China has urged Japan to take concrete actions to uphold its commitments to bilateral relations, emphasizing the importance of mutual trust and strategic cooperation. The call came after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reaffirmed her commitment to advancing China-Japan relations in a recent interview. However, her earlier remarks on Taiwan, which suggested potential intervention in the Taiwan Strait, sparked widespread condemnation in China. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stressed that Japan must retract these erroneous statements and adhere to the spirit of the four political documents between the two nations to foster a stable and constructive relationship. Mao also criticized Japan’s recent moves to abandon its defense-oriented principles and accelerate rearmament, warning that a return to militarism would lead to failure. Reports indicate that Japan has eased restrictions on arms exports, including the first-ever export of domestically produced Patriot missile interceptors to the United States. Additionally, discussions within Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party about revising the country’s three non-nuclear principles and increasing defense spending have raised concerns. Mao questioned Japan’s intentions, particularly its contradictory stance on nuclear disarmament while pursuing extended deterrence and nuclear-sharing arrangements. She reiterated that any deviation from peaceful development and the postwar international order would be unacceptable to both the Chinese people and the global community.
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Direct dialogue on climate change stressed
Former US climate envoy John Kerry has emphasized the critical need for direct dialogue between the United States and China to address global climate change. Speaking at a Council on Foreign Relations event in New York City, Kerry highlighted the indispensable role China plays in achieving global climate goals. ‘You can’t really make anything happen if China isn’t on board,’ he stated. The discussion took place during the United Nations climate change conference in Belem, Brazil, where nearly 200 countries are working to enhance multilateral climate action, despite the US’s absence. Kerry pointed to past successes, such as the US-China joint announcement that led to the Paris Agreement in 2015, as evidence of the power of bilateral cooperation. He also noted that China’s emissions could decline sooner than expected, despite maintaining its 2030 carbon peak and 2060 carbon neutrality targets. Kerry acknowledged China’s recent coal construction but explained it as a safeguard against potential electricity shortages. Vijay Vaitheeswaran of The Economist praised China’s clean-energy expansion, calling it ‘a gift to the planet’ and highlighting the global impact of inexpensive Chinese solar, wind, and battery technologies.
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HK powers the nation’s equestrian development
Hong Kong has emerged as a pivotal force in advancing China’s equestrian sector, showcasing its expertise and innovative contributions during the 15th National Games held in Shenzhen, Guangdong province. The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) played a central role, establishing the event’s first on-site equine hospital, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including an operating theater and blood testing laboratory. This groundbreaking initiative, a collaboration between the HKJC and the games’ organizing committee, ensured top-tier veterinary care for horses and riders competing from November 10 to 19.
The HKJC’s involvement extended beyond medical support. The club provided over HK$500 million in funding and dispatched its largest-ever squad of 11 horse-and-rider pairs across all categories. Leveraging its extensive experience in equestrian sports, the HKJC also offered comprehensive support in areas such as horse welfare, venue design, anti-doping protocols, and stable management. This marked Hong Kong’s debut as a co-host of the National Games, alongside Guangdong and Macao, highlighting the city’s commitment to the event’s success.
Cross-border collaboration posed unique challenges, particularly in enabling Hong Kong veterinarians to work on the mainland. An innovative ad hoc mechanism was introduced, allowing vets to practice and prescribe medications at the equestrian center with special approvals. These efforts underscore Hong Kong’s role as a bridge between international best practices and mainland resources.
The HKJC’s contributions to equestrian development are not limited to the National Games. The club has been instrumental in major events such as the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games, where it helped establish the mainland’s first internationally recognized equine disease-free zone. Looking ahead, the HKJC announced plans to host the inaugural regular race meeting at the Conghua Racecourse in 2026, aligning with China’s national equine industry plan. This milestone is expected to elevate the Greater Bay Area as a hub for world-class sporting events and further integrate Hong Kong’s international expertise with mainland resources.
Ronald Chan Ngok-pang, head of the HKJC’s mainland affairs, emphasized the club’s unique strengths in fostering national equestrian development. ‘Marrying Hong Kong’s international connectivity with the mainland’s resources and experience, we are opening doors to boundless opportunities,’ he said. With its unwavering commitment and pioneering initiatives, Hong Kong continues to power China’s equestrian ambitions on the global stage.
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Forum hailed for promoting Global South modernization
The Global South Modernization Forum, held in Beijing on November 21, 2025, brought together international experts to discuss tailored development paths for Global South nations. The event, themed ‘Working Together to Advance Modernization: A Shared Vision and the Path to Development,’ emphasized unity, cooperation, and reforms in the global governance system. Li Shulei, a senior official of the Communist Party of China, highlighted the transformative role of Global South countries in reshaping the global economic landscape and fostering international stability. He underscored China’s commitment to the Global South, stating that China will always remain an integral part of this collective. The forum also saw the release of two significant reports by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS): the World Modernization Development Report and the Chinese Modernization Development Report. CASS President Gao Xiang emphasized that Chinese modernization aligns with global human development interests and advocated for a cooperative approach to modernization that ensures shared prosperity. Pablo Vommaro of the Latin American Council of Social Sciences criticized the Western-dominated development model, calling for a new civilizational framework that empowers Global South nations. He praised China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Global Governance Initiative as models for sustainable and cooperative modernization. Andrei Chevelev, a former UNESCO official, stressed the need for reforms in international governance to amplify the voices of the Global South. He highlighted the role of initiatives like BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the Belt and Road Initiative in promoting a more equitable international order. The forum concluded with a call for collective action to address global challenges and advance a shared future for humanity.
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Wushu needs more events in GBA, coaches in Macao say
As wushu gains global recognition, marked by its inclusion in the 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games and praise from International Olympic Committee officials during the 15th National Games, Macao’s wushu leaders are pushing for stronger, standardized collaboration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). They believe shared training, unified coaching methods, and increased regional competitions are essential to elevate the sport and cultivate future champions. The recent three-day wushu set routine event at the 15th National Games, co-hosted by Hong Kong, Macao, and Guangdong, attracted notable figures like IOC Honorary President Thomas Bach and President Kirsty Coventry, who lauded China’s sports development and expressed enthusiasm for wushu’s Olympic debut. Macao’s gold medalist Li Yi, who triumphed in the women’s Changquan event at the 19th Asian Games, emphasized the importance of perseverance and character development in wushu. Now a coach, Li advocates for more cross-regional competitions and immersive experiences that integrate wushu with Macao’s tourism identity. Iao Chon-in, Macao’s wushu team head coach, highlights the need for long-term career planning, medical support, and dual-track pathways to balance athletics and academics. Both coaches stress the importance of fostering resilience and joy in young athletes to sustain Macao’s wushu legacy.
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Thanksgiving meal costs more in US
As Thanksgiving approaches, New Yorkers are feeling the pinch of rising food costs, with the price of a traditional holiday meal significantly higher than the national average. According to the New York Farm Bureau, a Thanksgiving meal for 10 people in New York will cost an average of $66, or $6.60 per person, marking a 20 percent increase compared to the national average of $55.18. This contrasts with the national trend, which saw a 5 percent decrease from 2024. In New York City, shoppers have reported noticeable price hikes for holiday staples like turkeys, yams, and vegetables. Lisa Smith, a 77-year-old retiree from Brooklyn, shared that while she can manage her grocery expenses, the rising costs have impacted her other expenditures, such as travel and transportation. Major retailers like Walmart and Target are offering low-cost meal deals to alleviate the burden, with ShopRite providing free turkeys or hams to loyalty cardholders who spend $400 during a specified period. The American Farm Bureau Federation noted that the average cost of a 16-pound frozen turkey in New York is $28.27, compared to $21.50 nationwide. Amanda Powers, Director of Communications at the New York Farm Bureau, attributed the higher prices to labor shortages, rising farm wages, and increased production costs. Meanwhile, Angel Hernandez, a 53-year-old from Queens, expressed concern over the high cost of food, particularly turkeys, as he prepares to celebrate Thanksgiving with his 10-year-old son. Deloitte’s 2025 Thanksgiving Index indicates that food costs have risen at a more normal historical rate, with an estimated $76.50 for a meal serving eight people, up 0.6 percent from 2024. Despite the challenges, some New Yorkers, like Ella Sauter, find relief through their jobs, which provide food assistance, easing the financial strain of the holiday season.
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Premier in South Africa for G20 Summit
Premier Li Qiang of China arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Thursday, November 21, 2025, to participate in the 20th G20 Summit. This marks a historic occasion as it is the first time the G20 Summit is being held on the African continent. The summit, scheduled for November 23-24, is themed ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,’ reflecting South Africa’s presidency focus on inclusive growth, reducing inequalities, and prioritizing African-driven agendas. Key topics on the agenda include climate financing, global economic recovery, food security, artificial intelligence governance, and bridging the digital divide, alongside advancing sustainable development goals. The summit convenes amidst a rapidly evolving international landscape, sluggish global economic growth, and widening development disparities. China, through its Foreign Ministry, has expressed its commitment to enhancing international solidarity and cooperation, advocating for multilateralism, and fostering an open world economy. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian emphasized China’s support for South Africa’s G20 presidency and its readiness to collaborate with other nations to build consensus on these critical issues. The G20, established in 1999, includes 19 countries and two regional bodies—the European Union and the African Union—representing approximately 85% of the global GDP, over 75% of global trade, and about two-thirds of the world’s population. Ma Hanzhi, an assistant research fellow at the China Institute of International Studies, highlighted that China aims to leverage the summit to promote the Global Governance Initiative, particularly advocating for increased representation and voice of the Global South in global financial and economic governance. This initiative seeks to foster an equal and orderly multipolar world and promote universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.
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No All Blacks without Donegal man who died at Passchendaele
In a poignant ceremony held at Dave Gallaher Park in Ramelton, County Donegal, the legacy of All Blacks legend Dave Gallaher was celebrated with a symbolic exchange of soil, marking his ‘homecoming.’ Gallaher, who left Ramelton at the age of five, became a pivotal figure in New Zealand rugby, captaining the historic 1905 All Blacks team, known as the Originals. This team achieved an extraordinary record, winning 34 of 35 matches during their tour of Great Britain, Ireland, France, and the USA, with their only loss to Wales. Gallaher’s life was tragically cut short during World War I at the Battle of Passchendaele in 1917. The ceremony, attended by former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick, featured the exchange of sacred soil from New Zealand’s Eden Park and Irish soil from Ramelton, symbolizing the enduring connection between Gallaher’s birthplace and his adopted homeland. Fitzpatrick described Gallaher as the ‘original All Black,’ emphasizing the humility and legacy he instilled in the team. The event also included musical performances by a traditional Maori singing group, Te Waka Aumihi, and the recitation of a poem titled ‘Common Ground.’ Kevin Shields, one of the event organizers, highlighted Gallaher’s dual legacy as both a rugby icon and a war hero, noting that the ceremony honored his Irish roots and celebrated his global impact. Malcolm Stewart, a relative of Gallaher, expressed pride in their family’s connection to the legend, describing the soil exchange as a monumental day for the community. The event underscored the profound influence Gallaher had on New Zealand rugby and the enduring respect for his contributions to the sport and the nation.
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Cargo ship fire in Los Angeles nearly contained after shelter-in-place order lifted
A significant fire aboard the container ship One Henry Hudson, docked at the Port of Los Angeles, was nearly under control by Saturday afternoon. Authorities are still evaluating whether the burning of hazardous materials has caused substantial environmental contamination. The blaze, which erupted on Friday night, led to a temporary shelter-in-place order for nearby communities due to fears of airborne hazardous substances. The order was lifted by morning, and the ship was moved offshore, where fireboats continued to douse a small section still ablaze, according to Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Adam Van Gerpen.
The fire, believed to be electrical in origin, started below deck and spread to multiple levels, causing a mid-deck explosion. Approximately 100 cargo containers, some containing lithium-ion batteries and other hazardous waste, were burned. However, it remains unclear which specific materials were affected. All 23 crew members were safely accounted for, and no injuries were reported.
A safety zone of half a nautical mile and a temporary flight restriction were established around the vessel. Port operations resumed by morning, and over 100 firefighters were deployed to combat the blaze at North America’s busiest seaport. The 1,102-foot (336-meter) ship is operated by Ocean Network Express, headquartered in Singapore. The company expressed gratitude to first responders and pledged full cooperation with investigations. The ship had previously docked in Japan, stopping in Kobe, Nagoya, and Tokyo before arriving in Los Angeles.
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Ukraine allies to hold talks at G20 on White House peace plan
As the G20 summit convenes in South Africa, Ukraine’s allies are set to bolster a US-proposed peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the commitment of Ukraine’s ‘friends and partners’ to achieving a lasting peace. This comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned of one of the most challenging periods in Ukraine’s history, as pressure mounts to accept a plan perceived as favorable to Moscow. The leaked draft includes contentious provisions such as ceding control of eastern regions, reducing Ukraine’s military size, and pledging not to join NATO. European leaders, including EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, have expressed concerns over the plan’s bias towards Russia, stressing that any agreement must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has urged Kyiv to accept the proposal, warning of further territorial losses if the plan is not adopted. The White House has defended the plan, asserting that Ukraine was involved in its drafting. Amid these developments, Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated openness to the proposal but reiterated Russia’s commitment to its military objectives. The summit will also address the broader implications of the conflict, including the potential reintegration of Russia into the global economy and the lifting of sanctions.