Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Expediting new space museum proposed

    Expediting new space museum proposed

    A prominent Chinese space scientist has called for expedited approval processes for the construction of a new national space museum, highlighting China’s unique position among global powers without a comprehensive space exhibition facility. Rong Yi, a senior expert at the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology under China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, made the proposal during the recent fourth session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.

    Rong emphasized that as China advances toward becoming a leading space power, the nation urgently requires a world-class museum to showcase its remarkable achievements in space exploration. She noted that among the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China remains the only nation without a large-scale space museum, while the United States, Russia, France, and the United Kingdom all maintain significant aerospace exhibition facilities.

    The scientist pointed to major aerospace museums in the United States that attract over 10 million visitors annually, noting that such institutions not only cultivate space enthusiasts and professionals but also generate substantial business opportunities. Rong emphasized that a new China Space Museum would serve as a crucial venue for promoting the spirit and culture of China’s space community while fostering patriotism and advancing science and technology education.

    The current China Space Museum, which replaced the previous Chinese Space Museum, received construction approval in October 2019 and was completed in November 2022 before opening to the public in April 2023. However, the facility faces spatial constraints due to its relatively small floor area and location in Beijing’s southern suburbs, where narrow streets and small shops limit expansion possibilities.

    Rong proposed that relevant authorities take responsibility for leading discussions and review work for the new museum’s site selection and construction, suggesting the project should be prioritized alongside other major space programs. She specifically identified the research complex of the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology in Beijing’s Fengtai district as an ideal location, noting that the Nanyuan complex represents the birthplace of China’s space industry and contains numerous heritage sites including assembly workshops for the Long March 1 carrier rocket and the DF 1 ballistic missile.

    The scientist advocated for creating a ‘living’ museum that would honor the legacy of past space projects while aligning with the Beijing municipal government’s cultural preservation and development plan, potentially creating a comprehensive educational and historical destination for space enthusiasts and the general public alike.

  • Xizang aims to better preserve ethnic culture

    Xizang aims to better preserve ethnic culture

    In a significant push to safeguard intangible cultural heritage, China’s Tibet Autonomous Region has amplified efforts to preserve the languages and traditions of its smallest ethnic populations. These initiatives aim to ensure the transmission of unique cultural identities to younger generations amid modernization.

    Tashi Gyaltsen, the sole National People’s Congress deputy representing the Lhoba ethnic group, revealed comprehensive measures being implemented in Doyu Lhoba autonomous township. With approximately 4,300 members, the Lhoba people possess only a spoken language without written script, making oral transmission particularly vulnerable. “The local government funds Lhoba language courses in schools and supports regular night classes where elders teach and youth actively participate,” Gyaltsen stated.

    The preservation campaign gained formal momentum in 2019 when Gyaltsen submitted a proposal during the 13th NPC session. Subsequently, county-level authorities allocated over 8 million yuan ($1.2 million) to revitalize Lhoba heritage, encompassing language, history, traditional crafts, songs, dances, clothing, and architecture. A renovated Lhoba Ethnic History Museum now serves as a cultural showcase, featuring exhibits from migration patterns to textile techniques.

    Parallel developments emerge in Metog county, where Norbu Yangzom, the only NPC deputy from the Monba ethnic group, reported successful cultural-tourism integration. With about 8,500 Monba people among the county’s 15,300 residents, traditional elements like attire and folk dances have been transformed into experiential products. Villages have established clothing factories and costume shops revitalizing textile techniques, while chefs have standardized eleven distinctive Monba dishes for culinary tourism.

    These efforts align with China’s draft law on promoting ethnic unity, which emphasizes protecting minority languages and supporting their “standardization, normalization and informationization.”

    The cultural preservation has yielded tangible economic benefits. Metog, once isolated until its first paved road connection in 2013, welcomed over 700,000 visitors in 2025, generating approximately 470 million yuan in tourism revenue. Yangzom attributes this transformation to sustained rural revitalization policies rather than coincidence.

    Both deputies emphasize that cultural preservation extends beyond museum conservation, seeking instead to integrate traditions into contemporary life through education, economic activity, and daily practice.

  • China positions itself as force for global stability at its annual Congress

    China positions itself as force for global stability at its annual Congress

    As international tensions escalate in the Middle East, China has demonstrated unwavering focus on its domestic agenda, using its recently concluded National People’s Congress to reinforce its commitment to technological advancement and economic transformation. The annual legislative gathering, which serves as China’s premier political event, formally approved a comprehensive five-year plan prioritizing cutting-edge innovation over immediate consumption stimulus.

    The blueprint, passed with near-unanimous support (2,758 votes for, one against, and two abstentions), positions artificial intelligence, robotics, and other emerging technologies as central to China’s strategy for achieving superpower status in the 21st century. While acknowledging the need to boost domestic spending, the plan maintains technology development as the primary allocation for government resources, with consumption measures expected to evolve gradually through expanded social security and healthcare benefits.

    Concurrent with its technological push, the legislature enacted several significant laws, including controversial ethnic unity legislation that critics argue promotes assimilation over cultural autonomy. The government maintains these measures foster national cohesion and shared economic development among ethnic groups.

    Environmental targets within the plan drew international scrutiny for their conservative approach, focusing on reducing emissions intensity rather than absolute carbon reductions. The 17% intensity reduction target could permit overall emissions to increase by approximately 3% as the economy expands—a departure from global practices favoring absolute reduction commitments.

    The Congress also addressed workplace reform, with proposals for enhanced ‘right to rest’ protections gaining substantial social media traction. These included measures to limit after-hours work communications and increase minimum statutory leave from five to ten days, reflecting concerns about intense workplace competition while potentially stimulating domestic consumption through increased leisure time.

    Amid these developments, Chinese officials characterized their steady development approach as providing ‘stability and certainty’ to a turbulent global landscape, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi declaring China is ‘forging ahead at full speed in building a great country.’

  • China steps up diplomatic push for peace in Mideast

    China steps up diplomatic push for peace in Mideast

    China has significantly escalated its diplomatic engagement to de-escalate mounting tensions in the Middle East, deploying high-level envoys and conducting intensive communications with key regional stakeholders. The intensified mediation efforts come as concerns grow regarding potential regional spillover effects and humanitarian consequences from ongoing hostilities.

    Foreign Minister Wang Yi has maintained an exceptionally active diplomatic schedule, conducting eleven separate telephone discussions with counterparts from Russia, Oman, Iran, France, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Pakistan over a ten-day period. These conversations represent a strategic outreach to nations directly involved in the conflict, neighboring Gulf states, and global powers with regional influence.

    At a recent press briefing in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun reiterated China’s consistent position advocating for immediate ceasefire implementation, renewed dialogue, and political resolution through negotiation channels. Guo emphasized China’s dual role as both a permanent UN Security Council member and a longstanding partner to Middle Eastern nations, committing to ongoing efforts that promote peace, advocate for equitable solutions, and facilitate communication between conflicting parties.

    Complementing these diplomatic exchanges, Special Envoy Zhai Jun has embarked on an intensive shuttle diplomacy mission throughout the region. During his tour, Zhai conducted high-level meetings in Riyadh with Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. His itinerary subsequently included discussions in the UAE with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Regional leaders expressed appreciation for China’s mediation initiatives and acknowledged Beijing’s balanced and impartial stance.

    The conflict, now entering its twelfth day, has resulted in significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage according to reports from Iran’s UN ambassador Amir Saeid Irabani, who cited over 1,300 civilian fatalities and destruction of approximately 9,669 civilian sites since military operations commenced on February 28.

    Foreign Minister Wang, speaking during the annual legislative sessions in Beijing, characterized the conflict as an avoidable tragedy that serves no nation’s interests. He underscored historical lessons from the region demonstrating that military force inevitably exacerbates hostilities and generates new crises rather than delivering sustainable solutions.

    Academic experts analyzing China’s diplomatic offensive note that the comprehensive approach—combining ministerial communications, United Nations advocacy, and special envoy deployment—reflects both a consistent dedication to peaceful conflict resolution and the responsible international engagement expected of a major global power. Tang Zhichao, a Middle East specialist at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, observed that China’s refusal to adopt partisan positions distinguishes its approach from certain Western nations and aligns with the principles of the Global Security Initiative, which emphasizes sovereignty respect, territorial integrity, and addressing legitimate security concerns of all involved parties.

  • Advisers align wisdom and strength

    Advisers align wisdom and strength

    Beijing witnessed the conclusion of the fourth session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) on Wednesday, with political advisers pledging to channel their collective expertise toward supporting China’s modernization objectives. The closing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People was attended by President Xi Jinping, along with other senior leaders, signaling the importance of this consultative body in national governance.

    Wang Huning, Chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, delivered a pivotal address outlining the advisory body’s strategic direction for the forthcoming 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30). He emphasized the necessity of conducting前瞻性研究 (forward-looking research) on critical economic and social matters to generate substantive policy recommendations. Wang further stressed the CPPCC’s commitment to serving the people while strengthening consensus-building through united front mechanisms to harness positive energy from Chinese communities worldwide.

    Following the session, committee members expressed their dedication to implementing the discussed initiatives across various sectors. Chen Xu, President of the China Public Diplomacy Association, highlighted the clarified development pathway for the 15th Five-Year Plan, particularly emphasizing people-to-people diplomacy in preparation for the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for November in Shenzhen.

    Environmental representative Yan Qin revealed extensive deliberations on the ‘Beautiful China’ initiative, advocating for standardized national carbon accounting protocols—a crucial foundation for carbon trading mechanisms and ecological valuation. She additionally praised the draft environmental code presented to the National People’s Congress as a historic milestone reflecting China’s ecological civilization theories.

    The session culminated in the approval of several key documents, including resolutions on the Standing Committee’s work report, proposal handling reports, and a political resolution solidifying the advisory body’s consensus positions.

  • South Korean lawmakers pass law to manage Seoul’s pledge of $350 billion in US investments

    South Korean lawmakers pass law to manage Seoul’s pledge of $350 billion in US investments

    South Korea’s National Assembly has enacted landmark legislation establishing a framework for $350 billion in U.S. investments, a move designed to avert the reinstatement of punitive tariffs by the Trump administration. The legislation passed overwhelmingly with a 226-8 vote on Thursday, creating a specialized public corporation to oversee and manage the massive investment commitment.

    The legislative action occurs against a backdrop of escalating trade tensions, with the Trump administration simultaneously launching new investigations into manufacturing practices of key U.S. allies including South Korea, Japan, and China. These probes could potentially lead to additional import taxes if American officials determine trading partners engage in unfair practices.

    This development follows months of delicate negotiations between Seoul and Washington, culminating in a November agreement where South Korea committed $200 billion toward U.S. semiconductor and high-tech industries, plus an additional $150 billion for American shipbuilding sectors. In exchange, Washington reduced reciprocal tariffs on South Korean goods from 25% to 15%.

    The agreement, forged during an October summit between President Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, includes protective measures capping annual investments at $20 billion to safeguard South Korea’s foreign currency reserves. Despite the legislation’s passage, opposition lawmakers expressed significant concerns about South Korea’s economic vulnerability and the potential for investments that might contradict national business interests.

    Progressive Party representative Son Sol voiced strong opposition, stating, ‘We cannot be the money machine Trump wants us to be,’ highlighting concerns about insufficient legislative oversight mechanisms within the bill. The legislative process had faced considerable delays due to opposition resistance, prompting Trump to threaten in January to restore 25% tariffs on South Korean automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and other key exports.

  • Video shows moment point-blank gunshot misses Indian politician

    Video shows moment point-blank gunshot misses Indian politician

    A chilling assassination attempt against prominent Kashmiri political leader Farooq Abdullah was captured on video, showing a gunman firing at point-blank range and miraculously missing his target. The incident, which occurred during a public engagement, sent shockwaves through Indian political circles. Security personnel immediately apprehended the lone suspect, who remains in custody for interrogation. Abdullah, an 86-year-old veteran politician and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, emerged physically unscathed from what authorities are investigating as a deliberate assassination attempt. The footage, which rapidly circulated across social media platforms, depicts the tense moments before and after the gunshot, highlighting the persistent security challenges facing Indian politicians in the contested region. Government officials have condemned the attack and pledged enhanced security measures for public figures while investigations continue to determine the motive and possible affiliations of the apprehended suspect.

  • Understanding who profits will be key to resolving the Iran war

    Understanding who profits will be key to resolving the Iran war

    The recent escalation of military operations between US-Israeli forces and Iran has created unexpected economic beneficiaries amidst widespread geopolitical turmoil. While the immediate human and economic costs continue to mount, a paradoxical financial ecosystem thrives on the perpetuation of conflict.

    Defense contractors have emerged as primary beneficiaries, with Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and RTX collectively gaining $25-30 billion in shareholder value within a single trading session. Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems witnessed a remarkable 45% surge in its stock value since January, briefly becoming the nation’s most valuable publicly traded company. European defense equities similarly outperformed declining broader markets.

    The conflict has produced significant political dividends for incumbent administrations. The initiation of military action effectively diverted public attention from ongoing controversies, including the Epstein files scandal that had previously dominated media cycles and web searches.

    Paradoxically, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has strengthened its economic position despite international sanctions. Controlling approximately half of Iran’s oil exports through its engineering subsidiary Khatam al-Anbiya, the IRGC has expanded its dominance across construction, telecommunications, agriculture, and energy sectors. Meanwhile, World Bank data indicates nearly 10 million ordinary Iranians descended into poverty between 2011-2020 due to economic restrictions.

    Energy markets have experienced immediate disruption, with Hormuz Strait tanker traffic declining by approximately 90% and Qatar suspending liquefied natural gas production indefinitely. This has created unexpected windfalls for US energy exporters and Gulf states with bypass pipeline infrastructure. Russia benefits from diverted energy purchases by price-sensitive markets like India and China.

    The conflict presents a complex challenge for green energy transition, as elevated fossil fuel prices simultaneously bolster renewable energy arguments while making traditional extraction more profitable. This economic tension potentially slows the pace of sustainable energy adoption.

    Potential solutions include implementing windfall taxes on corporations benefiting disproportionately from warfare, following the UK’s energy profits levy model. Coordinated releases of strategic petroleum reserves could mitigate price spikes, while strengthened democratic institutions could reduce political exploitation of conflict situations.

    The United Kingdom faces particular economic vulnerability, with pre-conflict GDP growth projections already downgraded to 1.1% for 2026. Household energy bills may increase by over £500 annually despite limited direct gas imports from the region, while fiscal headroom of £23.6 billion faces rapid erosion.

    This analysis reveals the fundamental paradox of modern conflict: those with greatest capacity to resolve hostilities often possess significant financial incentives for their continuation.

  • Bodies of two Chinese backpackers found in Australian floodwaters

    Bodies of two Chinese backpackers found in Australian floodwaters

    Australian authorities have confirmed the recovery of two Chinese nationals whose vehicle was discovered submerged in floodwaters near Kilkivan, Queensland. The victims, identified as a 26-year-old man and 23-year-old woman, were on a road trip from Brisbane to North Burnett when they vanished on Tuesday after failing to arrive at their intended destination.

    Following an extensive multi-agency search operation involving police units, State Emergency Service personnel, and aerial reconnaissance, their silver Subaru Forester was located Wednesday afternoon. The vehicle was completely immersed in floodwaters, with both bodies recovered from inside the cabin on Thursday. Authorities have notified next of kin and are coordinating with the Chinese consulate regarding the tragic incident.

    Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig characterized the event as an ‘absolute tragedy,’ noting the visitors had come ‘to see our beautiful country’ only to meet this unfortunate fate. The discovery comes amid severe flooding across Queensland and Northern Territory, where rising river levels continue to threaten communities.

    The widespread flooding has impacted hundreds of residences in towns including Bundaberg and Katherine, with additional hazards emerging as crocodiles have been spotted in inundated areas. In Darwin, critical infrastructure damage has forced water conservation measures after flooding disabled the primary pump station at the city’s main dam, requiring residents to boil drinking water.

  • Iranian president lists preconditions for ending war with US, Israel

    Iranian president lists preconditions for ending war with US, Israel

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has formally declared the necessary preconditions for terminating hostilities with the United States and Israel, framing them as essential for achieving regional stability. In a statement released on the social media platform X, President Pezeshkian asserted that peace can only be restored through three fundamental concessions: the formal recognition of Iran’s legitimate rights, the payment of substantial reparations for damages incurred, and the establishment of ironclad international guarantees protecting against future acts of aggression. This declaration reinforces Tehran’s publicly stated commitment to a peaceful resolution, albeit one contingent on specific demands from its adversaries.

    The president’s diplomatic overture was simultaneously underscored by a stark military warning from the Iranian armed forces. Spokesman Abolfazl Shekarchi, in an interview with state-run IRIB TV, issued a severe caution to the United States. The warning was a direct response to a post from the U.S. Central Command on its Persian-language X page, which advised civilians to distance themselves from Iranian port facilities utilized by naval forces. Shekarchi vowed that any American offensive against these Iranian ports would trigger a massive and comprehensive retaliation, threatening that “no port, economic center, or point in the Persian Gulf will be out of our reach.”

    This exchange occurs against the backdrop of a severe and ongoing military confrontation. The current cycle of violence was ignited on February 28th by joint U.S.-Israeli offensive operations that struck Tehran and several other Iranian cities. The attacks resulted in the death of the nation’s then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with numerous high-ranking military officials and civilians. In retaliation, Iran launched extensive missile and drone assaults targeting Israeli and U.S. strategic assets located across the Middle East, significantly escalating the conflict and raising global security concerns.