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  • Free trains and buses carry migrants back to work

    Free trains and buses carry migrants back to work

    In a massive nationwide effort to facilitate post-Spring Festival workforce mobilization, Chinese authorities are operating complimentary trains and dedicated buses to transport migrant laborers back to their workplaces. This annual migration sees millions of workers transitioning from central and western regions to industrial hubs along the eastern seaboard following the Lunar New Year celebrations.

    The Qianxinan Bouyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Guizhou province has emerged as a focal point of this initiative, with human resources departments coordinating specialized rail services offering approximately 500 seats per train. These services connect workers to major manufacturing centers including Foshan, Hangzhou, and Guangzhou through February 28th.

    One beneficiary, surnamed Yang, described the streamlined application process: “After my village issued the notice, I simply scanned a QR code to register and received confirmation the following day.” This digital approach has significantly reduced the administrative burden on workers traditionally faced with complex multi-transfer journeys carrying heavy luggage.

    Wang Wanmin, Director of the prefecture’s Human Resources and Social Security Bureau, emphasized the program’s scale: “We will continue operating special trains and buses to transport 20,000 fellow townspeople to jobs, further stabilizing employment and boosting incomes.”

    Parallel initiatives are underway across China’s transportation network. The China Railway Chengdu Group plans to operate 32 post-festival special trains serving approximately 18,000 passengers through March 6th, primarily from labor-exporting regions like Sichuan and Guizhou.

    The coordination extends beyond transportation to employment matching. A recent special train from Xi’an to Suzhou carried workers pre-matched with positions in high-end intelligent manufacturing, electronic information, and precision machinery industries. Upon arrival at Suzhou North Railway Station, local authorities provided dedicated shuttle vehicles directly to factory dormitories.

    Guangdong province has implemented additional flexible solutions, introducing point-to-point bus routes from labor-exporting areas. Between February 19-25, workers could scan codes to arrange transportation from Hunan, Jiangxi, and Hubei provinces directly to Guangzhou. Huizhou city has established return-to-work shuttle services at major transport hubs, expected to serve over 3,000 workers with last-mile connections.

  • Time is the essence, as ‘slow travel’ becomes the norm

    Time is the essence, as ‘slow travel’ becomes the norm

    A profound transformation is reshaping China’s tourism landscape as the era of breakneck-paced itineraries gives way to a more contemplative approach to exploration. The emerging ‘slow travel’ movement, spearheaded by Generation Z and millennial travelers, represents a fundamental shift in how vacations are conceived and experienced.

    Recent data from a 2025 China Youth Daily survey reveals that 55.3% of young respondents now express preference for immersive slow travel experiences, with over half opting for independent journeys rather than structured tour packages. This behavioral change reflects a growing desire for meaningful connection over mere destination collection.

    The commercial sector has responded dynamically to this trend. Meituan’s platform data indicates remarkable surges in searches for ‘gentle adventures’ throughout 2025, including a 135% increase in low-impact rafting interest, 65% growth in controlled bungee experiences, and over 80% rise in elevator-assisted mountain climbing inquiries.

    Across scenic regions in Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Hubei provinces, tourism operators have redesigned attractions to accommodate this new pace. At Foshan’s Xiqiao Mountain, modified bungee jumps now feature gentle descents instead of rapid drops. River valleys offer ‘lying-flat rafting’ experiences where participants float leisurely downstream, embracing relaxation over adrenaline.

    Accommodation providers have similarly adapted, prioritizing comfort over convenience by promoting spacious rooms, extended checkout times, and walkable environments. Cultural destinations including museums, historical neighborhoods, and heritage sites have become primary attractions, with 57.2% of young travelers identifying historical locations as their preferred destinations according to the China Youth Daily report.

    This movement transcends mere tourism preference, representing a philosophical reorientation toward quality of experience. As Shanghai office worker Li Yiran explained, ‘I’m not collecting places anymore—I’m collecting moments.’ This sentiment echoes among travelers who value atmospheric immersion and cultural engagement over checklist completion.

    The cultural dimension of this shift proves particularly significant, with many young travelers dedicating afternoons to traditional craft workshops or exploratory walks through ancient alleyways. This approach emphasizes depth over breadth, signaling a broader societal recalibration of values surrounding leisure, self-care, and meaningful experience.

  • Sixth round of Sino-US trade talks expected

    Sixth round of Sino-US trade talks expected

    Diplomatic channels between Beijing and Washington are reactivating as the world’s two largest economies prepare for their sixth round of high-stakes trade negotiations. This forthcoming dialogue occurs against a backdrop of significant legal and policy shifts that have fundamentally altered the bilateral trade environment.

    The catalyst for renewed discussions emerged from a landmark US Supreme Court decision that invalidated sweeping tariffs previously imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This judicial ruling effectively nullified both the 10% ‘fentanyl tariff’ and the 34% ‘reciprocal tariff’ targeting Chinese imports.

    In response to this legal setback, the US administration swiftly pivoted to Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, implementing a blanket 10% import surcharge affecting all trading partners. This temporary measure, effective immediately, carries a predetermined 150-day expiration timeline. White House officials have concurrently signaled their intention to pursue more permanent tariff mechanisms through Section 301 and Section 232 investigations.

    China’s Ministry of Commerce has articulated a firm position, urging the United States to dismantle existing unilateral tariffs and abstain from implementing new protectionist measures. Beijing remains prepared to engage in candid consultations while maintaining vigilant oversight of US policy developments. A ministry spokesperson emphasized that China will conduct comprehensive assessments and implement countermeasures at strategically appropriate junctures.

    Analysts highlight that these negotiations will address critical expiring agreements established during previous rounds, including temporary tariff arrangements and rare earth export policies. Researcher Bai Ming of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation identifies technology restrictions and resource export controls as particularly contentious negotiation points.

    Economic experts including Luo Zhiheng of Yuekai Securities anticipate protracted, complex negotiations characterized by cyclical patterns. The ultimate bargaining power, analysts suggest, will derive from each nation’s economic resilience and technological capabilities rather than short-term tactical maneuvers.

    Despite the turbulent policy environment, China’s export sector demonstrates strengthened resilience through diversified markets and optimized trade structures. Chief economist Ming Ming of CITIC Securities projects relatively contained impact on China’s 2026 export performance, reflecting the nation’s enhanced capacity to absorb external trade shocks.

  • Why some Democrats are trying to curb a war powers vote on Trump’s Iran strikes

    Why some Democrats are trying to curb a war powers vote on Trump’s Iran strikes

    In a remarkable display of cross-aisle cooperation, Democratic Representative Ro Khanna and Republican Representative Thomas Massie sat together during Tuesday’s State of the Union address, demonstrating rare bipartisan unity against potential military action in Iran. This unusual pairing occurred as President Trump simultaneously threatened Iran with military force while claiming the U.S. had already destroyed Iranian nuclear sites in June.

    The two legislators, despite their divergent political ideologies—Khanna being a progressive who has denounced the situation in Gaza as genocide, and Massie an anti-war Trump critic—have collaboratively initiated a War Powers Resolution to force congressional accountability regarding potential U.S. strikes on Iran. Their effort seeks to compel every member of Congress to formally declare their stance on military engagement with Iran.

    However, this legislative maneuver has encountered delays amid reports that Democratic leadership is attempting to curtail the effort. The 1973 War Powers Act enables any senator to introduce resolutions withdrawing U.S. armed forces from unauthorized conflicts, emphasizing that congressional approval—not executive authority—should determine military engagements.

    Since the 9/11 attacks, the ambiguous nature of the global “war on terror” has permitted successive administrations to conduct military operations from Somalia to Pakistan without formal congressional declarations of war. Khanna emphasized the urgency of their resolution in a February 18 social media post, noting Trump officials allegedly estimated a 90% probability of strikes against Iran.

    Establishment Democrats, many of whom have consistently condemned Iran while hesitating to criticize Israel’s actions in Gaza, appear reluctant to support the resolution. Meanwhile, Iran has expressed preference for diplomatic solutions that preserve its sovereign defense capabilities, despite preparing for potential conflict with the United States—tensions largely fueled by Israeli influence.

    Following closed-door briefings on Iran developments with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer described the situation as “serious,” requiring the administration to justify its position to the American public. Schumer’s previous statements acknowledge Iran’s concerning activities but stress the necessity of enforcing the War Powers Act to ensure congressional consultation and public transparency.

    The political calculus becomes increasingly complex as lawmakers approach midterm elections, which will serve as the first significant referendum on Trump’s second term. Historical precedent exists for limiting presidential war powers, as both chambers voted to restrict Trump’s authority after the 2020 killing of Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani—a measure Trump ultimately vetoed.

  • Iran rushes to load oil onto ships in anticipation of US strikes

    Iran rushes to load oil onto ships in anticipation of US strikes

    Iran is dramatically accelerating its oil export operations in anticipation of a potential US military strike that could severely disrupt its ability to move crude to international markets. According to data from Kpler cited by Bloomberg, Iranian oil loadings from Kharg Island reached approximately 20.1 million barrels between February 15-20—equivalent to over three million barrels per day (bpd). This figure represents nearly triple the volume loaded during comparable dates in January and drastically exceeds Iran’s previous three-month average of 1.54 million bpd.

    Kharg Island, responsible for approximately 90% of Iran’s oil exports, represents a highly vulnerable target in any potential conflict. This urgent export surge mirrors Tehran’s actions in June 2025, when Iran rushed to ship oil ahead of US airstrikes on its nuclear facilities.

    The regional oil production landscape shows other major producers are also taking precautionary measures. Reuters reports that Saudi Arabia is increasing both production and exports as part of a contingency plan should US-Iran hostilities disrupt global supplies. The kingdom implemented similar measures in June 2025, boosting exports by around 500,000 bpd during the previous crisis.

    Market indicators strongly reflect these mounting tensions. Charter rates for Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) have more than tripled since January to over $170,000 daily, according to LSEG data. These rates, determined by supply and demand dynamics, indicate substantially increased booking activity for these massive vessels whose availability remains largely fixed due to lengthy construction times.

    Meanwhile, Brent crude prices have climbed over the past month, trading up 0.38% on Wednesday at $70.84 per barrel amid the escalating geopolitical tensions.

    The current crisis has been building since January, when President Trump first contemplated military action following Iran’s suppression of protests. Although demonstrations have subsided, Trump has maintained aggressive rhetoric while overseeing the largest US military buildup in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq invasion. The region now hosts two aircraft carriers, dozens of advanced fighter jets, and—in a highly unusual move—a deployment of stealth F-22 Raptor jets to Israel, signaling unprecedented preparedness for potential conflict.

  • Top Dems reportedly work to sabotage bill to stop Trump Iran war

    Top Dems reportedly work to sabotage bill to stop Trump Iran war

    A significant political confrontation is unfolding in Washington as Democratic leadership faces internal dissent over handling potential military action against Iran. Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY) have introduced a bipartisan war powers resolution requiring congressional authorization for any attack on Iran, responding to President Trump’s military buildup in the Middle East and signals of imminent strikes.

    Despite overwhelming public opposition to war with Iran—with only 27% supporting military action according to a recent YouGov poll—Democratic leadership on the House Foreign Affairs Committee has reportedly worked to suppress the resolution. Multiple sources indicate committee staffers deliberately inflated projections of Democratic opposition, suggesting 20-40 potential defections, to discourage support for the measure.

    Senior Democratic staffers acknowledge leadership employs familiar tactics to delay or sideline votes on contentious foreign policy matters. Rather than openly opposing popular measures, they utilize procedural objections and unity arguments to maintain party consensus. This approach mirrors previous handling of war powers votes that challenge national security establishment positions.

    Notable Democrats including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer have focused criticism on procedural aspects rather than substantive opposition to potential military action. Schumer, a top recipient of AIPAC funding, has emphasized the need for public discussion rather than closed-door briefings but hasn’t questioned the policy itself.

    Similarly, Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) expressed concerns about unclear objectives rather than opposing military action in principle. This positioning occurs as reports indicate Trump considers massive operations potentially including assassination of Iranian leaders, while Iran has warned of retaliatory strikes against US bases.

    Behind the scenes, some Democrats reportedly believe Iran requires military confrontation but prefer Trump bear the political consequences. According to sources, the calculation involves allowing Trump to initiate conflict that would damage both Iran and his political standing.

    The resolution faces additional opposition from pro-Israel Democrats Representatives Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), who derided it as the ‘Ayatollah Protection Act’ despite intelligence assessments contradicting their nuclear weapons claims. Iran has expressed willingness to negotiate limits on nuclear development in line with nonproliferation treaties.

    Representative Khanna argues opposition stems from powerful interests seeking regime change in Iran and suggests colleagues avoid contentious positions to prevent targeting by influential donors. He continues rallying support for the resolution, acknowledging challenges in overcoming congressional preference to avoid difficult foreign policy votes.

  • Modi flatters Netanyahu, assures support to Israel in landmark Knesset address

    Modi flatters Netanyahu, assures support to Israel in landmark Knesset address

    Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received an unprecedented welcome at Israel’s Knesset on Wednesday, where lawmakers erupted in synchronized chants of his name before falling into complete silence for his address. The ceremonial spectacle revealed the profound strategic recalibration occurring between both nations as they forge alliances beyond traditional Western partnerships.

    Modi opened his landmark speech by delivering India’s strongest condemnation to date of Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attacks, stating, “I carry with me the deepest condolences of the people of India for every life lost and for every family whose world was shattered in the barbaric terrorist attack.” His declaration that “India stands with Israel firmly with full conviction in this moment and beyond” triggered another standing ovation from assembled lawmakers.

    The visit featured meticulously orchestrated symbolism, including the Knesset illuminated in India’s tricolor flag and children waving both nations’ flags. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu broke diplomatic protocol by repeatedly calling Modi “my brother” and acknowledging, “I’ve never been more moved than by your visit here with us.”

    Netanyahu highlighted their personal chemistry, recalling their 2017 Mediterranean wading incident in Haifa that became emblematic of the relationship’s warmth. He praised India’s consistent support following October 7, noting Modi was the first world leader to call him after the attacks.

    Significantly, most Israeli opposition parties returned to the Knesset specifically to honor Modi after boycotting Netanyahu’s speech, underscoring the cross-party importance placed on Indo-Israeli relations despite domestic political divisions over judicial reforms.

    The leaders announced resumed negotiations on a bilateral Free Trade Agreement, with trade already reaching $3.62 billion in the 2024-2025 period. Modi emphasized this would “unlock the vast untapped potential in our trade relationship” across defense, agriculture, cybersecurity, and technology sectors.

    While Modi endorsed the US-backed Gaza Peace Initiative endorsed by the UN Security Council as offering “a pathway to just and durable peace,” he notably avoided direct reference to Palestinian casualties or Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

    The Prime Minister framed the partnership as having “civilisational affinity” stretching back “thousands of years,” referencing Biblical texts that mention India. The timing of his birth coinciding with India’s recognition of Israel in 1950 provided symbolic resonance to what Netanyahu characterized as a relationship built on “trust, history, and political chemistry.”

  • Trump’s surgeon general pick won’t commit outright to vaccines, and other key takeaways

    Trump’s surgeon general pick won’t commit outright to vaccines, and other key takeaways

    Washington D.C. – President Donald Trump’s controversial nominee for Surgeon General, Dr. Casey Means, endured a rigorous confirmation hearing before lawmakers on Wednesday, facing intense bipartisan interrogation over her unconventional health views, ethical commitments, and professional qualifications.

    The 38-year-old Stanford-educated physician, who leads the ‘Make America Healthy Again’ movement aligned with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., found herself defending her lack of an active medical license and her history as a health influencer promoting dietary supplements and teas. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut presented evidence alleging dozens of Federal Trade Commission violations, claiming Means failed to disclose compensation received while promoting corporate products. Means vehemently denied these allegations, calling the documentation ‘incorrect’ and a ‘false representation.’

    The hearing’s most contentious moments centered on vaccine policy. Means repeatedly declined to commit to advocating universal immunization against diseases like measles and Hepatitis B, instead emphasizing individual medical autonomy. ‘I believe each patient, mother, parent, needs to have a conversation with their pediatrician,’ she stated, while acknowledging vaccines ‘save lives’ and are key to public health strategy.

    Regarding Hepatitis B vaccinations specifically, Means described them as ‘life-saving’ but controversiallly asserted they weren’t necessary for all newborns—contradicting American Association of Pediatrics guidelines recommending administration within 24 hours of birth.

    When questioned about vaccines and autism, Means acknowledged scientific evidence shows no link but notably added ‘science is never settled,’ while describing the autism crisis as ‘devastating’ to families. Her comments aligned with recent CDC guidance updates under Secretary Kennedy that now state a connection cannot be ruled out, contrary to established medical consensus.

    The nominee also addressed past controversial statements about contraceptive pills, which she had previously called ‘a disrespect of life’ and claimed Americans use ‘like candy.’ During the hearing, she affirmed support for accessibility of both contraceptives and mifepristone (the abortion pill) while emphasizing their potential ‘horrifying’ side effects for certain women.

    Means confirmed she had been fully cleared by the Office of Government Ethics and committed to divesting from her business interests if confirmed. The committee is expected to vote on her nomination soon, with the outcome determining whether she will lead the 6,000-person U.S. Public Health Service.

  • Vinicius seals Real Champions League progress as PSG edge out Monaco

    Vinicius seals Real Champions League progress as PSG edge out Monaco

    A night of high drama in the UEFA Champions League play-offs culminated in several elite clubs securing their progression to the last 16, though not without significant tension and controversy. Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Atalanta each navigated challenging second-leg fixtures to book their places in the next round.

    At the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid overturned a first-half deficit to defeat Benfica 2-1 (3-1 on aggregate), with Vinicius Junior delivering the decisive blow. The Brazilian forward, recently embroiled in a racism controversy during the first leg in Lisbon, provided a powerful on-field response by scoring the winning goal in the 79th minute. His strike came after an early opener from Benfica’s Rafa Silva was quickly canceled out by Aurélien Tchouaméni. The match was notably absent of both Benfica’s suspended coach, José Mourinho, and the player accused of racially abusing Vinicius, who was provisionally banned by UEFA.

    In Paris, the reigning champions PSG narrowly avoided a shocking elimination despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Ligue 1 rivals Monaco, advancing 5-4 on aggregate. The match turned on a pivotal moment early in the second half when Monaco’s Mamadou Coulibaly received two quick yellow cards, reducing his side to ten men. Almost immediately, PSG capitalized with goals from Marquinhos and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to seemingly secure the tie, though a late consolation goal from Jordan Teze ensured a nervy finish. The match was played under a cloud of off-field controversy, with PSG’s Achraf Hakimi starting despite facing an ongoing trial for alleged rape.

    The most spectacular narrative unfolded in Turin, where Juventus mounted a heroic but ultimately futile comeback attempt against Galatasaray. Despite being reduced to ten men after Lloyd Kelly’s dismissal, Juventus fought back from a 5-2 first-leg deficit to force extra time with a 3-2 victory on the night, drawing the aggregate score level. Goals from Manuel Locatelli, Federico Gatti, and Weston McKennie completed the stunning regulation-time turnaround. However, Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen and Baris Yilmaz scored in extra time to crush Juventus’s hopes and secure a 7-5 aggregate victory for the Turkish side.

    In the night’s most dramatic conclusion, Atalanta secured their progression with a last-gasp penalty deep into stoppage time against Borussia Dortmund. Serbian midfielder Lazar Samardžić converted the spot-kick to seal a 4-1 victory on the night (4-3 on aggregate), after a catastrophic performance from Dortmund’s Algerian defender Ramy Bensebaini. Bensebaini was directly involved in Atalanta’s first two goals through deflections and was sent off in the final moments for conceding the decisive penalty with a high boot.

  • Watch: BBC on streets of Mexican city gripped by deadly cartel violence

    Watch: BBC on streets of Mexican city gripped by deadly cartel violence

    The streets of Culiacán, the capital of Mexico’s northern Sinaloa state, have become the epicenter of a brutal resurgence in cartel-related violence, compelling international media scrutiny. BBC’s international correspondent, Quentin Sommerville, embarked on a critical field assignment to document the escalating security crisis following a series of deadly confrontations.

    The report paints a harrowing picture of a city gripped by fear, where the authority of the state is persistently challenged by powerful drug cartels. Sommerville’s on-the-ground investigation reveals the palpable tension among residents, who navigate daily life under the shadow of extortion, kidnappings, and open warfare between rival factions. The recent surge in hostilities underscores the fragile and volatile security situation, which has led to significant civilian casualties and widespread disruption.

    Background analysis indicates that Culiacán’s strategic importance for narcotics trafficking routes has long made it a battleground for control among competing criminal organizations. The latest explosion of violence is attributed to internal power struggles within the cartel landscape, particularly following high-profile arrests and leadership changes. This ongoing conflict not only devastates local communities but also poses profound challenges to national and regional stability, highlighting the immense difficulties faced by Mexican authorities in curbing organized crime.