’s campaign lodged a complaint suggesting that Labour had contravened U.S. election regulations concerning foreign interference by sending activists to support Harris, who is a candidate from the Democratic Party. While Rayner defended Labour’s position, Sir Keir Starmer was away, attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, where he downplayed the controversy.

Wuzhou, Guangxi- Farming is busy due to frost

On October 22, as the frost-initiating solar term approaches, temperatures are beginning to drop in Long

On October 22, as the frost-initiating solar term approaches, temperatures are beginning to drop in Longhu Town, Gaowang Village, located in Wuxi District of Wuzhou City, Guangxi. Farmers at the local strawberry cultivation base are hard at work, ensuring their crops are well taken care of during this busy harvest time. The fields reflect a bustling agricultural scene, with growers tending to strawberries and other vegetables.

Can you describe the atmosphere in the fields right now?

Absolutely! The energy in the fields is palpable as farmers rush to manage their harvest. It’s that critical time of year when every moment counts, especially with the cooler weather setting in.

What specific tasks are the farmers focusing on at this time?

Right now, farmers are primarily focused on nurturing their strawberry plants and other vegetables. They’re busy with tasks such as pruning, watering, and checking for pests, ensuring that everything is in optimal condition before the temperatures dip further.

How does the changing weather affect their work?

The arrival of cooler weather signifies the onset of the frost season, which is crucial for farmers. They need to be especially vigilant in their care practices to protect the plants from potential frost damage, making this a stressful yet vital period for their crops.

What does a typical day look like for the farmers these days?

A typical day involves long hours in the fields. Farmers arrive early to take advantage of the cool morning air, working diligently until sunset. It’s a mix of physical labor and constant monitoring of their crops to ensure quality and yield.

How do the farmers feel about this harvest season?

There’s a sense of urgency but also optimism among the farmers as they work through the busy season. They understand the importance of these crops not only for their livelihoods but also for the local community. The hard work they put in now will pay off when the strawberries are ready for market.

What can we expect to see in the fields as the frost season fully arrives?

As frost season progresses, we’ll likely see more protective measures in the fields, such as covering crops with fabric or other materials to shield them from frost. The sight of farmers actively safeguarding their plants will become even more common in the coming weeks.

It sounds like a dynamic time for agriculture in the region. What are your final thoughts on this busy season ahead?

Indeed, it’s a vibrant and critical period for our local farmers. Their dedication during this harvest season not only showcases their hard work but also highlights the deep connection between agriculture and community well-being. Their efforts ensure that fresh produce continues to be available, even as the seasons change.

Sanwo-Olu Emphasises Increased Credit as Catalyst for Sustainability

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu underscored the critical importance of credit in economic development during hi

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu underscored the critical importance of credit in economic development during his remarks at the inaugural National Credit Managers Conference and the annual Investiture of the Nigeria Credit Industry Awards, organized by the National Institute of Credit Administration (NICA) in Lagos.

This two-day conference, titled “Credit Grows Green Economy,” attracted a diverse group of stakeholders and industry leaders, who shared insights on how to incorporate credit into sustainable development initiatives nationwide.

Sanwo-Olu, represented by Alake Sanusi of the Lagos Debt Management Office, emphasized that moving towards a credit-based economy is vital for Nigeria’s growth, particularly in promoting environmentally friendly practices. He stated, “This event comes at a crucial moment in Nigeria’s economic transition, as we aim to shift from a mostly cash-based economy to one that thrives on credit—an economy that is not only efficient but also sustainable and inclusive.

“A green economy driven by responsible credit practices aligns perfectly with our shared objective of fostering growth that is environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and economically viable.”

Addressing the attendees, Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by his Technical Advisor on Economic and Financial Inclusion, Dr. Nurudeen Zauro, officially launched the Credit Management Profession, highlighting this recognition as a significant advancement in Nigeria’s credit landscape.

Andy Ojei, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council, expressed his pride in the progress made within the credit profession and reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to nurturing a sustainable credit ecosystem.

Niger Delta Ministry and Related Matters

Okey Ikechukwu: “The Niger Delta Ministry is no more, thanks to some restructuring by the President. I was vocal about calling for its diss

Okey Ikechukwu: “The Niger Delta Ministry is no more, thanks to some restructuring by the President. I was vocal about calling for its dissolution right from the moment it was established. This wasn’t because the Niger Delta communities didn’t warrant more support from a federation they contribute significantly to; rather, it was essential to take a step back and critically evaluate the genuine development that various intervention agencies, ranging from OMPADEC and NDDC to the now-defunct Niger Delta Ministry, have actually brought to the region.

People often say you should be wary of something suspicious when you find two entities undertaking nearly identical tasks in the same space concurrently. It brings to mind either a conspiracy to misappropriate resources under false pretenses or an alarming lack of awareness about what they’re doing.

Reflecting on my views shared on this platform four years ago, on February 24, 2020, under the title “Scrap the NDDC and Others,” it feels even more pertinent today with the dissolution of the Niger Delta Ministry. The core message remains largely unchanged: Has the Niger Delta Development Commission, now effectively the Ministry of the Niger Delta, delivered genuine development to Nigeria’s oil-producing states? Are such commissions really a step forward for a nation in the 21st century?

When we analyze this issue, we need to differentiate between the funds allocated to the NDDC and the actual evidence of sustainable economic interventions implemented by the commission over the last two decades. The NDDC leads the nation in terms of abandoned projects and is one of the most indebted state institutions. While a very few individuals at the helm have attempted meaningful change, the NDDC largely symbolizes corruption, patronage, and elite power struggles driven by unchecked exploitation. It has become a battleground for interests that pay little heed to the long-term welfare of ordinary citizens. The noble vision that birthed it has devolved into a delusion, primarily benefiting a political elite that profits from it, all while it continues to parade as a ‘developer’ of the oil-producing states.

To suggest scrapping such a mismanaged cash cow used by the elites for self-serving purposes inevitably draws the ire of vested interests. Despite numerous scandals, the desire to eliminate it and redirect its funds to the states remains absent from serious discussions. While it’s understandable that many states struggle in terms of performance, eliminating these commissions could significantly reduce the opportunities for elite theft.

Anticipating what lies ahead, we can expect more new commissions aimed at extending patronage networks and enabling questionable political discretion without effective state oversight. This proliferation is a direct consequence of a leadership that equates the existence of institutions and the passage of laws with genuine governance and service delivery. A thorough assessment of the over 500 government agencies could reveal just how much inefficiency permeates the system.

Consider the extravagance of public officials; it’s common for parliamentarians, governors, and heads of agencies to utilize bullet-proof SUVs. The cost of acquiring a single vehicle multiplied by just a fraction of these officials reveals staggering figures. When considering security personnel and support vehicles, one must question what these officials actually deliver to justify such lavish expenditures.

Back in 2020, I argued for a shift in our approach: it was time to determine whether we would remain a burden on society or pivot towards a more sustainable future. Current circumstances urgently call for us to streamline spending and focus on adding real value. Yet, we’re heading in the opposite direction. Lawmakers are still pocketing exorbitant salaries, while governors cling to misappropriated security funds, and the federal government continues to chase enlightening loans that mostly serve consumption rather than growth.

Historically, promises made by leaders like the late General Sani Abacha to allocate fuel price increases for national development projects showcased the immense issues related to accountability. The Petroleum (Special) Trust Fund, while created with good intentions, ultimately undermined existing institutions and muddled governmental policy coherence. What emerged were parallel funds and projects that often left the regions contributing the tax disadvantaged.

When the military was ready to hand over power in 1999, the Trust Fund had already generated significant distrust for its failure to fulfill its promises. Despite its shortcomings, those benefiting from it pushed vigorously for its continuation; I was approached to help champion a narrative that the incoming civilian government should retain it, highlighting its supposed successes. However, I refused. A media consultant must prioritize social responsibility over profit, and I believed it was vital for the new president to have the opportunity to restore order within the state.

In conclusion, as we find ourselves in a situation brimming with development commissions, creating an excessive array of administrative structures to oversee them is a fiscal folly. What we need is consolidation and efficiency, which the recent actions of the Federal Executive Council have aimed to address. My hope is that the government will reassess the revenue allocation formula and narrow the focus back to the states. Therefore, I wholeheartedly welcome the dissolution of the Niger Delta Ministry as a significant first step on a vital journey ahead.”