Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • Kuwait sees China ties flourishing

    Kuwait sees China ties flourishing

    Kuwait is positioning itself to significantly deepen its strategic partnership with China, aligning its national development goals with Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) while advocating for enhanced Chinese involvement in regional stability efforts. The announcement comes as the two nations prepare to commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.

    Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat, Kuwait’s Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs, characterized 2026 as a “year of achievements” that would elevate the comprehensive strategic partnership between the Gulf state and China. In an exclusive interview, Hayat emphasized that Kuwait meticulously follows Chinese policy announcements and development concepts, viewing China as the ideal partner to realize Kuwait’s Vision 2035 blueprint—an ambitious plan to transform the country into a regional financial and trade hub.

    The bilateral relationship has already yielded substantial benefits through BRI cooperation established since 2014. Major infrastructure projects include the new headquarters of Kuwait’s Central Bank and Sabah AlSalem University City, which have significantly upgraded local infrastructure and improved public welfare. Technological collaboration has also flourished, with Huawei partnering to make Kuwait the first Middle Eastern nation to achieve nationwide 5G coverage.

    Energy cooperation remains the cornerstone of the relationship, with Kuwait serving as China’s fifth-largest crude oil supplier—exporting one-third of its daily production to Chinese markets. Trade relationships have expanded dramatically, with China maintaining its position as Kuwait’s largest trading partner for eight consecutive years. The automotive sector illustrates this growth: of 67 auto brands currently sold in Kuwait, 27 are Chinese manufacturers—a remarkable increase from just seven or eight years ago.

    Beyond economic ties, Hayat stressed the strategic importance of China’s growing role in Middle Eastern stability. He revealed that Kuwait would participate at the highest level in upcoming China-Arab States and China-Gulf Cooperation Council summits, where regional security and development will feature prominently on agendas. “Now more than ever, we need China’s solutions—this should be an era of peace and development, not war,” Hayat asserted.

    Reflecting on China’s transformation since his first visit in 1982, Hayat described China’s modernization as a “miracle” and expressed confidence that China would continue to surprise the world with its achievements. The senior diplomat, who previously served as Kuwait’s ambassador to China from 2016 to 2023, personally embodies the growing ties—he proudly drives a Chinese Hongqi vehicle, noting his particular affection for the brand.

  • Tree planting activities held across China

    Tree planting activities held across China

    As China approaches its annual National Tree Planting Day on March 12, communities across the nation are actively participating in extensive afforestation activities. The nationwide movement, which began with the establishment of the commemorative day in 1979 and the subsequent launch of the voluntary tree-planting campaign in 1981, continues to gain momentum in 2026.

    From urban centers to rural communities, citizens of all ages are contributing to environmental conservation efforts. Recent photographs document young children at a kindergarten in Laoling City, Shandong Province, enthusiastically participating in tree planting events on March 11, 2026. These initiatives represent early environmental education in action, instilling conservation values from childhood.

    The coordinated national campaign demonstrates China’s sustained commitment to ecological restoration and climate change mitigation through practical action. By encouraging widespread public participation, the program aims to enhance forest coverage, improve air quality, and combat desertification across various regions.

    This year’s activities build upon decades of continuous environmental stewardship, reflecting both governmental policy and grassroots engagement. The program’s longevity highlights how environmental awareness has become embedded in Chinese society, with tree planting now established as both a cultural tradition and ecological necessity.

  • Justin Yifu Lin: ‘AI Plus’ driving China’s leapfrog development

    Justin Yifu Lin: ‘AI Plus’ driving China’s leapfrog development

    In a significant address, renowned economist Justin Yifu Lin has positioned artificial intelligence as the fundamental engine powering China’s technological transformation and economic advancement. The Standing Committee member of the CPPCC National Committee and Dean of Peking University’s Institute of New Structural Economics articulated that the ‘AI Plus’ initiative represents more than technological adoption—it constitutes the cornerstone of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

    Professor Lin presented compelling evidence from China’s automotive sector, demonstrating how the nation has strategically pivoted from being a follower in traditional internal combustion engine vehicles to establishing global leadership in electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies. This transition exemplifies how targeted technological adoption can enable developing economies to bypass traditional development stages and achieve competitive advantages in emerging fields.

    Addressing widespread concerns about workforce displacement, Lin provided reassurances grounded in economic theory. He projected that the net employment effect of AI integration will ultimately prove positive, with new job categories and industries emerging to replace those transformed by automation. The economist emphasized that the fundamental purpose of technological progress remains human welfare enhancement, with AI-driven development creating opportunities for improved living standards and economic prosperity.

    The ‘AI Plus’ framework, as outlined by Lin, extends beyond manufacturing into healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. This comprehensive approach positions AI not as a standalone technology but as an integrative force that will reshape productive capabilities across China’s economic landscape, potentially offering a development model for other emerging economies seeking technological advancement.

  • Russian court convicts 19 people over deadly 2024 Moscow concert hall attack

    Russian court convicts 19 people over deadly 2024 Moscow concert hall attack

    A Moscow military court has delivered verdicts against 19 individuals connected to the devastating 2024 concert hall attack that resulted in 149 fatalities and over 600 injuries. The sentencing concluded on Thursday following a closed-door trial that commenced in August 2025.

    Fifteen defendants received life imprisonment terms, while one was sentenced to 22.5 years incarceration. Three additional perpetrators were given prison terms of 19 years and 11 months each. The trial was conducted under strict security protocols without public access, consistent with Russian judicial procedures for terrorism cases.

    The horrific incident occurred on March 22, 2024, at Crocus City Hall, where assailants opened fire on concert attendees awaiting a performance by a popular rock band before igniting the venue. The Islamic State faction claimed responsibility for the coordinated assault, which stands as one of Moscow’s most lethal terrorist events in recent history.

    Despite the Islamic State’s acknowledgment, Russian authorities maintain alternative theories regarding the attack’s origins. The Investigative Committee, Russia’s premier criminal investigation body, asserts the assault was orchestrated to advance Ukrainian political interests and destabilize Russia. This allegation persists despite vehement denials from Kyiv and absence of publicly presented evidence.

    Among those convicted were four Tajikistani nationals apprehended hours after the attack, who exhibited visible signs of physical trauma during their initial court appearance. Other defendants included three individuals who facilitated vehicle sales to the perpetrators, a landlord who provided accommodation, and ten additional persons accused of maintaining terrorist affiliations, according to reporting by independent Russian media outlet Mediazona.

  • Russia jails 15 for life over 2024 concert hall attack

    Russia jails 15 for life over 2024 concert hall attack

    In a landmark judicial ruling, Russia’s military court has sentenced 15 individuals to life imprisonment for their roles in the devastating 2024 Crocus City Hall attack that claimed 149 lives. The convicted include four Tajik nationals—Shamsidin Fariduni, Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, Makhammadsobir Fayzov, and Saidakrami Rachabolizoda—who directly perpetrated the mass shooting and arson at the Moscow venue. Eleven accomplices with terrorist affiliations received identical sentences, while four additional defendants received prison terms ranging from 19 to 22 years.

    The March 22 assault, claimed by Islamic State (IS), represents Russia’s deadliest terrorist incident since the 2004 Beslan school siege. Attackers opened fire on concertgoers awaiting a performance by Soviet-era band Picnic before igniting the building, resulting in over 600 injuries and numerous fatalities including six children.

    Despite initial Kremlin insinuations of Ukrainian involvement, no evidence substantiating these claims was presented. Russia’s Investigative Committee subsequently asserted the attack was ‘reliably established’ to have been orchestrated to benefit Kyiv, while also linking defendants to planned operations in Dagestan.

    The sentencing revealed complex societal undercurrents, with two defendants reportedly requesting frontline deployment in Ukraine rather than lifetime incarceration—reflecting Russia’s policy of recruiting prisoners for military service. The verdict has intensified Russia’s anti-migrant stance, straining relations with Central Asian nations whose citizens comprise a significant portion of Russia’s workforce. Post-attack crackdowns have already reduced migrant flows, compounding labor shortages exacerbated by Moscow’s ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.

  • Rising above all to touch the ‘heart of an aircraft’

    Rising above all to touch the ‘heart of an aircraft’

    Shan Xiaoming’s remarkable transformation from a young woman who had never seen an airplane to becoming one of China’s foremost aero-engine designers represents an extraordinary journey of dedication and technological advancement. Born in 1965 in a small Guizhou township to parents with no aviation background, Shan excelled academically while mastering farm work during her youth.

    Her aerospace career began unexpectedly in 1984 when, without guidance, she selected the aero-engine design program at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics solely based on a compelling phrase in the admission brochure: ‘Aero-engine is the heart of the aircraft.’ This poetic description captured her imagination and set her on a path that would define her professional life.

    After earning her bachelor’s degree, Shan pursued a master’s while her boyfriend (later husband) joined an aero-engine factory in Zhuzhou. Upon graduation in 1991, she deliberately chose the Hunan Aviation Powerplant Research Institute in Zhuzhou over metropolitan opportunities, dedicating herself to engine testing and experimentation aligned with her specialization in control technology.

    Her expertise propelled her through the ranks to team leader and eventually deputy chief designer for testing and metrology. In 2008, her career reached a pivotal moment when appointed deputy chief designer for the WZ-16 turboshaft engine program, a collaborative venture with France’s Turbomeca (now Safran Helicopter Engines) to power medium-sized helicopters like the AC352.

    The program faced significant challenges, particularly with the sophisticated filter unit that had never been designed by Chinese engineers. Under Shan’s leadership, the team pioneered innovative solutions from scratch, transforming setbacks into breakthroughs. Their perseverance yielded extraordinary results: reducing parts by 65% and weight by 40% from original specifications, with multiple technologies achieving national patent status.

    Shan’s contributions have earned her positions on aviation industry standardization expert panels and election as a National People’s Congress deputy since 2018. Reflecting on her career, she contrasts the primitive early conditions—manual data calculation, equipment transport via bicycle, and limited sensors—with today’s advanced digital infrastructure enabling real-time data transmission and immediate analysis.

    The evolution of China’s aviation capabilities is embodied in her experience: from one or two engine models in development to dozens of advanced designs currently under research, demonstrating decades of national investment and technological progress. Shan Xiaoming’s story illustrates both personal achievement and the broader advancement of China’s aerospace industry through dedication, innovation, and strategic development.

  • What they say

    What they say

    Prominent members of China’s National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) have articulated a comprehensive vision for cultural development, emphasizing the global dissemination of Chinese cultural heritage through modern platforms and practices.

    Li Xincao, President of the China Conservatory of Music and CPPCC National Committee member, highlighted the transformative role of digital platforms in reshaping music distribution. He noted that contemporary musical works are increasingly drawing from China’s rich musical traditions while simultaneously achieving global resonance. Li projected that forthcoming compositions would more effectively convey Chinese wisdom and spiritual values to international audiences, facilitating cross-cultural understanding through artistic sincerity.

    Liu Chengyong, Director of the China National Archives of Publications and Culture, reported significant public engagement since the institution’s inauguration in July 2022, with over 2.2 million visits from domestic and international guests. Future initiatives will prioritize the expansion of collections encompassing various publications and cultural works, enhancement of preservation methodologies, and development of digital archival resources.

    Cui Haiyang, Vice-President of Guizhou Minzu University, emphasized the crucial role of China’s ethnically integrated communities in promoting cultural diversity and national unity. These communities, characterized by harmonious coexistence among different ethnic groups, not only strengthen cultural identity but also generate substantial development opportunities. Cui described these interwoven communities as dynamic manifestations of the Chinese nation’s collective future.

    Xu Kewei, President of the Guangdong Provincial Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, observed innovative cross-strait cultural and economic exchanges. She documented how Taiwanese entrepreneurs have successfully integrated culinary traditions from both sides of the Taiwan Strait, establishing prosperous chain enterprises. Additionally, young professionals have implemented artificial intelligence technologies within traditional manufacturing sectors, transforming conventional businesses into industry pioneers.

  • Savoring cultural heritage while welcoming fresh ideas

    Savoring cultural heritage while welcoming fresh ideas

    In a remarkable fusion of traditional artistry and contemporary creativity, master craftsman Sun Zhaoyong has elevated Shoushan stone carving to unprecedented levels of realism. The Fuzhou-based artist recently gained attention for an extraordinary prank—placing an exquisitely carved stone burger on his family’s dining table that proved indistinguishable from actual food until touched.

    This hyper-realistic burger forms part of Sun’s magnum opus: the ‘Manhu Han Imperial Feast,’ a twenty-year project inspired by legendary Qing Dynasty banquets. Rather than historical recreation, the collection demonstrates the astonishing versatility and technical mastery achievable through stone carving. Each piece showcases the artist’s ability to transform inert mineral into seemingly edible creations that challenge visual perception.

    Born into a multi-generational carving family in 1972, Sun developed his passion through childhood immersion in his grandfather’s workshop. His formal apprenticeship laid the foundation for what would become a 36-year journey mastering both three-dimensional and relief carving techniques. His specialization in still-life representation has pushed the boundaries of what many consider possible with stone.

    The artistic medium itself holds significant cultural importance. Shoushan stone, quarried exclusively in Fuzhou’s Shoushan township, possesses unique physical properties including ideal density and a distinctive waxy luminescence. Sun describes the material as ‘translucent yet reserved, possessing the ethereal quality of traditional Chinese ink wash paintings that invites boundless interpretation.’

    Prized for its natural chromatic variety—appearing in over 200 color variations including red, yellow, white, and purple—Shoushan stone has been utilized in carving traditions for approximately 1,500 years. Historically, it served as the preferred material for scholarly and imperial seals, including those of Emperor Kangxi during the Qing Dynasty.

    The cultural significance of this art form received formal recognition in 2006 when Shoushan stone carving was designated as national-level intangible cultural heritage. Sun himself has been honored as a provincial-level representative inheritor, bearing responsibility for preserving and advancing this ancient craft while introducing innovative approaches that ensure its contemporary relevance.

  • Agency warns of security risks in AI tool OpenClaw due to vulnerabilities

    Agency warns of security risks in AI tool OpenClaw due to vulnerabilities

    China’s National Computer Network Emergency Response Technical Team (CNCERT) has issued an urgent security advisory regarding OpenClaw, a rapidly growing open-source AI agent application. The agency identified fundamental vulnerabilities in the software’s default security configuration that could enable malicious actors to gain complete system control.

    OpenClaw, recognized by its distinctive red lobster logo, has surged in popularity across domestic cloud platforms offering simplified deployment services. The autonomous AI agent utilizes large language models to execute computer operations through natural language commands, requiring elevated system privileges to function. These permissions include comprehensive access to local file systems, external service API connectivity, and extension installation capabilities.

    According to CNCERT’s technical analysis, the application’s security framework remains ‘extremely fragile’ despite its sophisticated functionality. Multiple medium to high-risk vulnerabilities have been publicly documented that could be weaponized by cyber attackers. The exploitation methods include embedding hidden malicious instructions within webpages that, when processed by OpenClaw, could deceive the AI into exposing system keys and sensitive data.

    The emergency response team reported observed security incidents resulting from improper installation and configuration practices. Successful attacks could lead to severe consequences including complete system compromise, leakage of confidential information, and unauthorized access to protected data.

    CNCERT recommends immediate security enhancements for both institutional and individual users: implementing strengthened network controls, rigorously vetting plugin sources, and maintaining vigilant patch management. The agency emphasizes continuous monitoring of security updates from OpenClaw’s development team to mitigate emerging threats.

  • Chinese national arrested over attempt to smuggle 2,000 queen ants from Kenya

    Chinese national arrested over attempt to smuggle 2,000 queen ants from Kenya

    Kenyan authorities have apprehended a Chinese national at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi on charges of attempting to smuggle over 2,000 protected queen garden ants out of the country. Zhang Kequn was intercepted during routine security screening when officials discovered live ants concealed within his luggage destined for China.

    Investigators revealed the ants were meticulously packaged, with 1,948 specimens contained in specialized test tubes and an additional 300 hidden inside three tissue paper rolls. Prosecutors have requested forensic examination of Zhang’s electronic devices as they believe he is connected to an ant-trafficking network previously disrupted in Kenya last year.

    This incident follows a landmark case in May 2023 where four individuals received prison sentences or substantial fines for similar offenses. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), typically focused on protecting larger wildlife, has identified a growing international demand for these ecologically significant insects, particularly in European and Asian exotic pet markets.

    The court has authorized Zhang’s detention for five days to facilitate further investigation into what authorities describe as an expanding network of wildlife trafficking. Senior KWS official Duncan Juma indicated that additional arrests are anticipated as operations extend to other Kenyan towns suspected of involvement in illegal ant harvesting.

    Giant African harvester ants (Messor cephalotes) are protected under international biodiversity treaties due to their crucial role in maintaining soil health and ecosystem balance. Their removal poses significant threats to local environments, making their trade highly regulated worldwide.