分类： society

In a significant move to bolster ecological conservation and sustainable development, Chinese authorities have introduced comprehensive guidelines aimed at accelerating the modernization of state forestry farms. The initiative, jointly released by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and other government departments, seeks to enhance the ecological quality and functionality of these farms while promoting green development and improving local livelihoods. By 2030, the plan envisions the establishment of a preliminary modernized state forestry farm system, characterized by high-quality natural resources, stable ecological functions, and a thriving green economy. By 2035, a more advanced system is expected to be in place, serving as a cornerstone for national ecological security, advancing forest and grassland industries, and supplying premium ecological products. The NDRC has pledged to collaborate with other departments to strengthen policy support, upgrade essential infrastructure, and coordinate efforts to expedite the construction of this modernized forestry framework. This initiative underscores China’s commitment to balancing ecological preservation with economic growth, ensuring a sustainable future for its vast forest resources.

Ravanov Eldar, a young Azerbaijani student, has emerged as a symbol of the growing cultural and educational ties between China and Azerbaijan. His journey began with a deep fascination for Chinese language and culture, which led him to participate in the prestigious ‘Chinese Bridge’ Chinese Proficiency Competition. Held annually, the competition attracts participants from over 100 countries, and Eldar’s exceptional performance earned him the Excellence in Style Award at the global finals.

Eldar’s connection to China deepened when he enrolled at Tianjin University, China’s first modern university, for a one-year preparatory language program. As the youngest international student on campus, he immersed himself in Chinese culture, participating in over 20 campus events and even hosting the New Year Gala and Cultural Festival. ‘The university’s inclusive culture and diverse events made it my eternal alma mater,’ Eldar shared.

Currently pursuing Electronic Information Engineering at the University of Science and Technology of China in Hefei, Eldar aims to bridge his language skills with technological expertise. His vision is to connect Azerbaijan’s oil and gas resources with China’s manufacturing and computing strengths. ‘I want to tell stories in Chinese and solve real-world problems with what I’m learning,’ he said.

Eldar’s journey reflects the broader trend of strengthened bilateral relations between China and Azerbaijan. In April 2025, Azerbaijan’s prime minister visited China, culminating in the announcement of a comprehensive strategic partnership. Eldar credits his father’s encouragement for his decision to learn Chinese, noting that Azerbaijan was one of the earliest supporters of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Beyond language, Eldar has developed a profound interest in Chinese traditional culture, particularly historical texts like the Book of Changes and the Analects of Confucius. ‘Whenever I face challenges, Confucius’ sentences resonate with me,’ he said.

With the recent visa-free agreement between China and Azerbaijan, Eldar believes more Azerbaijani students will follow in his footsteps. ‘This policy makes our exchanges easier, and I’m confident it will inspire others to explore China’s rich culture and opportunities,’ he added.

The Liulihe archaeological site in Beijing’s Fangshan district has been designated as the city’s next World Heritage project, according to Chu Jianhao, deputy director of the Beijing Cultural Heritage Bureau. The announcement was made during a press conference on October 29, 2025. The site, which is the largest and most extensively excavated Western Zhou Dynasty (c. 11th century-771 BC) feudal site in China, will draw inspiration from the successful UNESCO World Heritage designation of Beijing’s Central Axis, achieved on July 24, 2024, after more than a decade of preparation. Chu highlighted that the Liulihe project has already adopted strategies from the Central Axis initiative, particularly in its application for World Cultural Heritage status. Advanced technologies such as big data and digital twins are being utilized to enhance the site’s preservation and research efforts. For instance, the creation of a digital twin for the Central Axis has established a comprehensive spatial data framework for monitoring and protecting heritage elements. Collaboration with internet companies has further integrated digital technology into cultural heritage protection and World Heritage applications. Since 2021, Beijing has established a dedicated task force for the development of the Liulihe National Archaeological Site Park. The protection plan for the site has been approved and implemented, with ongoing excavations yielding significant discoveries, including the inscription ‘Tai Bao Yong Yan,’ which provides evidence of Beijing’s 3,000-year history. Researchers have also reconstructed a family tree from the Shang and Zhou dynasties using whole-genome sequencing, marking a breakthrough in understanding the Western Zhou Yan state’s social structures. The site has been added to China’s tentative list for World Cultural Heritage, with preparatory work for its nomination progressing steadily.

In Macao, the fusion of cultural heritage and sports has created a vibrant synergy, enhancing the city’s appeal as a tourist destination and cultural hub. The 15th National Games, co-hosted by Macao, has become a catalyst for this integration, with historic sites serving as stunning backdrops for sporting events. The Tap Seac Multi-sports Pavilion, located near the Jardim de Vasco da Gama, a garden dating back to 1898, exemplifies this blend. Visitors and athletes alike have been captivated by the unique combination of sports and heritage, with tourists snapping photos and exploring nearby historic landmarks. Ieng Weng-fat, a member of the Cultural Development Consultative Committee of the Macao Special Administrative Region, emphasized the importance of this ‘cultural-heritage-plus-sports’ model in sustaining the relevance of historic sites. The torch relay, which incorporated numerous heritage spots, successfully brought Macao’s world heritage into the national spotlight. The strategic layout of competition venues, including the Macao Forum and Cotai’s integrated resorts, ensures a seamless ‘event-and-sightseeing’ experience. Creative expressions, such as co-branded blind boxes featuring the games’ mascot and heritage themes, have also gained popularity. This innovative approach not only attracts domestic visitors but also has the potential to draw international audiences fascinated by Macao’s historical significance. In the long term, this model could foster cross-cultural understanding and present a unique opportunity to share China’s cultural narrative with the world.

The Confucius Institute network has achieved remarkable growth this year, with the establishment of 15 new institutes and one Confucius Classroom across 14 countries, including Algeria and Guinea-Bissau. This expansion marks the first presence of Confucius Institutes in these two African nations, bringing the total number of institutes to 510 across 164 countries and regions as of October 31. The ceremonial awarding of plaques to 10 of these new institutions took place in Beijing during a sub-forum of the World Chinese Language Conference, celebrating the 21-year legacy of Confucius Institutes as a cornerstone of international Chinese education and cultural exchange. Assia Kaced, vice-rector of the University of Algiers 2, highlighted the growing demand for Chinese language learning in Algeria, driven by strengthened economic ties with China and the presence of major Chinese companies. She emphasized that the institute will not only enhance language skills but also foster mutual understanding and trust between Algerian and Chinese youth. In Kenya, the Confucius Institute at Egerton University has adopted an innovative model, integrating Chinese language education with agricultural technology transfer. The institute has established eight teaching points, enrolling nearly 3,000 students annually, and has conducted 45 training sessions for farmers, benefiting 2,413 individuals. Ren Youqun, China’s vice-minister of education, underscored the importance of improving teaching systems and exploring the use of artificial intelligence to enhance Chinese language education. He also stressed the need to align with the career development needs of trainees and the requirements of overseas Chinese enterprises. Duan Peng, president of Beijing Language and Culture University, highlighted the institute’s role in providing resources and support for young people passionate about Chinese language and culture, embodying the spirit of mutual learning and win-win cooperation.

A convicted murderer serving a life sentence in Australia is taking legal action against a ban on Vegemite consumption in Victoria’s prisons, arguing it infringes on his cultural rights as an Australian. Andre McKechnie, 54, claims the prohibition, enforced since 2006, denies him the ability to ‘enjoy his culture.’ State authorities justify the ban by citing concerns that inmates might use the strong-smelling spread to mask contraband or brew alcohol. McKechnie, who was convicted for the 1990s murder of a Queensland property developer, is suing Victoria’s Department of Justice and Corrections Victoria, seeking to overturn the ban and alleging inadequate food provisions for his well-being. The case is set for trial next year. Vegemite, a yeast extract-based spread invented in Melbourne in 1923, is a cultural icon in Australia, despite its polarizing taste. In 2022, Melbourne recognized the aroma from a local Vegemite factory as part of the city’s cultural heritage. However, its divisive flavor has also earned it a spot in Sweden’s Disgusting Food Museum. Earlier this year, Vegemite sparked an international dispute when a Canadian cafe owner was ordered to remove it from shelves due to non-compliance with local health regulations. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese intervened, leading to the reversal of the decision.

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — A high-profile scandal involving former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming has shaken New Zealand’s law enforcement community, reigniting debates about police accountability and integrity. McSkimming, who nearly secured the top police position last year, is now facing charges for possessing and viewing illegal sexual content, including child abuse material, on his work computer. The case has sparked widespread public outrage and raised questions about the handling of sexual misconduct allegations within the police force.