LAOS-VIENTIANE-CHINA-AIDED PROJECT-DISTANCE EDUCATION

LAOS-VIENTIANE-CHINA-AIDED PROJECT-DISTANCE EDUCATION

(230323) -- VIENTIANE, March 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Lao Minister of Education and Sports Phout Simmalavong (2nd R) , Zhao Wenyu (2nd L), economic and commercial counselor of the Chinese embassy in Laos, Miao Hongcai(1st L), director of the Shanghai Education Publishing House and Saysana Sitthiphone, Vice President of Laos-China Cooperation Committee, attend the launching ceremony for the China-aided project of technical support for distance education in Laos in Lao capital Vientiane, March 22, 2023. The Chinese government is supporting projects to improve the skills of teachers in rural areas and distance education in Laos, aiming to promote educational development in the country. TO GO WITH "China helps improve distance education in Laos" (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

RUSSIA-MOSCOW-XI JINPING-ECONOMIC THOUGHT-RESEARCH REPORT-RUSSIAN VERSION-RELEASE

RUSSIA-MOSCOW-XI JINPING-ECONOMIC THOUGHT-RESEARCH REPORT-RUSSIAN VERSION-RELEASE

(230323) -- MOSCOW, March 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- New China Research (NCR), the think tank of Xinhua News Agency, releases the Russian version of a report entitled "Toward Modernity: The Value of Xi Jinping's Economic Thought" and holds a China-Russia think tank and media seminar to mark the occasion in Moscow, Russia, March 22, 2023. Fu Hua, president of China's Xinhua News Agency and director of the Academic Committee of the NCR, delivered a speech during the event. (Xinhua/Shen Hong)

Sustainability conference "Sustainable Future of Winter Sports - The Next Hundred Years"

Sustainability conference "Sustainable Future of Winter Sports - The Next Hundred Years"

Sebastian Lancestremere, Sports Managing Director of Microsoft Corporation and President of Global Sports Innovation Center, speaks during a sustainability conference titled "Sustainable Future of Winter Sports - The Next Hundred Years" in Lahti, Finland, on March 23, 2023. LEHTIKUVA / ANTTI AIMO-KOIVISTO - FINLAND OUT. NO THIRD PARTY SALES. (Credit:Antti Aimo-Koivisto/Lehtikuva/Kyodo News Images)

A journey of friendship, cooperation and peace

STORY: A journey of friendship, cooperation and peace DATELINE: March 23, 2023 LENGTH: 00:03:10 LOCATION: Moscow CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. SOUNDBITE 1 (Russian): VITALY SAVELYEV, Russian Transport Minister 2. SOUNDBITE 2 (Russian): IGOR SECHIN, Chief of Russian oil company Rosneft 3. SOUNDBITE 3 (Russian): SERGEY LUKONIN, Russian Academy of Sciences 4. SOUNDBITE 4 (English): ALEXANDER BOBROV, Director of School of Government and International Affairs, Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) 5. SOUNDBITE 5 (Russian): ANATOLY TORKUNOV, President of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) 6. SOUNDBITE 6 (English): MURAD GAZDIEV, RT reporter STORYLINE: Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin agreed to strengthen bilateral ties based on principles of good-neighborliness, friendship and win-win cooperation, as well as to deepen the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era. On March 20, Chinese Pr

World observers on positive global role of China's vision on community with shared future

STORY: World observers on positive global role of China's vision on community with shared future DATELINE: March 23, 2023 LENGTH: 00:02:06 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of views in China 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): MARTIN ALBROW, British sociologist 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): PAVLOS KONTOS, Head of Philosophy Department at University of Patras in Greece 4. SOUNDBITE 3 (English): RONNIE LINS, Director of China-Brazil Center for Research and Business in Brazil STORYLINE: A decade after the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind was proposed, the Chinese flagship vision is becoming a great banner for building a better, more prosperous world. Observers around the world have seen clearly the positive role that China's vision has played in the world arena, believing it has met the global need for shared growth in times when economic globalization faces strong headwinds and the whole world is perplexed by the deficits in peace, development, security and governance. SOUN

Safeguarding water quality of Yangtze River

STORY: Safeguarding water quality of Yangtze River DATELINE: March 21, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:01 LOCATION: CHONGQING, China CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENT SHOTLIST: 1. various of Wei Wei working 2. SOUNDBITE (Chinese): WEI WEI, Deputy Director of the Ecological Environment Monitoring Station in Wushan County, Chongqing STORYLINE: Wei Wei is the deputy director of the Ecological Environment Monitoring Station in Wushan County of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. After graduating from college in 2005, he has been devoting himself to monitoring the water quality of the mainstream and six tributaries of China's longest river of Yangtze in Chongqing. He says he feels proud to see that the water quality has been improving. And now the water is very clear. SOUNDBITE (Chinese): WEI WEI, Deputy Director of the Ecological Environment Monitoring Station in Wushan County, Chongqing "My name is Wei Wei, a technician at the Ecological Environment Monitoring Station in Wushan County. Our work is to monitor the environment,

Volunteers help save animals after Turkish earthquakes

STORY: Volunteers help save animals after Turkish earthquakes DATELINE: March 21, 2023 LENGTH: 0:02:13 LOCATION: ISTANBUL, Türkiye CATEGORY: SOCIETY SHOTLIST: 1. various of buildings destroyed by the earthquakes in Türkiye 2. various of cats and dogs saved by volunteers STORYLINE: After the massive earthquakes jolted Türkiye on Feb. 6, many animals, either someone's beloved pet or a neighborhood stray, were trapped beneath tons of concrete. To save these four-legged victims, the teams of Humane Society International (HSI), a leading force for animal protection, arrived in Türkiye after the quakes, working hand in hand with their Turkish peers. Kelly Donithan, HSI's director of animal disaster response, told Xinhua via an email interview that during their rescue operations which lasted almost a month, teams had gone out on several search-and-rescue missions per day, which involved scanning the area for signs of animals and visiting specific locations provided by anxious pet owners. "We would often be pas

Low birth rates problematic for ageing EU population: Spanish expert

STORY: Low birth rates problematic for ageing EU population: Spanish expert DATELINE: March 21, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:56 LOCATION: BARCELONA, Spain CATEGORY: SOCIETY SHOTLIST: 1. SOUNDBITE 1 (Catalan): ALBERT ESTEVE, Director of the Center for Demographic Studies (CED) in Barcelona 2. SOUNDBITE 2 (Catalan): ALBERT ESTEVE, Director of the Center for Demographic Studies (CED) in Barcelona 3. SOUNDBITE 3 (Catalan): ALBERT ESTEVE, Director of the Center for Demographic Studies (CED) in Barcelona 4. SOUNDBITE 4 (Catalan): ALBERT ESTEVE, Director of the Center for Demographic Studies (CED) in Barcelona 5. SOUNDBITE 5 (Catalan): ALBERT ESTEVE, Director of the Center for Demographic Studies (CED) in Barcelona 6. SOUNDBITE 6 (Catalan): ALBERT ESTEVE, Director of the Center for Demographic Studies (CED) in Barcelona STORYLINE: The average age of the European population has gone up by 2.5 years in the past decade, according to Eurostat data published recently. In Spain, the average age has climbed by 4.3 years, the

Brazil's President Lula garners 41 pct approval rating: poll

STORY: Brazil's President Lula garners 41 pct approval rating: poll DATELINE: March 21, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:46 LOCATION: Brasilia CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva 2. various of Brasilia STORYLINE: Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has garnered a 41 percent approval rating since taking office on Jan. 1 for a third term, an opinion poll has shown. The survey, conducted by pollster IPEC (Intelligence in Research and Strategic Consulting) and published Sunday by news outlet O Globo, showed Lula enjoys higher approval than his predecessor Jair Bolsonaro (2019-2022) did at the start of his term (34 percent). Some 41 percent of those surveyed rated his administration as "good" or "excellent," and 30 percent rated it as "regular," said IPEC. Lula received better ratings at the start of his two previous terms with 51 percent approval in 2003 and 49 percent in 2007, the pollster noted. IPEC's executive director, Marcia Cavallari, told O Globo that the Brazi

Facing potential eruption, DR Congo volcanic monitoring impeded by ongoing war

STORY: Facing potential eruption, DR Congo volcanic monitoring impeded by ongoing war DATELINE: March 20, 2023 LENGTH: 00:03:40 LOCATION: GOMA, DR Congo CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENT SHOTLIST: 1. various of the Nyamulagira volcano, DR Congo 2. various of the Goma Volcanological Observatory (OVG), DR Congo 3. SOUNDBITE 1 (French): KASEREKA MAHINDA, Scientific director at OVG 4. various of a temporary shelter near Goma, DR Congo 5. SOUNDBITE 2 (French): CHANCE BARAMBESHA, Victim of Nyiragongo volcano eruption in 2021 6. various of people 7. SOUNDBITE 3 (Swahili): CHARLOTTE BUTERA, Displaced civilian STORYLINE: As the Nyamulagira volcano in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been experiencing volcanic activities since Monday evening, the Goma Volcanological Observatory (OVG) claims that their job is held by the ongoing war that is shaking the region. "A fiery glow was observed at the top of the Nyamulagira volcano," the volcanological observatory said in a statement last Monday, adding that current s

President Xi's upcoming visit to Moscow welcomed by Russians

STORY: President Xi's upcoming visit to Moscow welcomed by Russians DATELINE: March 19, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:50 LOCATION: Moscow CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of Moscow 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Russian): GALINA KULIKOVA, First deputy chairperson of Russia-China Friendship Association 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Russian): IRINA ZAKHAROVA, Honored art worker of the Russian Federation 4. SOUNDBITE 3 (English): ALEXANDER BOBROV, Director of School of Government and International Affairs, MGIMO University 5. SOUNDBITE 4 (Russian): DMITRY NOVIKOV, First deputy chairman of Russian State Duma Committee on Foreign Affairs 6. SOUNDBITE 5 (Russian): GENNADY ZYUGANOV, Chairman of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation 7. SOUNDBITE 6 (Russian): GALINA KULIKOVA, First deputy chairperson of Russia-China Friendship Association 8. SOUNDBITE 7 (Russian): Russian citizens 9. SOUNDBITE 8 (Russian): Russian citizen 10. SOUNDBITE 9 (Russian): Russian citizens STORYLINE: Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a

Brazilian president's visit to offer opportunity to learn from China: expert

STORY: Brazilian president's visit to offer opportunity to learn from China: expert DATELINE: March 19, 2023 LENGTH: 00:02:06 LOCATION: RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of Brazil 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): RONNIE LINS, Director of China-Brazil Center for Research and Business 3. various of Brazil 4. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): RONNIE LINS, Director of China-Brazil Center for Research and Business STORYLINE: A Brazilian expert has said that Brazilian president's visit to China is fundamental, which offers an opportunity for Brazil to learn from China's experience in building infrastructure and eradicating poverty. According to Chinese Foreign Ministry, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will pay a state visit to China from March 26 to 31. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): RONNIE LINS, Director of China-Brazil Center for Research and Business "President Lula's visit to China is fundamental because China is our leading trading partner and the world's economic engine. Thanks to

High-tech gadgets used in Great Wall protection in China's Jiayuguan

STORY: High-tech gadgets used in Great Wall protection in China's Jiayuguan DATELINE: March 18, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:05 LOCATION: JIAYUGUAN, China CATEGORY: SOCIETY SHOTLIST: 1. various of stretches of the Great Wall in Jiayuguan City 2. SOUNDBITE (Chinese): ZHANG BIN, Director, Jiayuguan Silk Road Culture Research Institute 3. various of daily protection of Jiayu Pass 4. various of working scenes of local archaeological researchers in Jiayuguan City STORYLINE: High-tech gadgets, including drones, meteorological and hydrological devices, have been adopted in the protection of the Jiayu Pass section of the Great Wall in Jiayuguan City, northwest China's Gansu Province. The Jiayu Pass is regarded as the western start of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) Great Wall. The local government has launched a series of protection projects to save the Great Wall from damage caused by the natural environment. SOUNDBITE (Chinese): ZHANG BIN, Director, Jiayuguan Silk Road Culture Research Institute "In recent years, w

Importance of Chinese language emphasized at int'l language teaching conference

STORY: Importance of Chinese language emphasized at int'l language teaching conference DATELINE: March 18, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:14 LOCATION: Mexico City CATEGORY: SOCIETY SHOTLIST: 1. various of the 6th International Conference of Chinese Language Teaching 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Spanish): CARMEN DEL CONTIJOCH, Director of the National School of Languages, Linguistics and Translation at the National Autonomous University of Mexico 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Spanish): ROBERTO LAFONTAINE, Executive director, Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean, Center for International Cooperation and Language Teaching 4. SOUNDBITE 3 (Spanish): ZHANG RUN, Chinese Ambassador to Mexico 5. various of the 6th International Conference of Chinese Language Teaching STORYLINE: At the just-concluded 6th International Conference of Chinese Language Teaching held in Mexico, experts said the Chinese language has become more and more popular among language learners and helped them strengthen their professional profiles in an increasingly comp

2nd high-level inter-regional meeting on health of refugees, migrants held in Egypt

STORY: 2nd high-level inter-regional meeting on health of refugees, migrants held in Egypt DATELINE: March 18, 2023 LENGTH: 00:02:18 LOCATION: Cairo CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of the meeting 2. SOUNDBITE (Arabic): AHMED AL-MANDHARI, WHO regional director for the Eastern Mediterranean 3. various of the meeting STORYLINE: After the devastating earthquakes in Syria and Türkiye more than a month ago, as well as the current conflict in Ukraine now past its one-year mark, three World Health Organization (WHO) regional offices on Friday brought together governments, civil societies and health partners in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, for the second high-level meeting on the health of refugees and migrants. According to the WHO, the timely gathering aimed to ensure that refugees and migrants have access to healthcare across the migration route during emergencies. Hosted by the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, along with WHO's African and European regions, with support from WHO's Health a

Exhibition of ancient Chinese ceramics held in Cuba

STORY: Exhibition of ancient Chinese ceramics held in Cuba DATELINE: March 18, 2023 LENGTH: 0:00:57 LOCATION: Havana CATEGORY: CULTURE SHOTLIST: 1. various of the exhibition 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): MA HUI, Chinese Ambassador to Cuba 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Spanish): YOSVANIS FORNARIS, Director of Havana's Museum of Decorative Arts STORYLINE: An exhibition featuring ancient Chinese ceramics kicked off in Cuba on Thursday in commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): MA HUI, Chinese Ambassador to Cuba "This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, which has become a popular global public good and an important platform for international cooperation." About 50 pieces of ancient Chinese porcelain went on display at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Havana in the exhibition titled "Of One Color." The exhibition was curated by Yosvanis Fornaris, a young Cuban archaeologist who received a scholarship to study at a ceramics university in China's

Greek scholars hail Global Civilization Initiative as significant to harmonious development

STORY: Greek scholars hail Global Civilization Initiative as significant to harmonious development DATELINE: March 18, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:42 LOCATION: Athens CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of scenes in China 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): ELENI KARAMALENGOU, Academic director of the BA Program in the Archaeology, History and Literature of Ancient Greece at the University of Athens 3. various of scenes in Athens 4. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): PAVLOS KONTOS, Head of the Philosophy Department at the University of Patras STORYLINE: Greek scholars have hailed the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, believing the efforts in promoting dialogue between civilizations will advance the harmonious development of the world. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): ELENI KARAMALENGOU, Academic director of the BA Program in the Archaeology, History and Literature of Ancient Greece at the University of Athens "Contact between different cultures can be a source of intellectual wealth for all the countrie

Chinese construction equipment wins recognition from overseas customers, partners

STORY: Chinese construction equipment wins recognition from overseas customers, partners DATELINE: March 17, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:15 LOCATION: LAS VEGAS, U.S. CATEGORY: ECONOMY/TECHNOLOGY SHOTLIST: 1. various of the CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show 2. SOUNDBITE (English): BERND BLANKENBACH, R&D director of Omni Powertrain Technologies 3. various of construction equipment presented by Chinese manufacturers STORYLINE: Over 150 Chinese construction equipment companies are attending North America's largest construction trade show in Las Vegas. The CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show runs from Tuesday to Saturday. The competence of Chinese construction manufacturers has also won recognition from their foreign counterparts. Omni Powertrain Technologies, a global provider of product solutions for modern powertrains of mechanical, hydraulic or electrical designs, started its business in China in 1986. SOUNDBITE (English): BERND BLANKENBACH, R&D director of Omni Powertrain Technologies "We have our development center in Shangha

Int'l observers hail significance of Global Civilization Initiative

STORY: Int'l observers hail significance of Global Civilization Initiative DATELINE: March 17, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:58 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of China 2. various of Greece 3. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): JOTI BRAR, Vice Chair of the Communist Party of Great Britain (Marxist-Leninist) 4. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): ASIF LUQMAN QAZI, Director of foreign affairs, Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan STORYLINE: International observers have hailed the significance of the Global Civilization Initiative, saying civilizations should understand, respect, and learn from each other. The Global Civilization Initiative was proposed at the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-level Meeting on Wednesday. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): JOTI BRAR, Vice Chair of the Communist Party of Great Britain (Marxist-Leninist) "It's very clear that there's a great thirst in the world for this type of approach, to development, to cooperation, to mutual respect, to modernization in a human-ce

WFP commits 54 mln USD to mitigate drought in Kenya

STORY: WFP commits 54 mln USD to mitigate drought in Kenya DATELINE: March 16, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:31 LOCATION: Nairobi CATEGORY: ECONOMY/ENVIRONMENT SHOTLIST: 1. various of a meeting between the Kenyan government and WFP officials 2. SOUNDBITE (English): RIGATHI GACHAGUA, Kenyan Deputy President 3. various of the meeting between the Kenyan government and WFP officials STORYLINE: The World Food Programme (WFP) on Wednesday committed 7 billion shillings (about 54 million U.S. dollars) as relief assistance to help some 940,300 people facing severe drought in 10 counties in Kenya. Lauren Landis, WFP country director for Kenya, said the food and cash will be distributed under the Lisha Jamii (protect family) Phase II program between April and September. "The second phase is worth 7 billion shillings and we hope to make it 10 billion shillings. This is substantial, but we still need more," Landis said in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, during a meeting with Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Landis said t

Chinese modernization creates new form of human advancement: political party leaders

STORY: Chinese modernization creates new form of human advancement: political party leaders DATELINE: March 16, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:44 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of views in China 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Turkish): DOGU PERINCEK, Chairman of the Patriotic Party of Türkiye 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): ASIF LUQMAN QAZI, Director of foreign affairs, Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan 4. SOUNDBITE 3 (English): ADEM FARAH, Vice President and General Secretary of Prosperity Party, Ethiopia 5. SOUNDBITE 4 (Arabic): KAWA MAHMOUD, Secretary of Central Committee of Kurdistan Communist Party in Iraq STORYLINE: China's path to modernization is one of peace and development, win-win cooperation, and harmony between humanity and nature. Many political party leaders say Chinese modernization creates a new form of human advancement. SOUNDBITE 1 (Turkish): DOGU PERINCEK, Chairman of the Patriotic Party of Türkiye "The modernization of the People's Republic of China is not individualistic but collective. The model l

Chinese sportswear giant Anta strengthens technological innovation

STORY: Chinese sportswear giant Anta strengthens technological innovation DATELINE: March 16, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:11 LOCATION: FUZHOU, China CATEGORY: SOCIETY SHOTLIST: 1. SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): ZHENG ZHIYI, Director of Innovation Laboratory of Anta Group 2. SOUNDBITE 2 (Chinese): ZHENG ZHIYI, Director of Innovation Laboratory of Anta Group 3. SOUNDBITE 3 (Chinese): ZHENG ZHIYI, Director of Innovation Laboratory of Anta Group STORYLINE: Adhering to industrial development and technology innovation, Chinese sportswear brand Anta has gradually grown from a family workshop to a global sneaker apparel industry giant. SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): ZHENG ZHIYI, Director of Innovation Laboratory of Anta Group "This is the running shoe that Chinese astronauts wear in space. Its material is extremely lightweight, only one-fifth of a feather's weight. This pair of shoes is a typical product of Anta's innovation and research." Anta has pioneered nitrogen foaming technology, which is to inject nitrogen into the midsole foam.

"Ideal House" exhibition kicks off in Erbil, Iraq

STORY: "Ideal House" exhibition kicks off in Erbil, Iraq DATELINE: March 15, 2023 LENGTH: 00:03:10 LOCATION: ERBIL, Iraq CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENT SHOTLIST: 1. various of the exhibition 2. SOUNDBITE (Kurdish): HASSAN SAMI, director of the International Exhibition Center in Erbil STORYLINE: The second international "Ideal House" exhibition for furniture and home accessories kicked off in Erbil in Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region on Tuesday, which will continue until March 18, with the participation of 83 international companies and brands from 11 countries. SOUNDBITE (Kurdish): HASSAN SAMI, Director of the International Exhibition Center in Erbil "The aim of the exhibition is to provide an opportunity for merchants to display their goods and products and to show the bright side of our economy to the countries of the world. At the same time, it is to support local merchants who visit this exhibition. There is an important point that organizing exhibitions, it is not only a business, but rather the devel

Tree planting campaign launched in Erbil, Iraq

STORY: Tree planting campaign launched in Erbil, Iraq DATELINE: March 15, 2023 LENGTH: 0:00:59 LOCATION: ERBIL, Iraq CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENT SHOTLIST: 1. various of a tree planting campaign in Erbil STORYLINE: A tree planting campaign was launched Tuesday in Erbil, Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, and will continue until March 20. The first day of the campaign saw the planting of more than 3,000 seedlings across the governorate, with the participation of hundreds of volunteers and workers. Staff at the Directorate of Forestry and Horticulture in Erbil started the campaign by planting more than 300 seedlings in the forests of the Kasnazan area, east of Erbil. Shalaw Refaat, director of forestry and horticulture in Erbil, said that they chose the Kasnazan area to start the campaign because "it is a tourist area where many tourists come to visit in spring." Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Erbil, Iraq. (XHTV)

CHINA-BEIJING-PALACE MUSEUM-KUNQU OPERA (CN)

CHINA-BEIJING-PALACE MUSEUM-KUNQU OPERA (CN)

(230314) -- BEIJING, March 14, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Director of the Palace Museum Wang Xudong addresses the signing ceremony at the Palace Museum in Beijing, capital of China, March 13, 2023. The Palace Museum and Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe signed a strategic cooperation agreement here Tuesday to restage Chinese classic operas. (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai)

VR classroom facilitates Gazan students in interactive learning

STORY: VR classroom facilitates Gazan students in interactive learning DATELINE: March 14, 2023 LENGTH: 00:02:40 LOCATION: GAZA, Palestine CATEGORY: TECHNOLOGY SHOTLIST: 1. various of the virtual classroom 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): SHAHD JUNDIYA, Student 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Arabic): LEEN AL-LOUH, Student 4. various of the virtual classroom 5. SOUNDBITE 3 (Arabic): AHMED AL-NATOUR, Director of public relations at al-Basma school in Gaza 6. various of the virtual classroom STORYLINE: Studying science has become easier for 11-year-old Shahd Jundiya, a Palestinian student living in the Gaza Strip, ever since she began to attend classes in her school's virtual reality classroom. SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): SHAHD JUNDIYA, Student "This is very interesting. I feel like I am on a second planet. I learn new things in science. You learn the non-vegetative cell and the animal cell. In mathematics, I learn how to pyramid." "In the past, I had to spend long hours on maths, science, engineering and Arabic subjects to be at an ad

China's high-quality development contributes to global economic growth: experts

STORY: China's high-quality development contributes to global economic growth: experts DATELINE: March 14, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:52 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. various of China-related footage 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): SELCUK COLAKOGLU, Director of the Ankara-based Turkish Center for Asia-Pacific Studies 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Spanish): ENRIQUE DUSSEL PETERS, Coordinator of the Latin American and Caribbean Academic Network on China (RED ALC-CHINA) 4. SOUNDBITE 3 (English): RONNIE LINS, Director of China-Brazil Center for Research and Business in Brazil STORYLINE: China has set a GDP target of around 5 percent for 2023 to ensure steady and quality development. Experts say the growth target shows China's pursuit of high-quality development, highlighting the country's role as the main engine for global economic growth. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): SELCUK COLAKOGLU, Director of the Ankara-based Turkish Center for Asia-Pacific Studies "The Chinese government will continue its target for high-quality deve

China's economy has shown adaptive capacity and resilience: Nigerian expert

STORY: China's economy has shown adaptive capacity and resilience: Nigerian expert DATELINE: March 14, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:52 LOCATION: Abuja CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. various of China-related footage 2. SOUNDBITE (English): CHARLES ONUNAIJU, Director of Center for China Studies in Nigeria STORYLINE: As the world's second-largest economy, China's economic development is closely watched by other countries around the world. China aims to achieve a faster economic growth of around 5 percent with better quality of development in 2023, as it gathers pace to build up recovery momentum and push ahead with its modernization drive. A Nigerian expert says that China's economy has shown strong adaptive capacity and resilience, and the country's economic growth will improve its people's living standards. SOUNDBITE (English): CHARLES ONUNAIJU, Director of Center for China Studies in Nigeria "China's economy has not only shown resilience but has demonstrated adaptive capacity even in challenging times. So if you

WTO official eyes smooth transition of Bangladesh graduating from LDC

STORY: WTO official eyes smooth transition of Bangladesh graduating from LDC DATELINE: March 13, 2023 LENGTH: 0:03:39 LOCATION: Dhaka CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. various of "Bangladesh Business Summit 2023" 2. SOUNDBITE (English): ZHANG XIANGCHEN, Deputy director-general of World Trade Organization STORYLINE: Bangladesh is set to graduate from its status as a Least Developed Country (LDC) in 2026. Zhang Xiangchen, deputy director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO), on Saturday told Xinhua, "We, the WTO, will help Bangladesh to achieve the smooth transition from now to 2026." The United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 2021 approved a resolution to allow Bangladesh to graduate to the developing country grouping from the LDC category 45 years after it was included in the category. The UN committee recommended that the country should get five years, instead of three, to prepare for the transition due to the impact of COVID-19 on its economy. Bangladesh has met, for the second time, all three

Senate elections held in Cameroon

STORY: Senate elections held in Cameroon DATELINE: March 13, 2023 LENGTH: 00:02:51 LOCATION: Yaounde CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of a polling station in Yaounde 2. various of voters putting their ballots into the box during elections 3. SOUNDBITE 1 (French): INOUSSA HAMADOU, Municipal councilor 4. various of Erik Essousse, director general of Cameroon's electoral body Elections Cameroon 5. SOUNDBITE 2 (French): ERIK ESSOUSSE, Director general of Elecam 6. various of observers communicating with workers 7. various of workers counting ballots with the presence of observers STORYLINE: Voting for Cameroon's Senate elections was held on Sunday at 198 polling stations in 10 regions of the country. Cameroon Senate, or the Upper House of the Parliament, has 100 seats. According to Elections Cameroon (Elecam), the electoral body, 70 senators will be elected from 10 political parties which took part in the elections, and 30 senators will be appointed by President Paul Biya. SOUNDBITE 1 (French): INOUS

BRI helps make long-held dreams in Africa come true: Nigerian expert

STORY: BRI helps make long-held dreams in Africa come true: Nigerian expert DATELINE: March 12, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:33 LOCATION: Abuja CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. various of Nigeria's capital city 2. SOUNDBITE (English): CHARLES ONUNAIJU, Director of Center for China Studies in Nigeria STORYLINE: It's been 10 years since China first proposed the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). A Nigerian expert said after a decade of development, the initiative has brought significant changes to the African continent, and helped long-cherished dreams come true. SOUNDBITE (English): CHARLES ONUNAIJU, Director of Center for China Studies in Nigeria "China's prosperity is compatible with global aspiration for prosperity. Like you know, the Belt and Road (Initiative) is 10 years this year. And if you look back at the landscape of Africa, the landscape of the world, you could see the evident impact of the Belt and Road (Initiative) in Africa. It is very significant. We've seen long-held dream about integration, long dream a

China visa application center opens in Ethiopia's capital

STORY: China visa application center opens in Ethiopia's capital DATELINE: March 12, 2023 LENGTH: 00:00:56 LOCATION: Addis Ababa CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of the ceremony 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): ZHAO ZHIYUAN, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia 3. various of street scenes in Ethiopia 4. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): SAMUEL FITSUMBIRHAN, Director of Asia Pacific Division at the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs STORYLINE: The Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia on Friday inaugurated the China visa application center in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. The center is responsible for handling some consular document applications and consular authentication, as well as collecting governmental fees for these certificates. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): ZHAO ZHIYUAN, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia "The flow of people between our two countries is rising. More and more Ethiopian friends want to go to China. As a result, Chinese visa applications have surged." SOUNDBITE 2 (English): SAMUEL FITSUMBIRHAN, Director o

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-NPC-MINISTERS-INTERVIEW (CN)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-NPC-MINISTERS-INTERVIEW (CN)

(230312) -- BEIJING, March 12, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Director of China's General Administration of Sport Gao Zhidan gives an interview after the fifth plenary meeting of the first session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 12, 2023. (Xinhua/Jin Haoyuan)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-NPC-MINISTERS-INTERVIEW (CN)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-NPC-MINISTERS-INTERVIEW (CN)

(230312) -- BEIJING, March 12, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Director of China's General Administration of Sport Gao Zhidan gives an interview after the fifth plenary meeting of the first session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 12, 2023. (Xinhua/Jin Haoyuan)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-NPC-MINISTERS-INTERVIEW (CN)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-NPC-MINISTERS-INTERVIEW (CN)

(230312) -- BEIJING, March 12, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Director of China's General Administration of Sport Gao Zhidan gives an interview after the fifth plenary meeting of the first session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 12, 2023. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-NPC-MINISTERS-INTERVIEW (CN)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-NPC-MINISTERS-INTERVIEW (CN)

(230312) -- BEIJING, March 12, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Director of China's General Administration of Sport Gao Zhidan gives an interview after the fifth plenary meeting of the first session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 12, 2023. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-LIU JINGUO-NATIONAL COMMISSION OF SUPERVISION-DIRECTOR (CN)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-LIU JINGUO-NATIONAL COMMISSION OF SUPERVISION-DIRECTOR (CN)

(230311) -- BEIJING, March 11, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jinguo is elected director of the National Commission of Supervision at the first session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 11, 2023. (Xinhua)

Spotlight on "two sessions": Maintaining low inflation

STORY: Spotlight on "two sessions": Maintaining low inflation DATELINE: March 11, 2023 LENGTH: 00:03:25 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. various of "two sessions" 2. various of China 3. STANDUP 1 (English): HUANG AIPING, Xinhua correspondent 4. SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): TIAN XUAN, NPC Deputy, Vice-president of Tsinghua University PBC School of Finance 5. various of China 6. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): SELCUK COLAKOGLU, Director of the Ankara-based Turkish Center for Asia-Pacific Studies 7. SOUNDBITE 3 (English): FAHEEM SARDAR, Senior Policy Specialist at Strategic Policy Planning Cell, National Security Division of Prime Minister's Office of Government of Pakistan 8. SOUNDBITE 4 (English): CHARLES ONUNAIJU, Director, center for China studies, Nigeria 9. STANDUP 2 (English): HUANG AIPING, Xinhua correspondent 10. various of China 11. SOUNDBITE 5 (English): X.N. IRAKI, Professor of Economics at the University of Nairobi 12. SOUNDBITE 6 (English): HUDA AL-MALLAH, Director of the International Center for

COVID-19 origins tracing shouldn't be politicized by U.S.: experts

STORY: COVID-19 origins tracing shouldn't be politicized by U.S.: experts DATELINE: March 11, 2023 LENGTH: 00:02:07 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. various of street view of the U.S. 2. SOUNDBITE (English): ALEX OWITI, Professor formerly working at Aga Khan University, Kenya STORYLINE: International experts have said that the COVID-19 origins tracing is a matter of science, which should not be politicized by the U.S. The U.S. Senate passed the COVID-19 Origin Act of 2023 about 10 days ago, which says that the COVID-19 pandemic may have originated in China. However, Director of the U.S. National Intelligence Avril Haines on Wednesday noted that there is not a consensus among the U.S. intelligence community on whether or not the outbreak is a result of a lab leak or natural exposure to an infected animal. Besides, Polish virologist Agnieszka Szuster-Ciesielska recently said in an interview that the COVID "lab leak" theory rehashed by the U.S. Department of Energy and FBI is sensation-see

China's economic recovery to drive global growth: experts

STORY: China's economic recovery to drive global growth: experts DATELINE: March 11, 2023 LENGTH: 00:02:59 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. various of China-related footage 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): CHARLES ONUNAIJU, Director of Center for China Studies, Nigeria 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): ALBERT KEIDEL, Adjunct professor of economics at George Washington University 4. SOUNDBITE 3 (Spanish): EDUARDO REGALADO, Senior researcher of International Policy Research Center of Cuba 5. SOUNDBITE 4 (English): KEITH BENNETT, Vice Chairman of 48 Group Club, UK STORYLINE: A string of positive signals has come out from China's ongoing sessions of the top legislature and national political advisory body. China's economic growth target for 2023 is set at around 5 percent, and the country also reaffirmed commitment to high-level opening up. Experts say that given China's importance for the global industrial chain and value chain, its steady growth will play an irreplaceable part in the stability, recovery a

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-LIU JINGUO-CONSTITUTION-PLEDGING ALLEGIANCE (CN)

(TWO SESSIONS)CHINA-BEIJING-LIU JINGUO-CONSTITUTION-PLEDGING ALLEGIANCE (CN)

(230311) -- BEIJING, March 11, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jinguo makes a public pledge of allegiance to the Constitution at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 11, 2023. Liu was elected director of the National Commission of Supervision on Saturday at the ongoing first session of the 14th National People's Congress, China's national legislature. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

CHINA-BEIJING-WANG YI-SAUDI ARABIA-IRAN-TALKS (CN)

CHINA-BEIJING-WANG YI-SAUDI ARABIA-IRAN-TALKS (CN)

(230310) -- BEIJING, March 10, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, presides over the closing meeting of the talks between a Saudi delegation and an Iranian delegation in Beijing, capital of China, March 10, 2023. (Xinhua/Luo Xiaoguang)

CHINA-BEIJING-WANG YI-SAUDI ARABIA-IRAN-TALKS (CN)

CHINA-BEIJING-WANG YI-SAUDI ARABIA-IRAN-TALKS (CN)

(230310) -- BEIJING, March 10, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi (C), a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, attends a closing meeting of the talks between the Saudi delegation led by Musaad bin Mohammed Al-Aiban (L), Saudi Arabia's Minister of State, Member of the Council of Ministers and National Security Advisor, and Iranian delegation led by Admiral Ali Shamkhani (R), Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran, in Beijing, capital of China, March 10, 2023. Wang Yi presided over the closing meeting here on Friday. (Xinhua/Luo Xiaoguang)

Spotlight on "two sessions": Stabilize employment

STORY: Spotlight on "two sessions": Stabilize employment DATELINE: March 11, 2023 LENGTH: 00:05:05 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: POLITICS/SOCIETY SHOTLIST: 1. various of job fairs 2. STANDUP 1 (English): WU YAO, Xinhua correspondent 3. various of the two sessions' conference hall 4. STANDUP 2 (English): WU YAO, Xinhua correspondent 5. SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): YIN CHUN, Director of BISU Student Career Development Center 6. SOUNDBITE 2 (Chinese): YIN CHUN, Director of BISU Student Career Development Center 7. vairous of the campus of Beijing International Studies University 8. SOUNDBITE 3 (English): ZHANG ZHAOQI, Student of Beijing International Studies University 9. SOUNDBITE 4 (Chinese): ZHANG YUANXIONG, Postgraduate of Beijing International Studies University 10. STANDUP 2 (English): WU YAO, Xinhua correspondent 11. various of a job fair 12. SOUNDBITE 5 (Chinese): FENG LU, Employment bureau director of Qingyang District, Chengdu City 13. SOUNDBITE 6 (Chinese): CHENG SHUYA, Charoen Pokphand Group Co., Ltd. 14. S

COVID-19 origins tracing should be science-based, not politicized by U.S.: experts

STORY: COVID-19 origins tracing should be science-based, not politicized by U.S.: experts DATELINE: March 10, 2023 LENGTH: 00:02:28 LOCATION: Beijing CATEGORY: POLITICS SHOTLIST: 1. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): ALEX OWITI, Professor formerly working at Aga Khan University, Kenya 2. SOUNDBITE 2 (Arabic): MUSTAFA AMIN, Researcher on Arab and international affairs, Egypt 3. SOUNDBITE 3 (Arabic): WALID MAHMOUD, Director of Irfan Hospital, Lebanon 4. SOUNDBITE 4 (English): BIKILA HURISA, Head of Ethiopia's Ruling Prosperity Party's public and international relations STORYLINE: Experts around the world have said that COVID-19 origins tracing should be science-based and not be politicized by the United States. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, the U.S. has been pursuing the most convenient and economical way in finding the origins of the novel coronavirus -- fabricating groundless allegations against China. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): ALEX OWITI, Professor formerly working at Aga Khan University,

Thousands of grey herons nest on Yellow River cliffs

STORY: Thousands of grey herons nest on Yellow River cliffs DATELINE: March 9, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:02 LOCATION: YUNCHENG, China CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENT SHOTLIST: 1. various of grey herons 2. SOUNDBITE (Chinese): TAN JIJUN, Director of Pinglu Forestry and Grassland Development Center in Shanxi Province 3. various of grey herons STORYLINE: As the weather warms up in spring, a large number of grey herons have flocked to the cliffs in the Yellow River wetland in Pinglu County, China's Shanxi Province, to nest and breed. The grey heron is under second-class national protection. They mainly feed on fish and shrimp in shallow waters or swamps. SOUNDBITE (Chinese): TAN JIJUN, Director of Pinglu Forestry and Grassland Development Center in Shanxi Province "To ensure the safety of grey herons during their breeding season, we have designated the surrounding region with an area of more than 20 sq km as a protection and monitoring area for them. And during each year's breeding season, we will send many professional rang

Spanish olive oil producers keen on Chinese market

STORY: Spanish olive oil producers keen on Chinese market DATELINE: March 9, 2023 LENGTH: 00:00:57 LOCATION: Madrid CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. various of the Exhibition 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Spanish): ALBERT TINOFOSA, Staff member, (Olive oil producer) Moli Coloma 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Spanish): MIGUEL ANGEL RODRIGUEZ, Director of Operation, (Olive oil producer) Garcia de la Cruz 4. various of the Exhibition STORYLINE: Olive oil producers attending the World Olive Oil Exhibition in Spain have said that they regard China as a very attractive market. The exhibition, held from Tuesday to Wednesday in Madrid, attracted more than 1,000 companies in the olive oil sector from 47 countries and regions. SOUNDBITE 1 (Spanish): ALBERT TINOFOSA, Staff member, (Olive oil producer) Moli Coloma "I think the Chinese market is very important. It's a market that values our product and our work to try and to highlight our quality." SOUNDBITE 2 (Spanish): MIGUEL ANGEL RODRIGUEZ, Director of Operation, (Olive oil producer) Garcia d

Chinese tourists highly expected at ITB Berlin travel trade show

STORY: Chinese tourists highly expected at ITB Berlin travel trade show DATELINE: March 9, 2023 LENGTH: 0:01:20 LOCATION: Berlin CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. STANDUP (English): LI CHAO, Xinhua correspondent 2. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): WIM ISERIEF, Sales director at SkyTeam 3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Chinese): RAY CHEN, Senior vice president, Trip.com Group STORYLINE: STANDUP (English): LI CHAO, Xinhua correspondent "The ITB Berlin travel trade show opened on Tuesday with about 5,500 exhibitors from around the world. With the number of Chinese tourists gradually increasing in the global market, exhibitors at ITB Berlin expressed their full expectation for the return of their Chinese consumers." SOUNDBITE 1 (English): WIM ISERIEF, Sales director at SkyTeam "As you see in the alliance of Skyteam, more and more airlines are rapidly increasing the flights. Just a few days ago, Virgin Atlantic, which is our new partner in the UK, announced to open daily flights to Shanghai (starting from) May 1." SOUNDBITE 2 (Chinese): R

Chinese medical aid team's lecture welcomed by residents in Algeria

STORY: Chinese medical aid team's lecture welcomed by residents in Algeria DATELINE: March 9, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:27 LOCATION: Algiers CATEGORY: HEALTH SHOTLIST: 1. various of the Setif Maternity and Childhood Hospital 2. various of the lecture by Zhu Tao 3. SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): NADJET AKHNAK, Director of the Setif Maternity and Childhood Hospital 4. various of demonstration 5. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): MAROUA, Local resident 6. SOUNDBITE 3 (Chinese): ZHU TAO, Leader of Chinese medical team in Setif STORYLINE: A lecture on medical operations offered by a Chinese medical aid team in Algeria was welcomed by residents and medical students on Tuesday. SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): NADJET AKHNAK, Director of the Setif Maternity and Childhood Hospital "We are very happy to extend the activities to the field of training, because the previous medical team was mainly engaged in treatment and surgery. They fulfill their duties and pass on their experience and technology to Algerians. We hope this lecture is not the end, but t

Asia's leading flower market cashes in on "she economy"

STORY: Asia's leading flower market cashes in on "she economy" DATELINE: March 8, 2023 LENGTH: 00:01:35 LOCATION: KUNMING, China CATEGORY: ECONOMY SHOTLIST: 1. various of Kunming's Dounan Flower Market 2. STANDUP (English): ZHAO ZHIQIN, Xinhua correspondent 3. SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): LI SHENGHUAN, Florist 4. SOUNDBITE 2 (Chinese): ZHANG XIAN, Director of marketing and publicity, Kunming's Dounan Flower Market 5. SOUNDBITE 3 (Chinese): ZHU QI, Kunming International Flora Auction Trading Center STORYLINE: As Asia's largest fresh-cut flower trading market with a yearly trade volume of 11 billion, the Dounan Flower Market is considered a reliable barometer of the performance of China's flower markets. It has exported flowers to more than 40 countries and regions. STANDUP (English): ZHAO ZHIQIN, Xinhua correspondent "Today, on the International Women's Day, we are here at Kunming's Dounan Flower Market, Asia's largest fresh-cut flower trading market, to see how the 'flower economy' has been boosted. Let's go fi