Dilma Rousseff, president of the New Development Bank (NDB), speaks at the opening ceremony on the second day of the 9th NDB Annual Meeting in Cape Town, South Africa, on Aug. 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Lei) The New Development Bank serves as a significant platform for international cooperation that transcends the territorial boundaries, said Dilma Rousseff, president of the bank. SHANGHAI, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- The BRICS countries are powerful economies with great potential and capacity for growth, Dilma Rousseff, president of the New Development Bank (NDB), has told Xinhua. "Measured by GDP, the BRICS countries have already surpassed the G7 in importance," said the former Brazilian president. BRICS is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, five major emerging markets with considerable economic potential. Other than the countries that became new full members on Jan. 1, 2024, over 30 countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Türkiye and Azerbaijan have either formally applied for or expressed interest in its membership, while many other developing countries are seeking deeper cooperation with the group. The BRICS countries have realized that it is very important for emerging and developing countries to have proper mechanisms and instruments, thus the NDB and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement were established, Rousseff said. During the bloc's sixth summit in Fortaleza, Brazil in July 2014, leaders of the initial five countries witnessed the signing of the Agreement on the New Development Bank. The NDB is designed to guarantee much-needed investments in infrastructure, such as in logistics and digital areas, in social infrastructure, like school and university structures, as well as in science, technology and innovation, and also in health, she said. The NDB serves as a significant platform for international cooperation that transcends the territorial boundaries, which not only amplifies the voices of BRICS countries but also represents the shared aspirations of other nations, she added. Headquartered in Shanghai, the NDB was jointly established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa in 2014 to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS member nations and other emerging market economies and developing countries. In 2021, the bank started expanding its membership with Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates, Uruguay and Egypt as new members. The NDB has, since its launch, invested nearly 35 billion U.S. dollars in sectors such as clean energy and energy efficiency, transportation infrastructure, water resources and sanitation, and digital infrastructure, playing a positive role in improving global economic governance.■

Aerial photo taken on June 17, 2022 shows the headquarter building of the New Development Bank (NDB) in east China's Shanghai. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) "China is believed to be the true and trusted voice of developing countries and emerging markets," said an Egyptian official. CAIRO, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- China has been a driving force that promotes the BRICS cooperation mechanism, Ezzat Saad, director of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, has said. In a recent interview with Xinhua, Saad said that China's proposal in 2017 to create a BRICS Plus platform, which was aimed at enhancing cooperation with other emerging markets and developing countries, has opened "new space for new countries to join the bloc." The benefits of China's proposal became evident when new countries joined BRICS, while more than 30 other countries have either formally applied for or expressed interest in its membership, he added. The Egyptian official attributed the mechanism's success in attracting more countries to the reliability of the leading BRICS members, especially China. He noted that the values upheld by BRICS resonate with countries in the Global South, emphasizing China's leadership in areas such as economy, finance, good governance, and multilateralism characterized by equity and justice. "China is believed to be the true and trusted voice of developing countries and emerging markets," he said. Among other achievements, BRICS has established two important cooperation mechanisms: the New Development Bank (NDB) and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA). The latter provides support for countries facing financial emergencies. "All these arrangements, meetings, and summits provide an institutional framework for member states to promote coordination and interaction," Saad said. Saad cited Egypt as an example of the countries that benefited from their interaction with BRICS before officially joining it. He stressed Egypt's participation in BRICS summits since 2017, its membership in the NDB, and its enhanced cooperation with China, Russia, and India in several sectors. He said the BRICS spirit reflects the principles that China and other founding countries have long championed, adding that the group was established in a world marked by unfairness and contradictions.    Saad perceived the growing number of requests for joining BRICS as a sign of resentment over the Western hegemony, hypocrisy, double standards, and disregard for multilateralism and UN principles. "Each society has its heritage, culture, and traditions that should be respected. So, it is not logical anymore when the West believes it can monopolize global economic or financial order," he said. Looking ahead to the upcoming BRICS summit in Russia on Oct. 22-24, Saad expressed optimism that it would carry out new initiatives or plans to promote world justice.  ■

A man takes photos at the media center of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Aug. 21, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) BRICS pushes for the establishment of a more just and stable international order based on economic cooperation, political security and cultural exchanges, said Emmanuel Matambo, research director of the Center for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg. JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- BRICS has provided more funding options to support development in emerging economies and strengthened the voices of the Global South in international relations, said a South African expert. Emmanuel Matambo, research director of the Center for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg, made the remarks during a recent interview with Xinhua. Economically, Matambo noted, BRICS has provided alternative funding options for emerging markets and developing countries, allowing them to address issues like infrastructure development, energy crises, and climate change. "This is crucial as these countries often face stringent conditions from Western institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF)," he said. He noted that the most crucial development in this regard was the establishment of the New Development Bank in 2015, which offers more favorable loans than those from the IMF or the World Bank. The expert said BRICS pushes for the establishment of a more just and stable international order based on economic cooperation, political security and cultural exchanges. This photo shows a view of the Kazan Kremlin in Kazan, Russia, Oct. 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) He noted that BRICS convened an extraordinary joint summit last November to address the situation in Gaza. Leaders attending the summit expressed grave concern over the Palestinian-Israeli situation and condemned all acts of violence against civilians. "This unified diplomatic front strengthened BRICS' international voice," he said. In 2006, foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India and China held a meeting marking the beginning of BRIC cooperation. In response to the 2008 International financial crisis, leaders of the four countries held a meeting in Russia in June 2009, and officially launched the BRIC cooperation mechanism. In December 2010, the four countries formally admitted South Africa to the grouping, turning BRIC into BRICS. At last year's summit, the group made a landmark decision on further expansion. "This expansion enhances BRICS' geographical representation," he said. BRICS "treats each member equally in decision-making," and countries are attracted to this egalitarian structure, said the expert.■

An aerial panoramic drone photo taken on May 9, 2024 shows a city view of Wujiaqu, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu) People's life in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is thriving and the West's smear campaign against China about its Xinjiang policy is unconvincing, said a Fatah official. RAMALLAH, Oct. 14 (Xinhua) -- People's life in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is thriving and the West's smear campaign against China about its Xinjiang policy is unconvincing, a senior official with the Palestinian National Liberation Movement (Fatah) has said. "Among the people of the region, the level of harmony and respect is comprehensive and complete," Bassam Zakarneh, a member of Fatah's Revolutionary Council of Palestine, told Xinhua during a recent interview. Zakarneh has paid multiple visits to China. Speaking of some Western governments' and media's smear campaign against China about its Xinjiang policy, he said that the West is "trying to exploit anything to undermine China's progress and development." This March, a delegation of members of political parties from Arab countries headed by Zakarneh, visited Xinjiang. "China's experience in all regions is rich, and with every visit, we feel the magnitude of the benefit we gain in various fields," Zakarneh said. A staff member works at an agriculture science and technology exhibition hall in Changji, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 19, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Cheng) During the visit, the delegation learned about Xinjiang's development in such areas as agricultural technology, livestream shopping and cross-border e-commerce. "We find agriculture that does not require much space and land," Zakarneh said. "Many of our products are destroyed due to the inability to sell them in season, but after learning about the agricultural industrialization carried out by China, our countries can enhance communication to exchange experience in this field." The delegation visited mosques and some other places of worship. Zakarneh said China preserves and gives each religion care for its sanctities with full and comprehensive support. Zakarneh said the delegation expressed respect for China's treatment of freedom of religion and the extent of its respect for human rights, contrary to what the U.S.-led West has said to distort China's image and hinder its progress. The delegation attended an exhibition on China's counter-terrorism effort as well. "China has creativity in confronting terrorism through the awakening and cohesion of its people and the strength of its security services," Zakarneh said. The first measures, he added, are to educate citizens about preventing the infiltration of terrorist ideas and stopping anyone from exploiting this to attack China, by rehabilitating these people and educating them in school, so that they graduate with mastery of crafts, not to mention providing job opportunities and supporting various groups so that everyone in the region could become a producer, whether in agriculture, industry, or trade. "China has faced this with strength and confidence and opened the borders of the Xinjiang region for all delegations to see for themselves the reality as it is. Our visit and observation on the ground were proof that Western propaganda is false," Zakarneh said.■

BEIJING, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has encouraged the Red Cross Society of China (RCSC) to focus on high-quality development and further improve its capability in providing humanitarian services. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a letter to the RCSC on the occasion of its 12th general congress, which opened in Beijing on Wednesday.  ■

9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表题为《携手推进现代化，共筑命运共同体》的主旨讲话。新华社记者 姚大伟 摄 新华社北京9月5日电（记者杨依军、孙奕）9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。习近平宣布，中国同所有非洲建交国的双边关系提升到战略关系层面，中非关系整体定位提升至新时代全天候中非命运共同体，将实施中非携手推进现代化十大伙伴行动。   中共中央政治局常委李强、赵乐际、王沪宁、蔡奇、丁薛祥、李希出席。   初秋北京，高远澄明。天安门广场和长安街两侧，鲜艳的五星红旗同53个非洲国家和非洲联盟旗帜迎风飘扬。 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。这是开幕式前，习近平同出席峰会的外方领导人集体合影。新华社记者 饶爱民 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。这是习近平同外方领导人共同步入会场。新华社记者 黄敬文 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。这是习近平同外方领导人共同步入会场。新华社记者 殷博古 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。这是习近平同外方领导人共同步入会场。新华社记者 燕雁 摄 在《和平－命运共同体》乐曲和热烈掌声中，习近平同外方领导人共同步入会场，在主席台就座。  9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。新华社记者 翟健岚 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。新华社记者 刘彬 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。新华社记者 翟健岚 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。新华社记者 李学仁 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表主旨讲话。新华社记者 刘彬 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表题为《携手推进现代化，共筑命运共同体》的主旨讲话。新华社记者 李学仁 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表题为《携手推进现代化，共筑命运共同体》的主旨讲话。新华社记者 李学仁 摄 9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表题为《携手推进现代化，共筑命运共同体》的主旨讲话。新华社记者 鞠鹏 摄 习近平发表题为《携手推进现代化，共筑命运共同体》的主旨讲话。   习近平首先代表中国政府和中国人民对出席峰会的外方嘉宾表示热烈欢迎。   习近平指出，在这收获的季节，很高兴同各位新老朋友相聚北京，共商新时代中非友好合作大计。中非友好穿越时空、跨越山海、薪火相传。中非合作论坛成立24年来特别是新时代以来，中国同非洲兄弟姐妹们本着真实亲诚理念，在世界百年变局中肩并肩、手拉手，坚定捍卫彼此正当权益；在经济全球化大潮中强筋骨、壮体魄，累累硕果惠及中非亿万百姓；在大灾大疫面前同甘苦、共拼搏，书写了一个个中非友好的感人故事；始终相互理解、彼此支持，树立了新型国际关系的典范。经过近70年辛勤耕耘，中非关系正处于历史最好时期。面向未来，中方提议将中国同所有非洲建交国的双边关系提升到战略关系层面，将中非关系整体定位提升至新时代全天候中非命运共同体。   习近平指出，实现现代化是世界各国不可剥夺的权利。中国正坚定不移以中国式现代化全面推进强国建设、民族复兴伟业。非洲也正朝着非盟《2063年议程》描绘的现代化目标稳步迈进。中非共逐现代化之梦，必将掀起全球南方的现代化热潮，谱写构建人类命运共同体的崭新篇章。   习近平提出，中非要携手推进“六个现代化”。   ——要携手推进公正合理的现代化。推进国家现代化建设，既要遵循现代化一般规律，更要符合本国实际。中方愿同非方加强治国理政经验交流，支持各国探索适合本国国情的现代化道路，确保各国权利平等、机会平等。   ——要携手推进开放共赢的现代化。互利合作是符合各国长远和根本利益的阳光大道。中方愿同非方深化工业、农业、基础设施、贸易投资等领域合作，树立高质量共建“一带一路”的标杆，共同打造落实全球发展倡议的样板。   ——要携手推进人民至上的现代化。实现人的自由全面发展是现代化的最终目标。中方愿同非方积极开展人才培养、减贫、就业等领域合作，提升人民在现代化进程中的获得感、幸福感、安全感，共同推动现代化惠及全体人民。   ——要携手推进多元包容的现代化。实现物质文明和精神文明协调发展是现代化的崇高追求。中方愿同非方密切人文交流，倡导不同文明相互尊重、包容共存，共同推动全球文明倡议结出更多硕果。   ——要携手推进生态友好的现代化。绿色发展是新时代现代化的鲜明标识。中方愿帮助非方打造“绿色增长引擎”，缩小能源可及性差距，坚持共同但有区别的责任原则，共同推动全球绿色低碳转型。   ——要携手推进和平安全的现代化。现代化离不开和平稳定的发展环境。中方愿帮助非洲提升自主维护和平稳定的能力，推动全球安全倡议率先在非洲落地，促进高质量发展和高水平安全良性互动，共同维护世界和平稳定。   习近平强调，中国和非洲占世界总人口的三分之一，没有中非的现代化，就没有世界的现代化。未来3年，中方愿同非方携手推进现代化十大伙伴行动，深化中非合作，引领全球南方现代化。   第一，文明互鉴伙伴行动。中方愿同非方打造治国理政经验交流平台，设立中非发展知识网络和25个中非研究中心，邀请1000名非洲政党人士来华交流。   第二，贸易繁荣伙伴行动。中方愿主动单方面扩大市场开放，决定给予包括33个非洲国家在内的所有同中国建交的最不发达国家100%税目产品零关税待遇，推动中国大市场成为非洲大机遇。扩大非洲农产品准入，深化电商等领域合作，实施“中非质量提升计划”。中方愿同非方商签共同发展经济伙伴关系框架协定，为中非贸易投资提供长期、稳定、可预期的制度保障。   第三，产业链合作伙伴行动。中方愿同非方打造产业合作增长圈，着力建设中非经贸深度合作先行区，启动“非洲中小企业赋能计划”。共建中非数字技术合作中心，建设20个数字示范项目。   第四，互联互通伙伴行动。中方愿在非洲实施30个基础设施联通项目，携手推进高质量共建“一带一路”，打造陆海联动、协同发展的中非互联互通网络。为非洲大陆自由贸易区建设提供帮助，深化物流和金融合作，助力非洲跨区域发展。   第五，发展合作伙伴行动。中方愿和非方共同发表在全球发展倡议框架内深化合作的联合声明，实施1000个“小而美”民生项目。注资中国－世界银行伙伴关系基金。支持举办2026年青奥会和2027年非洲杯，促进发展成果更好惠及中非人民。   第六，卫生健康伙伴行动。中方愿同非方成立中非医院联盟，共建联合医学中心。向非洲派遣2000名医疗队员，实施20个医疗卫生和抗疟项目，推动中国企业投资药品生产，继续对非洲遭遇的疫情提供力所能及的帮助。支持非洲疾控中心建设，提升非洲各国公共卫生能力。   第七，兴农惠民伙伴行动。中方将向非洲提供10亿元人民币紧急粮食援助，建设10万亩农业标准化示范区，派遣500名农业专家，建设中非农业科技创新联盟。实施500个公益项目。鼓励中非企业“双向奔赴”投资创业，为非洲创造不少于100万个就业岗位。   第八，人文交流伙伴行动。中方愿同非方深入推进“未来非洲职业教育”计划，共建工程技术学院，建设10个“鲁班工坊”。重点面向非洲妇女和青年，提供6万个研修名额。共同实施中非“文化丝路”计划和“广电视听创新合作计划”。将2026年确定为“中非人文交流年”。   第九，绿色发展伙伴行动。中方愿在非洲实施30个清洁能源项目，建设气象早期预警业务平台，开展防灾减灾救灾和生物多样性保护合作。设立中非和平利用核技术论坛，开展卫星遥感、月球和深空探测合作，助力非洲实现绿色发展。   第十，安全共筑伙伴行动。中方愿同非方建立落实全球安全倡议伙伴关系，为非方培训6000名军队人才和1000名警务执法人员，邀请500名青年军官访华。开展中非军队联演联训、联合巡航，实施“助力非洲摆脱雷患行动”，共同维护人员和项目安全。   为推动“十大伙伴行动”实施，中国政府愿为中非各领域务实合作提供强有力支持。   习近平最后强调，中国共产党二十届三中全会对进一步全面深化改革、推进中国式现代化作出系统部署。这将进一步深刻改变中国，也必将为非洲国家、为中非共逐现代化之梦提供新机遇、注入新动能。非洲有句谚语“同路人才是真朋友”。现代化道路上一个都不能少，一国都不能掉队。让我们凝聚起28亿多中非人民的磅礴力量，在现代化征程上携手同行，以中非现代化助力全球南方现代化，绘就人类发展史上崭新画卷，共同推动世界走向和平、安全、繁荣、进步的光明前景！   中非合作论坛共同主席国塞内加尔总统法耶，非盟轮值主席国毛里塔尼亚总统加兹瓦尼，非洲次区域代表南非总统拉马福萨、刚果（布）总统萨苏、尼日利亚总统提努布、坦桑尼亚总统哈桑，峰会特邀嘉宾、联合国秘书长古特雷斯，非盟委员会主席法基也在开幕式致辞。   非方领导人感谢中方主办此次中非合作论坛北京峰会，高度评价非中深厚传统友谊和中非合作论坛成立以来特别是2018年北京峰会以来取得的积极成果，高度赞赏习近平主席提出中非携手推进现代化“十大伙伴行动”。他们表示，中非合作论坛不仅是促进非中伙伴关系发展的有效平台，也已经成为引领南南合作的光辉典范。论坛合作基于友谊、尊重和互利共赢，中国对非合作不带任何政治附加条件，极大促进了非洲国家互联互通和经济社会发展。在当前复杂动荡国际形势下，深化对华合作更加成为非洲国家实现安全、稳定和可持续发展的希望。非中理念相近。非方高度赞赏并完全支持习近平主席提出的构建人类命运共同体重要理念和共建“一带一路”倡议、全球发展倡议、全球安全倡议、全球文明倡议，愿同中方共同倡导全人类共同价值，支持各国探索符合本国国情的现代化道路。非方坚定奉行一个中国政策，坚定支持中国政府为实现国家统一所作的一切努力，坚决反对外部势力借台湾、人权等问题干涉中国内政。非方祝贺中国共产党二十届三中全会成功召开，相信中国进一步全面深化改革、推进中国式现代化将为包括非洲国家在内的世界各国带来更多发展机遇。非方愿同中方继续秉持和平共处五项原则和中非友好合作精神，积极落实此次峰会成果，携手推进工业化和农业现代化，构建新时代全天候非中命运共同体，共同迈向和平、安全、繁荣、进步的光明前景。   峰会通过《关于共筑新时代全天候中非命运共同体的北京宣言》《中非合作论坛－北京行动计划（2025－2027）》。   中非合作论坛非方成员国国家元首、政府首脑、代表团团长及国际和地区组织负责人等中外各界人士3200余人出席开幕式。   尹力、李书磊、何立峰、王小洪等出席。   王毅主持开幕式。   中非合作论坛成立于2000年，目前有中国、53个与中国建交的非洲国家和非盟委员会共55个成员。本次峰会主题为“携手推进现代化，共筑高水平中非命运共同体”。开幕式后还将举行主题分别为治国理政、工业化和农业现代化、和平安全和高质量共建“一带一路”4场高级别会议。

9月5日上午，国家主席习近平在北京人民大会堂出席中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式并发表题为《携手推进现代化，共筑命运共同体》的主旨讲话。新华社记者 姚大伟 摄 　　新华社北京9月5日电　 携手推进现代化，共筑命运共同体 ——在中非合作论坛北京峰会开幕式上的主旨讲话 （2024年9月5日　北京） 中华人民共和国主席　习近平 尊敬的法耶总统， 尊敬的非洲联盟轮值主席加兹瓦尼总统， 尊敬的各位国家元首、政府首脑、代表团团长， 尊敬的联合国秘书长古特雷斯先生， 尊敬的非洲联盟委员会主席法基先生， 各位朋友、各位嘉宾： 　　春华秋实，岁物丰成。在这收获的季节，很高兴同各位新老朋友相聚北京，共商新时代中非友好合作大计。首先，我代表中国政府和中国人民，对大家的到来表示热烈欢迎！ 　　中非友好穿越时空、跨越山海、薪火相传。2000年中非合作论坛成立，在中非关系史上具有重要里程碑意义。24年来特别是新时代以来，中国同非洲兄弟姐妹们本着真实亲诚理念，携手前行。我们在世界百年变局中肩并肩、手拉手，坚定捍卫彼此正当权益；我们在经济全球化大潮中强筋骨、壮体魄，累累硕果惠及中非亿万百姓；我们在大灾大疫面前同甘苦、共拼搏，书写了一个个中非友好的感人故事；我们始终相互理解、彼此支持，树立了新型国际关系的典范。 　　经过近70年的辛勤耕耘，中非关系正处于历史最好时期。面向未来，我提议，将中国同所有非洲建交国的双边关系提升到战略关系层面，将中非关系整体定位提升至新时代全天候中非命运共同体！ 　　各位朋友、各位嘉宾！ 　　实现现代化是世界各国不可剥夺的权利。西方现代化进程曾给广大发展中国家带来了深重苦难。第二次世界大战结束后，以中国和非洲为代表的第三世界国家相继实现独立和发展，不断纠正现代化进程中的历史不公。中华人民共和国即将迎来75周年华诞，正坚定不移以中国式现代化全面推进强国建设、民族复兴伟业。非洲也正经历新的觉醒，朝着非盟《2063年议程》描绘的现代化目标稳步迈进。中非共逐现代化之梦，必将掀起全球南方现代化热潮，谱写构建人类命运共同体的崭新篇章。 　　——要携手推进公正合理的现代化。推进国家现代化建设，既要遵循现代化一般规律，更要符合本国实际。中方愿同非方加强治国理政经验交流，支持各国探索适合本国国情的现代化道路，确保各国权利平等、机会平等。 　　——要携手推进开放共赢的现代化。互利合作是符合各国长远和根本利益的阳光大道。中方愿同非方深化工业、农业、基础设施、贸易投资等领域合作，树立高质量共建“一带一路”的标杆，共同打造落实全球发展倡议的样板。 　　——要携手推进人民至上的现代化。实现人的自由全面发展是现代化的最终目标。中方愿同非方积极开展人才培养、减贫、就业等领域合作，提升人民在现代化进程中的获得感、幸福感、安全感，共同推动现代化惠及全体人民。 　　——要携手推进多元包容的现代化。实现物质文明和精神文明协调发展是现代化的崇高追求。中方愿同非方密切人文交流，在现代化进程中倡导不同文明相互尊重、包容共存，共同推动全球文明倡议结出更多硕果。 　　——要携手推进生态友好的现代化。绿色发展是新时代现代化的鲜明标识。中方愿帮助非方打造“绿色增长引擎”，缩小能源可及性差距，坚持共同但有区别的责任原则，共同推动全球绿色低碳转型。 　　——要携手推进和平安全的现代化。现代化离不开和平稳定的发展环境。中方愿帮助非洲提升自主维护和平稳定的能力，推动全球安全倡议率先在非洲落地，促进高质量发展和高水平安全良性互动，共同维护世界和平稳定。 　　各位朋友、各位嘉宾！ 　　中国和非洲占世界总人口的三分之一，没有中非的现代化，就没有世界的现代化。未来3年，中方愿同非方开展中非携手推进现代化十大伙伴行动，深化中非合作，引领全球南方现代化。 　　第一，文明互鉴伙伴行动。中方愿同非方打造中非治国理政经验交流平台，设立中非发展知识网络和25个中非研究中心。依托非洲领导力学院培养治国理政人才，邀请1000名非洲政党人士来华交流，深化双方治党治国经验交流。 　　第二，贸易繁荣伙伴行动。中方愿主动单方面扩大市场开放，决定给予包括33个非洲国家在内的所有同中国建交的最不发达国家100%税目产品零关税待遇，成为实施这一举措的首个发展中大国和世界主要经济体，推动中国大市场成为非洲大机遇。扩大非洲农产品准入，深化电商等领域合作，实施“中非质量提升计划”。中方愿同非方商签共同发展经济伙伴关系框架协定，为中非贸易投资提供长期、稳定、可预期的制度保障。 　　第三，产业链合作伙伴行动。中方愿同非方打造产业合作增长圈，着力建设中非经贸深度合作先行区，启动“非洲中小企业赋能计划”。共建中非数字技术合作中心，建设20个数字示范项目，共同拥抱新一轮科技革命和产业变革。 　　第四，互联互通伙伴行动。中方愿在非洲实施30个基础设施联通项目，携手推进高质量共建“一带一路”，打造陆海联动、协同发展的中非互联互通网络。中方愿为非洲大陆自由贸易区建设提供帮助，深化物流和金融合作，助力非洲跨区域发展。 　　第五，发展合作伙伴行动。中方愿和非方共同发表在全球发展倡议框架内深化合作的联合声明，实施1000个“小而美”民生项目。注资中国－世界银行伙伴关系基金，助力非洲发展。支持举办2026年青奥会和2027年非洲杯，促进发展成果更好惠及中非人民。 　　第六，卫生健康伙伴行动。中方愿同非方成立中非医院联盟，共建联合医学中心。向非洲派遣2000名医疗队员，实施20个医疗卫生和抗疟项目，推动中国企业投资药品生产，继续对非洲遭遇的疫情提供力所能及的帮助。支持非洲疾控中心建设，提升非洲各国公共卫生能力。 　　第七，兴农惠民伙伴行动。中方将向非洲提供10亿元人民币紧急粮食援助，建设10万亩农业标准化示范区，派遣500名农业专家，建设中非农业科技创新联盟。实施500个公益项目。鼓励中非企业“双向奔赴”投资创业，把产业附加值留在非洲，为非洲创造不少于100万个就业岗位。 　　第八，人文交流伙伴行动。中方愿同非方深入推进“未来非洲职业教育”计划，共建工程技术学院，建设10个“鲁班工坊”。重点面向非洲妇女和青年，提供6万个研修名额。共同实施中非“文化丝路”计划和“广电视听创新合作计划”。双方商定将2026年确定为“中非人文交流年”。 　　第九，绿色发展伙伴行动。中方愿在非洲实施30个清洁能源项目，建设气象早期预警业务平台，开展防灾减灾救灾和生物多样性保护合作。设立中非和平利用核技术论坛，共建30个联合实验室，开展卫星遥感、月球和深空探测合作，助力非洲实现绿色发展。 　　第十，安全共筑伙伴行动。中方愿同非方建立落实全球安全倡议伙伴关系，打造倡议合作示范区，向非方提供10亿元人民币无偿军事援助，为非方培训6000名军队人才和1000名警务执法人员，邀请500名青年军官访华。开展中非军队联演联训、联合巡航，实施“助力非洲摆脱雷患行动”，共同维护人员和项目安全。 　　为推动“十大伙伴行动”实施，未来3年，中国政府愿提供3600亿元人民币额度的资金支持，包括提供2100亿元人民币信贷资金额度和800亿元人民币各类援助、推动中国企业对非投资不少于700亿元人民币。中方还将鼓励和支持非方在华发行“熊猫债”，为中非各领域务实合作提供强有力支持。 　　各位朋友、各位嘉宾！ 　　今年7月，中国共产党二十届三中全会成功召开，对进一步全面深化改革、推进中国式现代化作出系统部署。这将进一步深刻改变中国，也必将为非洲国家、为中非共逐现代化之梦提供新机遇、注入新动能。 　　非洲有句谚语“同路人才是真朋友”。现代化道路上一个都不能少，一国都不能掉队。让我们凝聚起28亿多中非人民的磅礴力量，在现代化征程上携手同行，以中非现代化助力全球南方现代化，绘就人类发展史上崭新画卷，共同推动世界走向和平、安全、繁荣、进步的光明前景！ 　　谢谢。

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a keynote speech titled "Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build a Community with a Shared Future" while attending the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) BEIJING, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The following is the full text of the address:   Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build a Community with a Shared Future Keynote Address by H.E. Xi Jinping President of the People's Republic of China At the Opening Ceremony of the Beijing Summit of The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing, September 5, 2024   Your Excellency President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Your Excellency President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Your Excellencies Heads of State and Government and Heads of Delegation, Your Excellency Mr. António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations, Your Excellency Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission, Friends and Distinguished Guests, Blossoms in spring turn into fruits in autumn, and a bumper harvest is the reward of hard work. In this season of harvest, I am delighted to gather together with so many old and new friends in Beijing to discuss grand plans for China-Africa friendship and cooperation in the new era. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, I extend a warm welcome to you all! The friendship between China and Africa transcends time and space, surmounts mountains and oceans, and passes down through generations. The founding of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2000 was a milestone in the history of China-Africa relations. Over the past 24 years, especially in the new era, China has advanced forward hand in hand with our African brothers and sisters in the spirit of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith. We stand shoulder to shoulder with each other to firmly defend our legitimate rights and interests as once-in-a-century changes sweep across the world. We get stronger and more resilient together by riding the tide of economic globalization, delivering tangible benefits to billions of ordinary Chinese and Africans. We share weal and woe in fighting natural disasters and epidemics together, creating touching stories of China-Africa friendship. We always empathize with and support each other, setting a stellar example of a new type of international relations. Thanks to nearly 70 years of tireless efforts from both sides, the China-Africa relationship is now at its best in history. With its future growth in mind, I propose that bilateral relations between China and all African countries having diplomatic ties with China be elevated to the level of strategic relations, and that the overall characterization of China-Africa relations be elevated to an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. Friends and Distinguished Guests, Modernization is an inalienable right of all countries. But the Western approach to it has inflicted immense sufferings on developing countries. Since the end of World War II, Third World nations, represented by China and African countries, have achieved independence and development one after another, and have been endeavoring to redress the historical injustices of the modernization process. As we are about to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the People's Republic of China, we are going all out to build a great modern socialist country in all respects and pursue national rejuvenation through a Chinese path to modernization. Africa is also awakening again, and the continent is marching in solid strides toward the modernization goals set forth in the AU's Agenda 2063. China and Africa's joint pursuit of modernization will set off a wave of modernization in the Global South, and open a new chapter in our drive for a community with a shared future for mankind. -- We should jointly advance modernization that is just and equitable. In promoting modernization, we should not only follow the general rules, but also act in light of our national realities. China is ready to increase exchanges of governance experience with Africa, support all countries in exploring modernization paths befitting their national conditions, and help ensure equal rights and equal opportunities for all countries. -- We should jointly advance modernization that is open and win-win. Mutually beneficial cooperation is the sunny road to the betterment of long-term and fundamental interests of all countries. China is ready to deepen cooperation with Africa in industry, agriculture, infrastructure, trade and investment, promote exemplary, high-quality Belt and Road cooperation projects, and build together a model for the delivery of the Global Development Initiative. -- We should jointly advance modernization that puts the people first. The ultimate goal of modernization is the free and full development of human beings. China will work vigorously with Africa to promote personnel training, poverty reduction and employment, enhance the sense of gain, happiness and security of the people in the course of modernization, and ensure that all will benefit from the process. -- We should jointly advance modernization featuring diversity and inclusiveness. Well-balanced material and spiritual advancement is a lofty objective of modernization. China will enhance people-to-people and cultural exchanges with Africa, champion mutual respect, inclusiveness and coexistence of different civilizations on our way to modernization, and strive together for more fruitful outcomes under the Global Civilization Initiative. -- We should jointly advance modernization that is eco-friendly. Green development is a hallmark of modernization in the new era. China is ready to help Africa build "green growth engines," narrow the gap in energy accessibility, adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and jointly push for the global transition to green and low-carbon development. -- We should jointly advance modernization underpinned by peace and security. Modernization would not be possible without a peaceful and stable environment for development. China is ready to help Africa improve its capacity in safeguarding peace and stability independently, prioritize Africa in implementing the Global Security Initiative (GSI), promote mutual reinforcement of high-quality development and greater security, and work together with Africa to uphold world peace and stability. Friends and Distinguished Guests, China and Africa account for one-third of the world population. Without our modernization, there will be no global modernization. In the next three years, China will work with Africa to take the following ten partnership actions for modernization to deepen China-Africa cooperation and spearhead the Global South modernization. First, the Partnership Action for Mutual Learning among Civilizations. China is ready to work with Africa to build a platform for governance experience sharing, a China-Africa knowledge network for development, and 25 centers on China and Africa studies. We will make better use of Africa's leadership academies to cultivate talents for governance, and invite 1,000 members of African political parties to China to deepen exchanges of experience in party and state governance. Second, the Partnership Action for Trade Prosperity. China will voluntarily and unilaterally open its market wider. We have decided to give all LDCs having diplomatic relations with China, including 33 countries in Africa, zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines. This has made China the first major developing country and the first major economy to take such a step. It will help turn China's big market into Africa's big opportunity. China will expand market access for African agricultural products, deepen cooperation with Africa in e-commerce and other areas, and launch a "China-Africa quality enhancement program." We are prepared to enter into framework agreements on economic partnership for shared development with African countries to provide long-term, stable and predictable institutional guarantee for trade and investment between the two sides. Third, the Partnership Action for Industrial Chain Cooperation. China will foster industry cooperation growth clusters with Africa, push forward the Pilot Zone for In-depth China-Africa Economic and Trade Cooperation, and launch an "African SMEs empowerment program." We will build with Africa a digital technology cooperation center and initiate 20 digital demonstration projects so as to embrace together the latest round of technological revolution and industrial transformation. Fourth, the Partnership Action for Connectivity. China is prepared to carry out 30 infrastructure connectivity projects in Africa, promote together high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and put in place a China-Africa network featuring land-sea links and coordinated development. We are ready to assist in the development of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and deepen logistics and financial cooperation for the benefit of trans-regional development in Africa. Fifth, the Partnership Action for Development Cooperation. China is ready to release the Joint Statement on Deepening Cooperation within the Framework of the Global Development Initiative with Africa, and implement 1,000 "small and beautiful" livelihood projects. We will replenish the China-World Bank Group Partnership Facility to boost Africa's development. We support Africa in hosting the 2026 Youth Olympic Games and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. We will work together with Africa to deliver more fruits of development to the two peoples. Sixth, the Partnership Action for Health. China is ready to establish with Africa a hospitals alliance and joint medical centers. We will send 2,000 medical personnel to Africa, and launch 20 programs of health facilities and malaria treatment. We will encourage Chinese companies to invest in Africa's pharmaceutical production, and continue to do what we can to help Africa with epidemic response. We support the development of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to strengthen public health capacity in all African countries. Seventh, the Partnership Action for Agriculture and Livelihoods. China will provide Africa with RMB1 billion yuan in emergency food assistance, build 100,000 mu (about 6,670 hectares) of standardized agriculture demonstration areas in Africa, send 500 agricultural experts, and establish a China-Africa agricultural science and technology innovation alliance. We will implement 500 programs in Africa to promote community welfare. We will also encourage two-way investment for new business operations by Chinese and African companies, enable Africa to retain added value, and create at least one million jobs for Africa. Eighth, the Partnership Action for People-to-People Exchanges. China will implement with Africa more solidly the Future of Africa-Vocational Education Cooperation Plan, establish together an engineering technology academy, and build ten Luban Workshops. We will provide 60,000 training opportunities to Africa, mainly for women and youths. We will launch with Africa a Cultural Silk Road program as well as an initiative of cooperation on innovation in radio, TV and audio and visual programs. The two sides have agreed to designate 2026 as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. Ninth, the Partnership Action for Green Development. China is ready to launch 30 clean energy projects in Africa, put in place meteorological early warning systems, and carry out cooperation in disaster prevention, mitigation and relief as well as biodiversity conservation. We will create a China-Africa forum on peaceful use of nuclear technology, establish together 30 joint laboratories, and collaborate on satellite remote sensing and lunar and deep-space exploration. All this is designed to help with green development in Africa. Tenth, the Partnership Action for Common Security. China is ready to build with Africa a partnership for implementing the GSI, and make it a fine example of GSI cooperation. We will give Africa RMB1 billion yuan of grants in military assistance, provide training for 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 police and law enforcement officers from Africa, and invite 500 young African military officers to visit China. The two sides will conduct joint military exercises, training and patrol, carry out an "action for a mine-free Africa," and jointly ensure the safety of personnel and projects. To implement the ten partnership actions, the Chinese government will provide RMB360 billion yuan of financial support through the next three years. This breaks down into RMB210 billion yuan of credit line, RMB80 billion yuan of assistance in various forms, and at least RMB70 billion yuan of investment in Africa by Chinese companies. In addition, China will encourage and support Africa in issuing panda bonds in China to enhance our results-oriented cooperation in all areas. Friends and Distinguished Guests, The Communist Party of China held in July the successful Third Plenary Session of its 20th Central Committee, laying out systematic plans for further deepening reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization. This will profoundly further transform China. It will also provide new opportunities and new driving forces for African countries and for our joint pursuit of modernization. As an African proverb goes, a friend is someone you share the path with. On the path to modernization, no one, and no country, should be left behind. Let us rally the more than 2.8 billion Chinese and African people into a powerful force on our shared path toward modernization, promote modernization of the Global South with China-Africa modernization, and write a new magnificent chapter of development in human history. Let us join hands to bring about a bright future of peace, security, prosperity and progress for our world. Thank you. ■

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a keynote speech titled "Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build a Community with a Shared Future" while attending the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) BEIJING, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that China stands ready to work with Africa to implement 10 partnership action plans to jointly advance modernization. One-third of the world's population lives in China and Africa, and there will be no global modernization without the modernization of China and Africa, Xi said in a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The 10 partnership action plans, to be implemented in the next three years, cover the areas of mutual learning among civilizations, trade prosperity, industrial chain cooperation, connectivity, development cooperation, health, agriculture and livelihoods, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, green development and common security, he said. Xi proposed that the overall characterization of China-Africa relations be elevated to an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. He also proposed that bilateral relations between China and all African countries having diplomatic ties with China be elevated to the level of strategic relations. Thanks to nearly 70 years of tireless efforts from both sides, the China-Africa relationship is now at its best in history, Xi said. ■

Chinese experts and Fijian workers check mushrooms in Nadi, Fiji, June 12, 2018. (Xinhua/Zhang Yongxing) by Xinhua writers Liu Bowei, Sun Hao KIGALI/FUZHOU, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- It was pleasantly warm and dry in Rwanda in early August, and young farmers in Southern Province were celebrating a bountiful harvest. Their hands were not bunched with corn or rice but with mushrooms, cultivated with the help of a technology transferred from a country far away to this "land of a thousand hills" in Africa. Joining the celebration was Professor Lin Zhanxi. Since the 1980s, the octogenarian scientist has led a research team on Juncao technology in China's southeastern Fujian Province. The hybrid grass technology enables fungi to grow on grass-based substrates instead of felled trees, a solution to the mushroom industry's threat to forests. The plant's name means "mushroom" and "grass" in Chinese. Its versatility is a key feature, allowing it to grow edible mushrooms, provide livestock feed and help battle desertification. Thanks to the active and visionary promotion by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Juncao is thriving in and beyond China, improving livelihoods and fostering sustainable development in developing nations across the Asia-Pacific, Africa and Latin America. A WAY OUT OF POVERTY Before known as "the father of Juncao," Lin grew up in the impoverished rural mountains of Fujian. His personal experiences with poverty profoundly shaped his commitment to Juncao technology. After decades of work, Lin and his team succeeded in selecting and breeding a type of high-yield, drought and salinity-resistant herbaceous plant that can be used as a substitute for wood to grow edible and medicinal mushrooms. Lin Zhanxi, professor with the Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (FAFU), presents the flourishing roots of Juncao in Fuzhou, capital of southeast China's Fujian Province, Nov. 2, 2018. (Xinhua/Wei Peiquan) At the ninth Aid-for-Trade Global Review Conference held by the WTO in Geneva in June, Lin reflected on how Juncao technology began its global journey. It was back in 1992 when Lin first presented Juncao to widespread acclaim at an international exhibition on inventions, also in Geneva. There in Switzerland, Lin received many calls to learn more about the technology. Lin recalled how Xi has passionately supported using scientific and technological means to combat poverty. In 1997, Xi, then deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China Fujian Provincial Committee, listed Juncao technology as part of the province's poverty reduction efforts with the northwestern Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Upon receiving the assignment, Lin immediately took his team, as well as grass and fungus seeds, to Xihaigu, a poverty-stricken region in Ningxia. Today, Juncao technology is used in 31 provinces across China and has significantly contributed to ending poverty and revitalizing rural areas. With Xi's support, a pilot project to introduce Juncao technology in Papua New Guinea was launched in 2000, becoming one of the first applications of Juncao technology overseas. Lin Yingxing (C), specialist from the Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, explains Juncao, which in Chinese literally means "mushroom" and "grass," to local residents in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea, Dec. 19, 2019. (Photo by Hu Yingping/Xinhua) Fuelled by their dedication and pioneering spirit, Lin and other Chinese researchers have since introduced the technology to 106 countries and regions across the globe. With a mission to end poverty around the world, Chinese scientists have applied Juncao technology to some challenging environments. In Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands, they witnessed tribes still practicing slash-and-burn agriculture. In Rwanda, families without access to cattle or tractors labored in muddy fields using only hoes. In the Central African Republic, they observed the devastating impact of post-conflict famine. Throughout these years, Lin has faced gunpoint robberies, malaria, altitude sickness and long periods in remote outposts without electricity or water. Witnessing extreme poverty in developing countries further strengthened Lin's commitment to Juncao. "We go to the poorest places with a genuine intent to help the people," Lin stated. Villagers wait to be served with freshly fried mushrooms in Gba village of Bangui, the Central African Republic, Feb. 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu) A PLANT OF PROSPERITY Agnes Ayinkamiye is the first coordinator of the Juncao project in Rwanda. "One of the things that made me especially happy was how we helped people. The project was well-received, and we trained many people, particularly women's cooperatives and youth groups," she said. "I enjoyed my work immensely and was thrilled to collaborate with experts." "People can earn money through Juncao technology, and it's become quite popular," Ayinkamiye added. Lin noted that around 4,000 Rwandan households have benefited from the technology, with some experiencing their incomes double or even triple over the years. "Juncao technology is affordable ... This technology is applied in such a way that makes it affordable for people at a very local level, which I believe is the key benefit," said Earle Courtenay Rattray, chef de cabinet to the United Nations Secretary-General. Seruwaia Kabukabu, an entrepreneur in Serea Village of Fiji's Naitasiri Province, is one of the women trained at the Juncao demonstration center in Nadi, Fiji's third-largest city. "After the training, every one of us received mushroom substrate bags for free from the center. Under the guidance of technical experts, we began to harvest and sell mushrooms within 7-10 days, earning money for our family," Kabukabu said. The income from the Juncao project allowed her to improve her family's living standards by purchasing essential appliances, building a concrete toilet and bathroom, and even contributing to a clean water project in her community. "Fiji faces numerous problems ranging from geographical isolation, susceptibility to natural disasters due to climate change that hinders agricultural, and sustainable development and food security," Kabukabu said. Over the past decade, over 2,400 people in Fiji have received training on Juncao technology, with the Juncao cultivation area in Fiji exceeding 2,000 hectares. "Simple to learn and effective to implement," said Lin, emphasizing that Juncao technology should lower its technical application threshold abroad "so that even the poorest farmers can get involved." To date, nearly 350 international workshops have trained over 14,000 people in Juncao technology, with introductory papers now available in 18 languages for global use. Students from Rwanda and Papua New Guinea check the growth of Juncao at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, March 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan) NEVER-ENDING EXPERIMENT Apart from cultivating mushrooms, Juncao technology has continued to innovate, expanding its production to include feed and fertilizer. Since using Juncao as fodder, Tahiya Massawe, a farmer in Bumbwi Sudi, Tanzania, has observed improved milk density and nutrition and increased milk production. "It has also saved money for me," she told Xinhua, "because the budget I previously spent on other feed is now saved by using this grass." Farmers multiply Juncao and use it on their farms. Many testimonials show that farmers have accepted the technology simply because the feeds are rich, said Makame Kitwana, director of Planning, Policy and Research at Tanzania's agriculture ministry. "In a number of ways, scientifically, it has (been proven) that the protein content, as well as carbon content, is high, making cattle more satisfied when consuming Juncao grass compared to other grasses," he said. A Chinese expert instructs local staff members to plant Juncao seedlings at the animal husbandry technology demonstration center in Mauritania, May 27, 2024. (Xinhua) Juncao can also help with ecological management. Soil erosion has been a serious problem in countries such as Rwanda. Rwandan officials used to worry that if the soil problem could not be resolved, Rwanda would have no land to cultivate. Lin always kept their concerns in mind. He still remembers the experimental data in Rwanda during his visit over a decade ago. On one day the rainfall for two and a half hours reached 51.4 millimeters. All the rain was captured by the giant (Juncao) grass, and it was very effective in water conservation and soil retention. In February in Fiji, Lin also worked on applying Juncao technology to saline soil management, aiming to seek additional solutions to combat climate change for developing countries, including Pacific island nations. "The experimental results were very promising," Lin said. "Juncao is the grass of happiness, a gift from China to all."  ■

A think tank report titled "The Road to Becoming a Sports Powerhouse -- The Value and Inspiration of Xi Jinping's Important Discourses on Sports" was released on Tuesday.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach delivers a speech on the first day of the 142nd IOC Session in Paris, France, on July 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Sun Fei) The Olympic values of solidarity, equality and human dignity have never been more vital amid global challenges, as emphasized by IOC President Thomas Bach during the opening ceremony of the 142nd IOC session in Paris. PARIS, July 23 (Xinhua) -- In a world facing unprecedented challenges, the Olympic values of solidarity, equality, and human dignity have never been more vital. This was the resounding message delivered by International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach during the opening ceremony of the 142nd IOC session in Paris. With French President Emmanuel Macron in attendance, Bach underscored the importance of these values ahead of the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, which will begin in Paris on Friday. A TROUBLED WORLD ORDER Addressing a distinguished audience, Bach was forthright in appraising current international events. "We are witnessing a new world order in the making," he said. "Historic disruptions are upending the system of international relations that has been in place since the Second World War." He highlighted concerning trends such as economic decoupling, rising nationalism, and the diminishing role of multilateralism. "In this new world order, cooperation and compromise are sadly considered disparaging terms," he noted, emphasizing the urgency of uniting under Olympic values. Despite these challenges, Bach expressed optimism and stressed that the Olympic Games could set an example for others to follow. "We are prepared because we are not only multilateral - we are global. In the Olympic movement, we are all equal. There is no global south or global north." The Olympic community, Bach said, thrives on solidarity, a core value that defines its mission. IOC President Thomas Bach (C) on the first day of the 142nd IOC Session. (Xinhua/Sun Fei) GAMES WIDE OPEN President Bach praised the efforts of the French hosts in organizing the Paris 2024 Games. He commended President Macron and the organizing team for their dedication. "These Games are more youthful, more inclusive, more urban and more sustainable," he said. According to Bach, the theme "Games Wide Open" captures the spirit of inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that the Games are truly for everyone. A ROBUST OLYMPIC MOVEMENT Bach acknowledged the vital role of sponsors and media rights-holders in maintaining the health and strength of the Olympic movement. He announced that future Olympic Games hosts have been secured up to 2032, highlighting the stability and continuity of the world's biggest international sporting event. The IOC's digital strategy is evolving, focusing on the integration of AI and esports to connect with younger, digitally savvy audiences. "Young people everywhere are living digital lives," Bach observed. "If we want to remain relevant, we must engage with this digitally native generation." Bach (1st L) speaks to attendees on the first day of the 142nd IOC Session. (Xinhua/Sun Fei) The IOC has proposed a 12-year agreement with Saudi Arabia to host the Olympic Esports Games. "By partnering with the Saudi NOC, we ensure full compliance with the Olympic charter while supporting the progress in popularizing sport, particularly for girls and women," Bach explained. OLYMPIC VALUES IN ACTION Throughout his speech, Bach emphasized that Olympic values are crucial in addressing global divisions. "This is our Olympic answer to all the forces that want to divide us: our values matter," he said. "In these dark times, our Olympic values matter more than ever." The Olympics, Bach pointed out, provide a platform for athletes to unite and compete peacefully while serving as a beacon of hope and unity. "It is only by living our Olympic values - the values of solidarity, equality, human dignity for all - that we can manage to bring the entire world together in peace," he concluded.

Andy Murray of Britain reacts in the men's doubles quarterfinal against Marin Cilic and Ivan Dodig of Croatia on the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Ariake Tennis Park on July 28, 2021. (Xinhua/Dai Tianfang) The Paris 2024 Olympics will feature veteran athletes like Andy Murray, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and 70-year-old Mary Hanna, marking a significant farewell for some. PARIS, July 23 (Xinhua) -- British tennis star and two-time Olympic champion, Andy Murray, is to retire after Paris 2024, which highlights that the forthcoming festival of sport will not only see some new stars burst onto the scene, but also be the last chance for some veterans to bow out in style. Murray will be hoping his back holds up as he competes in both singles and doubles, but he is far from the only veteran competing - and one in particular has a great chance of gold. Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is competing at her fifth Olympics, aiming to be on the podium for the women's 100 meters for an incredible fifth time. The 37-year-old has also won five 100 meters World Championships and is the third fastest woman of all time, but in a sport where many burn bright and quickly, her career has lasted. Liu Hong (1st R) of China competes during the women's 20km race walk final at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Sapporo, Japan, Aug. 6, 2021. (Xinhua/Guo Chen) Thirty-seven seems to be a popular age, because Chinese 20-kilometer walker Liu Hong shares that age with Murray and Fraser-Pryce, and she too competes in her fifth Games, after finishing fourth in Beijing, taking silver in London 2012, gold in the heat of Rio 2016 and bronze in Tokyo in 2021. Other Chinese athletes who are well into their 30's are shot-putter Gong Lijiao, with the 35-year-old also at her fifth Olympics. In a different sport, the U.S. volleyball team has bags of experience in Matt Anderson, who is 37, and 38-year-old, David Smith - both of whom are at their fourth Olympics, while 39-year-old Gyorgy Grozer will once again be vital as Germany looks for glory in the same sport. Led by Lebron James, the U.S. team are the favorites to claim basketball gold. The 39-year-old power-forward is also expected to be the flag bearer for his country at Friday's opening ceremony. Lebron James (L) of USA vies for the ball during the men's basketball semifinal against Argentina at London 2012 Olympic Games, London, Britain, Aug. 10, 2012. (Xinhua/Meng Yongmin) Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal refuses to say goodbye and the 38-year-old looks for gold at his favorite venue of all time - Roland Garros, where he has won an incredible 14 times in his astonishing career. The irony is that perhaps it's Spanish young gun, Carlos Alcaraz, who could deny Nadal his perfect Olympic "adios." Always expect Brazil to do well at football and even more so with their women's football team led by Marta Viera da Silva. The legendary player holds the record for being Brazil's top goalscorer with 118 goals and over 180 appearances for her country. Brazil faces world champion Spain in a tough qualifying group and although there are no veterans in the Spanish football team, it's different in kayaking, where Maialen Chourraut competes in her fifth Olympics at the age of 41 after taking bronze in London, gold in Rio and silver in Tokyo. Chourraut will go for gold in K1 and Kayak Cross and admitted that the arrival of the latter as an Olympic event was one reason she had kept on training with a view to Paris. Screenshot of  Mary Hanna's information from the Australian Olympic Committee website But in terms of age and Olympic experience, all of the above fall well short of Mary Hanna, who is the emergency reserve for Team Australia in dressage. Hanna who made her Olympic debut in Atlanta 1996, will turn 70 in December and is the oldest athlete taking part in the Paris Games, ahead of Canadian duo of Jill Irving and Mario Deslauriers, who are 61 and 59 and also compete in the equestrian events

Source: Xinhua Editor: huaxia 2024-06-24 13:54:15 An aerial drone photo taken on May 14, 2024 shows a power battery production base at Lingli Industrial Park in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) -- China's ongoing efforts to foster new quality productive forces will inject fresh vigor into global development, according to financial experts and relevant officials. During the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk platform hosted by Xinhua News Agency, guest speakers concurred that this development strategy will not only generate vast opportunities for global investors seeking innovation-driven growth, but also create a more prosperous and sustainable future for the world. First introduced in 2023, new quality productive forces refer to advanced productivity freed from the traditional economic growth mode and productivity development paths. It features high-tech, high efficiency and high quality. CREATING NEW OPPORTUNITIES "Alongside Chinese companies, global investors are seizing a new round of opportunities arising from the development of new quality productive forces," said Wang Jinxia, deputy director of the Qianhai Authority. Qianhai is a modern service industry demonstration zone in the southern economic powerhouse Shenzhen. Wang noted that as China remains the world's largest market, the development of new quality productive forces will continue to generate market demand, attracting a growing number of global investors. Eyeing new business opportunities, foreign companies have invested over 40 billion U.S. dollars in Qianhai, official data shows. "Additionally, the development of new quality productive forces is offering global investors opportunities to play a greater role in the latest round of technological revolution as well as globalization," Wang said. French multinational Schneider Electric established several research and development centers across China in 2023 on digital power, automation and artificial intelligence. "The importance of the Chinese market, from my point of view, has not changed," said Barbara Frei, the executive vice president of Schneider Electric, in a recent interview with Xinhua. She voiced confidence in China's position as a more mature economy and the biggest market in industrial automation, and highlighted the country's role as an "innovation driver." Amid China's latest efforts to foster new quality productive forces, Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing recently emphasized the need to integrate sci-tech innovation with industrial innovation, calling for efforts to promote large-scale equipment and technological upgrades in China's manufacturing industry. The country has also pledged to continue shortening its negative list for foreign investors, scrapping all restrictions for those entering the country's manufacturing industry. Driven by the country's unwavering focus on innovation, foreign direct investment in China's hi-tech manufacturing sectors reached 37.76 billion yuan (about 5.32 billion U.S. dollars) during the first quarter of this year, according to the Ministry of Commerce. FUELING GLOBAL GREEN SHIFT As China continues to cultivate new quality productive forces through sci-tech innovation, the country is also sharing its intelligent, eco-friendly and inclusive technologies with other countries, said Liu Dongmei, secretary of the Party Committee of the Chinese Academy of Science and Technology for Development, during the China Economic Roundtable. The world is faced with challenges including food security, natural disasters and climate change, Liu noted, adding that with its rich experience, China has much to offer in addressing these issues. "The country is developing new quality productive forces in an open and inclusive manner, which means that it is willing to share its knowledge and innovation outcomes with the rest of the world," Liu said. "I believe that developing new quality productive forces is essential for not only driving global economic growth but also for forging a better future for humanity as a whole." Frei said that China boasts global leadership in supplying components for renewable markets, including wind turbines, solar panels and electric vehicle batteries. "In today's energy landscape, China leads the way." A report titled "Renewables 2023" by the International Energy Agency (IEA) has described China as the "world's renewables powerhouse," citing the economic attractiveness of renewable energy technologies as well as a supportive policy environment. "China's role is critical in reaching the global goal of tripling renewables because the country is expected to install more than half of the new capacity required globally by 2030," the report stated. According to Fatih Birol, executive director of the IEA, China is a "champion of the world in clean energy" due to its excellent progress in solar and wind power, electric vehicles and power batteries, which helps lower the prices of clean energy equipment for other countries.